Fire protection system - the most common do’s and don’ts

Fire safety is the biggest concern for any commercial building owner. After all, a fire mishap in a commercial building can not only lead to serious injuries or even deaths. To a lesser extent, it can result in property loss or ruin crucial records. This is why a well-installed fire protection system in NYC is not only mandatory by the law but also crucial for the safety of the people and the property. However, even if a fire protection system is in place, many occupants fail to use them properly during an emergency. 

To ensure the safety of your building, there are a few do’s and don’ts that you must follow when it comes to fire protection in NYC. 

Fire Alarms

There is no denying the fact that fire alarm systems are the first line of defense during a fire mishap. They are installed to indicate the occupants of the building about the fire breakout. It also prevents a fire from spreading or becoming out of control. 

Do:

• Get your fire alarm systems tested on a regular basis to ensure they are working properly.
• Have an evacuation plan of action if, in case, a fire alarm goes off
• Maintain a record of regular inspection and maintenance activity of fire alarms installed in the building

Don’t:

• Overlook false alarms
• Ignore the importance of scheduling regular inspection and maintenance of fire alarms 

Fire extinguishers

After fire alarms come fire extinguishers. As the name suggests, they help in extinguishing fires and preventing them from spreading. Fire extinguishers are the second most important part of a well-installed fire protection system. 

Do:

• Check regularly if the extinguishers are in working condition
• Run routine tests on them 
• Make sure that the fire extinguishers are kept in an easily accessible place 
• Ensure that your staff knows how to use the equipment in case of a fire breakout

Don’t:

• Ignore any possible issues with the system
• Forget to hire fire extinguisher maintenance services

Fire safety signage - 

Fire safety signs are an important part of a fire protection system. It makes your commercial place safer and also keeps you in compliance with the current legislation. 

Do’s

• Put all relevant safety signs throughout your building 
• Make sure the signs are readable and visible 
• Ensure they are equipped with proper lighting for better direction

Don’ts - 

• Fail to install proper lighting with fire safety signs 
• Forget to schedule regular inspection and maintenance 

Fire safety is not rocket science. But it also not something that should be taken for granted. Following these do’s and don’ts will help you keep your building safe from fire mishaps. Also, remember to run a fire drill every now and then to help your staff and occupants of the building know what to do during a fire breakout.