What is the function of a pull station?

A pull station is designed specifically to manually activate the fire alarm system in an emergency situation. When an individual encounters a fire or detects smoke, they can pull the station lever or switch, which sends an immediate alert to the fire alarm control panel. This action initiates the alarm system, ensuring that occupants can be warned and emergency services can be notified. The functionality of pull stations is critical as it provides a straightforward and quick method for individuals to report a fire when automatic detection systems may not activate in time.

The other options do not align with the primary purpose of a pull station. For example, silencing the alarm is typically a function of a control panel and is meant for use once the situation has been assessed and deemed safe. Deactivating smoke detectors is also not a function of a pull station, as those detectors serve to identify potential hazards. Lastly, resetting the control panel is usually done after the fire situation has been resolved, and it involves different procedures than those associated with activating the alarm system.