When the automatic fire-extinguishing system is activated in a space where a signaling system serves the occupancy, what shall happen?

• A. activate the fire alarm signaling system
• B. shut off the extinguishing system
• C. sound a local alarm only
• D. notify building management

Answer: (A)

When a space with a fire alarm signaling system is automatically protected by an extinguishing system and that system activates, the signaling system must be triggered to notify occupants. This immediate alert ensures everyone in the area knows there is a fire event and can evacuate or take protective action, which is the primary life-safety purpose of the signaling system. The other actions don’t provide the same level of immediate occupant protection: shutting off the extinguishing system would defeat its purpose of controlling the hazard, sounding only a local alarm may leave other occupants unaware, and simply notifying building management does not ensure timely evacuation by those in the space.