Fire Prevention Tips for Your Hotel

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

If you run a hotel business, you will want to do everything you can to protect it from disasters such as water damage and fire damage. Being prepared for any kind of disaster is always a good idea. Today, we’re sharing some tips that can help you prevent fire damages as well as some helpful tips in the event a fire ever does happen:

• Take steps to ensure that the address numbers for your buildings or suites are highly visible, enabling emergency responders to easily find your location quickly in the event of a fire or other emergency. Numbers should contrast with the background used, such as black on white, while the numerals should be no less than six inches in height.
• All fire extinguishers should be no more than 75 feet from all work areas for easy access, and they should be mounted in a highly visible spot. Make sure your extinguishers are inspected and serviced at least once a year by a licensed fire extinguisher company.
• Exits need to be clearly marked with EXIT signage that is illuminated at all times with a battery backup for power outages. Emergency lighting should be kept in working order, and the exit areas and spaces around the building outside kept clear of debris and plant material, reducing the fire risk outdoors as well.
• In order to prevent a fire from ever starting, all stored materials need to be stacked at least two feet below the ceiling in an orderly manner. For buildings with an automatic sprinkler system, 18 inches of clearance is required, allowing smoke to collect up high, which gives people adequate time to exit and the sprinklers a clear area for their spray pattern. Entries, hallways, and storage spaces should be kept clear of clutter or obstructions to allow quick exit and access for fire personnel. These instructions have been put in place by your area fire marshal, and if not followed, can result in fines.
• Electrical outlets should have no more than one item per outlet plugged into them, which may include a power strip with a circuit breaker. All electrical cords should be kept in good repair and replaced when needed.
• Trash receptacles need to be kept at least five feet away from combustible roofs, windows, and entryways and not stored in the path of exits.
• Have your sprinkler system tested and serviced every 12 months or less by a licensed fire sprinkler company. This practice should also be used for your fire alarm system.
• If your hotel has a restaurant kitchen onsite, make sure your stove hood has been cleaned at least once every year to prevent excessive grease buildup. Ceiling exhaust fans and bathroom heater/light/fan combinations can also be a risk due to a buildup of dust and grease, resulting in increased operating temperatures.
• Make sure your local fire department has your valid contact information on file for your business.

The SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville team is experienced in cleanup projects after fires both large and small. We are also mold remediation specialists, and here to help in the event of water damages, fire damages, and storm damages.