Car parks serve as essential infrastructure in urban and commercial environments, providing safe and convenient spaces for vehicle storage. Found in shopping centres, office buildings, residential developments and public areas, they support traffic management and reduce congestion by centralising parking away from streets.
These structures—whether open-air or enclosed—must adhere to strict safety regulations due to the presence of flammable materials such as fuel and oil, as well as the risk of overheating engines. Fire detection and prevention systems are therefore a critical component in car park design, ensuring the protection of both property and human life.
Risks
Car parks present a unique set of fire risks due to the nature of the environment and the vehicles they accommodate. Some of these include:
- Vehicle Fires
- Engines, exhaust systems and fuel lines can overheat or malfunction, leading to fires—especially in older or poorly maintained vehicles.
- Arson or Vandalism
- Deliberate acts such as setting fire to rubbish, vehicles or stored items can quickly escalate in enclosed car park environments.
- Electrical Faults
- Lighting systems, EV chargers and security cameras all rely on electrical circuits, which can pose fire hazards if damaged or improperly installed.
- Improper Storage of Flammable Items
- Fuel cans, cleaning agents or maintenance chemicals left unattended can ignite when exposed to heat or sparks.
- Poor Ventilation
- Enclosed or underground car parks with limited airflow can allow heat, smoke or flammable vapours to build up, increasing fire risk.
Challenges
There are also a number of challenges to overcome when it comes to designing a suitable fire detection solution:
- Harsh Environmental Conditions
- Exposure to exhaust fumes, dust, temperature fluctuations and moisture can affect the reliability and lifespan of traditional fire detection systems.
- Obstructed Line of Sight
- Concrete pillars, low ceilings and parked vehicles can block smoke or heat from reaching detectors, delaying activation during a fire.
- Airflow and Ventilation Systems
- Strong ventilation or open-air designs can disperse smoke rapidly, making it difficult for smoke detectors to detect a fire early.
- False Alarms
- Exhaust fumes, dust or humidity can trigger false alarms in conventional detectors, leading to unnecessary disruptions and reduced confidence in the system.
- The wide, open layout of many car parks makes it challenging to ensure comprehensive coverage with point detectors, requiring more advanced linear detection methods.
FyreLine Resettable Linear Heat Detection
The FyreLine Resettable Linear Heat Detection (LHD) system is an advanced fire detection solution designed to provide reliable and continuous monitoring for a wide range of applications, including car parks.
FyreLine Resettable Linear Heat Detection uses heat-sensitive cable, to detect temperature changes, triggering pre-alarm or full alarm signals when thresholds are exceeded. The controller dynamically adjusts alarm thresholds to account for ambient temperature variations, ensuring accurate detection and reducing false alarms.
The system is resettable, allowing for quick restoration after an event without the need to replace the cable, provided the cable’s maximum recoverable temperature is not exceeded. This feature minimises downtime and maintenance costs, making it a cost-effective solution for fire safety.
Its versatility and reliability make it particularly suitable for challenging environments like car parks, where traditional detection methods may be less effective.
Approvals
The FyreLine Resettable system is approved to EN54-22 and UL 521 standards, confirming its reliability and performance in detecting heat-related fire risks. These certifications offer peace of mind to customers, ensuring the system meets strict international safety benchmarks and is suitable for use in demanding environments like car parks.
FyreLine Resettable Design Considerations
Controller Placement
The FyreLine controller monitors the entire length of the heat detection cable, providing real-time temperature data and alarm activation. For optimal performance in car parks, it should be installed in a secure, accessible location such as the parking office or locked store cupboard.
LHD Cable Placement
For optimal results, FyreLine Resettable LHD cables should be installed above vehicle bays, near potential ignition sources such as engines and exhausts, and along traffic routes and ventilation areas where heat is likely to accumulate.
FyreLine Resettable LHD cables are available in a variety of outer sheaths to suit different environments. PVC sheaths are ideal for general indoor use, offering cost-effective protection in standard conditions. Nylon-sheathed cables provide enhanced resistance to abrasion, oils, and UV exposure, making them suitable for tougher environments. For the most demanding settings, stainless steel braid options offer superior mechanical protection against impact and corrosion, ideal for exposed or high-traffic areas within car parks. This versatility ensures the system can be tailored to meet both environmental and safety requirements.
EOL Module Placement
The FyreLine Resettable End-of-Line (EOL) module should be installed at the furthest point of the heat detection cable run to ensure continuous monitoring and integrity of the circuit. For optimal results, it should be mounted in a weatherproof enclosure if exposed, and positioned for easy access during maintenance.
Mounting Clips
J-Clips are used to securely fix FyreLine Resettable LHD cables in place. They should be installed at regular intervals—typically every metre—along the cable route to maintain proper positioning and tension. Placement should ensure the cable remains close to the ceiling or structure, avoiding contact with sharp edges or moving parts.
P-Clips are designed to provide a secure and cushioned mounting point for FyreLine Resettable LHD cables. They are best placed at regular intervals—usually every metre—along the cable route, especially in areas with vibration or movement. Their flexible grip helps prevent cable damage while maintaining firm support.
Wiring Diagram
The system is wired in a simple radial configuration, starting at the controller and ending at the End-of-Line (EOL) module. All connections should follow manufacturer guidelines and local fire safety standards.
Why Choose Eurofyre?
- Complete System Supplier
- Eurofyre manufactures and supplies all aspects of fire detection including linear heat detection and its associated products and can provide expert advice and consultation.
- Demonstration and Training
- We offer demonstrations and expert training on a range of systems, including FyreLine Resettable linear heat detection systems, in our very own sophisticated training facility.
- After-Sales Support
- Eurofyre offers both on-site and telephone support to assist you in ensuring that your system is fully functional and operating at maximum efficiency. Our after-sales care and support are second to none.
For more information about FyreLine Resettable Linear Heat Detection, or to discuss any of the other products that Eurofyre has to offer, please feel free to get in touch either by phone on +44 (0) 1329 835 024, by email to [email protected] or via the online enquiry form situated on our contact page.
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