Choosing the Right Fire Monitor for Your Facility: Manual vs. Remote-Controlled
When protecting high-risk environments like fuel terminals, hangars, and waste incineration plants, fire monitors are often the first line of defence. But how do you choose between a manual fire monitor and a remote-controlled one?
In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of each type and help you decide which fire monitor is best suited for your facility's risks and layout.
"Once the industry embraced FireDos technology and benefits, we began to successfully supply many projects covering a wide range of industries and applications."
Mike Feldon,
Managing Director of DoseTech
What Is a Fire Monitor?
A fire monitor (also known as a water cannon or deluge gun) is a directional nozzle connected to a water or foam system. It delivers a powerful stream over long distances to suppress fires in large, open, or hazardous areas.
Manual Fire Monitors
Manual monitors are operated directly by a firefighter or operator via handwheels or levers.
Advantages:
- Lower cost and simpler installation
- Ideal for smaller or easily accessible sites
- No power supply required
Limitations:
- Requires close physical access during a fire
- May pose safety risks in volatile environments
- Limited precision in rapid-response scenarios
SEE MORE ON FIRE FIGHTING MONITORS
Remote-Controlled Fire Monitors
These systems allow immediate precise targeting from a control panel — or even remotely via joystick or software interface.
Advantages:
- Safer – operators can stay at a secure distance
- Ideal for large, hazardous, or hard-to-access zones
- Can integrate with detection and automation systems
- Compatible with FireDos foam Proportioners
Limitations:
- Higher cost
- Requires power (usually electric or hydraulic)
Which Type Is Best for Your Facility?
Site Type
Fuel terminals, tank farms
Hangars & helipads
Fire training grounds
Warehousing
Waste recycling
Chemical distribution
Recommended Monitor
Remote-controlled
Remote-controlled with thermal detection
Manual (or hybrid)
Depends on fire risk & access
Remote-controlled with thermal detection
Remote-controlled with thermal detection
The right monitor depends on risk profile, accessibility, staffing, and integration needs.
Our Recommendation
At DoseTech Fire, we typically recommend remote-controlled monitors for high-risk, high-value, or unmanned sites — especially where fuel, chemicals, or aviation assets are present.
We proudly supply FireDos remote monitor systems with integrated proportioners for safe, reliable, and targeted fire suppression.
Need Help Choosing?
Let’s talk through your site's layout, hazard class, and access needs.
Contact Us: 0861 111 544
mgf@dosetech.co.za
Unit 25 Gold Street, North Gate Business Park, Brooklyn, Cape Town, 7405
