A general discussion of fire alarms and protection is provided by a manufacturer of automated monitoring and control systems. Background information describes old and new fire alarm systems, comparing system components, wage savings, and cost analysis. Different kinds of automatic systems are listed, including--(1) local system, (2) auxiliary system, (3) central station system, (4) remote station system, and (5) proprietary system. Proprietary system components include detectors, supervisory equipment, and signaling devices. Specification selection charts are provided for commercial buildings, hospitals, colleges, schools, industrial buildings, multiple dwellings, and libraries. (MM)