If you run a school or college, you’ll probably focus only on the quality of education. And you’ll probably want to build a reputation to stay relevant and competitive. But what do you think about safety? Well, you may not have it on your mind until you read this!
According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were nearly 3,700 structure fires in educational properties in 2019. The numbers grow every year. That’s a pretty alarming statistic, right? So, shouldn’t fire safety be a priority for school administrators?
Luckily, taking necessary precautions to prevent fires and ensure building safety is enough to protect your students and staff. And it’s simpler than you imagine. Let’s share a few to keep those classrooms and lecture halls safe!
Keep the exits clear
Well, this one is pure common sense. But you’d surely be surprised how often people fail to take care of this simple step. Ensure that all exits on the premises are clearly marked. There shouldn’t be any obstructions by objects, such as boxes, shelves, junk, or furniture near the exit doors.
Also, get rid of clutter regularly and organize the place. Everyone should easily find their way out of the building in an emergency.
Have fire extinguishers
You can hope that fire doesn’t break out on your premises, but be ready for the worst. While you’re at it, have fire extinguishers throughout the premises and ensure they are easily accessible. Having a fire extinguisher at hand can save lives.
It could make the difference between a small fire and a deadly disaster. Implement regular checks for fire extinguishers so they’re always in working order.
Educate everyone
Nothing matters more than creating safety awareness among your staff and students, right? You must do your bit to educate them about the potential hazards on the premises and what to do in an emergency.
Encourage them to read this Fire Protection Blog for the latest updates and valuable tips for staying safe and helping others in adverse circumstances. Consider offering training sessions or workshops to keep everyone on the same page.
Conduct fire drills
You may think of fire drills as a chore, but they make an essential part of safety standards in educational premises. Drills help everyone know what to do, where to go, and who to report in the event of a fire.
You don’t want any panic or confusion when an incident actually happens. Plus, drills are a good opportunity to identify potential hazards you may have missed before.
Install smoke alarms
You need to invest in the safety of your building, right? Smoke alarms are a small investment, but they can prevent major disasters for any business, and educational premises are no exception.
They give an early warning, so everyone can evacuate before it’s too late. Install smoke alarms throughout the premises and implement regular tests. They should always be in optimal working condition.
So there you have it, folks! Remember, fire prevention and safety isn’t something any educational institution should take lightly. After all, protecting your students is your prime responsibility. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so take these measures and improve the initiative with time.
