Fire Prevention for Commercial Properties:
Every Commercial Property presents unique fire risks that require adequate insurance coverage to protect your financial interest. Having insurance alone is not sufficient; you need coverage tailored to the specific risks associated with your property and business.
Consulting your Broker for New Property Acquisitions:
Before purchasing or leasing a new commercial property, consult with your insurance broker. They can:
- Obtain quotes and coverage estimates based on the property’s specifics.
- Advise on geographical conditions and factors impacting insurance needs.
- Evaluate existing fire protection systems and identify necessary upgrades.
- Assess the property’s suitability for your intended business use case and insurance requirements.
Involving your broker prior to acquisition can protect against unexpected costs and the need for costly upgrades to comply with the insurer’s standards. An expert broker can enable informed decision-making and accurate estimation of the total cost of ownership, including insurance premiums.
Location Specific Risks:
The fire risks for your property may vary based on its geographic location. It is crucial to understand the most significant risks and take preventive measures accordingly.
Note: The location of the property may also affect what carriers are willing to offer you insurance and your coverage options. An experienced broker will be able to help you navigate these challenges but the earlier they are involved the better.
Building Construction:
Depending on the type and age of construction, certain buildings may be more susceptible to fires. To mitigate this risk, it is essential to have an adequate sprinkler system in place.
Building Codes:
Ensure your building complies with local building codes. If necessary, update your building to meet the relevant codes for your area. Depending on the use case of your property you may find you need more than is required by local building codes.
Conduct Regular Audits:
Periodically audit your building’s structure, contents, smoke detectors, fire alarms, and other fire safety systems to identify and address any deficiencies.
Sprinkler System Maintenance:
Sprinkler systems are highly effective in reducing fire-related casualties and property damage, but only when designed, installed, and maintained correctly, follow NFPA guidelines for inspecting, testing, and maintaining water-based fire protection systems.
Accessible Fire Equipment:
Maintain proper fire equipment, such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and sprinkler systems, in easily accessible locations. Ensure that employees are trained in their placement and usage.
Automated Inspection and testing:
Leverage advancements in technology to automate inspections and testing, mimicking manual processes while ensuring accurate data collection and analysis.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP):
Develop a plan that outlines designated actions for employees and any other occupants to ensure their safety during fire and other emergencies. Conduct regular instructional exercises, stairwell familiarization drills, and evaluations to assess the preparedness and capabilities of occupants and safety staff. Your organization should be sure to adapt the plan to any weaknesses that are discovered in drills.
Fire Evacuation Plans and Procedures:
Develop and post fire evacuation plans at all exits on your property. Train employees on the protocol to follow in the event of a fire.
Owner Responsibilities:
As the property owner or designated representative, you are responsible for the overall inspection, testing, and maintenance of (ITM) program, impairment procedures, minimizing water damage, freeze protection, providing ready access to system components.
