What Is Fire Protection?

Fire protection is the systems and procedures in place to ensure that a building or room is protected from the effects of fire. This includes keeping combustible materials at safe levels and taking care of points of ignition, such as heating systems and plug sockets.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) oversees more than 300 different fire safety codes and standards. These provide the basis for many other fire safety measures and help to protect lives, property and assets. It is important for business owners and occupants to be familiar with these regulations so that they can take appropriate steps to prevent fire-related accidents and emergencies.

A fire safety plan outlines the measures that will be put in place to protect people and assets from the devastating effects of a fire. This includes a risk assessment, evacuation routes, emergency response procedures and maintenance schedules. Having a fire safety plan is especially crucial for businesses and organizations that rely on expensive equipment, such as data centres and server rooms.

Ideally, fire safety plans are designed to prevent fires before they start. By keeping combustible materials at safe storage levels and taking care of points of ignition, the likelihood of a fire is significantly reduced. Fire prevention measures also include smoke detectors, which are vital in the home and workplace. They can warn occupants early on, giving them time to escape and alert the authorities. Regular testing and replacement of batteries is critical to keep them working properly.

Fire suppression is the final stage of fire protection, involving the use of a system to extinguish the flames. When a fire is detected, the system will be activated to release a concentrated substance that stops the spread of fire and smoke. The substance can vary, but common options include carbon dioxide and inert gases. Passive systems, which are stationary in nature, are also available and may be more effective than active ones in certain environments.

Once a fire has reached the growth stage, it is much more difficult to control and extinguish. This is why it is important to take proactive steps to prevent fires from advancing, such as installing fire-resistant walls and using cavity barriers. Specialists also design fire stopping solutions to seal around service penetrations.

When a fire breaks out, it is important to stay calm and evacuate the area as quickly as possible. If it is safe to do so, shut the doors behind you and use exit stairwells to leave the building. If you have been designated to carry out fire safety duties, follow the pre-planned procedures. Do not re-enter the building until the fire marshal or your supervisory staff has confirmed it is safe to do so.