What is a Central Monitoring Station?
A Central Monitoring Station (CMS) connects fire alarm systems and other security systems to an offsite facility, where trained professionals monitor alarms 24/7. When an alarm is triggered, operators receive the signal, assess the situation, and notify
the appropriate emergency responders. CMS facilities are equipped with advanced communication systems and adhere to strict codes and standards to ensure reliability and safety.
A UL Listed Central Monitoring Station is the most common and dependable type, helping to reduce false alarms and save customers from the cost of related fines.
The Importance of Building Fire Alarm Monitoring
According to 9.6.4.2 of NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, where emergency response notification is required by one of the occupancy chapters of the code, the fire alarm system must be designed and installed to transmit an alarm automatically by one
of the following fire alarm systems:
- Central Station Monitoring System: Most common, 24/7 service, UL listed providers
- Proprietary Supervising Station System: Multiple properties, same ownership
- Remote Supervising Station System: 24/7 service – Installed/tested/maintained by owner
- Auxiliary System: Owned and operated by the local municipality
Building owners and managers should have a written fire emergency plan. A key part of this plan is a fire alarm monitoring system, which uses sensors to detect fires. When triggered, the system activates the building alarm and notifies a monitoring
center to alert emergency services.