Most fires during the holiday season that can be prevented by taking simple steps.
The National Fire Protection Association states that there is an increase in commercial fires from November to January due to holiday decorations and heating. One fire can cost your business and get you fined by the city for code violations.
| Hazards | What They Can Cause | How to Prevent |
| Holiday Decorations | High chance of fire | Flame-retardant materials |
| Holiday Lights | Overloaded outlets | Make sure outlets are up to code |
| Space Heaters | Can overheat | Keep 3 feet from combustible materials |
| Blocked Exits | Can block tenants from leaving | Make sure exits are clear |
What are Some Holiday Fire Hazards to Watch For?
There are many hazards that come with decorating your commercial property for the holidays. When you add extra lights, decorations and space heaters to your building, you are increasing your chance of a fire.
Decorations and Combustible Material
Using real trees and other natural decorations around your building can be very dangerous. Once these decorations dry out they become a fire hazard. If you have a tree that catches on fire it can spread to the rest of your office within 30 seconds.
Too Many Lights on One Outlet
Another common fire hazard during the holidays is overloading your outlets with holiday lights. If you have too many lights plugged into one outlet, you can overheat your outlet and cause a fire. Make sure your commercial property fire safety plan includes checking your outlets for any overload.
Space Heaters
When it gets cold outside, many of your tenants will bring in space heaters to keep warm. These heaters can overheat and catch on fire if they are not used properly. Make sure your tenants know to keep their space heaters away from papers, trash cans and curtains.
Why Should You Check Your Holiday Lights?
Always check your holiday lights before putting them up. If your lights have worn out or are not working properly, they can cause a fire. Check all of your lights for any broken sockets or burnt-out bulbs.
Make Sure Your Lights Are Up to Code
Always use lights that are up to code and have been tested. If you are using lights meant for outdoor use, make sure they are rated for outdoor use. Don’t use indoor lights outside because they aren’t made to withstand the elements.
How to Use Christmas Fire Safety Decorations
When decorating your commercial property for the holidays, use safe decorations. Here are some tips to help you keep your property safe while still looking festive.
Use Flame Retardant Materials
Make sure all of your decorations are made from flame-retardant materials. If your tenants bring their own decorations, ask them to make sure they meet your building’s code.
Keep Trees Away from Walkways
Keep your trees and other large decorations away from walkways. Do not block any exit paths with your decorations. Also keep your trees away from fire extinguishers and fire alarms.
How to Keep Your Exits and Fire Equipment Clear
During the holidays, keep your exit ways and fire equipment clear at all times. Many fires occur because blocked exit ways prevent tenants from getting out of the building.
Keep Walkways Clear
Make sure your walkways are clear of any obstacles. Do not put holiday decorations or tables in front of your exit doors. Also keep your stairwells clear of any holiday items.
Clear Your Sprinklers
Make sure your sprinklers are clear of any items that could block the spray pattern. Keep at least 18 inches clear under your sprinklers in office spaces and 36 inches clear in high-stack areas. If you have a tall tree or decoration near your sprinkler, it can prevent the water from spraying correctly.
What are the Rules for Extension Cords and Power Strips?
Use extension cords and power strips only as temporary wiring in your commercial building. Here are some tips to help you use them safely.
Use the Right Extension Cord
Make sure you are using the correct extension cord for the job. Do not run your extension cords under rugs or through ceilings. Also make sure your cords are not pinched or damaged.
Do Not Daisy Chain Power Strips
Never plug one power strip into another. This can cause your outlets to overheat and start a fire. Always plug your power strips directly into an outlet.
How to Keep Candles and Open Flames Out of Your Commercial Property
One of the best ways to keep your commercial property safe during the holidays is to not allow candles or open flames. If you do allow open flames, make sure your tenants are following these guidelines.
No Open Flames
The safest option is to ban open flames in your commercial property. Let your tenants know that candles and open flames are not allowed in their office spaces. You can suggest LED candles as an alternative.
If You Have a Catered Event
If you are hosting an event with open flames, make sure your caterer has a fire permit. Make sure someone watches the flames at all times, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
How to Prevent Fires From Heating Equipment
You can do a lot to prevent fires from heating equipment in your commercial property. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.
Service Your Heating System
Have your heating system serviced before the cold weather hits. Change your filters and make sure your system is running efficiently.
Space Heaters
If you allow your tenants to use space heaters make sure they follow these guidelines. Make sure the space heater has a tip over switch and auto shut off. Keep the space heater 3 feet away from any papers or combustible materials.
Holiday Fire Prevention Checklist
Use this checklist to help you keep your commercial property safe during the holidays.
Daily Checklist
- Check that all exit doors are clear and open properly.
- Make sure your exit signs and backup lights are working.
- Turn off any holiday lights that are not in use.
- Walk your property and look for any hazards.
Weekly Checklist
- Check your fire extinguishers to make sure they are charged.
- Make sure your space heaters are 3 feet away from combustible materials.
- Check your extension cords for any damage.
- Test your strobe lights and fire alarm.
What to Tell Your Tenants About Holiday Fire Safety
Make sure you communicate with your tenants about holiday fire safety. Here are some things you can tell them.
Decoration Rules
Let your tenants know what they can and cannot decorate with. Tell them to use flame-retardant trees and LED lights. Do not allow power strips to be daisy-chained, and no real trees or candles.
Emergency Information
Give your tenants the emergency information for your building. Make sure they know where the exits are and have a refresher on your emergency plan before the holidays.
Work With Goodwin and Co. | Help Keep Your Property Safe
There are many things to consider when it comes to commercial building holiday safety. If you need help with your commercial property management needs, contact Goodwin and Company. We can help you with all of your commercial management needs. From maintenance to keeping your property up to code, we have you covered. Check out our website to learn more about what we can do for you.
FAQ
Why is holiday fire safety for commercial properties important?
Holiday fire safety for commercial properties matters because many hazards can cause a fire. By following these tips, you can keep your tenants safe and help prevent a fire on your property.
Can I allow my tenants to use space heaters?
Many commercial buildings do not allow space heaters. If you do allow them, make sure they meet code and that your tenants follow the guidelines. Keep space heaters 3 feet away from any combustible materials.
How can I keep my commercial building holiday safe?
There are many things you can do to keep your commercial building holiday safe. Make sure your exits are clear, do not allow open flames, and check your holiday lights before putting them up.
