Fire is one of the most devastating threats to any commercial space, whether it is an office, a restaurant, a hotel, or a shopping mall. Outdated electrical systems, overloaded power outlets, combustible materials, and inadequate safety measures are harbingers of potential disaster.
The consequences of these oversights can be catastrophic, leading to loss of life, severe injuries, and irreparable damage to businesses. That’s where fire watch systems of professional security companies come to help you out.
These dedicated professionals remain alert to any sign of fire, ensuring that adequate precautions are in place and are swift to act.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the common fire hazards in commercial spaces and how fire watch security can help you prevent and manage them.
Common Fire Hazards In Commercial Spaces
With their bustling activities and intricate setups, commercial spaces often unknowingly become breeding grounds for potential fire hazards. Let’s take a look at the most common fire hazards in commercial spaces.
Electrical Equipment
Electrical equipment, such as wiring, outlets, switches, appliances, and lighting, can pose a fire risk if they are faulty, outdated, overloaded, or improperly installed or maintained. Electrical fires can spread quickly and cause sparks, shocks, and explosions. For these fires, having expert fire watch security services is crucial.
Cooking Equipment
Cooking equipment, such as stoves, ovens, microwaves, deep fryers, and grills, can cause fires if used or cleaned improperly. Cooking fires can produce flames, smoke, and grease that can ignite nearby combustible materials or spread to other areas.
Heating Equipment
Heating equipment, such as furnaces, boilers, water heaters, space heaters, and fireplaces, can cause fires if they are not maintained or operated correctly.
Heating fires can produce carbon monoxide, a colourless, odourless, and deadly gas that can suffocate people and animals.
Smoking Materials
Smoking materials, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, lighters, and matches, can cause fires if disposed of improperly. Smoking fires can smoulder for hours and ignite nearby combustible materials or spread to other areas.
Arson
Arson is the intentional and malicious setting of fires to cause damage or harm to property or people. Arson fires can be unpredictable and devastating, and they can be motivated by various reasons, such as vandalism, revenge, insurance fraud, or terrorism.
How Does Fire Watch Security Work?
As you can see, there are many fire hazards in commercial spaces that can pose a serious threat to your property and employees. However, you can reduce the risk of fire and enhance your fire safety by hiring fire watch security services. In residences where functioning smoke alarms were present, the mortality rate was lower, and only 26% of incidents ended in fatalities.
Fire watch security guards can help you in the following ways:
- Fire watch security guards can monitor and patrol your premises 24/7 and identify and report any fire hazards, such as faulty wiring, leaking gas, or flammable materials.
- They can respond quickly and appropriately in case of a fire emergency and alert the fire department and other emergency services.
- They can assist in fire drills, evacuations, and crowd control and ensure the safety and well-being of your employees, customers, and visitors.
- Fire watch security guards can liaise with the fire department and other emergency services and provide them with vital information and assistance.
- They can prevent and deter arson and vandalism by providing a visible and professional presence and enforcing your security policies and procedures.
Choosing The Right Fire Watch Services
Learn the key factors to consider when choosing the right service to ensure your commercial space is in safe hands.
Reputation And Experience
Check the reputation and experience of the fire watch service provider. Look for reviews, testimonials, and references from previous clients. You want to hire a fire watch service that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality and reliable service.
Licensing And Certification
Verify the licensing and certification of the fire watch guards. They should have the necessary training, skills, and knowledge to perform fire watch duties. Also, ensure they are insured and bonded to protect you from liability or damage.
Latest Equipment
Ask about the equipment and technology used by the fire watch service. They should have the latest and most influential fire detection and prevention tools, such as radios, cell phones, flashlights, fire extinguishers, and fire logs. In case of power failure or communication breakdown, make sure they have a backup plan.
Compare Pricing
Compare the pricing and the services offered by different fire watch providers. Look for a fire watch service offering transparent and competitive pricing without hidden fees or charges. Additionally, look for a fire watch service that offers customized and flexible plans that suit your specific needs and budget.
About GPS Security Group
GPS Security Group is a full-service security company that provides security solutions for various industries and sectors across Canada. We are committed to delivering high-quality and cost-effective security services that meet and exceed our clients’ expectations.
If you are looking for fire watch security or any other security service for your commercial space, contact us today.
