By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: ASI Family of Companies, 10010 W. Schlinger Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53214, http://www.atswi.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

FOR A SECURITY EVALUATION CALL: 414-476-4200

ATS Honors National Fire Prevention Month 2019

ATS Honors National Fire Prevention Month 2019

October is National Fire Prevention Month, and while the main focus is to help prevent residential fires, it is also a good time to revisit fire safety and prevention in the workplace and commercial setting. Even with increased regulations and better fire prevention and detection technologies, commercial fires remain a problem. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), the overall number of fires is down since 2008, as is the number of injuries sustained as a result of a fire. However, the number of deaths and total losses increased.

Our goal is to help businesses :

  • Increase awareness
  • Set fire prevention priorities
  • Correct any deficiencies
  • Keep inspections up to date

Tips to Improve Fire Safety in the Workplace:

Perform a Facility Assessment

Have a professional assess every aspect of your facility from structure and usage to processes. The information uncovered will help determine your fire and security needs. This is necessary because even businesses providing the same services will still have many unique needs. For example, do you have a commercial kitchen? Do you use combustible materials, machinery,  or have a data center? How many building occupants are present? Is your facility in use around the clock? What is the flow of traffic? Are exits easily accessible?

Get the Advise of a Fire and Life Safety Professional

Commercial buildings must comply with many local and national fire safety codes such as having proper fire systems in place. Having those systems is not enough. It is important to have a security system professional look at your facility and make recommendations, provide instruction on usage, and explain system capabilities.

Provide Proper Training

 Don’t assume that employees will know how to react in an emergency. Provide training, and practice the processes regularly.

Have a Prepared Evacuation Plan

In addition to using posted building maps and lighted exit signs, prepare and regularly practice an emergency evacuation plan with your building/business occupants. The more a plan is practiced, the more quickly and safely it can be executed in an emergency. 

Remove Clutter

Practice good workplace housekeeping. Clutter contributes to fires by providing fuel and by preventing access to exits and emergency equipment.

Use Designated Smoking Areas 

Smoke only in designated areas, and extinguish smoking materials safely. Never smoke in storerooms or chemical storage areas.

Have Fire Extinguishers 

Maintaining the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers and learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.

Remove Electrical Hazards

Many fires start in faulty wiring and malfunctioning electrical equipment. Ensure that all electrical cords and equipment are in good condition and are being properly used. 

Practice Chemical Safety 

Use and store chemicals safely. Read the label and the Material Safety Data Sheet to determine flammability and other fire hazards. Provide adequate ventilation when using and storing these substances.

The threat of fire to people, business equipment, and buildings demands that all business owners and safety professionals avoid having a fire emergency. Don’t wait to improve your fire prevention plan. For more information about fire safety, or security and fire and life safety technologies, give us a call today!