Fire Protection And Prevention Systems: The Main Equipment You Need In Your Home

Many people believe that a fire disaster won’t happen at home, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Adequate preparation can save lives and limit property damage considerably. Commercial properties are required by law to maintain stringent fire safety standards, but residential buildings aren’t as vigilant.

Just installing a few essential components can help you create a functional fire system in your home. If a disaster does happen, you’re prepared to face it. Here’s a look at what kind of fire protection you can install in your home:

Fire Suppression Systems 

Fire suppression systems are designed to extinguish the fire and reduce the chances of property damage or injuries. A proper suppression set-up is easy to use and quick to respond. Here’s a look at some of the options available:

• Sprinkler Systems – Sprinkler systems are some of the most effective fire suppression systems because they respond promptly. If the area near a sprinkler head reaches approximately 70°C, the system will activate and release pressurized water. Properties with functional sprinkler systems have fewer fatalities and less property damage.

• Fire Extinguishers – Fire extinguishers are used as the first response to control the spread of fire. For example, if a curtain is set on fire, you can immediately reach for the extinguisher to put it out before it can spread to other flammable areas nearby. However, this is just a first response and isn’t very effective against out-of-control fires that have spread over a large area.

• Extinguisher for Electrical Fires – Make sure you have an extinguisher that can be used on electrical fires caused by damaged wires or boards. These fires can’t be put out with water, and trying to use it may place you at risk. You may also need a different extinguisher for flammable liquid fires because they may not react well to water.

Every property should have smoke detection alarms as a part of its fire system. These alarms activate and alert everyone of the fire so they can leave the property quickly. Smoke detectors save thousands of lives every year, allowing people to escape a dangerous situation even if it happens in the middle of the night. Consider installing carbon monoxide detectors for added safety as they will sound an alarm when this harmful gas is present in your property. 

Safety Signage and Egress Systems  

Everyone residing in the property must have a space way to exit it and get away from the fire. That’s why you need both safety signage and egress systems in place. Here’s a look at what they include:

• Safety Signs – Safety signs highlight exits, point towards fire suppression systems, provide clear directions towards the exits, etc. These signs are designed to be visible in dark and smoke-filled conditions, which is essential when the visibility is low. It is easy for people to panic and get lost during a fire, even in a smaller residential property. Safety signage provides clear directions and helps people focus. That’s why they are an essential aspect of every fire system.

• Egress Options – Egress options like fire safety stairs, fire escapes, etc., should be essential aspects of your property’s design. Get your home inspected by a certified safety expert to see if it provides safe egress routes. If it doesn’t, you may need to add them as soon as possible.

A functional residential fire system will have all of these components. Make sure you get professional inspections regularly to ensure these systems are in good condition. The last thing you want is for a fire extinguisher to fail when you genuinely need it.