How to Protect Your Business From a Fire
As a business owner, there are many things to keep track of: revenue, expenses, profit, client information, the list goes on. We’re guessing, however, that protecting your business from fire isn’t at the top of your list. We’re here to get you thinking about how to protect your business from fire.
Tips on Protecting Your Business from a Fire
Fire season is right around the corner. So, what can you do to protect your business? At Competitive Edge Insurance, we have a few strategies in mind.
Have an Active Fire Protection Plan
Ensure your business has an active fire protection plan in place. An active fire protection plan includes water spray systems, deluge systems, sprinkler systems, fire water monitors, etc. Make sure that all of these systems are tested and in good working order (functioning with fresh batteries, etc.)
An evacuation plan should be crafted and distributed to all employees. Perform practice drills with your team members to ensure everyone understands their role in the event of an emergency.
Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning is important! When it comes to fire protection, this might look like:
- Carefully storing combustible and flammable materials
- Cleaning the perimeter of your building (i.e. eliminating dry brush and quick-burning foliage)
Read more in this article from VFS Fire & Security Services for everything you need to know on prepping the outside of your commercial building for summer.
Perform Routine Building Maintenance
The last thing you need during an evacuation is a blocked walkway or doorway. Ensure all fire lanes are clear and access to fire hydrants is unobstructed.
Moreover, the address of your building should be visible from the street in the event that emergency personnel are called onto the scene.
Invest in Fire Insurance
Fire insurance is defined as “a form of property insurance that covers damage and losses caused by fire.” Although most homeowners’ policies include some amount of fire protection, additional coverage is often considered in the event that property is lost or damaged due to fire.
What Could Your Business Face Without Fire Insurance?
The consequences of not having fire insurance can be detrimental considering your business is likely one of your largest assets.
Fire insurance can be essential depending on where you live. For example, in California, we’ve seen an uptick in wildfires in recent years, according to the California Air Resources Board. In fact, the area burned by California wildfires has been increasing each year since 1950. Eight of the state’s historical 20 largest wildfires have occurred since 2017.
Fire insurance can help minimize the financial burden in the event that a fire at your business does occur. For more information on how to insure your property, contact our team of experts at Competitive Edge Insurance. Until then, read up on risk mitigation for property investors.
