3 Essential Elements of Business Fire Preparedness

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Working smoke alarms are your best defense against a business fire

3 Essential Elements of Business Fire Preparedness

A fire can cause serious damage to business property. It’s hard to imagine having a fire in your Grand Manor, AZ, business, but it’s important to be prepared. Creating a fire prevention plan or bolstering an existing one can significantly reduce your risk of serious fire damage. This discussion may help you formulate the best plan for your situation.

1. Smoke Alarms

Working smoke alarms are your best defense against a business fire. They will detect the problem and loudly notify you. If your alarms are malfunctioning, they may fail to protect you. Consider the following seasonal maintenance practices for your smoke alarms:

• Testing each alarm monthly to confirm proper warning siren operation
  
• Replacing the batteries every 6-9 months or obtaining a unit with a permanent 10-year battery
  
• Carefully vacuuming the alarm openings to remove any dust or cobwebs
  
  

It’s important to stay current with alarm inspection and maintenance. Only a working alarm can alert you to call emergency services before you incur extensive damage.

2. Evacuation Plan

It’s important to prepare your staff for a business fire by having a fire safety meeting. The goal is an emergency escape plan that will facilitate evacuation from your building. Your local fire restoration specialist will generally be glad to visit your business and help you formulate the best plan for your unique situation.
Start with walking the building with your staff, identifying the best evacuation route for each office and room. Storing escape ladders in upper-floor offices will facilitate window evacuation, and having fire drills once or twice a year will keep your staff familiarized with the plan.

3. Fire Extinguishers

You will undoubtedly be grateful for a few well-placed fire extinguishers if you have a business fire. If your building is very large, your local fire specialist can recommend the best number and placement for your situation. Make sure your staff is familiar with fire extinguisher operation.
Proper fire preparation is easy to neglect, considering the demands of everyday business operations. Taking the time to implement a good plan can save lives and property. It could be the difference between a little smoke damage and complete property destruction.