As commercial construction evolves, so do the expectations for fire protection and life-safety performance in office buildings. A recent engineering Q&A on up-to-date fire protection strategies highlights a blend of technology, system coordination, and design intent that installers and contractors need to understand to stay ahead of code requirements and customer expectations. Office buildings are unique commercial occupancies. Their mixed use of space, variable occupant loads throughout the day, and often open-plan design present challenges for both fire detection and suppression. Engineers emphasize that the goal of modern fire protection design is not simply compliance but reducing risk to occupants and property while enhancing emergency response effectiveness. At the foundation of any fire protection strategy are the codes that govern design and installation. In the United States — including Louisiana — the International Building Code (IBC) and NFPA standards such as NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, and NFPA 13 (Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems) define minimum expectations for means of egress, fire detection, alarm systems, and suppression. These are not optional; when a building department issues a permit or the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) reviews plans, conformance with these documents is mandatory. For fire alarm systems specifically, internationally model codes and standards like BS 5839-1, while not adopted in Louisiana, illustrate how systems can be categorized by intended purpose (life safety vs. property protection), a concept that installers encounter daily when differentiating detector spacing and system design intent. A key trend in office building fire protection is holistic system integration. Detection, alarm, notification, and suppression systems must work in concert to provide early warning and effective life safety. Fire alarm systems should be designed with zones that reflect both occupant travel paths and construction type, and connected to building management systems when appropriate, allowing firefighters and building occupants to understand the fire’s location and severity quickly. Advanced detection — such as multi-criteria smoke detectors — can reduce nuisance alarms in areas with normal operational “smoke-like” conditions while still ensuring early fire detection. Sprinkler systems remain the backbone of active fire protection. A properly engineered sprinkler layout following NFPA 13 ensures that, in most cases, a fire is controlled or suppressed long before it becomes a serious threat to life or structure. National data show that in buildings equipped with sprinklers, more than 90 % of fires that activate the system are controlled by sprinklers alone. The use of Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) sprinklers or other suppression technologies may be required or recommended in areas of higher hazard or specific occupancy classifications, and it underscores the importance of accurate hazard classification early in the design process. Passive fire protection also plays a crucial role. Compartmentation with properly rated fire barriers, fire-resistant glazing, and fire doors helps confine fire and smoke, limiting spread and providing critical time for occupant evacuation and responder entry. Combined with pressurized stairwells, smoke control systems, and properly marked egress, these measures are central to meeting the intent of NFPA 101 and the IBC for safe emergency exiting. Designers and installers must recognize that modern fire protection strategy isn’t a checklist — it’s a layered approach that begins in the architect’s office and continues through installation, testing, and maintenance. For installers in Louisiana, this means engaging with design professionals early when plan reviews are underway and understanding how code references translate into field-installed systems. It also means staying current with code updates, such as planned revisions to NFPA 13, NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code), and others that may impact detector selection, notification appliance placement, or system zoning. Finally, good communication with AHJs and fire marshals during the design and installation phases can head off misunderstandings and ensure that systems perform as intended once the building is occupied. The overarching lesson from current fire protection guidance is clear: well-coordinated, code-compliant fire protection design not only protects life and property but also enhances the reputation and professionalism of every installer who contributes to it.

We received this update from our Lobbyist Kevin Cummingham of Southern Strategy Group providing an update on the upcoming session. Leading up to and during the 2026 Louisiana Regular Legislative Session, we will bring you this short synopsis of highlights from recent political news. Louisiana’s House Committee on Appropriations has released its budget hearing schedule for the 2026 Session. The schedule is linked HERE . Kyle Ruckert, Governor Landry’s chief of staff, has exited his role to lead Protect Louisiana Values, a nonprofit. The organization has provided resources needed for a few of Landry’s efforts. After Louisiana Congresswoman Julia Letlow announced her bid for Sen. Bill Cassidy’s Senate seat, Louisiana State Sen. Blake Miguez pivoted and left the U.S. Senate race to run for Letlow’s 5th District seat in Congress. In the Louisiana Senate race, Letlow has the endorsement of President Trump. Other notable Senate race candidates include John Fleming, Louisiana State Treasurer, and Eric Skrmetta, member of the Louisiana Public Service Commission from the 1st district. In the race for Letlow’s District 5 seat, Miguez has Trump’s endorsement. Other notable candidates for this seat include State Sen. Stewart Cathey, State Sen. Rick Edmonds, State Rep. Dixon McMakin, and Louisiana Board of Regents Chair Misti Cordell. Louisiana House majority leader and State Rep. Mike Echols is expected to enter the race as well. In the Louisiana Public Service Commission races, John Atkins is gaining momentum for Foster Campbell’s District 5 seat and has already raised significant funds. State Rep. Larry Bagley has dropped out of this race due to health concerns, while two Democrats have jumped in: State Rep. Travis Johnson and Reverend James E. Green. For the District 1 seat, Republican state representatives Stephanie Hilferty and Mark Wright are the announced candidates. Five vacant Louisiana Legislature seats are up for a special election this Saturday, including one Senate seat and four House seats. Read more HERE .

Over the past year, the electronic security and life safety industry has been closely monitoring a petition filed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) by NextNav. NextNav is seeking access to portions of the lower 900 MHz spectrum to support a proposed 5G-based terrestrial Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) system. While the request is framed as a technological advancement, it has raised significant concerns for industries—including ours—that rely on unlicensed, low-power wireless devices operating in this same frequency range. For life safety and property protection professionals, the 900 MHz band is not theoretical—it is where many critical devices operate every day. Wireless motion detectors, door and window contacts, panic and duress buttons, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors commonly depend on these frequencies to transmit signals reliably from the device to the control panel and ultimately to the monitoring center. Any disruption to this communication path directly affects system performance and, in some cases, life safety.ed National and state industry organizations—including the Electronic Security Association, Security Industry Association, The Monitoring Association, the Alarm Industry Communications Committee, and the California Alarm Association—have formally expressed concerns to the FCC. Their filings consistently warn that allowing high-power, licensed operations in or adjacent to the unlicensed 900 MHz band could prevent alarm devices from transmitting signals effectively. NextNav maintains that its technology will not cause harmful interference. However, the company has also stated that if interference does occur, unlicensed devices—not NextNav’s system—would be expected to mitigate or cease operation. This position creates significant uncertainty for alarm providers, monitoring centers, and end users who rely on existing, compliant equipment that has been safely deployed for decades. NextNav has been granted an Experimental Radio Station Construction Permit and License (WP2XYS), valid through December 1, 2027, allowing it to conduct testing in and around downtown San Jose, California. Fixed transmitters will operate in the 918–928 MHz band, with additional mobile testing planned in the 902–907 MHz range. At this time, the industry has not been informed of specific testing dates, and NextNav has indicated it is not required to provide advance notice. If interference occurs, it is expected to appear as trouble signals or communication failures from monitored systems—exactly the type of issue that life safety professionals work tirelessly to prevent. Although current testing is limited to California, the outcome of this proceeding could set a national precedent. If the FCC ultimately grants NextNav broader access to the lower 900 MHz band, similar deployments could follow in other regions—including Louisiana. That makes early awareness, documentation, and industry coordination essential. The Louisiana Life Safety & Security Association (LLSSA) supports the industry’s position that existing life safety and security systems must be protected from harmful interference. The reliability of alarm communications is foundational to public safety, emergency response, and consumer trust. Any regulatory change that risks degrading that reliability must be carefully evaluated, tested transparently, and proven safe before expansion. At this stage, no immediate action is required from Louisiana licensees. However, LLSSA strongly encourages members to: Stay informed as this issue progresses at the federal level Understand which systems in their portfolios rely on the 900 MHz band Monitor industry updates from LLSSA and national trade associations LLSSA will continue to track developments, coordinate with national partners, and advocate for regulatory outcomes that protect life safety, property protection, and the integrity of professionally installed alarm systems. This is not just a spectrum issue—it is a reliability, safety, and consumer-protection issue.

Natural gas safety is a critical component of protecting both people and structures. Gas-powered appliances, heating systems, and fuel lines are common in residential and commercial occupancies and are often located in close proximity to fire alarm, security, and other life safety systems. As a result, life safety and property protection professionals must be able to recognize conditions that indicate a potential gas leak, understand emergency shutoff procedures, and know when immediate evacuation and notification of emergency services is required. Prompt, informed action can prevent fires, explosions, and serious injuries, making gas awareness an essential professional responsibility. Recognizing hazardous conditions is a key part of this responsibility. Indicators such as unusual odors, damaged or corroded piping, improperly vented appliances, or unexplained system troubles should never be ignored during an installation, inspection, or service call. Technicians are often among the most technically trained individuals to enter a premises, and their ability to identify potential gas-related risks and respond appropriately can protect occupants, property, and first responders. Prevention and system integration are equally important. Carbon monoxide detection plays a vital role in identifying dangerous conditions that may not be immediately apparent, particularly in occupied spaces where gas appliances are in regular use. Proper installation, placement, testing, and ongoing maintenance of carbon monoxide detectors should be treated as a core life safety function—not an optional add-on. Integrating these devices correctly into broader life safety systems strengthens early warning capabilities and improves overall protection. By reinforcing safe practices during system design, installations, inspections, and service visits, life safety and property protection professionals help reduce risk, safeguard property, and uphold the industry’s commitment to protecting lives. In Louisiana, where reliability and professionalism are central to public trust, natural gas safety awareness remains a vital part of comprehensive life safety planning.

The 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 9, 2026, and run through Tuesday, June 9, 2026. This 90-day session is a critical period when laws that shape our economy, communities, and industries are debated and decided — including issues that directly impact the life safety and property protection profession. For businesses and professionals in alarm systems, fire protection, monitoring, security technology, inspection services, and related fields, staying informed about what is happening at the Capitol is more than good practice — it’s essential to protecting your interests and the safety of the communities you serve. During the legislative session, lawmakers consider bills that touch on public safety regulations, licensing requirements, building codes, false alarm ordinances, workers’ compensation, taxation, privacy and data security, and more. Even proposals that may seem distant from our industry can affect how you operate and plan for the future. When life safety and property protection professionals take an active role in the legislative process, we help ensure that policymakers hear real-world perspectives from the people on the front lines. That’s where LLSSA’s advocacy efforts come in. LLSSA partners with SSG (Strategic Services Group) to represent our membership at the Louisiana State Capitol. SSG is our registered lobbyist firm that works year-round tracking bills, advising on policy impacts, coordinating with legislators and committee staff, and advocating for outcomes that support strong, fair, and effective safety standards across our industry. Together, LLSSA and SSG monitor relevant legislation, communicate key opportunities for member engagement, and work to influence policy in a way that supports both public confidence and business viability. One of the best ways for LLSSA members to get involved, meet legislators, and make your voice heard is during LLSSA’s Capital Day on March 25, 2026. On that day, LLSSA will host an information table in the Louisiana State Capitol Rotunda, providing an opportunity for members to connect with their elected representatives one-on-one. This is a unique chance to talk directly with lawmakers about the issues that matter most to your business, your employees, and the clients you serve. You don’t need to be a seasoned advocate to participate — just bring your professional experience and a willingness to share how specific policies affect your work. Legislators value hearing from constituents who know the practical implications of proposed laws, and your presence makes a difference. As the session approaches, LLSSA will share regular updates on priority legislation, committee schedules, and ways to engage. We encourage you to stay informed, stay connected, and use the resources LLSSA and SSG provide to make this legislative session count. Together, we can help shape policies that strengthen Louisiana’s life safety and property protection industry while promoting safer communities for all.

Winter weather can create serious challenges for families, businesses, and the life safety and property protection industry alike. Severe cold, ice, power outages, and limited access to facilities can quickly turn routine operations into emergency situations. Preparation is not just a personal responsibility—it is a professional one. For those who design, install, monitor, and maintain life safety and security systems, winter readiness begins with thoughtful planning at home and extends directly into business continuity planning. At home, winter emergency planning focuses on protecting lives and maintaining basic safety during extreme conditions. Families should stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts and following guidance from emergency officials. Plans should account for power outages, heating failures, and communication disruptions. Knowing how to stay warm safely, keeping mobile devices charged, maintaining backup communication options, and identifying safe locations to shelter if conditions worsen are all essential steps. When technicians and staff have reliable plans in place for their households, they are better positioned to remain available and focused during critical response periods. For life safety and property protection businesses, winter preparedness must go further. Business emergency plans should address how operations will continue during severe weather events. This includes evaluating backup power for offices, monitoring centers, and critical infrastructure, as well as ensuring communication systems remain operational when traditional networks are strained. Staffing plans should anticipate travel limitations, remote access needs, and staggered scheduling to maintain coverage while prioritizing employee safety. Winter conditions also place added stress on fire alarm, security, access control, and monitoring systems. Businesses should review maintenance schedules, confirm cold-weather performance of installed equipment, and verify that customers understand how weather conditions may affect their systems. Clear communication with clients before winter events—especially regarding battery maintenance, heating requirements, and emergency contacts—can reduce false alarms and improve response outcomes when conditions are at their worst. Ultimately, winter readiness is about resilience. Whether protecting a family at home or ensuring a company can continue serving customers and supporting first responders, preparation makes the difference. Life safety and property protection professionals play a critical role in community safety during emergencies, and that responsibility begins with planning ahead. By prioritizing winter preparedness both personally and professionally, LLSSA members help ensure that when winter challenges arrive, they are ready to respond—safely, effectively, and confidently.

The False Alarm Reduction Association (FARA) has long been a trusted voice in improving alarm management practices and strengthening cooperation between the alarm industry and public safety agencies. Its Annual Training Symposium brings together professionals from across the life safety and property protection community to focus on one shared goal: reducing false alarms while improving real-world response and system reliability. For members of the Louisiana Life Safety & Security Association (LLSSA), the FARA Symposium offers a valuable opportunity to engage with the same issues our industry faces every day—alarm ordinance compliance, effective customer education, improved system design, and productive relationships with law enforcement and fire officials. These are core areas where LLSSA members already lead, and where FARA’s work directly complements our mission. The FARA Symposium is designed to be practical and collaborative. Educational sessions focus on proven strategies for reducing false alarms, improving dispatch outcomes, and aligning alarm industry practices with public safety expectations. Attendees gain insight into how jurisdictions successfully manage alarm programs, how monitoring centers and installers can support those efforts, and how policy decisions impact day-to-day operations in the field. This knowledge is especially valuable for companies operating in multiple jurisdictions or navigating evolving local requirements. Just as importantly, the Symposium fosters meaningful dialogue between alarm professionals and public safety partners. FARA has built its reputation on bridging these two worlds, and that alignment mirrors LLSSA’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and public trust. When alarm systems function as intended, first responders can focus on true emergencies, customers receive better service, and the credibility of our industry is strengthened. For LLSSA members who value education, compliance, and leadership within the life safety and property protection industry, attending the FARA Symposium is a natural extension of their commitment to best practices. The relationships built, ideas shared, and lessons learned at this event help elevate not just individual businesses, but the industry as a whole. To learn more about the upcoming FARA Annual Training Symposium, including dates, location, and registration details, visit the official FARA website at https://faraonline.org/members-info/symposium/.

The Louisiana Life Safety & Security Association (LLSSA) extends its heartfelt thanks to our 2026 vendor sponsors — your support is vital in helping us offer high-quality events and programs that benefit our members and strengthen our industry. Pelican Sponsors United Central Control (UCC) United Central Control (UCC) has been providing nationwide contract alarm monitoring services and exceptional dealer support since 1982. UCC offers a wide range of monitoring solutions — including digital, cellular, IP, and interactive services — plus training and dealer tools designed to help independent dealers grow their business and increase recurring revenue. 📞 (888) 832-6822 • 🌐 www.teamucc.com Alarm Monitoring Services (AMS) AMS is a UL-listed alarm monitoring station serving alarm dealers across the U.S. since the 1980s. Known for its dealer-centric service, AMS provides high-quality monitoring, professional support, subscriber billing, and administrative services that help dealers focus on growing their business. 📞 See contact on LLSSA vendor page • 🌐 www.monitor1.com Gator Sponsors SDi Fire SDi is a leading provider of specialized fire protection and security testing equipment. With products designed for accuracy and durability, SDi’s tools support fire alarm testing, inspection, cleaning and maintenance — helping life-safety professionals ensure their systems perform when it matters most. 📞 (732) 751-9266 • 📧 sales@sdifire.com • 🌐 sdifire.com Securitas Technology Securitas Technology is part of one of the world’s largest security services networks, supporting dealers with advanced commercial and business security solutions including monitoring, system integration and technology services. Whether protecting facilities or enhancing system performance, Securitas helps organizations tailor security to their unique needs. 📞 1-800-932-3304 • 🌐 securitastechnologydealers.com Magnolia Sponsor Southwest Dispatch Center Southwest Dispatch Center is an independently owned, UL-listed wholesale central station devoted to serving alarm dealers with reliable monitoring services and dealer-focused support. Their solutions include standard alarm signal processing, video monitoring options, customized response services and training resources. 📞 877-888-7116 • 🌐 southwestdispatch.com Thank you again to all of our vendor sponsors! Your partnership enables LLSSA to deliver quality education, networking, and advocacy that empowers our members and advances the life safety and security industry. Learn more about sponsoring opportunities at https://llssa.org/vendor-contacts/