Fire safety equipment and accessories: the essentials you need to know
Fire protection relies on a combination of organizational measures andappropriate equipment. These measures are designed to prevent, detect, and respond quickly to fires, while facilitating evacuation.
🧯 1. Detection and warning equipment
- Smoke and heat detectors
Enable early detection of fires and are essential in all premises. - Fire alarm systems (FAS)
Alert occupants to a fire outbreak for rapid evacuation. - Manual triggers (DM)
Red buttons used to manually activate the fire alarm.
🚒 2. Firefighting equipment
- Portable fire extinguishers
Mandatory in all public buildings and businesses. Different types are available: water, CO₂, powder, etc., depending on the fire class (A, B, C, etc.). - Fire hose reels
These can be used by trained personnel and allow for more advanced intervention. - Dry columns / wet columns
Reserved for high-rise buildings, they facilitate firefighting operations. - Automatic sprinkler systems
Automatic water extinguishing system, often used in warehouses and industrial buildings.
🚪 3. Evacuation and protective equipment
- Autonomous emergency lighting units (BAES)
Provide lighting for emergency exits in the event of a power failure. - Fire and evacuation signs
Indicate emergency exits, assembly points, fire extinguisher locations, etc. - Fire doors
Limits the spread of fire and smoke within the building. - Fire blankets
Useful in kitchens or for putting out fires on people.
🧰 4. Additional accessories
- Cabinets for fire extinguishers or fire hose reels
- Sandboxes and buckets for flammable liquids
- Gloves, escape masks, fireproof suits
- Fire-specific first aid kit
✅ Best practices
- All of this equipment must be installed, checked, and maintained regularly by qualified professionals.
- Clear signage and unobstructed locations are essential for rapid use in an emergency.
- Staff must be trained in the use of fire extinguishers and fire safety procedures.
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