There are a lot of fire safety myths out there, and it is important to do your research to make sure your business and employees are protected. Here are just a few of the common myths:
1.Fire safety is common sense
Common sense has its uses, but it should not be relied upon when it comes to protecting your employees, customers, and business. For example, when it comes to determining how many sprinklers are necessary to protect a certain area, common sense will not provide the best answer. Using the resources available to find a qualified safety expert or to educate yourself on safety should be the only common sense involved.
2.A 2-hour fire door can withstand a fire for 2 hours
While fire ratings have their purpose, it is good to understand that your circumstances are likely different than the circumstance under which the rating was made. A standard temperature curve is used for such ratings, but it is unlikely that any fire in your business will progress the exact same way. A door may last more or less time depending on the circumstances and temperatures involved.
3. Smoke detectors are enough for some commercial buildings
Smoke detectors have their purpose: they alert occupants of a room or building to danger. However, they are limited to that function. Having a monitored system will give you the peace of mind that help will come when needed. Also, sprinklers and extinguishers (when properly used) can help stop a fire in a timely manner. It is important to identify and know the needs of your business when it comes to fire safety equipment, instead of assuming too little is enough.
4. People always panic in a fire
Many people will make rational decisions in the event of an emergency, provided that they receive clear and orderly instructions on what needs to be done. That is why it is important to have an Emergency Response Plan in place and to train your employees to execute it. If directions are quick and clear, people will generally respond. Thus, your employees and customers will be safer in the event of a fire emergency with a plan in place.
5. Sprinklers destroy property or All sprinklers trigger when one does
As opposed to imaginary systems in the movies, sprinkler systems usually only trigger in small numbers and only where needed. While there is still a good chance of water damage, they can prevent a total loss. In reality, a building is safer with a sprinkler system than it is without.
6.Alarms sound before a fire
Some fire alarms can be triggered in the early stages of a fire emergency. How and what a detector notices is based on the type and technology of the detector used. When a fire alarm is triggered it is important to react according to your Emergency Response Plan immediately.
For additional information contact a representative at Gate Keepers Fire & Safety at (303) 915-3670 or click here to send us a message.