Smoke Cloak Security Systems Explained
A Smoke Cloak system (also known as a security fog or fog cannon system) is a security measure that releases a dense fog or smoke to obscure visibility during a break-in or unauthorised entry. It is used in both commercial and residential settings to deter theft and protect assets.

- Immediate Intrusion Deterrent – The fog is released within seconds of detecting an intrusion and intruders are instantly disoriented and cannot see what they are trying to steal.
- Prevents Theft – By reducing visibility to near zero, the system makes it nearly impossible for intruders to locate or steal valuable items and acts as a “barrier” without physical contact.
- Rapid Response Time – Fog can fill a room in less than 10 seconds buying valuable time for law enforcement or security personnel to arrive.
- Non-Destructive and Safe – The fog is typically made of food-grade glycol or glycerin, which is harmless to people, electronics, and property leaving no residue in most cases, and visibility returns after ventilation.
- Cost-Effective Protection – Reduces losses from theft significantly and may lower insurance premiums due to enhanced security.
- Works During Power Cuts – Most systems include battery backup or can be connected to uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), ensuring functionality during power outages.
- Psychological Deterrent – Criminals are less likely to target premises with visible fog systems or warning signs.
- Customisable for Various Spaces – Can be installed in retail stores, warehouses, banks, homes, and even vehicles and scalable for different room sizes and security requirements.
- Minimal Maintenance – Requires infrequent servicing and is generally low maintenance compared to other active security systems.
- Integration with Alarm Systems – Can be linked to intrusion detection systems, motion sensors, or panic buttons for automated deployment.
Use Case Examples
- Retail stores: Prevent smash-and-grab robberies.
- Jewellery stores: Protect high-value items.
- Warehouses: Guard large inventories.
- Homes: Provide an extra layer of security during break-ins.
How a Smoke Cloak System Operates
- Integration with an Alarm or Trigger System – The Smoke Cloak is typically connected to:
- Intruder alarm systems.
- Motion detectors.
- Door or window sensors.
- Panic buttons.
- Once an intrusion is detected (e.g. someone forces entry), the system is triggered automatically or manually.
- Fog Generation is Activated
- When triggered, the system powers up a heating element inside the fog unit.
- It rapidly heats a fog fluid (a mix of glycol or glycerine and water) to produce vapor.
- Dense Fog is Ejected
- The heated fog fluid is forced through a nozzle, converting it into a thick, white vapor.
- This fog quickly expands and fills the room in seconds, typically reducing visibility to less than 30 cm (about 1 foot).
- Obscures Vision Completely
- The fog acts as a visual barrier, making it nearly impossible for intruders to see or move confidently.
- It is especially effective in confusing or disorienting criminals, preventing access to key areas or valuables and forcing intruders to flee before stealing anything.
- Fog Dissipates Safely Over Time
- The fog does not harm electronics, fabrics, or people.
- It will dissipate naturally within 15–30 minutes after ventilation begins.
- Most systems can be reset and refilled after use.
- System Reset and Readiness – After activation, the system needs to cool down, be re-armed (manually or automatically) and efill fluid if used extensively.
The system features a fast response, activating within seconds of detection, and produces a low-visibility output that limits sight to less than one meter while remaining harmless to people and objects. It can be triggered automatically by alarms or manually, and certain models are capable of multiple discharges before requiring a refill, providing reliable and flexible operation in various situations.
Our team aims to deliver expert customer care, from site survey to completion through to ongoing maintenance. Developing a lasting relationship with a partner you can trust to protect you and your premises whilst ensuring your businesses and organisations are fully compliant to the latest legal requirements. We are CHAS accredited, BAFE registered and, SSAIB certificated with BS EN ISO 9001:2015 & Construction Line approved, so your organisation can be assured that all our fire, security and safety equipment is designed, supplied, installed and maintained in accordance with the latest British Standards.
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