Smoke vs. Fog: Choosing the Right Security Intervention Intrusion System

Traditional alarm systems offer the best solution to detect when a burglary is in progress and to notify the authorities. However, today, it has become increasingly popular to add an additional layer of immediate intervention in the form of a smoke or fog-based obscuration system to force intruders out, even as they are in the middle of the burglary. But there are a number of options in the market from which to choose. Which one is best for you? When it comes to security intrusion devices, you go for a fast-acting security smoke deployment solution. But which one to choose?

The choice between fog and smoke generators is pivotal. These systems offer different mechanisms and benefits, and understanding their differences can help you make the best choice for your security needs. In the following article we will review the basics of fog and smoke devices, explain the drawbacks of fog devices and highlight MyShield’s unique benefits.

Fog vs. Smoke: The Basics

Security fog and smoke systems are designed to deter intruders by filling a defined space with a dense mist that obstructs vision and impedes the intruder’s ability to steal anything. In general, liquid-based fog systems produce a slightly more persistent fog compared to smoke-generating alternative, on the other hand, these fog-generating machines are bigger, more complex than smoke generators and require a heating element is kept at a constantly high temperature and pressure in order to be ready to produce the fog immediately. The key difference between the two types of devices lies in the mechanism used to create the “mist”:

Fog Generators: The fog in the security fog cannon is usually fluid-based and consists of water and oil-based chemicals such as glycol. The fog cannon heats up the liquid and discharges it through a nozzle, as a dense, white fog. Fully water-based fog may generally be cleaner but require more maintenance, while oil-based fog can leaves a residue that is harder to clean. The bigger fog generators can effectively fill large spaces while consuming relatively low amounts of fog-producing chemical. However, they have an always active energy consumption, annual maintenance, greater weight, dimensions and costs.

Smoke Generators: Smoke generators on the other hand, use a pyrotechnic mechanism to release smoke from a smoke canister immediately. This action does not require the device to be connected to a constant power source, allowing the device to be battery operated. This technology relies on minimal electrical power to initiate a pyrotechnical event, creating smoke reliably and immediately. It requires low maintenance and has a shelf life of about five years or more. Once the dispensing process has been triggered, the canister expends its entire contents, so the smoke canister is intended for one-time use. The reduced power consumption, dimensions and costs make it an ideal solution for protecting high-risk spaces effectively and conveniently. The chemicals are based on a dust powder which leaves minimal and easily cleaned residue.

Disadvantages of Fog Generators

Dependent on a Power Source: Fog generators require an internal element to be maintained at a high temperature. This means they need to be constantly connected to electricity, which can be a limitation in terms of installation and costly power consumption, particularly during a break-in.

Limited Effect: Although fog devices create a dense fog that obscures vision, the nature of the water-based material is milder than smoke, meaning that an intruder may be able to remain on the premises until the fog partially dissipates and continue with the burglary.

Larger Devices: Fog Generators are larger due to the dependency on continuous heating and requiring a large canister to store the fog-generating liquid and a heating element.

Complex Installation & Maintenance: Installation often requires a power source and potentially complex wiring. Maintenance can be more demanding, especially for oil-based systems.

Hard to Clean: Cleaning the residue, especially from oil-based systems, can be a challenge, particularly when it comes to sensitive equipment or valuable products. There’s also a risk of damaging the assets sensitive to high humidity or water-based elements penetration.

Why Choose MyShield?

Choosing between fog and smoke security systems depends on your specific needs. MyShield is a ground-breaking smoke-generating technology that provides clear advantages in terms of flexibility, effectiveness, and maintenance.

Here are some of the most significant advantages:

Integrated. Versatile. MyShield operates on a technology that uses minimal power to trigger the smoke generation process. Thanks to its compact, battery-operated design in does not rely on local power or communication infrastructure, MyShield sets a new standard with its variety of flexible installation and integration options, acting either as an all-in-one, standalone device or as an integrated unit to complement an existing alarm system.

Maximum Effectiveness. The smoke produced by MyShield is more than just a visual barrier. Persistent and dense it creates an uncomfortable environment that forces intruders to leave, offering an immediate response and providing a significant first line of defense until the authorities arrive.

Low Cost and Maintenance. With minimal maintenance requirements and no need for constant power, MyShield offers a cost-effective solution for security. The ease of installation and near-zero maintenance further reduce the total cost of ownership, making it an attractive option for homes and small to medium-sized businesses.

Cleanliness. Unlike many of the fog machines, which leave oily residue on the assets it protects that can be challenging to clean, after MyShield’s smoke disperses, it leaves nothing but a few grams of dry powder that can be easily brushed off.

Whether you opt for fog or smoke security systems, both offer valuable protection against intruders. However, the optimal choice depends on your specific security needs, the environment you’re protecting, and the nature of your assets. By carefully considering factors like power requirements, installation complexity, maintenance needs, and desired level of deterrence, you can select the system that best safeguards your property.