Fall Fire Safety Tips and Tricks: Stay Cozy!

As per the NFPA, the primary reasons behind fires in commercial buildings are usually:

• Cooking Equipment

• Heating Equipment

• Electrical and Lighting Equipment

• Smoking Materials

• Arson

Let’s look at some fire prevention techniques that you can incorporate to protect yourself from fire hazards.

1. Avoid Clutter

Clutter can quickly turn into fire fuel, making it essential to keep your surroundings tidy and free of combustible waste. This waste includes cardboard boxes, paper, debris, yard trimmings, and fallen trees. Fire laws strictly prohibit keeping these items around except in designated disposal areas. If not properly handled, this clutter can pose a severe fire hazard for your building.

Additionally, having clutter around can block exits and evacuation routes. It can also make it harder for firefighters to do their job during a fire emergency. Owners should ensure the building is free from obstructions and keep hallways clear for safety reasons.

2. Be Aware of Ignition Sources

Various items can increase the risk of fires; these ignition sources include heaters, lamps, and other objects that can become hot or produce flames, such as exposed cords or electrical outlets. Other things that can lead to open flames include matches, cigars, cigarettes, signal markers, flaming food or drinks in restaurants, decorative devices, candles, lanterns, gas heaters, and barbecue pits.

3. Avoid Overloading Circuits and Extension Cords

In many office buildings and commercial spaces, there are often lots of cords because of the many electronic devices like computers, printers, and monitors. This can lead to overcrowded outlets. Especially in the fall, when portable heaters might be added, there could be even more cords, which increases the risk of overheating.

To prevent this, property owners should advise people to ensure plugs fit securely into outlets and avoid loose connections. Loose connections can cause overheating and potentially start a fire.

4. Have the Correct Safety Equipment

Building owners should ensure that appropriate safety equipment is provided for the property. They should also always be on the lookout for fire-prone situations and be prepared if one ever happens. They can do this by first following the simple steps of checking their smoke alarms, replacing their batteries, and checking if their extinguishers are in working condition.

5. Regular Inspections and Testing

You should regularly conduct inspections and test your fire alarm systems to keep people safe from any situations. The NFPA 72 regulations state that residents are allowed to inspect their systems and are advised to do them on a half-yearly basis.