We understand that each property is unique, and we want to ensure that we gather all the necessary information to provide you with the most accurate and helpful assistance.

Allow us to identify cost savings for your property and provide assistance with code requirements. Along with that, we will send you our Area of Refuge guide for your reference. If you require immediate assistance, feel free to contact us directly at 800-862-4001 and speak with a friendly MyLinkLine sales representative.

Area of Refuge

Area of Refuge | Questions & Answers

What is an area of refuge?

An area of refuge serves as a designated space for individuals with mobility challenges to await assistance during emergencies. Buildings with obstacles to exit are mandated to have these areas to provide protection and facilitate communication.

What is the difference between an Area of Refuge and Area of Rescue?

The terms “area of refuge” and “area of rescue assistance” are synonymous in the industry. Both phrases refer to the same concept, and they can be used interchangeably to describe a designated space for individuals with mobility challenges to seek assistance during emergencies.

Who utilizes an area of refuge?

An area of refuge, also known as an area of rescue assistance, is designed for individuals with mobility challenges who may require assistance in emergencies. This includes persons with disabilities, the elderly, the visually impaired, individuals with illnesses, people with very young children or infants, and anyone who may face difficulties accessing an emergency exit.

Do you need two way communication to comply with code?

MyLinkLine provides a comprehensive solution for Area of Refuge Communication Systems. This includes a designated area of refuge equipped with two-way emergency communication capabilities, all backed by top-tier emergency monitoring services. Our solution not only features 24/7/365 emergency monitoring but also offers cost-effective cellular phone lines for dial tone, ensuring a reliable and efficient communication system.

Why is area of Refuse phone monitoring necessary?

The effectiveness of your rescue systems is paramount in providing essential assistance to tenants during critical situations when alternative help is unavailable. According to code specifications, the area of the rescue call system initiates communication with the onsite Base Station initially. In the event of an unanswered call, the system automatically forwards it to a third-party station monitoring center. This center is equipped to dispatch the necessary rescue personnel and remains engaged on the line until on-site assistance is secured.

We have already purchased emergency telephones from another company. Can MyLinkLine monitor these phones?

Certainly! MyLinkLine can monitor and reprogram emergency telephones from any manufacturer, including those that are integrated into existing car operating panels. No additional equipment is required for us to provide monitoring services for these telephones.

Is it possible to program emergency telephones to call 911?

While it may be possible to program an emergency telephone to dial 911 for emergency dispatch, it is generally discouraged. Most 911 dispatch centers prefer that these types of telephones do not tie up emergency lines with non-emergency or prank calls. Additionally, fines may be imposed for dispatching emergency personnel to non-emergency situations. Therefore, we do not recommend relying solely on 911 for emergency phone handling emergency phone calls.

When are areas of refuge required?

Typically, new buildings are mandated to include an area of refuge unless specific criteria are satisfied. One such exception is if the building is equipped with a supervised automated sprinkler system and has an ADA-compliant wheelchair-accessible route for exiting the building.

Do you need an area of refuge if the building protected throughout by sprinklers?

If a building is equipped with sprinklers, it’s possible for an entire story within the building to function as an area of refuge, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include the presence of a two-way communication system at each elevator landing, equipped with both audible and visible signals. Additionally, the story must have at least two accessible rooms or spaces, separated by smoke-resisting partitions. It’s worth noting that specific occupancies, such as new and existing businesses, may exempt the requirement for a minimum of two accessible rooms. In such cases, only one accessible room or space is necessary. It is crucial to adhere to local and state building codes when constructing your area of refuge for your project.

Do you monitor and provide cellular phone lines for other types of emergency phones?

Yes, we monitor and provide cellular phone lines for: Elevator Phones, Wheelchair Lifts Phones, Area of Refuge Phones, Parking Lot Phones, Campus Phones, Emergency Phones, Swimming Pool Phones, SOS Phones, Blue Light Phones, Call Box Phones, Intercom Phone Lines, Alarm Phone Lines.

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I do not hesitate to write an excellent review for MyLinkLine. For over 10 years they have provided our cellular landlines and monitoring service. They go above and beyond to keep you connected and happy. MyLinkLine is an excellent choice

Jim Millard

Property Manager, Colorado

Over the course of several years, the phone company had been consistently overcharging  for our elevator phone landlines. However, we made the decision to switch our elevator phones to cellular, resulting in remarkable savings of over 60% in monthly fees.

Janette Walter

District Superintendent, Florida

We made the switch from outdated landlines to cellular with ease. The installation process was straightforward, and we are delighted to report that the phones have been functioning flawlessly ever since. Our overall experience with MyLinkLine has been exceptional.

Robert Golden

HOA President, Texas