Tips to Prevent Business Fires

More than 70 percent of businesses involved in a major fire do not reopen or go out of business within three years. Don’t let this happen to your business.

Preventing business fires, starts by reviewing your company policies and talking with your employees about the safety tips below.

• Don’t overload electrical outlets – Avoid overloading electrical outlets with tons of computers, printers and other electronics.

• Show employees the location of fire extinguishers – Your employees should know where the fire extinguishers are located at your business. Also train them on how to use the extinguishers.

• Keep paper products away from heat sources – This seems obvious, but you would be amazed how many businesses make this mistake.

• Identify fuel for fire – Besides paper, you’ll want to minimize trash, cardboard and other flammable items that can fuel a fire.

• Have a no candle and no smoking policy – The lighting of candles and smoking should be prohibited at your business.

• Do not permit space heaters at your business – Unattended space heaters can cause a fire. It’s better for employees to leave them at home.

• Keep computers and appliances in good shape – Have technicians regularly service computers and appliances at your business. This will ensure they aren’t a potential fire hazard.

• Have a no tolerance policy on smoke detector tampering – Let employees know right off the bat that they can be seriously reprimanded for tampering with smoke detectors as well as fire extinguishers.

• Maintain fire extinguishers and sprinklers – Have your fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems regularly tested by a professional to ensure that they’re working properly.

If you need help checking your sprinklers and fire alarm system, contact Hue & Cry, Inc.

We have certified experts that can help ensure your fire alarm and sprinklers are properly functioning. To find out more, please visit our page on fire alarm systems or call us at 1-800-762-3196.