Fire alarms are designed to protect your commercial building from the dangers of a blaze. Yet, to take advantage of the system, you have to observe several essential do’s and don’ts. Here are a few tips that all property owners should know.

Do:

Invest in monitoring.

A fire alarm on its own can only do so much. While it’s helpful in alerting everyone in the building to a possible emergency, it’s not nearly as effective as installing a device that is monitored at all times. When the alarm is activated, emergency services will receive a notification immediately. It also gives business owners comfort when no one is present, such as overnight and on weekends or holidays. Some insurance companies may also require you to have one to successfully file claims.

Devise an escape plan.

A savvy escape plan can make all the difference when it comes to everyone’s safety and security. First, make sure that all emergency exit signs are in compliance with lighting rules and that they’re visible. Everyone should be aware of the closest exit to their location. Establish a spot to meet up away from the building upon evacuation, so that you can perform a head count and make sure everyone is present.

Don’t:

Forget about testing.

There’s no point in having a fire alarm if it doesn’t work properly. Testing it regularly is imperative to everyone’s safety. Your insurance provider may also request proof of regular inspections to ensure that it’s in working order around the clock. You also don’t have to worry about false alarms that might otherwise occur if the system doesn’t work properly.

Block emergency exits.

Emergency exits provide everyone in the building with a means of escape. Workplaces should have at least two of these routes, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). If one is blocked by smoke or fire, the other can serve in its place. These doors should never be blocked by objects or structures that might prevent people from exiting the building.

Home and business owners throughout Lake Havasu City, AZ, and the surrounding areas rely on the professionals at Western Alarm Services for all of their security needs. If you’re in the market for a quality commercial fire alarm, you can count on them to install a product that keeps you and your staff safe every day of the year. To find out more about their solutions, including monitoring, CCTV, and security cameras, visit them online. You can also call (928) 855-5608 to schedule an appointment.