Now that we have made our way to September, the first day of autumn is right around the corner! This is my favorite time of the year with all the different colors of red, orange, and yellow leaves that cover the ground. It’s also the perfect weather, not too hot and not too cold, it’s just right. However, as we go from summer to autumn, the risks and frequency of fires change. Each season brings its own threat of potential fires, and making sure that your building is prepared is just one of the many things on a facility manager’s to do list.
It is important for a building’s fire protection systems to be in place and working in the event of a fire emergency. Fire doors, firestopping as well as fire/smoke dampers will help prevent the spread of fire and smoke, which will help reduce any further property damage. Photoluminescent egress path marking systems and exit signs help guide people to safety in smoky or blackout conditions. And even if a building’s fire protection systems are completely up-to-date with the code, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a fire escape plan.
One of the systems could fail, which could allow fire and smoke to spread quickly making it hard to both see and breathe. Making sure that your building has an escape plan before a fire occurs, will help decrease panic and increase your chances of safely escaping. Whether you building already has a fire escape plan or not, here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for a fire.
- Identify your closest most safe exits.
- Get out fast! Don’t try to gather belongings, they can be replaced, lives cannot.
- Never use an elevator during a fire.
- Stay as low to the ground as you can to avoid inhaling smoke.
- Have a place outside your office (that’s far enough away from the building) to meet up with everyone else.
- Never go back inside!
- Practice your escape plan regularly. It may seem silly, but practicing your escape plan can help reduce panic and confusion in the event of a fire.
