Keeping Your Commercial Business Fire Ready

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

It’s good business to keep your commercial property fire ready and avoid disaster. Your livelihood depends on your business, as well as that of your staff, and we know you will want to protect it. With that in mind, we want to share some tips here that can help you get your property ready in the event of a fire:

• FIRST RESPONDERS. Ensure that your building or suite is visibly lettered and numbered so that emergency responders can easily find your location in a timely manner. Numbers should contrast with the background used, such as black/white, while the numerals should be no less than six inches in height. Ensure that your local fire department has your updated contact information on file, as well. 
• FIRE EXTINGUISHERS. Fire extinguishers should be no more than 75 feet from work areas for easy access, and they should be mounted in a highly visible spot that is easy to get to. Make sure your extinguishers are continually maintained and serviced properly at least once a year by a licensed fire extinguisher company, as well. 
• EXITS. Exits need to be clearly marked and illuminated at all times, with a battery backup for power outages. They also need to be clear of any obstructions at all times, so that people can get out safely and quickly. Emergency lighting should be kept in working order, and the area around the building outside clear of debris and plant material, reducing the fire risk outdoors as well. 
• STORAGE. Stored materials need to be stacked at least two feet below the ceiling and be orderly. For buildings with an automatic sprinkler system, 18 inches of clearance is required, allowing smoke to collect up high, which gives people adequate time to exit and the sprinklers a clear area for their spray pattern. Trash receptacles need to be kept at least five feet away from combustible materials, windows, and door openings - do not store trash in exit paths. 
• OUTLETS. Electrical outlets should have no more than one item per outlet plugged in, which may include a power strip with a circuit breaker. All electrical cords should be kept in good repair and replaced when needed. 
• SPRINKLER SYSTEM. Have your sprinkler system tested and serviced every 12 months or less by a licensed fire sprinkler company. This practice should also be used for your fire alarm system. 

Here at SERVPRO of North Nashville, we are experienced in all cleanup projects after fires, whether they are large or small. In the event of water damage we’re ready to help, as well We are committed to getting your home or business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, too.