Fire Prevention Week is here, running from October 6-12, 2024, and the Oklahoma Department of Labor is partnering with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) to highlight this year’s theme: “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!™.” While the focus is often on home safety, it’s just as critical to prioritize fire prevention in the workplace.
Did You Know? According to the NFPA, having working smoke alarms can reduce the risk of dying in a fire by more than half. Yet, approximately 60% of fire-related deaths occur in places without functioning smoke alarms. Whether at home or work, making sure your fire prevention measures are in place could be life-saving.
Fire Safety in the Workplace
This Fire Prevention Week, the Oklahoma Department of Labor encourages all businesses and employees to take a moment to review their fire safety practices. Using OSHA’s guidelines, here are some essential fire safety tips for workplaces:
- Coordinate with the Local Fire Department: Ensure the local fire department is familiar with your facility's layout and specific hazards.
- Test Fire Alarm Systems Annually: Regular testing ensures that your alarm system is ready to alert everyone in case of an emergency.
- Inspect Standpipes, Valves, and Hydrants: Check interior standpipes and valves regularly and ensure that outside fire hydrants are on a maintenance schedule, including annual flushing.
- Maintain Fire Doors and Sprinkler Systems: Make sure fire doors and shutters operate properly and remain unobstructed. Inspect automatic sprinkler system water control valves, air pressure, and water pressure weekly or periodically.
- Provide and Maintain Fire Extinguishers: Ensure portable fire extinguishers are available in sufficient numbers, accessible, and recharged regularly. Employees should also be trained in their use as part of the company’s emergency action plan.
“Smoke alarms and fire prevention systems are your first line of defense during a fire, but they need to be properly maintained to protect people,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of outreach and advocacy. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign focuses on simple yet essential steps that businesses and families alike can take to ensure their smoke alarms and fire safety systems are in top condition.”
Why It Matters
Whether at home or in the workplace, a working smoke alarm and proper fire safety measures can make the difference between a minor incident and a major tragedy. This week is the perfect time to take those extra steps that can save lives.
For more tips and information about Fire Prevention Week, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s website at fpw.org.
