2014 Trends for Fire Protection

When we think of fire protection services, we often think of the usual -- fire sprinklers, a bright, red fire extinguisher and loud fire bells.  While these standards are still relevant, the year 2014 will see a welcoming of both technology and style into the industry.  These trends will not only keep us safer but also fit seamlessly into our modern, chic homes.  Below we examine three big trends that will be hitting the world of fire protections services.  Read more about this new equipment to see if any may be a fit for you.



Fire Retardant Materials
Fire retardant materials are now more versatile than ever as manufacturers continue to improve the technology.  Treating the items with a fire retardant chemical, many types of fabric can be used including cotton, silk, nylon, and even velvet.   A popular consumer product that has been chemically treated for years is children’s pajama sets with treating on both the PJ tops and bottoms.  These treated fabrics are extremely helpful in case of a fire as they will not ignite with flames.  The fire retardant process can also be applied to existing materials throughout the home or workplace.

Voice Evacuation Systems
Voice evacuation systems are quickly becoming popular technology advancements in the fire protection services world.  These units work much like a typical fire alarm system with the ability for the unit to detect smoke and temperature.  Once activated, the voice will direct people on what to do and where to go.  Many companies are also tying in varying languages and messages to meet the ever-changing demands.  This feature has been further expanded with the integration of both music and instruments into the evacuation message.

Stainless Steel Fire Extinguishers
Stainless steel isn’t just for residential kitchen appliances anymore.  This stylish metal is also great for equipment in the home built to put out fires such as fire extinguishers.  Fire extinguisher manufacturers are taking note of this trend that has been around for years and is now here to stay.  To address their customer’s desire for both form and function, the fire extinguisher industry has met the demand by incorporating this design feature into their units making them both beautiful and functional. Rather than having an eye sore sticking out with the typical red extinguisher, this steel model can fit anywhere and blend into its surroundings with ease.

If your home or business is already fully protected, you may not see a need to add any more fire protection services to your arsenal.  But if you are lacking some needed protection try incorporating these three trends for 2014.  The voice evacuation system would be an excellent safeguard for a large building or office complex.  A stainless steel extinguisher would be a perfect fit for a kitchen blending in nicely with your stainless steel oven and refrigerator.  Fire retardant materials can be outfitted pretty much anywhere you use fabric whether it is in the office furniture or on your living room drapes. Keeping you safe in 2014, these three fire protection services trends are here to stay. 

Having specialized in the Fire Protection Services signs trade for over 25 years, USAFP now works tirelessly to promote affordable fire safety for home and for business.



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7 Tips for Fire Safety in the Workplace

Back in a previous life, I worked in retail. You could hear the serious gulps from my manager anytime he saw a certain person walk in the door – a firefighter.  He would dart his eyes my way and I knew what to do.  I would quickly, but discreetly, make my way to the back room and shove as many boxes away from the service door as I could.  I didn’t care where they went or how they landed; I just wanted us to pass inspection.  Looking back, this was not a safe practice for the employees, the customers shopping, or our merchandise.  Fire safety in the workplace is serious business.  How does your business rank on its fire safeguards?

Below I cover seven tips for fireplace safety in the workplace.

Never Block the Exits–Every business, including retail stores in the mall, should follow this rule every single minute of every single day.  Blocking the exits with garbage, boxes, or displays prevent people from getting out in the event of a fire.

Keep It Clean – Debris on the floor can make someone trip or fall if heading to the exit during a fire.  Also overflowing garbage or dust and other rubbish near electrical outlets and electronic machinery can create prime conditions for flames to start.

Use a Fire Sprinkler System–A good quality fire sprinkler system can help your business put out a fire during its early stages resulting in less fatalities and property damage.  Smothering the fire before it can grow, a fire sprinkler system is an effective and reliable tool to implement.  Not sure what your need?  A fire safety contractor can help find a model right for your needs.

Hire Out – Hiring a fire safety contractor to address safety concerns, train your employees, and devise fire plans in case of an emergency can be helpful for those without a safety manager on staff. 

Assess the Risk – Either your own EHS professional or a reputable fire safety contractor should complete a fire risk assessment at your place of business.  During this time, they will check for potential hazards, evaluate your fire suppression tools, and offer suggestions on how you can better protect your building.

Have a Plan – Devise a practical plan on what to do if a fire should occur at your business.  Address different scenarios and places of fire origin as well.  Make sure to inform your employees of the plan and have them practice it.  This practice will help them feel confident in following through with the correct steps you have set forth. 

Train your Employees– Provide education and training to all employees, not just managers, on correct fire safety procedures.  Make them aware of local laws and ordinances that affect your company and show them how to conduct their own fire safety checks on a regular basis.
If you are a small business owner, follow these seven fire safety tips at your workplace for a safe, hazard-free work environment.  When in doubt, reach out to a professional for help.  And always make sure to follow your local laws and ordinances. 


Source :  Click Here

7 Tips for Fire Safety in the Workplace

Back in a previous life, I worked in retail. You could hear the serious gulps from my manager anytime he saw a certain person walk in the door – a firefighter.  He would dart his eyes my way and I knew what to do.  I would quickly, but discreetly, make my way to the back room and shove as many boxes away from the service door as I could.  I didn’t care where they went or how they landed; I just wanted us to pass inspection.  Looking back, this was not a safe practice for the employees, the customers shopping, or our merchandise.  Fire safety in the workplace is serious business.  How does your business rank on its fire safeguards?

Below I cover seven tips for fireplace safety in the workplace.

Never Block the Exits – Every business, including retail stores in the mall, should follow this rule every single minute of every single day.  Blocking the exits with garbage, boxes, or displays prevent people from getting out in the event of a fire.

Keep It Clean – Debris on the floor can make someone trip or fall if heading to the exit during a fire.  Also overflowing garbage or dust and other rubbish near electrical outlets and electronic machinery can create prime conditions for flames to start.

Use a Fire Sprinkler System – A good quality fire sprinkler system can help your business put out a fire during its early stages resulting in less fatalities and property damage.  Smothering the fire before it can grow, a fire sprinkler system is an effective and reliable tool to implement.  Not sure what your need?  A fire safety contractor can help find a model right for your needs.

Hire Out – Hiring a fire safety contractor to address safety concerns, train your employees, and devise fire plans in case of an emergency can be helpful for those without a safety manager on staff. 

Assess the Risk – Either your own EHS professional or a reputable fire safety contractor should complete a fire risk assessment at your place of business.  During this time, they will check for potential hazards, evaluate your fire suppression tools, and offer suggestions on how you can better protect your building.

Have a Plan – Devise a practical plan on what to do if a fire should occur at your business.  Address different scenarios and places of fire origin as well.  Make sure to inform your employees of the plan and have them practice it.  This practice will help them feel confident in following through with the correct steps you have set forth. 

Train your Employees – Provide education and training to all employees, not just managers, on correct fire safety procedures.  Make them aware of local laws and ordinances that affect your company and show them how to conduct their own fire safety checks on a regular basis.

If you are a small business owner, follow these seven fire safety tips at your workplace for a safe, hazard-free work environment.  When in doubt, reach out to a professional for help.  And always make sure to follow your local laws and ordinances.