What is the primary purpose of fire alarms in a building?

The primary purpose of fire alarms in a building is to alert occupants of smoke or fire. This alert is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals within the premises, as it gives them enough time to evacuate and seek safety. Fire alarms are designed to detect the presence of smoke, heat, or flames and to activate an audible alarm that warns people about the danger. Prompt notification can significantly reduce the risk of injury or loss of life during a fire emergency.

The other options address different functions that are important in fire safety and building management but do not encompass the primary role of fire alarms. Fire suppression systems, for example, go beyond merely alerting individuals; they actively work to extinguish fires. Detecting gas leaks is another important safety feature but falls outside the specific function of fire alarms. Similarly, controlling building access pertains to security measures rather than fire safety. Thus, the focus of fire alarms remains squarely on alerting occupants to potential threats posed by fire or smoke.