As a business owner, ensuring your employees and customers are safe should be a top priority. Fires can happen anytime, and being prepared can save lives. Follow these fire safety tips to help protect your business.

Have a Fire Escape Plan

The first step is having an emergency fire escape plan that all employees are familiar with. Make sure there are clearly marked fire exits on each floor. Post floor plans showing escape routes in visible areas. Hold fire drills every six months so employees can practice evacuating quickly and safely. Designate an assembly point outside where everyone should gather after exiting so you can account for all personnel. Having a solid fire escape plan can make all the difference in a real emergency.

Install Fire Extinguishers for Businesses

Every commercial building should have fire extinguishers placed throughout in easy-to-access spots. They allow you to attempt to put out a small fire before it grows into a raging inferno. Choose ABC-type extinguishers suitable for all fires. Inspect them monthly and have a professional service them annually. Educate employees on the proper use of fire extinguishers for businesses so they’re prepared if the need arises. Place signage indicating extinguisher locations so they can be retrieved rapidly when a fire breaks out.

Have a Robust Sprinkler System

According to Tufts University, it’s estimated that about 97% of fires in buildings are controlled by only one or two sprinkler heads. This demonstrates the incredible effectiveness of sprinkler systems at containing fires. For the best protection, install sprinklers throughout your entire commercial property. Make sure the system meets all codes and regulations for your type of business. Test sprinklers periodically to ensure proper functioning. With a robust sprinkler system in place, most fires will be quickly suppressed before major damage occurs.

Conduct Electrical Inspections

Faulty wiring is one of the most common causes of fires in businesses. To minimize this risk, make electrical inspections and maintenance a key part of your fire prevention program. Check for damaged outlets, frayed cords, loose connections, and overloaded circuits. Update any outdated electrical systems. Use surge protectors and avoid overloading outlets. Conduct regular inspections to catch any electrical issues before they turn into fires. Consult with certified electricians when needed to make repairs and upgrades. Proactive electrical maintenance can significantly improve your fire safety.

By being prepared with solid fire safety practices, you can better protect your business, employees, and customers. Making fire safety a priority will give you peace of mind that you’ve taken every precaution to keep people safe. Call us at FireTron to get help with fire safety or to buy fire extinguishers for businesses.