December 2023
Fire alarm systems are an essential component of any commercial building's safety infrastructure. They are designed to detect the presence of fire or smoke and alert occupants to evacuate the premises promptly. However, when a fire alarm goes off, it can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation. Knowing how to respond in such an event is crucial for your safety and the safety of others.
In this article, Lynx Fire & Security will explain the key steps to keep your employees as safe as possible in the event of one of our commercial fire alarm systems being triggered – precautionary or not.
Fire Alarm Safety Procedures
The first step when your fire alarm goes off is to remain calm. Panic can cloud your judgment and hinder your ability to react appropriately. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that the alarm is designed to keep you safe – treat every alarm trigger as a real event, even if you have been informed that it is a drill.
Once you have composed yourself, it is essential to take immediate action. Evacuate the building as quickly and safely as possible. Do not waste time gathering personal belongings or investigating the source of the alarm. Remember, your safety is the top priority.
When evacuating, use the designated exit routes and follow any evacuation procedures that have been established. These procedures may include specific meeting points outside the building where you can gather to ensure everyone is accounted for. It is crucial to familiarise yourself with these procedures in advance, as they may vary depending on the building.
If you encounter smoke while evacuating, stay low to the ground where the air is less toxic. Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth to filter out smoke particles. If possible, wet the cloth to provide additional protection. Avoid using elevators during a fire alarm, as they may malfunction or become trapped, hindering your escape.
Once you have safely evacuated the building, call emergency services to report the fire. Provide them with as much information as possible, such as the location of the fire, any visible smoke or flames, and the number of people still inside the building. Do not assume that someone else has already made the call; taking initiative can save valuable time.
While waiting for emergency services to arrive, do not re-enter the building under any circumstances. Even if the alarm stops or you suspect it was a false alarm, it is crucial to wait for professionals to assess the situation and ensure it is safe before entering again.
Fire Alarm Maintenance
To prevent false alarms, it is essential to properly maintain and test your fire alarm system. Regular fire alarm installation and maintenance by qualified professionals can ensure that the system is functioning correctly, and minimise the risk of false alarms. This includes regular inspections, battery replacements, and system checks to identify any potential issues.
Top Tips – Routine testing of the fire alarm system should be conducted by your Company (eg. once a week). Ensure that different call points are tested each time. These tests are usually conducted by your Company’s Fire Marshal(s) – refer to your Fire Risk Assessment to ensure your building has the correct amount of Fire Marshals trained.
At Lynx Fire & Security, our dedicated team of engineers know our fire alarm systems inside and out – making routine maintenance a key element of our comprehensive security services. As a security partner, we aim to support you for years to come by keeping your fire alarm systems updated and in regulatory, working manner.
To receive a free quotation from a member of our team, you can contact us via our enquiry form, by telephone 0800 998 1303 or email [email protected]