These days, people are installing biometric locks in their homes, offices, and other premises for security. However, several instances have come to light where these biometric locks failed to function during a fire. A recent case occurred in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, where 15 people lost their lives in a fire at a gaming zone and library. Investigations revealed that the facility was equipped with biometric or smart locks that failed to operate after the fire broke out, leading to fatalities due to suffocation inside.
Why do biometric locks fail during a fire?
Biometric or smart locks require a password to lock and unlock the door. They utilize a motor that opens the door upon the entry of the correct password. These locks contain various electronic components, including sensors, which operate on electricity. They are typically equipped with a battery to keep the lock active even during power outages.
In the event of a fire, the lock’s circuits can burn out, causing the door to remain locked. Additionally, the battery itself could catch fire, disabling the circuit. While these doors can theoretically be opened using manual buttons or keys, in the fire incidents reported so far, the option to open the doors manually was likely unavailable or inaccessible, preventing escape.
Is it safe to install smart locks?
Given the incidents being reported, people are questioning the safety of biometric locks. Will they stop working in an emergency situation? While such incidents are tragic, it is important to note that this does not happen with every smart or biometric lock. They are designed with manual buttons or keys for operation. Many companies also provide battery backups with these locks, enabling the door to be opened even if the power supply fails due to a fire. What should you keep in mind when installing a smart door lock?
If you are planning to install a smart or biometric lock in your home, ensure that it includes a manual override or key-based unlocking option. Additionally, it should be battery-operated so that the door can still be opened during a power outage. Therefore, purchase a smart or biometric lock that features a manual opening option; this ensures there will be no difficulty opening the door in an emergency.
