If a fire occurs at a house, it’s a residential fire. If it occurs at a place where the public spends money and gathers for business or pleasure, such as a store or hotel, it’s deemed a commercial fire. Specifically, a commercial fire is defined by some as a fire that breaks out in an office, warehouse, store or other commercial building. Fire can be caused by a number of things. Maybe hazardous materials on the property are being mishandled. Or maybe the fire is intentionally set (which is known as arson) to try and collect insurance money.
Reasons for Commercial Fires
What are some other reasons commercial fires happen? Electrical or heating malfunctions can lead to fires– for example, faulty wiring or damaged electrical cords could get a fire going… Or perhaps people are storing flammable goods next to a heating source. Or they’re cooking in a way where, for example, there’s a grease fire that gets out of control. Furthermore, smoking cigarettes, cigars and other substances can lead to commercial fires. And, of course, there’s the aforementioned arson.
Commercial fires are fairly common in the U.S., with between 10,000 and 20,000 per year, and property damages creeping up toward a billion dollars annually– ugh!
To help prevent commercial fires, take time to assess wires, cords, cables and more. Make sure heaters or candles aren’t left unattended. Store flammable items away from electrical equipment. Keep the building clean, ventilated and dry. Clearly mark fire exits routes. Have fire drills. Make sure detectors and sprinklers can and will work properly if needed.
If you currently work in a commercial building, and your fire alarm system is being assessed, where can you go for needed replacement parts? Life Safety Consultants sells commercial fire alarm and replacement parts. Call 1-888-557-0558 for info.
