Gamewell-FCI Fire Alarm System Recalled

There has been a recent recall alert for the Gamewell-FCI 600 Series SmartScan Fire Alarm Control Panels. The manufacturer is of Northford, Connecticut. This product was recalled due to a potential failure of the fire alarm system recognizing when it needs servicing. These alarm systems generally need to be serviced due to dirt, dust buildup or other pollutants from the environment. As a result of the potential failure to recognize the servicing of these systems, it could lead to the system being unresponsive in the unfortunate event of a fire taking place.

Fortunately no incidents or injuries have been reported due this recall. The recall of the Gamewell-FCI was voluntarily on behalf of the company in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Gamewell-FCI provides complete fire systems solutions fire protection needs for schools, businesses, government and medical facilities. They offer both small installations and complex high-rise complexes. The Vail Cascade Resort & Spa is just one of the many businesses Gamewell-FCI services, who experiences the benefits of their fire alarm system. General Manager Jay Rocha, state that their operations run smoother, and that "We have seen a 98% reduction in false alarms. We have not had to reduce room rates or compensate disgruntled guests due to false alarms."

There are about 1,100 fire alarm system units that were recalled. The manufacturer is now upgrading the software control panel for the Gamewell-FCI model 600 Series. This upgrade occurs by the control panel now using SmartScan. SmartScan is a system sensor compatible line card, called that will enable display information and signaling line circuits for the fire alarm system.

These alarm systems are sold by authorized distributors throughout the United States. The systems have been sold from October 2004 through May 2007. Prices for each fire alarm system range from around $400 up to $3500. Authorized distributors took the initiative to resell and install the control panels for their business customers. Many of theses business are hotels and office buildings, which is critical for these businesses to have fully functional alarm systems installed. To remedy the situation the manufacturer is directly contacting customers and offering a free firmware software upgrade for their alarm system.

For anyone needing additional information regarding the fire alarm system recall, contact Gamewell-FCI at (800) 633-1311 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.