Choosing Fire Suppression Systems in Longview, TX

Fire suppression systems save lives and property. They activate before help arrives, which gives your employees time to escape and saves at least a few of your assets. However, this is often a daunting decision because not only do you need to face a worst-case scenario, but your options seem endless. Here are six factors to consider as you decide between fire suppression systems in Longview, TX:

• Choose automatic: If given the choice between an automatic or manual system, always choose automatic. While there is a risk of false alarms and property damage resulting from them, investing in a high-quality system minimizes that possibility. Also, you do not know if someone can access the controls to activate a manual system. Automatic systems remain functional even if there is a power outage, which is not always a feature you will get with other systems. If there is one area that requires no quibbling, this is it—choose automatic always.
• Certifications: Like any other product, fire suppression systems are certified by different organizations. This ensures that they were thoroughly tested, and some certifications are specific to industries. For example, if your concern is about chemically induced fires, you want your new system to be certified to address those. Check to see which agencies certify systems for your industry, and if you are not sure, only buy a system from a reputable and experienced dealer.
• Fire suppressing agents: Avoid the systems that use a proprietary agent that can only be purchased from one distributor. If that distributor goes out of business, you will likely have to replace your system, and that can be a costly undertaking. Commercially available suppression agents are more than adequate for most locations, and you have multiple dealers available when you need to order refills. With suppressing agents, you want options, so never limit yourself unnecessarily.
• Environment: The layout of your business will influence your purchase decision. Availability of emergency services, accessible exits and even the airflow through your building will determine the best type of system.
• Types of fire: Kitchen fires, chemically induced fires and even fires resulting from overheated electronics must all be suppressed differently. The amount of flammable material in your property is also a consideration. Basically, the more likely a fire will spread, the stronger your suppressant must be. Also, in some cases, you may have to resort to overkill. Even if an area does not seem susceptible to fire, you may need to protect it to create an escape opportunity.
• Acceptable loss: Even the best fire suppression systems are not perfect. You must determine a tolerable level of loss. For example, if you have a room full of computer servers and all your backup data, that may be more important to protect than a block of bathrooms which can more be easily remodeled and replaced. You also want to make areas with employee traffic the most fireproof, too. Knowing your essential areas can make this investment easier on your budget.

Anchor Safety Inc. is an expert in fire suppression systems in Longview, TX. If you require guidance finding the right system for your home or business, contact us today.

Categorised in: Fire Suppression Systems

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