There are nearly 500,000 residential and commercial fires annually in the U.S. Some of these incidents don’t cause any harm, but many result in property damage, injury, and even loss of life. These tragedies have a significant impact, especially for commercial businesses, but they don’t have to happen. Did you know that 75% of fires are preventable? By some estimates, the number is even higher. So how can a business owner protect themselves and their organization? Fire alarm monitoring is one way to keep your property safe and avoid falling victim to an avoidable issue. What is fire alarm monitoring, and how do you find a local service provider?
Fire Alarm Monitoring, Explained
Every state, including Florida, has a fire code that property owners must uphold. Florida’s fire code has several instructions that commercial property owners must follow; if found in violation, a business will be fined and can face legal action and even business closures. Buildings are subject to annual inspections to ensure that building owners are following the rules. Here are a few of the requirements — many of which are commonly violated, according to data from local fire departments:
– You must attach street numbers to the building, clearly visible from the street, and marked in a contrasting color. The current Florida Fire Prevention Code requires numbers to be 6 inches in size.
– You must cover electrical outlets and junction boxes with cover plates. Electric panel boxes must remain closed and have no empty slots.
– Extension cords are for temporary power only (e.g., operating a vacuum cleaner or powering a tool for repair).
– All exit and emergency lighting must be functional with electricity on and off.
– Exit doors must function properly and be clearly marked as exits. They must remain unlocked during business hours and be free of chains, bars, or devices that prohibit exit from the occupancy.
It’s important to note that fire code is a bare minimum, and businesses should do more than what’s required. That’s why fire alarm monitoring is so essential. What happens when a fire alarm is triggered? Without monitoring, you’ll have no idea if no one is on the premises. But when you link your system to a 24/7 monitoring service, a live person will respond after an alarm trigger. They may contact you to ensure it isn’t a false alarm, then alert the fire department of a potential incident. Within minutes, you’ll have people on your property trained to fight fires. It’s a highly effective way to protect your property.
Finding A Provider
Once you decide that fire alarm monitoring is the right choice, it’s time to find a provider who offers the quality service you need to succeed. When you Google “Tampa fire alarm monitoring,” you’ll get a lot of results — but how many of those companies can actually get the results they promise? Finding a professional provider with experience in the industry who is licensed and insured and has relevant credentials is essential. After you narrow down a few options, you should contact the firms for a consultation. Many security and fire companies offer free consultations and walkthroughs, so there’s no cost to you.
Integrated Security Consultants is a full-service security and fire firm specializing in fire alarm installation and monitoring, along with access control, security cameras, intrusion detection systems, telephone and intercom entry, data infrastructure, and more. For 17 years, our firm has upheld our core values of Integrity, Solutions, and Customer Service, all while protecting the people, property, and profits of our clients. If you need a qualified fire alarm monitoring provider, look no further. Call us at 813-254-0033 or contact us online to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.