Why Do I Need a Fire Alarm System?
Fact: Fire alarm and detection systems save lives. According to the NFPA, in 2015 there were 113,500 non-residential structural fires resulting in 1,425 injuries and 80 deaths and over $3 billion in property damage. Installing a fire alarm system provides heat or smoke detection to notify the occupants of a fire. With early detection, occupants can evacuate promptly to prevent the chance of injury or property damage.
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Why Do I Need to Inspect My Fire Alarm System?
1. Protect People and Property
As mentioned above, the first (and most important) reason for regular inspections is obvious…to protect the people and property associated with the structure you are safe guarding. Fire Alarm systems and regular inspections confirm a properly working system, creating a safe environment for any and all occupants of the building – whether they are students, tenants, customers, or employees.
2. It’s the Law!
Regular inspection of fire alarm systems certifies that building owners are within the standards and requirements of NFPA 72. Following this standard allows for compliance with other federal, state, and local municipal laws. Read the Top 15 Alarm Inspection Requirements any building owner should know and understand.
3. Insurance Purposes
Insurance companies often require proof that a facility’s fire alarm system is up-to-date with inspection requirements. But an even more valuable reason for maintaining a regular inspection schedule: if a claim was ever filed on a property that fails to meet set guidelines, that claim could very well be rejected. In short, conducting regular inspections will reduce unexpected out of pocket costs.
4. Decrease Liability Claims
In the event of a fire, the liability due to injury or death by occupants will be limited if proof of inspection can be provided. Proof of inspection demonstrates that the fire alarm system is within code and properly operational. On the other hand, if proof of inspection cannot be provided, building owners could be held accountable for injury or death caused by the incident.
5. Discover Issues Within Your System
In order to properly detect errors in your fire alarm system and to make certain that it is operating correctly, it’s crucial to conduct periodic inspections and testing. If certain components are not functioning as they should, a plan to remedy can be put in place to ensure proper performance in the event of a fire.
