October is Fire Prevention Month, and the U.S. Fire Administration has deemed Oct. 9–15, 2016, as Fire Prevention Week. The U.S. Fire Administration, a wing of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is running this campaign. This year’s theme is “Don’t Wait—Check the Date! Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.” To celebrate Fire Prevention Month, take the time to educate co-workers, staff, and building occupants about steps they can take to protect themselves from fire.
Fire Escape Plan
It is critical to have a fire escape plan. If for some reason this has been overlooked, it is important to correct this now. Make sure that everyone knows the appropriate escape routes based on their location. And, it is smart to have a system in place to account for and ensure everyone is evacuated. Most facilities already have a plan, but it is important to review it each year. Fire prevention month is the perfect time to review an evacuation plan and conduct a fire drill. For additional information on developing evacuation plans, see the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA’s) Evacuation Plans and Procedures eTool.
Fire Extinguisher Training and Maintenance
Fire extinguisher training is mandated by OSHA. Fire Prevention Month is an excellent time to schedule this required training provided by the training professionals at Ryan Fireprotection. Refer to Ryan Fireprotection’s article OSHA-Required Fire Extinguisher Training for more information, and then sign up for a training here.
Not only is it necessary to have the required training to operate an extinguisher effectively, it is also important that they work when called upon. Annual inspections and 6-year and 12-year maintenance are required by the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) standards. Ryan Fireprotection can inspect, tag, and service all types of fire extinguishers.
Fire Detection Equipment and Sprinkler Systems
Just like it is important to test, clean, and replace smoke detectors at home, it is equally important to have building fire detection devices and sprinkler systems inspected, tested, and/or serviced on a regular basis – not only to meet code requirements, but also for the safety of the building employees and occupants. Ryan Fireprotection’s service technicians have the knowledge and expertise needed to keep your fire detection equipment and sprinkler systems operating as they should.
Contact Ryan Fireprotection to schedule training and maintenance, and for all of your commercial fire prevention needs.
