How to Prevent Warehouse Fires

Preventing fire from erupting in a warehouse poses unique challenges due to the vast amount of flammable materials spread out over significant areas.  Preventing warehouse fires takes constant awareness of local code requirements along with regular internal inspections and external inspections from certified fire alarm system companies. Warehouses may tend to accumulate congested areas where boxes are stacked too close to exits and aisles can quickly become congested.

If warehouses are storing chemicals or flammable liquids there is an additional risk of fire erupting in addition to the typical numerous corrugated boxes which are highly flammable. Companies must also check their portable fire extinguishers with internal inspections and follow proper safety procedures when using electrical devices, extension cords or heating elements.

Installing the right type of fire alarm system for your warehouse operations is key to providing safety to your building, inventory and employees. Fire alarm systems should be designed for each unique building structure with consideration of the operation and materials used. The right type of smoke and fire detection equipment must be installed in the right locations according to code requirements with special consideration of unique instances.

Regular bi-annual internal inspections and annual fire alarm system inspections from certified fire alarm companies are required to ensure there is no interruption in fire protection. Fire alarm system inspections and testing may reveal a faulty component that could lead to a system failure, thus preventing catastrophic results.

High-Rise Security Systems Provides Warehouse Fire Alarm Systems

High-Rise Security Systems offers more than 30 years of experience in fire alarm system consulting, design and comprehensive fire protection services. We design commercial fire alarm systems with code compliance to all local, state and federal regulations.  We customize your fire alarm system to your unique building structure and operational needs with in-depth knowledge of fire protection requirements to many industrial and commercial businesses.

HRSS offers independent fire alarm consulting and quality, UL listed equipment from the most respected fire alarm manufacturers in the world.  We offer experienced fire alarm system design customized to your property, UL listed equipment and certified technicians.  Contact us to learn more about selecting the right fire alarm system for your property and how to prevent warehouse fires for any industry.

Which Smoke Detection Technology is Best?

There are two main types of smoke detection technology used in fire alarm systems today. Ionization smoke detectors and photoelectric smoke detectors are the two most commonly recognized type of smoke detection technology. Each works differently to provide early warning of smoke, although it is recommended to use both types of smoke detection for the best protection.

Here’s how each type of technology works and why it is important to incorporate both types of smoke detection with your fire alarm system.

Ionization Smoke Detection

Ionization smoke detectors typically provide a greater response to a fire already erupted into flames.  The ionization type of technology works by using a radioactive material in the middle of two electrically charged plates. This ionizes the air and creates a current to flow in between the two plates. If smoke enters the chamber it will disrupt the flow of ions and reduce the flow of current which activates the alarm.

Photoelectric Smoke Detection

Photoelectric smoke detectors are known to provide quick response to smoldering fires.  This type of smoke detection uses a sensing chamber with a light source aimed at the chamber. If smoke enters the chamber the reflecting light will trigger an alarm.

Each type of smoke detection provides advantages that could be the critical difference in saving lives. Many fatalities resulting from fires are caused by smoldering fires and flaming fires. It is impossible to predict which type of fire may erupt in your home or business. It is recommended to use both types of smoke detection equipment to provide the most protection.

High-Rise Security Systems Offers Smoke Detection Technology

High-Rise Security Systems offers comprehensive fire alarm and safety protection services including full system design, testing, inspection, repair, maintenance and monitoring 24/7/365.  We ensure your system is code compliant to all local state and federal fire protection codes and partner with the most reputable fire alarm manufacturers to distribute only UL listed, high-quality fire safety equipment.

High-Rise Security Systems is recognized as an authority on fire alarm system technology and a leading fire protection company. We provide fire alarm and life safety systems to commercial properties in and around Chicago and Northwestern Indiana. Contact us to learn more about fire alarm and smoke detection technology and for help in choosing the right system for your property.

The Importance of Fire Alarm System Inspections

Fire alarm systems must be inspected and tested regularly to provide the protection they are designed for. Commercial fire alarm systems are required to be inspected by a certified fire alarm system company according to standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  Building owners and managers should conduct a visual inspection twice per year with a certified fire alarm inspection including equipment testing conducted annually.

There are many reasons why fire alarm inspections and testing are so critical. Here are a few of the most important reasons for maintaining regular, certified fire alarm inspections:

1) Regular fire alarm inspections save lives. This is the most important reason to maintain fire alarm inspections, as the safety of occupants and visitors is the most important responsibility of building owners. Regular inspections may reveal a faulty component which may prevent early detection and adequate notification. Identifying issues which could have potential catastrophic results as one of the most important reasons to maintain fire alarm system inspections. 

2) Identifying problems early save money. When a fire alarm inspection reveals a faulty component and must be replaced immediately before it causes a ripple effect in damages other equipment. If one faulty component causes your system to malfunction it could create costlier repairs and worst-case will not provide notification of a fire which results in damage to your property and putting your occupants’ safety at risk.

3) Maintaining code compliance. Maintaining code compliance with regular inspections provides a safer environment, protects your building and occupants and will avoid fines for noncompliance.

4)  Property insurance requirements.  Commercial properties are required to maintain their fire alarm system in many insurance carriers provide a discount to companies that can prove regular fire alarm system inspections and maintenance.

High-Rise Security Systems Provides Certified Fire Alarm Inspections

High-Rise Security Systems is a leading fire alarm system company providing comprehensive protection services to commercial properties in and around Chicago. We offer more than 30 years of experience, certified technicians and in-depth expertise of all local, state and federal code requirements.

HRSS is recognized as an authority on fire alarm system requirements, going above and beyond code compliance to ensure your total safety and protection. We provide certified inspections, testing, maintenance, repair and monitoring 24/7/365.  Contact us to learn more about our fire protection services and how to maintain a code compliant system.