Here’s How to Protect Your Business from a Fire

We know that as a business owner, there’s a lot you must think about for your business’s smooth running. On any given day, numerous factors can affect its successful functioning. From staff management to product procurement and sales, the list is long, and understandably, it’s easy to miss something.

One area that should not be overlooked is fire safety. To do so can result in devastating losses. A fire safety plan is critical in hospitality, retail, or other industries. Your staff should be familiar with it for their own protection and that of your customers and visitors.

We want you to be equipped to handle any unfortunate event. So, we’re sharing four quick tips on how to protect your business from fire.

Be aware of your risks. The level of risk will vary according to your business. For example, your product or services might require using and storing flammable liquids. It’s also possible that combustible substances might be a by-product of your type of business. As such, you should do a ‘walk-through’ assessing risk factors and addressing fire hazards. Pay attention to high-risk elements such as office and electrical equipment (desktops, printers, copiers, breakers, outlets, cords, etc.), combustible materials (paper, plastic, cloth), flammable liquids (gasoline, alcohol, etc.) and appliances (kettles, coffeemakers, etc.).  

Advise staff of the safety procedures and evacuation plan. Educate your team on the fire hazards and establish safety procedures for tools, equipment, substances, etc. Additionally, in the event of a fire, there should be an evacuation plan with clearly identified exits that your staff can follow. 

Install a fire prevention system. The system you acquire will depend mainly on the size of your establishment. Some companies install smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinklers. Fire extinguishers are handy no matter the size of your business. They should be mounted somewhere visible to all and easily accessible. Maintenance is also essential, and they should be checked annually.

Go to the experts. Seek expert guidance if you choose elaborate fire prevention equipment or a portable fire extinguisher. A severe fire can result in losing your building, stock, or worse, lives. Therefore, you should not attempt to devise a plan to protect your business against fires if you are inexperienced. It’s best to consult fire prevention experts to decide the most suitable for your business.

Fire is a serious risk to any business, but its severity is manageable. You can protect your business by planning and outfitting it with fire-prevention equipment. These tips will help get you started.

Sources: BigHospitality, Lloyd Security Inc. and Sobieski Inc.