Property Manager's Fire Safety Quick Guide
One of the biggest disasters a property manager could face is a fire. According to FEMA, the cooling weather in fall and winter increases the number of fires and related accidents. Inspect your properties for fire hazards now and get acquainted with these tips to help prevent fires, keep residents safe, and minimize damage if a fire occurs.
1. Inspect Heating Equipment And Chimneys
An essential first step is to inspect heating equipment and chimneys thoroughly. The build-up in ducts can pose a severe fire hazard. Boilers and other heating equipment can also become dangerous when not properly maintained. Such risks are preventable. Thus, having all heating equipment inspected professionally is worth spending the extra money on. Keeping heating equipment well-maintained has the bonus of increasing heating efficiency, which can save you money in the long run.
2. Ban Indoor Smoking
Another major cause of fires is indoor smoking. It is a good idea to explicitly prohibit smoking indoors in your leases and on posted signs in the buildings. If you smell cigarette smoke indoors, remedy the problem by sending a notice reminding the tenants of this rule.
3. Advise Against Using Candles
Unattended candles are another significant source of apartment fires, which can be especially problematic during a power outage if tenants don’t have flashlights. It is advisable to caution tenants on the dangers of using candles and, if possible, provide flashlights during a power outage to discourage using candles.
4. Examine Electrical Wiring
Inspecting all electrical wiring in your buildings is a vital step. Faulty wiring is a significant risk factor for apartment fires. Redoing electrical wiring can be expensive, but most property managers agree that protecting their tenants and their investment is worth the cost.
5. Ensure Fire Alarms Are Properly Installed
Have fire alarms professionally installed throughout your building. Inspect fire alarm systems and test and maintain them periodically to ensure their reliability. Fire alarms must adhere to NFPA code requirements, follow the manufacturer’s recommended inspection and maintenance requirements, and require annual system testing.
6. Prohibit Cooking On Balconies
When tenants use grills on their balconies, it poses many risks, including the increased potential for a fire. Stay on the safe side by banning the use of grills and any cooking on your tenants’ balconies.
7. Exhibit Clear Evacuation Procedures
Following these tips can help you protect your property against fire. Unfortunately, sometimes disasters like fires are beyond your control. To be prepared for this possibility, post clear evacuation procedures. These will vary depending on the size and layout of your buildings.
Contact Us
Have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you make your HOA a safe environment for all!