Steps to Create a Fire Escape Plan for Your Business | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

While not every business is required to have a written Emergency Action Plan, every business owner should prepare for the possibility of a fire.

Though one would hope to never have to face a fire in the workplace, it is important for the safety of your employees and the longevity of your business that you know what to do should one break out.

How to Create a Plan

By planning thoroughly for how to escape from a workplace fire, you can be aware of exactly what to do should one occur. Here are the five steps to creating a fire escape plan for your workplace:

1. Brainstorm scenarios.While the majority of workplace fires are a result of cooking, it is important to consider other possible scenarios as well. Consider all possible areas a fire could break out in order to determine your execution of the next step.
2. Plan evacuation routes and escape procedures.It is important that all employees know exactly how to escape in a timely manner. Plan evacuation routes from every area of the building, ensuring each room has two methods of escape. Create a workplace evacuation mapand hang it prominently on escape routes and near stairwells to alleviate confusion.
3. Schedule drills often.Scheduling drills is one of the best ways to practice preparedness as you can rehearse your evacuation plan and ensure it is as efficient as possible. Let employees know in advance when a drill is coming, but be sure they know to take it seriously.
4. Ensure equipment is operational.It is important to regularly check your smoke alarms and sprinkler systems to ensure they are working, and inspect your fire extinguisher to be sure it is not expired.
5. Have a plan for the aftermath.While your chief concern should be helping all personnel get to safety in the tense moments of a fire, planning in advance for the aftermath is important. Keep copies of important business documents such as your insurance policy in a secure location such as a safety deposit box, and be sure you’ve done your research on commercial restorationso you can focus on reopening your doors quickly.

As leaders in commercial restoration, we’re always here to help if your business has suffered from a fire. Contact us today to learn about how we handle commercial restoration correctly.

(410)749-2221