What is the significance of maintaining a secondary power for fire alarm systems?

Maintaining a secondary power source for fire alarm systems is crucial to ensure that these systems can operate effectively during power outages. When the primary power supply is disrupted—due to events such as storms, equipment failures, or other emergencies—the secondary power source, typically a battery backup, allows the fire alarm system to continue functioning. This functionality is vital because it ensures that life-saving alarms can still alert occupants to evacuate and that monitoring systems remain operational, thereby facilitating a timely response from emergency services. A reliable secondary power source helps in preserving the integrity of the fire alarm system, allowing it to provide warnings and notifications precisely when they are most needed, thereby enhancing overall safety in a building.