Start the Year Right: Is Your Business’ Fire Safety Equipment Ready for 2025?

1. Inspect Fire Extinguishers

Make sure all your business’s fire extinguishers are easily accessible, fully charged, and have clear usage instructions visible with appropriate signage nearby. Consider if someone would be able to easily locate the extinguisher during an emergency. Check the extinguishers’ pressure gauges, hoses, and overall condition. If there’s any signs of rust, wear, or corrosion, it’s time to replace the extinguisher. Most importantly, look at the service tag – if it’s been more than a year since the last professional inspection, schedule one immediately with the Fireco team.

2. Test Smoke Alarms and Detectors

Traditional models of smoke alarms and fire detectors should be tested monthly and batteries replaced annually. If your building still relies on older models of smoke alarms, then 2025 is the time to upgrade to long-life photoelectric smoke alarms for better reliability and detection of smouldering fires. With 10-year long-life batteries, photoelectric models are recommended by Fire Emergency NZ and required in all new rental properties in New Zealand too, so they’re the best pick to keep your property safe.

3. Maintain or Install Fire Suppression Systems

Fire safety suppression systems like sprinklers and fire alarms are vital for protecting your business. Whether you need to maintain an existing system or install a new one, Fireco can supply, install, and maintain the right equipment for your needs. Choosing the right fire alarm system and ensuring it’s correctly installed and maintained is at the heart of any successful fire safety strategy. Fireco’s team of experts is professionally qualified to help you select a fire alarm system that addresses high-risk areas in your building, fully meeting NZ compliance and regulatory standards. Find more info on fire suppression systems here.

4. Schedule Professional Inspections

Make 2025 the year of proactive maintenance and enlist Fireco’s network of IQPs to inspect your safety systems. These inspections can identify hidden issues and ensure compliance with Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) requirements, helping you maintain a safe and legally compliant building. To stay ahead of requirements and avoid last-minute stress, check your BWOF compliance schedule and book your IQP inspection with Fireco now. Our experienced team will make sure your fire safety systems are fully compliant, up to date, and ready to protect your property and occupants in 2025. Get started with IQP services here.

5. Update Your Fire Safety Records

Keep detailed records of all maintenance and inspections performed. Accurate documentation is vital for regulatory compliance and can serve as proof of diligence in the event of an incident. Look over previous years’ BWOF and fire reports too, as they can insights into the condition of your building’s fire safety systems and highlight any areas that may require attention or upgrades in 2025. Make sure that all specified systems listed in your compliance schedule are covered and that records are accurate and up to date. Reviewing these documents annually helps you identify patterns, anticipate potential issues, and ensure that your building remains compliant with New Zealand building regulations. You can find more info about BWOFs with Fireco here.