Fire Alarm Systems are designed to be your first line of defense in detecting a fire and getting the occupants out of a dangerous situation as quickly as possible. There are two ways to achieve this; the first is automatically through smoke detectors, duct detectors, and heat detectors that detect a change in their environment, which will sound an alarm throughout the building. The second is through manual detection, which involves a person detecting a fire and manually pulling a pull station, which will also sound an alarm throughout the building. In both cases it is very important for the systems to be installed, tested, and maintained in accordance with NFPA pamphlet 72 and all adopted building codes. Your system may also include a voice evacuation system that is automatic or manually operated. This is a very important part of your fire alarm system, as it will help you in keeping your tenants informed in what to do in case of an emergency. You will need to keep designated people trained on what to do and have a specific message for each individual circumstance. This should be in writing and kept at the fire/evacuation panel. In accordance with NFPA, fire drills should be conducted every six months. This can be done during your fire protection systems inspections if coordinated with your fire protection provider. It will be somewhat of an inconvenience, but will be invaluable in the event of a real fire or emergency.

Fire Sprinkler Systems are your first line of defense in extinguishing a fire and protecting lives, and property. A sprinkler system cannot replace the Fire Department, but it is the quickest way of extinguishing or containing a fire until the Fire Department arrives. It is very important for a sprinkler system to be installed in accordance with NFPA pamphlet 13. Sprinkler systems are designed for a specific building. If a system is not designed properly, then it cannot be expected to extinguish a fire in space for which it was not designed. For example, if you design a system in a building for light hazard office use, you should not store plastic products on an encapsulated pallet without making modifications to the system; the sprinklers simply would not extinguish or contain the fire. It is also very important to inspect, test, and maintain the systems in accordance with NFPA pamphlet 25.

Emergency Lighting is a very important part of the building’s evacuation plan. Can you imagine trying to evacuate a building in total darkness? That’s what happens in a stairwell or in hallway that does not have working emergency lights. NFPA pamphlets 110 and 101 tell us how to install and maintain an emergency light system. They must be tested monthly for 30 seconds, and annually for 90 minutes under full battery power.