Top Fire Safety & Prevention Tips

October is observed as national fire prevention month to educate the public and raise awareness of the need for fire safety.

Regular maintenance and inspections of machinery, electrical panels, smoke detectors, and alarms can help prevent fires from starting and properly alert employees and residents of the need to evacuate if smoke or a fire is detected.

General Do’s and Don’ts

Employees who smoke should only do so in designated smoking areas and properly dispose of cigarettes using a cigarette receptacle
Report electrical outages and ensure all repair and service is performed by professionals
Do not use mechanical/electrical closets for storage
Do not block the pathway to exits, electrical breakers or fire extinguishers
Hallways and walkways should always remain clear of obstruction
Regularly empty the lint traps in your public dryers, and remind residents to do so with the dryers in their apartment

Create an emergency plan and exit strategy detailing what to do in the event of a fire. Train the staff on exit routes, how to help anyone nearby who needs assistance, and where to meet once everyone has evacuated. Perform regular fire drills and create a procedure to secure the building during a fire so that no one is allowed entry.

Here are some general tips to keep your community prepared:

Inspect and test sprinkler systems regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendation
Inspect smoke detectors regularly and replace batteries at least annually
Inspect the expiration dates on all fire extinguishers
Annual fire inspection
Inspect the emergency alarms according to the manufacturer’s recommendation
Keep a fire extinguisher and emergency alarm in each building in your community