Stay Warm Safely: The Dangers of Space Heaters and How to Use Them Properly

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

This blog highlights the dangers of space heaters and provides essential tips on how to use them safely.

As the temperatures drop, many residents of St. George, UT, turn to space heaters to keep their homes warm and cozy. While space heaters can be an effective heating solution, they also pose significant fire hazards if not used properly. This blog highlights the dangers of space heaters and provides essential tips on how to use them safely.

Understanding the Dangers of Space Heaters

Fire Hazards

Space heaters are one of the leading causes of home fires during the colder months. They can easily ignite nearby flammable materials, such as curtains, bedding, and furniture if placed too close. Additionally, malfunctioning units or improper use can lead to electrical fires.

Burns and Injuries

Space heaters can become extremely hot to the touch, posing a burn risk to children and pets. Contact with the heating element or other hot surfaces can cause serious injuries.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Fuel-burning space heaters, such as those that run on kerosene or propane, can produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas that is deadly in high concentrations. Proper ventilation is crucial when using these types of heaters to prevent CO buildup.

Safe Usage Tips for Space Heaters

Choose the Right Heater

Select a space heater that is certified by a recognized testing laboratory, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Ensure it has safety features like automatic shut-off if it tips over or overheats.

Proper Placement

Place space heaters on a flat, stable surface and keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials. Avoid using them in high-traffic areas where they can be easily knocked over.

Never Leave Unattended

Always turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to bed. Never leave a space heater running unattended, as this significantly increases the risk of fire.

Use the Right Power Source

Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Avoid using extension cords or power strips, as they can overheat and cause a fire. Ensure the outlet can handle the electrical load of the heater.

Maintain Ventilation for Fuel-Burning Heaters

If using a fuel-burning space heater, make sure the area is well-ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Install a carbon monoxide detector in the room and test it regularly.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Inspect your space heater regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any faulty units immediately. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the heater operates safely.

SERVPRO®: Your Partner in Fire Safety

SERVPRO is committed to helping you maintain a safe and warm home. Our team provides expert fire damage restoration services and valuable advice on fire prevention. Contact us for more information on how we can assist in making your home safer this winter.

Space heaters can be a convenient way to add warmth to your home, but they come with significant risks. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the benefits of a space heater while minimizing the dangers

Warming Up Safely: Navigating the Dangers of Space Heaters in Homes and Businesses

4/9/2024 (Permalink)

Space heaters are a popular choice for providing warmth in specific areas during colder months, offering convenience and efficiency. However, if used improperly, these handy devices can pose serious safety risks. In this blog, we'll explore the potential dangers of space heaters and provide essential tips on using them safely in both homes and businesses.

Understanding the Dangers

Fire Hazard

• One of the primary dangers associated with space heaters is the risk of fire. The intense heat they generate, especially when in close proximity to flammable materials, can ignite nearby objects.

Carbon Monoxide Emission

• Some space heaters that burn fuel can produce carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be lethal in high concentrations. Improper ventilation or a malfunctioning heater can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.

Tripping Hazards

• Space heater cords can pose tripping hazards if not placed or secured properly. This can lead to injuries and, in some cases, cause the heater to tip over.

Using Space Heaters Safely

Choose the Right Heater

• Select a space heater that meets safety standards and has built-in safety features such as tip-over protection and overheat shut-off.

Plug Directly into Outlets

• Avoid using extension cords with space heaters. Plug them directly into wall outlets to minimize the risk of overheating.

Ventilate the Area

• If you are using a fuel-burning space heater, ensure proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide. Never use these heaters in enclosed spaces.

Use for Supplemental Heating

• Space heaters are intended for supplemental heating rather than serving as the primary heat source. Use them to warm specific areas as needed.

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

• If you have a fuel-burning space heater, install carbon monoxide detectors in your home or business. Regularly check and replace batteries as needed.

Space heaters can be valuable tools for providing warmth, but their benefits should never compromise safety. By understanding and respecting the potential dangers of these devices and following recommended safety practices, you can create a cozy and secure environment in your home or business. Warm up safely, and let the comforting heat of your space heater enhance your surroundings without unnecessary risks.

Home Fire Prevention Tips for the Fall and Winter Months: Keep Your Family Safe

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Here are some fire prevention tips for the holidays!

As temperatures drop and the weather becomes cooler, people tend to spend more time indoors, making household fire prevention all the more essential. In this blog, we will provide some essential fire prevention tips that will keep your home and family safe during the fall and winter months.

Check for Faulty Wiring 

Faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of household fires. It is essential to check your wiring for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Exposed wires or frayed cords need instant attention from a qualified electrician. Additionally, avoid overloading electrical sockets and use power strips with surge protectors to reduce the risk of electrical fires.

Keep Heating Appliances Maintained 

As the temperature drops, the use of heating appliances like space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves increases. Ensure that heating appliances are well maintained and meet safety standards. Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heating equipment and avoid leaving heating equipment unattended. Keep chimneys and vents properly cleaned and inspected annually, so that dangerous fumes are directed out of the house, and reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Practice Safe Cooking Habits 

As winter approaches, there are more opportunities for indoor cooking, baking, and food preparation. Cooking fires are a leading cause of household fires. Be attentive while cooking and avoid leaving the kitchen unattended. Keep flammable items away from hot stovetops, ovens, and other kitchen appliances. Use timer and alarms to avoid overcooking or forgetting about food in the oven. Never pour water on a grease fire; instead, smother the fire using a lid or a fire extinguisher.

Keep Smoke Detectors Up to Date

Smoke detectors are a vital early warning system and should be up to date to be effective. Ensure that you have enough sufficiency served alarms and that they are located in all levels of the house, including bedrooms and hallways. Replace batteries regularly and test them every month to ensure that they are functioning correctly.

Be Prepared with a Fire Escape Plan

In the event of a fire, having a properly thought out fire escape plan could make all the difference. Discuss a detailed evacuation plan with your family and ensure that everyone understands it. Know the two closest exits from every room in the house and practice a fire drill frequently, especially if you have young children. Ensure that all escape routes are free from clutter and easy to access. If anyone in the family has mobility challenges, include a plan for assisting them in the event of an emergency. Being prepared can minimize panic, allowing you and your family to escape safely in an emergency situation.

These fire prevention tips will reduce the risk of household fires during the fall and winter months and protect your family. Be vigilant and practice good fire prevention habits, including regular maintenance of heating appliances and electrical components, staying vigilant while cooking, and keeping smoke detectors up to date. By keeping household fire safety in mind, you can create a safer home environment for your family.

Content Cleaning and Fire Damage: How to Restore Your Home and Belongings

8/9/2023 (Permalink)

A fire can cause significant damage to your home and belongings, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to move forward. Content cleaning and restoration services can help you salvage and recover your possessions that may have been damaged by smoke, soot, or water. In this blog post, we'll explore how content cleaning can assist you in restoring your home and belongings after a fire.

Understanding Fire Damage

Fire damage can involve a variety of harmful effects, including smoke, soot, and water damage. Smoke and soot can permeate every surface in your home, leaving behind unpleasant odors, discoloration, and corrosion. Additionally, the water used to extinguish the fire can cause secondary damage, such as mold growth and further structural damage.

Steps to Content Cleaning and Restoration

Content cleaning and restoration specialists can work with you to evaluate the damage and develop a plan to restore your home and belongings. The process typically involves several steps:

Step 1: Assessment and Documentation

The first step in content cleaning and restoration is to assess the damage and document the items that have been affected. Specialists may use advanced equipment to determine the extent of the damage and take inventory of the items that need to be restored.

Step 2: Packing and Transporting

Once the assessment is complete, the specialists will carefully pack and transport all affected items to a secure cleaning and restoration facility. This process involves special handling techniques to minimize further damage during transport.

Step 3: Content Cleaning

At the cleaning facility, technicians will use specialized equipment and techniques to clean and restore your belongings. This process can involve dry cleaning for textiles, ultrasonic cleaning for non-porous items, and specialized processes for electronics, documents, and furniture.

Step 4: Storage and Return

After content cleaning is complete, technicians will carefully wrap and store your belongings until they are ready to be returned to your home. The process also includes re-packaging and transporting the items back to the home and carefully unpacking them.

Benefits of Content Cleaning and Restoration

Content cleaning and restoration can provide several benefits to homeowners following fire damage:

Salvaging Belongings

Content cleaning and restoration services can help you recover items that may have otherwise been lost due to fire damage. By salvaging items that have sentimental or financial value, you can lessen the impact of the fire damage

Reducing Replacement Costs

By restoring your belongings instead of replacing them, you can save money on the replacement costs of your personal items.

Time Effect

Choosing content cleaning and restoration for your fire-damaged belongings is time-efficient and helps to ensure the job is done correctly, leaving you free to attend to other essential matters post-fire.

A fire can be a traumatic experience, but with the help of a content cleaning and restoration service, you can begin to recover and restore your home and belongings. Restoration professionals can work with you to develop a customized plan for content cleaning and restoration, providing you with the peace of mind that your belongings are in capable hands. By salvaging your items, you can save money, preserve irreplaceable sentimental items, and help alleviate some of the stress and worry that come with a fire-damaged home.

Fire Safety: Immediate Steps to take after a fire

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a serious concern. Fires can be frightening, and they can also cause damage to your building that can make it unsafe or uninhabitable. If you've experienced a fire in your building, you may want to take steps to ensure that it doesn't happen again.

In this guide we'll talk about some of the dangers of fires (and how they can impact you), what to do if there's been a fire in your building, and how to keep yourself safe from future fires by making sure all of the proper precautions are taken by everyone involved with maintaining the structure itself--from contractors who work on renovations or repairs through tenants who use space within each floor plan unit itself.

Immediate Steps After a Fire

• Call the fire department and report the blaze.
• Contact your insurance company to file a claim and get help with cleanup.
• Contact a fire damage restoration service to begin repairing damages caused by smoke, heat and water infiltration.

Assessing the Damage

After a fire, it's important to assess the damage and make sure your building is safe. Here are some tips for assessing structural damage:

• Look for buckling or sagging floors and walls. If you see any of these signs, call an engineer to come inspect your building.
• Check for water damage by looking at baseboards and other areas where water could have seeped in through cracks in windows or doors.

Repairing the Damage

After the fire, you will need to hire a fire damage restoration company to repair your building. The experts can replace damaged building materials and repair electrical and plumbing systems so they are safe for use again.

The best way to prevent this type of damage is by having regular inspections performed on your property by professionals who know what they are looking for when it comes to potential hazards like electrical issues or faulty wiring in a room where flammable liquids are stored.

Preventing Future Fires

• Install smoke detectors. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that you install at least one smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement and attic. If you have an older home with no existing wiring for electric or battery-operated detectors, consider installing hardwired versions instead.
• Consider installing fire extinguishers in key locations throughout your building. While it's important to have a fire extinguisher handy in case of an emergency, they're also useful tools for preventing fires from starting in the first place: if someone accidentally leaves a candle burning unattended or forgets about a pot on the stovetop, having an extinguisher nearby can help prevent serious damage from occurring before anyone notices there's been an accident at all!

Protecting against Natural Disaster

• Secure the building's roof.
• Reinforce the building's foundation.
• Install storm shutters or other protective measures to keep out wind and rain damage, as well as debris that could cause injury if it were to fly through your windows during a storm or hurricane.

Conclusion

Secure the building to prevent future fires. Follow safety practices to keep your employees and customers safe, including using fire extinguishers to put out small fires before they spread to other areas of the building. Making sure that all electrical wiring is up to code and in good condition so it can't cause an electrical fire or malfunction that could lead to a fire (such as overheating). Ensuring that there are no combustible materials near heating units or other sources of heat, such as stoves or ovens--and if there are, removing them immediately!

Everything You Need to Know About Smoke Damage

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can be a serious problem. It's often more extensive than you think, and it can happen to even the best-protected homes. This guide will help you recognize the signs of smoke damage, understand how it affects your property, and learn what steps to take after suffering from smoke damage.

Smoke damage can be obvious or subtle.

Smoke damage can be obvious or subtle. The lingering smell of smoke is often the first sign, but sometimes there are no smells at all—the damage tends to occur behind the scenes. Smoke from cooking accidents and cigarettes can cause significant damage too, so even if you don't smell anything out of the ordinary, it's important to check for signs of smoke damage in your home or office space. 

Smoke-damaged property may have any number of telltale signs:

• A coating on the walls and ceiling that resembles white paint
• Discoloration on walls, ceilings, and furnishings
• Soot webs on the ceilings and walls

Understanding smoke damage.

Smoke damage is perhaps one of the most difficult types of damage to deal with, and can cause your property to be unsaleable if not handled properly. Not only does smoke damage need special attention in order to get rid of it, but even after cleaning it may still be present in some form. 

If a fire has caused smoke damage to your property, it's time for some remediation. Smoke and soot are extremely corrosive to many surfaces, including wood, drywall, carpet, and fabric. In addition to discoloring walls and floors, smoke can also leave behind an unpleasant odor that can permeate the air for months after the fire is extinguished. Although you may be tempted to just cover up the smell with perfumes or room sprays, they won't be nearly as effective as professional cleaning services—and they'll only mask the problem temporarily at best.

Smoke odors are extremely stubborn and tend to linger for months or even years after a fire has occurred. In addition, smoke can cause permanent discoloration along surfaces such as walls and ceilings that will require repainting or covering up with new drywall. 

It is dangerous to clean up from a fire without professional help.

It's important to understand that if you attempt to clean up from a fire without professional help, you can be exposed to harmful chemicals and toxins. You may be injured by sharp objects that have been burned and are now sharp, such as glass or metal. You could even be exposed to asbestos, lead or mold if the material was present in the home before the fire occurred.

Do not try to clean up after a fire yourself, call your local SERVPRO experts for assistance today!

Smoke damage can be a big problem, with serious consequences for your home and family. If you've found yourself facing this problem, don't panic! It's important to remember that there are resources out there for people who have encountered smoke damage in their homes. Our SERVPRO of St. George team is always on standby and ready to respond to your fire, smoke, and soot damage!

Tips for Protecting Your Valuables from Fire

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

Tips for Protecting Your Valuables from Fire

Fires are a serious threat to homes, businesses, and lives. They can be started by anything from faulty wiring to cooking mishaps—and if your home is damaged by fire, you're at risk of losing some of your most valuable possessions. To protect against this possibility, start with these tips:

Use Fireproof Storage

If you have valuables that you'd like to keep safe, store them in a place that is fireproof. Fireproof containers are made of metal or concrete and are rated for a specific temperature. Make sure to read the rating before buying one, because it will tell you how hot the container can withstand before it melts or explodes. You can find these containers at most hardware stores and online retailers like Amazon.

You should invest in a quality safe that can withstand fire, water, and theft. Safes are typically made out of metal or concrete to protect the valuables inside. Most safes also have an electronic locking system for added security.

When it comes to choosing the right size and type of safe, consider what you will be storing in it. For example, if you want to store documents such as passports and birth certificates then an all-metal fireproof document safe would be ideal because these items cannot stand up to water damage. If your valuables include jewelry and other precious metals then a combination lock safe is best because they are both waterproof and theft-proof while still meeting fire safety standards

Install Smoke Alarms

The most important way to protect your valuables is to install smoke alarms. These are devices that detect smoke and fire, alerting you to the danger so that you can act quickly. Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of your home, including the basement. Follow these steps:

• Read the instructions on how to install your new smoke alarm.
• Slide up or pull off any face plate on your current unit that covers a screw hole in order to access it, then replace it after installing the new unit (or remove it if no such plate exists).
• Turn off power at circuit breakers before doing anything else, unless you have a hardwired system with battery backup; if this is what you have installed in your home, proceed when ready.

Protecting the Whole Home

You can make your home more fireproof by installing smoke detectors, testing them regularly, and keeping fire extinguishers within easy reach. Smoke detectors should be installed on every floor of your house and near sleeping areas. Test them once a month by pressing the test button or pulling the pin. 

Fire extinguishers should be placed in easily accessible areas like kitchens and hallways; they should also be labeled according to their contents so that everyone knows what type of fire they will put out (e.g., standard ABC extinguisher for paper fires). If you have any questions about how to use them, consult an expert at your local hardware store. 

Finally, create a fire escape plan: designate two exits from every room so that everyone knows where they're going if there's an emergency; practice this plan regularly so everyone remembers it even when stressed out by danger.

Review Your Plan with Your Family Often

It’s important to review your family’s fire safety plan with them often. A fire safety plan is a map of your house that shows the locations of all exits, where you would meet after escaping and any other important information you would need in an emergency. Your plan should also be reviewed by everyone who lives or spends time at your home, including friends and relatives. As we age and our physical abilities change, it may be necessary to update an existing plan with new information about how best to get out if something goes wrong in a particular part of the house.

It’s also important that you practice your escape route regularly so that everyone knows what to do if there is ever an actual emergency (and even more importantly, so that everyone knows not to panic).

Taking precautions against fire will help you save what matters most to you.

Fire safety is important for everyone, especially if you have a family and/or valuables. It’s a good idea to review your fire safety plan regularly and practice it with your family so that everyone knows the steps to take in case of a fire.

We know that fires are scary, but we also know that you can protect your valuables from them. The best way to do this is by taking precautions and making smart decisions about where you store your things. If you follow these tips, then you’ll have a much easier time protecting yourself from a devastating fire—and hopefully, even prevent one altogether!

If your home catches on fire and you find you need some of your contents restored, call SERVPRO of St. George.

Developing a Fire Evacuation Plan

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Creating An Evacuation Plan In The Event Of A Fire

As a homeowner and parent, you couldn’t bear the thought of a devastating fire threatening your kids’ safety or the security of your house and belongings. In the event of a fire, the most important thing you can do for your family is safely get everyone out. To avoid confusion and panic, it’s essential that you develop an escape plan so that if this terrible ordeal does occur, everyone will know what to do. There are some basic steps and components for evacuating if your Veyo,UT home is on fire.


Conduct a Thorough Walk-Through

You live in your home, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t become more familiar with the intricacies of the layout and places of exit. Take your family through your house to ensure everyone knows how to effectively take part in a fire escape.

• Inspect the windows and doors in every room.
• Make sure the windows open easily and that even younger family members can open them.
• Make sure there are at least two ways out of every room.

Pick a Gathering Place

Once everyone has safely escaped the home fire, you need a place to congregate. This should be a safe distance from the home, and it should be a place everyone is familiar with. Make sure everyone in your family knows the spot you’ve designated so there won’t be any mistakes about where you should go if a fire starts.

Practice the Escape

You hope to never have to put this escape plan in motion, but if you have to, you’ll be glad you’ve done a few run-throughs. Your kids’ safety is at stake, so make sure everyone has the process down well.

There’s nothing more important to you than your kids’ safety. If you prepare yourself and your family well, you can help minimize the chances of tragedy if a fire starts in your house.

How to Remove Microwave Smells

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

A microwave oven, like any other kitchen appliance, needs to be cleaned regularly so that it continues to work well and lasts for a long time. If not maintained properly, it can emit a smoke smell or other unpleasant odor.

Cleaning the Filters

Most over-the-range units have two different filters that need to be cleaned or changed regularly.

Charcoal filter: This filter absorbs pollutants from the foods you cook on your stovetop. The filter is made up of tiny pores located on the surface that trap the toxins and smoke smell. Over time, the pores get filled up. When that happens the filter will need to be replaced. Most manufacturers recommend that you replace your charcoal filter every six months. If your over-the-range unit has vents that blow air directly to the outside of your home, however, the charcoal filter doesn’t need to be replaced because the air in the hood is not recirculating.

Grease filter: This filter should be cleaned out about once a month. Just soak it in hot water and detergent and then gently remove any debris with a soft brush. It’s important to remember to avoid using any cleaning products that contain ammonia. If you have questions about how frequently to clean the grease filter, refer to the owner’s manual.

General Cleaning: You should never allow food particles to build up on the inside walls of your unit. Wiping the walls down with warm water and dish detergent after each use will make it easier to keep the appliance clean. Crusted food is hard to remove and it may also prevent your unit from working properly. You should also keep the vent grill clean by wiping it gently with warm water and detergent regularly.

Your microwave is an important appliance in your kitchen in Enterprise, UT. Maintaining a simple cleaning routine will keep smoke smell at bay and also keep your unit working well for many years.

What to Do About Smoke Odor Damage

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

How To Deal With Smoke Damage

If you have experienced a fire in your commercial space in Enterprise, UT, you have a lot to deal with. Although the fire probably caused a lot of structural damage, another effect that can cause lots of issues is smoke odor. It is important to conduct smoke cleaning as soon as possible to minimize the damage.

Initial Steps to Take

Waiting to deal with smoke odor is a mistake, as the
longer it is there, the more it seeps into fabrics and carpeting, which makes it almost impossible to get rid of completely. Some of initial steps you should take include:

• Introduce fresh air into the space by opening windows and doors and using fans to help direct the smoke particles out
  
• Call for professional fire restoration services, as they have the special devices and machines designed to deal with smoke damage, no matter how big of space the fire ruined
  
• Make a solution of a half cup of white vinegar, gallon of warm water and a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid to wipe down hard surfaces such as doors, window sills, desks and chairs

How the Professionals Handle Smoke Cleaning

Although you can do some things that may mitigate the fire damage, professional cleaners have the tools necessary to get the terrible smell out of the air, carpet and furnishings. Some of the tools at their disposal include ozone machines, which help break down odors, and thermal foggers, which distribute small particles to be able to target smoke particles in tiny cracks and surface pores. Professionals also use commercial air filtration devices that contain carbon and HEPA filters for smoke cleaning.

Damage caused by smoke can be challenging to completely get rid of if you do not address the problem right away. Along with your efforts, a professional team can remove the odors from all types of surfaces.

4 Tips for Space Heater Safety

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

4 Safety Tips For Space Heaters

Nothing is cozier than a little extra warmth on a cold night, but the peril of a burned space heater can turn relaxation into aggravation in a hurry. Many fires in St. George, UT, are started every year by space heaters, and these fires could have been avoided if the owners used the heaters correctly. Here are four tips for getting extra warmth without extra worry.

Placement

Portable heaters are designed for a specific type of placement. There are several criteria to consider when choosing a surface for your heater. The surface should be:

• Non-flammable
  
• Level
  
• Stable
  
• Near an outlet

Any device that generates heat should sit on a surface that can withstand it. Place it on the floor rather than on a table so that it is less likely to be knocked over. It should also be near enough to an electrical outlet that plugging it in does not stretch the cord.

Power

The simplest way to avoid a burned space heater is to turn it off when it’s not in use. It also helps to purchase one with an automatic shut-off feature in the event that it gets turned over or accidentally covered up. Make sure the power outlet is not overloaded, and the cord is intact.

Preservation

Proper maintenance is important for safety. Your space heater should never be used when its filter is dirty. If filter lint catches fire, you are going to need smoke cleanup from fire restoration professionals. Clean or change the filter regularly.

Proximity

Your heater needs both space and attention. Keep pets and children at least three feet away from it. It should not be used near anything flammable. Only keep the space heater on while you are in the room with it.

A burned space heater can cause damage to your home and negate the relaxed atmosphere it is intended to create. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth without the stress.

3 ways to protect a company from fire

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

3 Strategies To Keep A Business Safe From Fire

Fires can swiftly destroy property and pose a threat to occupants in a commercial building. Here are three fire preparation measures that building owners and occupants can take to protect any business from fire.

1. Arrange For a Fire Hazard Analysis

A disaster preparation expert can perform an analysis of fire hazards in a structure. Risks may include combustible building materials, improper handling of flammable contents, or a lack of functional alarm and suppression systems. A hazard analysis can help building and business owners develop more practical fire safety and evacuation plans.

2. Test Alarm and Fire Suppression Systems

Every commercial structure should be equipped with operational fire detection and suppression equipment. For fire preparation purposes, smoke or fire detectors should be tested monthly and sprinkler system inspections should occur at least once a year or as needed.

Make sure that detection devices have a reliable primary and backup power source and are designed to function in the most useful ways for the purpose of the structure. Sprinklers should be functional and arranged to correspond to the current usage of a facility.

3. Perform Drills and Post Emergency Information

Occupants will need to practice evacuating from a structure at least twice a year. Be sure to inform new employees about fire safety policies, and post emergency information throughout the structure for the benefit of guests. Ensure that every occupant is aware of primary and secondary evacuation routes and knows not to use elevators in the event of a fire.

These measures can help to protect a commercial property and the occupants of a structure from fire. Fire preparation should be a consistent effort to ensure that building occupants will know what to do when a fire breaks out. A building owner or manager should maintain access to contact information for insurers and a fire damage mitigation company in St. George.