Types Of Fire Equipment
Posted on: 5 April 2022
Fires are a common hazard in residential and commercial buildings. Although most property owners have fire insurance coverage, it is always wise to install fire equipment to prevent fire damage, loss of life, and injuries in case of a fire outbreak. Read this extract to learn the various types of fire equipment to install in your home or business premises.
Fire Extinguishers
The rule when installing fire extinguishers in your home or business is to ensure you have the correct extinguishers. Typically, you need a professional assessment to establish the fires that could break out on the premises. For example, a restaurant needs a wet chemical extinguisher to extinguish kitchen fires. Conversely, a dry powder extinguisher would be installed in a petrol station since it puts out fires caused by flammable gasses and liquids.
Below are a few things you should know when installing a fire extinguisher:
- Train your family or employees on how to use the extinguisher. Otherwise, it could be absolute when a fire breaks out.
- The fire extinguisher should be accessible. Typically, one should not have to travel a long distance to reach the extinguisher.
- When installing extinguishers in a multi-storey building, ensure they are located in the same position on each floor. This way, the building's occupants know where to find the extinguishers.
- Inspect the extinguishers regularly to ensure they do not have defects such as low pressure that could affect their functionality.
Fire Blankets
Fire blankets are sheets of fire-resistant materials that smother a fire. Typically, the sheets starve the fire oxygen, thus preventing the fire from spreading. Fire blankets are effective in putting out small fires. Besides, you can wrap the blanket to put out a fire on somebody's clothing. It is a safer alternative compared to extinguishers which could injure the person's eyes or ears.
Sprinklers And Hoses
Sprinklers are an integral component of the fire alarm system. Typically, the fire sensors activate the overhead sprinklers to extinguish the fire. In some cases, the fire sprinkler is not effective. In this case, you need high-pressure fire hoses to help extinguish the fire.
Signage
Fire signage helps the building occupants to identify fire response equipment in case of a fire. Moreover, the signage helps them identify emergency exits as they escape the building. It is a sure way to avoid stampedes and panic as the occupants evacuate the building.
Fire equipment for residential and commercial buildings includes extinguishers, fire blankets, sprinklers, hoses, and signage.
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