In recognition of Fire Prevention Month, Cintas Corporation has
released a list of best practices to help facility managers
prevent and prepare for a fire. The National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) estimates 115,500 structure fires occurred
annually in non-residential properties from 2005 to 2009
resulting in $3.1 billion in direct property damage. “Fires
affect thousands of companies each year resulting in injury,
lost customer trust, and building damage,” said Tommy Thompson,
vice president of Fire Protection Services, Cintas.
“Establishing a fire prevention and preparedness program is
critical to the safety of employees and visitors.” - Implement a
Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan – Emergency response is easier
when everyone knows their respective responsibilities. Establish
a detailed fire emergency evacuation plan that dictates how to
respond, when to respond, and identifies a path of egress. If
employees have special needs or require special attention,
address these details in the plan. - Establish