Business Fire, Are You Prepared

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

To a business owner having a fire break out at their establishment is a nightmare scenario.  Are my employees safe?  How bad is the damage?  Will I be able to reopen?  SERVPRO of East Evansville hopes that none of business friends ever have to deal with such a loss. At SERVPRO we believe that education and preparation is key in preventing such tragicize. Below are few statistics and tips to increase preparation.   

- FEMA’s National estimates for nonresidential building fires and losses in 2018, the most recent year for which data are available, are as follows: Fires: 103,600. Deaths: 85. Injuries: 1,025. Dollar loss: $2,656,600,000.

1. Inspection by the Local Fire Department

Always calendar annual inspections and be ready for the fire marshal to inspect your property. Continue to inspect, maintain and repair equipment as needed. Verify any violations from the last inspection are now compliant.

2. Fire Protection Systems

Fire protection systems include fire extinguishers, fire sprinklers and fire suppression systems. To reduce the amount of fire damage, inspect, maintain and repair the systems as necessary. Extinguishers must have tags marked with dates of inspection and it is essential the extinguisher type fits the type of fire. Inspect and test fire sprinkler systems according to NFPA Code 25.

3. Fire Safety Plan

Your employees need training in fire safety. They should know the location of all exit doors and fire extinguishers. Post emergency exit plans clearly throughout the business. Instruct your employees in the operation of fire extinguishers. Have a plan in place and educate your people. Practice fire drills regularly.
Worry over a possible business fire will not be an issue with inspection, maintenance, repairs and training. Speaking with a hazmat or fire clean up specialist such as SERVPRO of East Evansville can give you peace of mind that you are protecting your employees and your business.