The keystone of an effective fire protection system is its fire detection-alarm system which controls the whole fire protection system. The entire fire protection systems in the building premises are monitored and controlled by the fire detection-alarm system.

There are mainly two types of fire alarm systems, ie., a conventional (old type) or an addressable system. To adhere to the Civil Defense norms and regulations, all the buildings in UAE (both residential & commercial) as well as the shops, villas, schools, warehouses, stores (including baqalas), etc. should be equipped with a functional fire protection system.