Might Need To Update Your Fire Alarm System’s Cellular Communication Services (HCS 4-bed & ICF Homes)

by | Mar 2, 2022

LTC Providers May Need to Update Fire Alarm System Cellular Communication Services

In 2022 cellular companies will retire their older 3G technology. These companies include T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon and AT&T.

LTC providers relying on fire alarm systems that utilize outdated cellular communicators operating on 3G networks must consider upgrading their fire alarm communication apparatus. The majority of these systems depend on cellular communication devices to dispatch signals to a 24-hour central monitoring station, which in turn, alerts the local emergency services to provide assistance. Should your system’s cellular communicator be based on 3G technology, and with cellular providers phasing out 3G support, your setup could fail to alert emergency services in the event of a fire. This highlights the critical need for ensuring your fire alarm system is up-to-date, not only for effective emergency communication but also for integrating seamlessly with Fire Watch Security in NYC, ensuring a comprehensive approach to fire safety and emergency response.

The major cellular companies gave the following dates for retiring their older networks:

  • AT&T began retiring its 3G network on Feb. 22, 2022.
  • Sprint will retire its 3G CDMA network on March 31, 2022.
  • Sprint will retire its 3G LTE network on June 30, 2022.
  • T-Mobile will retire its 3G UMTS network on July 1, 2022.
  • Verizon will retire its 3G CDMA network on Dec. 31, 2022.
  • T-Mobile has announced it will retire its 2G GSM network but has not set a date for that retirement.

After these dates fire alarm communication devices that connect to cellular communication systems using this older technology will not work.

LTC providers are responsible for ensuring their fire alarms systems function correctly. Providers with fire alarm systems monitored by a third-party monitoring company should contact their fire alarm service company. They need to find out if their fire alarm communication equipment needs upgrading.

Email LTCR Policy or call 512-438-3161 with questions.