What is fire monitoring primarily concerned with?

Fire monitoring is primarily concerned with smoke and heat detection, which are critical components in fire safety systems. The main goal of fire monitoring is to identify the presence of smoke or excessive heat as quickly as possible, allowing for timely alerts and responses to potential fire hazards. Smoke detectors work by sensing particles or combustion gases in the air, while heat detectors respond to changes in temperature that exceed predefined thresholds. This early detection is vital for maximizing safety and minimizing damage, enabling occupants to evacuate and emergency services to respond swiftly.

While other options like water and foam application, electrical control systems, and air quality assessment play roles in a comprehensive fire safety strategy, they are not the primary focus of fire monitoring itself. Water and foam applications are related to fire suppression, which happens after detection, while electrical control systems manage the operation of fire systems. Air quality assessments, although important for health and safety, do not directly pertain to the immediate monitoring of fire incidents. Thus, focusing on smoke and heat detection aligns directly with the objectives of fire monitoring in maintaining safety and preventing fire-related disasters.