5 Fire Safety Essentials
Fire safety is a crucial consideration of building planning and construction, both for residential and commercial premises. Fire safety systems can go a long way in reducing your fire risk, but it is also important to maintain awareness of basic safety rules and ensure that all building occupants are aware of these rules. Engaging a fire safety service is a great way to gain peace of mind whilst preventing and minimising your risk of fire. Here’s a few essential fire safety rules that will help keep your colleagues, family, property and yourself safe.
Factors Which Contribute to Fire Safety
There are numerous factors which contribute towards reducing your fire risk. Examples include the use of fire-resistant materials in construction, installation of fire safety equipment such as extinguishers, alarms and fire blankets, and planning fire safety drills/seminars and training activities. If a fire does occur, these factors can help to ensure an orderly evacuation and restrict its spread.
5 Essential Fire Safety Rules
Taking proactive measures to protect your property and building inhabitants is important Here are 5 fire safety essentials to be mindful of.
1. Regularly Test Your Smoke and Fire Alarms
It is important that smoke and fire alarms are tested frequently to ensure they are still in full working order. Monthly testing is essential, and you may wish to outsource this to a fire safety specialist such as Astute Fire who are a leading provider of fire safety services Sydney. Batteries should be replaced at least annually to ensure safe operation.
2. Implement a Fire Safety Strategy
All building occupants should have a clear understanding of where to go and what to do in the event of a fire. A fire safety strategy should be developed, and it should be available on internal systems in addition to printed copies at key locations such as in break rooms, offices and emergency exits. A dedicated meeting point should be established, and you may wish to run some fire drills throughout the year to keep everyone up to date on your fire escape plan.
3. Be Mindful of Open Flames
Open flame may be necessary for some aspects of your work or for food preparation, but an open flame should never be left unattended. It only takes a single bump or knock to create a potentially life-threatening situation. Ensure that someone is always keeping an eye on any open flames.
4. Demonstrate Use of Fire Extinguishers
The Building Code of Australia (BCA) states that a sufficient number of fire extinguishers and other safety devices must be installed within a building. When you engage a fire safety services company, you will be shown how to operate these devices safely and effectively. If any team members or family members are unsure on how to use a fire extinguisher, you should engage a fire safety professional and hold a demonstration day.
5. Maintain Clear Passage to Emergency Exits
Emergency signage will lead the way to the nearest emergency exit, however it is important that the path is clear. Obstacles left in the way will slow the evacuation process and present challenges for differently abled people. Boxes and other items should be kept in dedicated storage rooms rather than left in hallways.
Protect Your Property, Family and Colleagues – Call Astute Fire Today
Looking for a trusted fire safety services provider in Sydney? Astute Fire are here to help. We can supply and install the right fire safety solution for your needs, in addition to carrying out ongoing maintenance and testing. Contact us today to discuss your needs, we look forward to speaking with you.