A strategically designed and properly maintained fire protection system proactively prevents fires in your building and minimizes your losses in case of a fire outbreak.
Fire protection systems play a vital role in early fire detection, suppression, and prevention which reduces the risk of property and financial damage as well as loss of lives. For instance, the NFPA reported that fire sprinklers were effective at controlling fires in 96% of incidents where they are operated. Without fire protection systems, property managers and owners will face significant losses including violations, liabilities, and increased insurance premiums.
Let’s discuss the purpose of a fire alarm system and the reasons why you should install one on your property in more detail below.
Scout Security has certified fire watch guards who will be your first line of defense when your fire protection system becomes inoperable, intentionally or unintentionally. We provide top-class security services for property managers in the Colorado Springs and Denver Metro areas. Contact us now!
#1 For Compliance with Fire Safety Codes & Regulations
Most fire safety codes in cities mandate the installation of adequate fire protection systems to specific building types. Failure to do so can lead to costly penalties, lawsuits, and even business shutdowns in case of catastrophic fire damage. Besides, it is your legal and moral obligation to ensure that your customers or tenants are safe from fire hazards.
Also Read: What is a Fire Watch: Procedures | NFPA & OSHA Requirements
#2 For Proactive Fire Prevention by Detecting Early Signs of Fire
A comprehensive fire protection system consists of smoke detectors, heat detectors, fire sprinkler systems, and other advanced fire prevention devices. These devices work together to effectively detect and mitigate the spread of fire in its early stages. Properly working fire sprinklers will automatically activate at specific temperatures and can suppress and even extinguish fires before they can lead to significant damage to your business.
#3 To Promote Quick Response to Fire Emergencies
Fire sprinkler systems can dispense water within seconds and can extinguish small fires within a few minutes. The capability of fire protection systems to detect early signs of fire also allows for rapid response by sending out a signal to your local fire department which will immediately dispatch personnel to your location. This increases the chances of the fire being put out before it spreads further.
#4 To Protect Human Lives by Allowing for Adequate Time for Safe Evacuation
Another major purpose of fire protection systems is to increase the chances of occupants to get out of the premises safely, especially in residential buildings. Since they can detect early signs of fire, they can provide enough time for the occupants to find exit routes. These systems can also alert people during fire emergencies and facilitate safe evacuation by directing them to the safest and quickest evacuation route.
#5 To Protect Your Property and Business Assets & Minimize Damage
As mentioned before, fire protection systems can proactively prevent fire hazards and allow for quick emergency response. Fires can be suppressed and controlled to limit their spread. This reduces potential damage to your property and assets including expensive equipment, documents, furniture, inventory, and others.
For rental properties, damage to the tenants’ personal belongings can be prevented which eliminates the possibility of lawsuits being filed by your tenants to you. Take note that fire protection systems can also be customized based on your building’s or business’s specific needs to maximize safety during fire breakouts.
Also Read: 7 Top Fire Risks & Consequences of Inadequate Fire Protection Systems
#6 To Protect Your Reputation and Improve Your Company Image
Making your customers, tenants, and/or employees feel that you are prioritizing their safety can significantly improve your company image. Having a well-maintained fire protection system implies that you are well-prepared to deal with potential emergencies. This assures your employees and patrons of their security and gives them peace of mind. Confident employees also improve productivity. Happy employees and customers mean good business and revenue.
#7 Reduce Losses to Your Business & Avoid Business Disruptions and Shutdowns
Since fire protection systems can limit damage and allow for rapid fire intervention by alerting your local fire department promptly, your potential losses can be dramatically reduced. Fire sprinkler systems won’t stop until turned off and will help prevent further losses to your business.
This, in turn, will:
- Minimize downtimes and interruptions
- Ensure business continuity
- Prevent temporary or even permanent shutdowns
- Prevent losing customers
Businesses without fire protection systems could face devastating consequences including loss of money, income, and patronage. You might end up spending more time and money performing necessary repairs and dealing with legal issues. You could lose customers during the process and end up closing your business.
With fire protection systems, you can resume your business operations in the shortest time possible and save money on potential lawsuits.
Also Read: Fire Code Violations: Can a Fire Marshal Shut Your Business Down?
#8 To Reduce Insurance Premiums
Some insurance companies give discounts if a fire protection system is installed in your building. Others may require it so you can get lower insurance premiums. Investing in a fire protection system can save you a lot of money on your insurance in the long run. Make sure to consult your insurance company regarding discounts for fire protection systems.
NOTE: Your insurance provider may cover rebuilding costs after fire damage, but this could result in increased rates. Also, some insurance policies do not cover fire damage due to the negligence of the landlord or property manager/owner.
#9 To Increase Your Property Value
If you are planning to sell your property in the future, having an up-to-date and compliant fire protection system can increase its value. Robust fire protection systems are not easy to design and build from scratch. This will pique the interest of many prospective buyers and you can increase your asking price.
Also Read: 11 Common Fire Code Violations & Helpful Tips to Prevent Them
Other Important Things to Know About Fire Protection Systems
What Is a Fire Protection System? What Are Its Basic Components?
Fire protection systems consist of various fire safety devices that work together to effectively detect, suppress, and control fire hazards. They consist of the following major components:
- Fire sprinklers
- Fire extinguishers
- Fire blankets
- Fire hose reels
- Fire alarms
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Fire hydrants and standpipes
- Water distribution systems
- Fire notification systems
- Emergency lighting
- Emergency exit signs
- Fire doors
- Fire safety training
When Should You Install a Fire Protection System?
Fire protection systems are usually required by your local fire safety code and sometimes insurance providers so you can get certain coverages. Regardless if it is required by law or not, it is your duty to create a safe working or living space for your employees and tenants.
Also Read:
- Top 8 Fire Safety Tips & Best Practices for Property Owners & Managers
- 6 Things Landlords Should Do After a Fire in a Rental Property
FAQs
Fire protection system benefits include the following:
– Helps your business stay compliant with fire safety codes
– Protects human lives and your property through proactive fire prevention
– Reduces financial losses and prevents business disruptions
The consequences of a fire protection system that is not working properly are the same as that of not having one in the first place. You could be faced with lawsuits and violations due to your negligence aside from the damage to your property that you need to deal with.
Conclusion
To sum it up, fire protection systems are important in keeping your business running and preventing significant losses. They provide peace of mind not only to property managers but also to employees and customers which can boost your company image. Besides, it is your responsibility to safeguard the lives of your employees, tenants, and/or customers.
You can trust Scout Security to provide you with top-tier fire watch services when your fire protection system is down to ensure your compliance with fire safety codes. Our fire guards are certified and highly trained to perform their duties effectively. Inquire now!
