A Guide To Use A Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are a device that a property owner must install on the property. It is a protective measure that the property owners must take for enhanced safety of the people. Fire extinguishers can be installed on both residential as well as commercial properties.

Just installing fire extinguishers is not enough, you should also know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Also, it is important to keep the extinguishers in good condition and properly maintained. This can be done by conducting fire extinguisher inspections.

Fire mishaps are uncertain. The best way of dealing with these fire mishaps is to install fire extinguishers in the property. Also, keep in mind that it is essential to conduct fire extinguisher testing for enhanced protection and taking proactive action during a sudden fire accident.

Below mentioned are the steps for using a fire extinguisher.

1. FIre classification: It is essential to know what type of fire you are dealing with. Fires can be classified under the categories A, B, C, D, and K. The type of fire depends on the source of fire. In order to use the fire extinguisher, it is crucial to know the type of fire. Only then will you be able to understand the type of fire extinguisher to use that will put off the fire.

2. Select the right type of fire extinguisher: After you have ascertained the type of fire, check if the fire extinguisher is compliant with the fire type. Fire extinguishers come with labels. Check the labels and then choose the extinguisher as per the industry that you’re working in. This is a great way of taking precautions and avoiding damage when the mishaps occur.

3. Make use of the PASS method: Once you have determined what type of fire might occur depending on the industry type and choosing the right type of fire extinguisher, it is essential to know the right technique of using the device. In case of a fire emergency, it is recommended to use the PASS method. Which is:

• P- Pull the pin
• A- Aim the nozzle
• S- Squeeze the handle
• S- Sweep from side to side

4. Know when to evacuate: When you’ve taken the effort and the fire is going out of control, make sure that you evacuate the place for your own safety. This should be done in situations where the fire is spreading too quickly.

Make sure that you conduct proper fire extinguisher inspection and keep the extinguishers in good condition. This proactive approach will help you in taking steps to actively combat when a fire mishap occurs.

Top 4 Benefits Of Panic Bars Installation

While exiting from the shopping center or a movie hall, have you ever noticed panic bars attached with the doors? Panic bars are for the safety of the public. These are also commonly known as crash bars.

Panic bars originated when a horrific incident took place in the year 1883. The incident witnessed the death of 180 children at the Victoria Hall in England. This was majorly due to poor exit plans. Thus, the idea of panic bars was invented.

Panic bars offer many advantages during emergency situations in any facility.

Panic bars are a spring infused metal bar, which is attached horizontally to the door. Whenever somebody pushes this bar, the latch gets detached automatically allowing people to quickly vacate the facility. The door that has a panic bar attached to it always opens outwards.

If you are looking for panic bars, you can contact a professional company that provides services such as panic bars installations and panic bars repairs.

Below mentioned are some advantages of installing panic bars.

1. Safe exit: Panic bars enhance property safety measures. It is a great step that a property owner can take to protect the interest of the customers/public. Panic bars are mostly installed in public facilities. Various varieties of panic bars are equipped with alarms that ring in case of emergencies. Also, since these can only open on the outside, it also prevents intruders and unauthorized access.
   

2. Effective in providing safety: The installation of panic bars in some facilities is mandatory under Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. Installation of panic bars is an effective method of making any setting safe. As the name suggests, in times of emergencies, people always “panic”. Panic bars are installed to provide safe and easy access to exit portals during mishaps.
   

3. Affordable options: Panic bars are an inexpensive option that provide safety and protection from accidents and mishaps. In case you are ordering in bulk, the locksmith might consider giving you a discount.
   

4. Variety : Panic bars are available in a variety of types and sizes. Some come inbuilt with alarms and some are simple. Other types include cross bars and vertical panic bars.
   
   

Getting panic bars installed in any public facility is of utmost importance. These devices provide safety and protection in times of emergencies.

Importance Of Fire Alarm Inspections

Although people have a busy schedule, it is important to keep up with regular fire alarm system inspections. Fire prevention systems must be well maintained and inspected once in a month to ensure they are working properly. Moreover, a lot of people tend to ignore the fact that fire alarm installations are mandatory. Not everyone is aware of the fact that fire alarms play an important role in enhancing the safety of the building. Moreover, fire alarms act like guard dogs between life and death. Still, the majority of the people out there do not understand why fire alarms require maintenance.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of fire alarm system inspections for your building.

Reasons why fire alarm inspections are important

Safety: The most common and the obvious reason for scheduling regular fire alarm inspections is to keep yourself, your building, and its occupants safe from fire. Also, a fire alarm system plays a crucial role in alerting the people in the building. Inspections can find out what is stopping the fire alarms to work properly. In case, your fire equipment have any problems that is still less than five years old, then it is necessary to install new equipment. Fire inspections disclose the underlying causes of these issues. Issues like humidity, corrosion, voltage problems will start taking place.

Follow The Code: In addition to inspecting fire alarms for safety reasons, it is also important to follow the National Fire Alarm Codes. Fire alarm inspections and installations are important. This gives building owners an extra incentive to ensure all the inspection requirements are met.

Limit Liability: Every businessman or businesswoman wants to make sure that they save money wherever possible. Fire alarms that are well maintained and are installed properly can help in getting discounts from insurance carriers. Following all the rules and regulations related to the fire alarm installations, you can lessen the occurence of the injuries that can take place.  Also, there may be times when your insurance claim can be declined. This happens if you don’t have proof of regularly scheduled fire alarm inspections.

Public Relations:As a businessman or a businesswoman you want to make sure that all your employees feel comfortable and safe when they enter the place of work. With regular fire inspections you can let your employees know that you care about their safety and well being. 

Gather Data: Performing regular inspections allows the fire experts to collect all the required data. This data is useful in the future. Moreover, it helps the experts to decide which are the best places to install the fire equipment. Driving to your building can also allow them to see which fire hydrants and water sources are closest to your building in case of emergencies.

To conclude, safety should always be the first priority. There are various fire safety guidelines that should be followed to stay safe. Want to get your fire alarm checked by a professional? Do not feel shy to get in touch with professionals. They will complete the inspection and will guide you properly.

To know more about fire alarm system inspections, get in touch with Fire Serv.

A Checklist On Fire Sprinkler Maintenance

Fire mishaps are one of most common type of accidents that occur in residential and commercial settings. There are various methods of avoiding such mishaps. And one of them is installing fire sprinklers in the building.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has laid down various standards for protecting the commercial settings against accidental fire mishaps.

If you have fire sprinkler systems installed in the building, it is essential to follow NFPA 25 standards. Under this standard, conducting prior inspection, maintenance, and testing of the equipment is mandatory. Taking such precautionary steps help in avoiding any fire accidents in the building.

Below mentioned is a checklist for fire sprinkler maintenance and inspection.

What to inspect in fire sprinklers?

Remember fire sprinkler inspection should be carried out on a weekly basis.

1. System gauge: The air and water pressure should be monitored when inspecting the system gauge. The readings should match the normal levels.

2. Valves: Inspect for leaky valves. These are an important part of the sprinkler system. The valves should be properly sealed for maximum productivity. Signages should be properly installed. These depict the correct way of using the valves.

Monthly inspection criteria

1. Wet gauge: These gauges are found on the wet pipes of the sprinkler system. Inspect for any kind of damage. Replace the sprinkler with a new gauge in case of any physical damage. Also, take readings of the water and air pressure regularly.

2. Alarm system valves: External inspection should be performed each month to check for signs of any physical damage.

Quarterly inspection and maintenance criteria

1. Alarm equipments: Inspect the alarm equipments for any signs of potential damage. This should be done every three months.
   

2. Hydraulic nameplates: This should be in secure space along with the sprinkler rider.

While conducting fire sprinkler inspection, make sure that the technicians are licensed. As per the standards set by NFPA, only certified professionals should be allowed to undertake inspection activities.

4 Types of Fire Protection for Schools

A fire in your school building could mean a total devastation. Every school building requires as much fire protection as possible. Hospitals, hotels, stadiums, and restaurants, schools are full of people everyday, all day. Hence, it is very important to make sure that there are sufficient fire protection equipment.

This article will explain about various fire equipments. Have a look.


Fire Sprinklers: Fire sprinklers are important equipments as they help stop fires out before they spread, no matter wherever they are installed. Moreover, fire sprinkler maintenance and inspection is also mandatory because if in case they don’t work, it can be problem. According to NFPA 25 inspections are necessary at least once a week.


Fire Suppression Systems:Fire suppression systems are used in places where special articles are present. These places consist of museums, art galleries, etc. One of the advantages of this equipment is that these systems respond very fast and extinguish fire immediately causing less damage to the articles. There are different types of fire suppression systems. These consist of the following:

1. FM200 systems
   
2. CO2 systems
   
3. Wet chemical systems
   
4. Dry chemical systems
   

Fire Alarms: Talking about fire alarms it is best to get them tested by a professional who has enough knowledge about these equipments and is well trained. Fire alarms are an important equipment because they serve as an indirect form of fire protection. The alarms notify people in the building that there is a fire and that it is time to move out.


Fire Extinguishers: Even small fires can create a huge havoc if they are not stopped from spreading. All staff and faculty should have enough knowledge about fire equipment and should be trained on how to use fire extinguishers.


Fires in your building can be prevented easily. No matter how much equipments you install, some problems may take place by human errors or carelessness.

Whether you require smoke detectors, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, fire alarms, fire sprinkler systems, fire suppression systems installed at your place, there are various companies that have you covered. All fire systems should be tested on a regular basis. Don’t forget that maintenance is essential, as it will find out various issues that may take place. A system that is not maintained cannot be guaranteed to save your life or property


If you require fire sprinkler maintenance, then consider the services of FireServ.

How Often Should My Fire Sprinkler System Be Inspected?

Do you know why installing fire sprinkler systems are important?Your building depends on a network of fire protection equipment so that the building and its occupants stay safe from fire. Although sprinkler systems are pretty mainstream, there are a number of people who have no idea as to why fire sprinkler systems are important.

Moreover, understanding the importance of fire sprinkler systems will help you in understanding why maintaining these systems is mandatory. According to NFPA 25, it is important to maintain the fire sprinklers systems. This ensures that the systems are working properly. Below mentioned is a look at the suggested timelines for performing inspections and why is it necessary?

How often should your fire sprinklers be inspected?

Inspections are necessary at least once a week. According to NFPA 25, below mentioned is the inspection schedule you should follow:

Weekly or Monthly: If you have dry, pre-action or deluge sprinklers systems installed, make sure they are inspected at least once a week. On the other hand, if you have wet pipe sprinklers systems installed, these systems can be inspected once in a month.

Quarterly: Make sure you get your water flow alarm, valve supervisory alarm devices, and hydraulic nameplates inspected.

Annually: Once a year, inspect the pipes and the fittings.

Every 5 years: Conducting an inspection of sprinkler pipings is only needed once every five years.

Fire sprinkler systems save lives. According to the National Fire Protection Association, it has been found that when paired with other safety systems, fire sprinklers are capable of reducing the injuries, property damage, and death by more than 50%. The installation and ongoing maintenance of a sprinkler system should be a top priority for your building or office. Do not feel shy to consult an expert for further information on fire sprinkler maintenance, fire sprinkler installation, and testing.

When you are seeking for a company to inspect and test your fire sprinkler systems, seek for those that hire a well trained professional with proper qualifications and knowledge. The qualification must consist of factory training, certification, and licensure to perform fire sprinklers inspections and tests.

To know more about fire sprinkler inspection, get in touch with Fire Serv.

 

The basics of fire alarm maintenance

Fire alarms act like guard dogs between life and death. When paired with fire sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems give you the response to stop the fire and help the people of the building to get out on time. Nevertheless, the majority of the people out there do not understand why fire alarms require maintenance.

In this blog, learn what you need to know. Let's have a look at what happens during fire alarm inspection and testing.

Below mentioned are some basics of fire alarm maintenance.

Fire alarm inspections: Inspections are important to ensure that fire alarms are in good condition and are working. The fire alarm technician will have a proper look and will check if there are wires that are not connected or are broken. If the technician finds an issue with the fire alarm, he will recommend installing new fire alarms. These inspections will help you ensure that your building or workplace is safe at all times

Fire alarm testing

Once the inspection is done, the next step is to perform a fire alarm testing. This is done to ensure whether the fire alarm will work in situations of emergency or fire. The alarms are to be tested at least once a year. While testing the alarms the fire technician will also check the initiators and the alarm sensors.

Documentation

There are times when fire systems create problems. Do not ignore these problems. Get in touch with a fire technician who is trained enough. The problems have to be taken care of as soon as possible. Hence it is the responsibility of the building owner to have proper documentation. Once the inspection and testing is completed, all the documents are required to be kept in safe places so that the owner has a record of all the inspections that have taken place before and after.

Fire alarm installations are important. It keeps a place safe. A property or a building with proper fire suppression equipment will stay safe and secure. Fire alarm maintenance and testing is mandatory.

Want to get your fire alarm checked by a professional? Do not feel shy to get in touch with professionals. They will complete the inspection and will guide you properly.

Are you looking for a professional who can inspect your fire systems? Get in touch with Fire Serv.

A Day in the Life of a Fire Alarm Technician

Do you have an idea about what your fire alarm technician should be inspecting during your office service visit?

Let's have a look at a normal day of the fire alarm technician and what all is involved in the fire extinguisher service.






Before going to a site, a fire Alarm technician will make the bookings beforehand to make sure that the date and time are suitable for the customer. When the technician reaches the site, he will first check the fire extinguishers to see whether it is up to the date. Also, he will check whether the fire safety actions have been recorded or not. In cases where the recordings have not been done, he will further have a discussion with the client in order to take actions that are required. Once the checking is completed, the technician will start his work.

Testing the fire alarm consists of a number of checks including the following:

1. Does the fire extinguisher show any hindrance? Keeping a track on a system is difficult. Hinderance should always be reported to your fire extinguisher service provider as soon as they take place.
2. The technician will check the batteries for the fire alarm systems. This is done to ensure that the fire alarms are of the correct sizes.
3. In addition, he will also test each and every call point, smoke detector, and heat detectors. If any of them is not working, then he will suggest replacing the fire alarms.
4. Also, does your office have the right types of equipment in the right places? There are times when we see a heat detector placed where a smoke detector is required.

Not only the technician comes for Fire Extinguisher Inspections, but also they are trained to provide you with the right information which may help you in your future. Once the visit is completed, a certificate of Inspection is provided to the customers. Now that you have a clear understanding of why you require fire extinguisher inspections, then make sure you get these inspections done after every three months. Most of people tend to ignore the fire extinguishers as a part of their home safety plan. So do your research and make sure you know how to use them.

If you are looking for fire extinguisher services, then consider the services of Fire Serv. Also if you would like to talk to one of our expert about Fire Extinguisher Inspections, please call (800) 567-5740

Best Fire Alarm Systems For A Business

When you own your own company, it is very important that you protect it with proper insurance. It is also important that you take as many steps you can to protect your company from damage, for example: fire. Hence, you should have some knowledge about the best fire alarms. Below mentioned are a few systems that help you decide which one is best suitable for you.

Conventional Fire Alarms: Conventional fire alarms are one of the most common alarms for businesses. These alarms are fixed in various zones and are connected to a central control panel. The way you fix different alarms in your room, a conventional system enables you to fix them in different areas of your office.

Addressable Fire Alarms: These alarms are also known as intelligent systems. These systems help you to select between manual alarms and automatic alarms. These systems make sure that each single alarm that you have installed will have its own address and also makes it easy to see whether alarms are working or not. Although, the features of these systems are more enhanced, an addressable system tends to be more costly than a conventional system.

Hybrid Fire Alarms:Hybrid systems connect the features of conventional systems with the addressable loops found in addressable systems. By connecting both of them, you get the best results. These systems offer more advanced features and will cost you more to install and maintain the system.

The Takeaway: Before deciding on any of the fire alarm system, make sure you assess your overall needs. Once you know about your requirements, it will be easy for you to select the fire alarm system.Fire alarm system is something you should never-go-without in your company. You need to be sure that all your employees are safe.

Lastly, it is very important to have a fire alarm system in your building. Also if your building has a fire alarm system make sure you get it inspected. Fire alarm inspections should be seen as an advantage to the building or business owner, rather than a barrier.

If you need a fire alarm maintenance company or need fire suppression contractors, contact the team at FireServ today. For more information contact (800) 567-5740

What to expect from an annual fire sprinkler inspection?

When it comes to fire sprinkler inspections, they are essential for the life of fire sprinkler systems. They take place weekly, monthly, half-yearly, yearly, once in a 3-years, and 5-years. Each inspection comes with its own benefits such as extending the life of a fire sprinkler and ensuring the system to function properly at the time of a fire event.If you’re looking for ways to fire sprinkler maintenance, an annual inspection is the best one. Here are the things you can expect at an annual fire sprinkler inspection. 

 

What is checked during an annual fire sprinkler inspection?

The following are the seven things that are inspected at both half-yearly and annual inspection.

• Wet and dry gauges
• Valves
• Hydraulic system nameplates
• pressure -reducing and relief valves
• Fire department connections
• Water flow alarm on both dry and wet systems
• Water flow and supervisory alarm devices

Fours types of inspections that are added annually

• Dry-pipe valves
• Pipes, sprinkler heads and fittings
• Water flow test
• Check supply of spare sprinkler heads and tools.

How to prepare for an annual fire sprinkler system inspection?

In order to prepare for an annual sprinkler inspection, you should:

• Talk to the fire department in advance to provide inspection, maintenance, and testing reports for the year and confirm what the fire department is searching for.
• Discuss the reports with the fire department and explain if there is any issue reported.
• Have a responsible person to accompany the inspector.
• Make notes during the fire sprinkler inspection.

Differences between quarterly and annual inspection

The major differences between quarterly and annual fire sprinkler inspections are the amount of time and details that the inspector uses to check the system. Quarterly fire sprinkler inspections are comparatively less detailed and take less time to check than the yearly fire sprinkler inspections. Most people tend to fall by the wayside of quarterly inspection as it happens several times each year, and may feel insignificant in terms of the inspection and in-depth. However, it is important to know that both types of inspections are necessary to meet your local fire protection codes.

Lastly, regular inspection is essential for your safety and is a vital part of fire sprinkler maintenance. To know more about fire systems inspection and maintenance, contact FireServ - (800) 567-5740.