Daylight Savings is Your Reminder to Stay Prepared All Year Round – Fireco’s Essential Fire Safety Tips
While many people use daylight savings as their annual reminder to check their smoke alarms and change the batteries, it’s also the perfect opportunity to check other essential fire safety systems in your business. Take a few moments to make sure your home and business are fully protected this daylight savings – a quick check now can make all the difference in an emergency!
Key Fire Safety Checks to Make this Daylight Savings:
1. Test Your Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are your first line of defence in a fire, providing critical early warning that can save lives. Press the test button to check they’re functioning properly, and replace batteries if needed. If your alarm emits a beeping/chirping sound, it’s time for a battery change.
Additionally, if your smoke alarm is over 10 years old it may no longer function effectively, so it’s worth upgrading to a new photoelectric model, which provides better protection against smouldering fires. Fire Emergency New Zealand recommends installing long-life photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and living area. Learn more about their recommendations here.
2. Inspect Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are essential tools in an emergency, but only if they are in good working condition. Check the pressure gauge – if the needle is in the red zone, it’s time for a refill or replacement. Also, inspect the extinguisher for any dents, rust, or leaks that could affect its performance.
Make sure it’s stored in an easily accessible location, and that everyone in the household or workplace knows how to use it properly. If you’re unsure whether your extinguisher is still effective, consider getting it serviced by a professional.
3. Review Your Emergency Exit Plan
In an emergency, every second counts. Take a moment to review your household or workplace emergency exit plan. If your business has designated emergency exits, confirm that exit signs are visible and illuminated, and also check that all escape routes are clear of obstructions and that everyone knows where to go in case of a fire. Practicing fire drills with your family or staff now will help with a swift and safe evacuation should the need arise.
4. Check Fire Sprinklers & Alarms
For commercial buildings and businesses, daylight savings is the ideal time to schedule professional maintenance on fire sprinkler and alarm systems. These systems play a vital role in fire suppression and early detection of fires, but they require regular servicing to function correctly. Make sure fire alarm panels are operational, sprinkler heads are free from obstructions, and emergency lighting is working properly. Checking and maintaining these systems now means they’ll perform when you need them most.
5. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent, deadly gas that can accumulate in homes with gas appliances, fireplaces, or fuel-burning heaters. Check that your carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly by pressing the test button. Replace batteries if necessary and check the “expiration date” – most CO detectors last around 5-7 years. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, consider installing one in sleeping areas and near gas-powered appliances for added safety.
Daylight Savings is Your Reminder to Stay Prepared All Year Round
Fire safety isn’t just a one-time check, it’s an ongoing responsibility, but by using daylight savings as a reminder you’ll create a habit of keeping your fire protection systems in top shape.
If you need professional servicing or advice, Fireco is here to help.
