The Importance of Fire Protection in Our Schools

According to the National Fire Protection Association, every year, there are an average of over 3,000 fires in schools. Not only do these result in an average of one death and 39 injuries annually, but it also causes $37 million in property damage a year. Having the proper fire protection systems in schools is clearly essential to maintaining a safe environment for children.

Here’s what you can do to help students stay safe in the classroom.

Install Fire Protection Equipment

Fire protection equipment is one of the most effective ways to safely extinguish a fire and protect students, staff and the building. For example, having several fire extinguishers throughout a school can prevent smaller fires from spreading and causing damage. Depending on the type of fire, there are specific extinguishers designed to douse the flames. While Class A extinguishers put out fires that occur in ordinary combustible materials like paper or wood, Class K extinguishers are designed to put out cooking fires in cafeterias caused by fats, oils and greases.

Fire alarms are another effective measure that alerts students and staff of a school fire and gives them time to exit the building safely. Routinely performing fire drills is a great way to ensure that the alarms are functioning properly and can also train students and staff to respond quickly and calmly to a fire. In addition, every school in the Bronx is required to have a fire sprinkler system. Sprinklers can control or extinguish a fire in its early stages before it progresses into a larger blaze, which can save lives and reduce property damage.

Perform Regular Inspections

Every school is legally required to have a Licensed Master Fire Suppression Contractor perform monthly, quarterly and annual testing and inspections of its fire sprinkler system. If you fail to keep accurate inspection, testing or maintenance records, you may receive a Notice of Violation from the FDNY. These violations can develop into costly fees or even criminal charges if not addressed in a timely manner.

At Allstate Sprinkler, we perform regular inspections to ensure that your fire sprinklers are working properly. Additionally, if your building needs a new sprinkler system installed, our team of skilled professionals can engineer and install the whole system for you. We offer round-the-clock emergency services to address any Notices of Violations from the FDNY that you may have received. Call us today to request a free estimate.