Emergency Incident Prevention

The following excerpts are from IREM’s publication, Before Disaster Strikes: Developing an Emergency Procedures Manual, Third Edition (IREM Copyright 2005):

• Post signs by wet floors, open holes, and defects in floors and floor coverings; have barriers available if possible.
• Avoid using extension cords.
• Do not overload electrical outlets.
• Keep all doorways, aisles, hallways, and stairs clear for easy egress.
• Store heavy items on lower shelves.
• Install clips and latches on cabinet doors.
• Secure bolts or fasteners, or both, on ventilator hoods and roof fans.
• Use tempered glass on balcony and shower doors.
• Make sure all stairwells and elevators have emergency lighting in good working order.
• Make sure stairwells include floor identification and that multiple stairwells are clearly identified by reference to a directional base (e.g., northwest vs southeast; front vs rear).
• Install fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, smoke and heat detectors, and automatic sprinklers in accordance with local fire ordinances; carbon monoxide (CO) detectors may be mandated for residential properties.
• Change batteries in battery-operated alarms and detectors on a regular schedule; install and periodically test battery backup for hard-wired alarm systems.
• Conduct fire drills annually or as required by local laws.
• Post evacuation route maps and signs in prominent locations.
• Keep all valves, switches, drains, and sewer plugs clear of sand, dirt, rocks, and debris.
• Regularly inspect housekeeping and storage areas to make sure they are clear of combustible items and hazardous materials.
• Post “no smoking” signs in accordance with local ordinances.
• Enforce “no smoking” ordinances. (Where smoking is allowed—e.g., designated areas in commercial buildings—instruct maintenance staff to never empty ashtrays into wastebaskets; conversely, never dispose of paper in ashtrays.)
• Keep all vehicles fueled and in good repair.
• Report any abandoned cars in the building’s parking lot to the appropriate authorities.
• Maintain a comprehensive profile of all critical utility controls and system activators (e.g., maps showing locations of valves and on/off controls). Keep these areas properly secured.
• Keep an updated “as-built” drawing of the property easily accessible on the premises and in the fire control room if the building is so equipped..
• Make sure that exit signs have a backup power source to ensure visibility when needed. Test the alternative power source periodically.
• Keep emergency exit doors in proper working order.