One of the most important tasks performed by The Office of The Fire Marshal is to performing onsite life safety inspections. The State of Connecticut Fire Prevention Code states the following:Fire inspections are conducted to help protect the people who live, work, and visit our community. By identifying potential fire and life-safety hazards before an emergency occurs, the Guilford Fire Marshal’s Office helps reduce the risk of fires, injuries, and property loss. During an inspection, our personnel evaluate required safety features such as fire alarms, sprinkler systems, emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and the safe storage and use of hazardous materials. Inspections also provide an opportunity to educate property owners and occupants, answer questions, and work together to ensure buildings comply with applicable fire and life-safety codes.
How to Prepare for an Inspection
If a fire starts, what are the systems you have in place to stop it or slow its pace long enough for the fire department to arrive and for full evacuation? Fire extinguishers should be evenly distributed throughout your building and should be fully operative when tested. Sprinklers or hood systems will be checked as well, if you have either of these installed.
Flammables need to be stored carefully so that they do not quickly spread a fire. Additionally, any object that is under pressure or contains chemicals could potentially explode if overheated – exponentially increasing the damage and danger; these should be kept in a cabinet labeled Hazardous. If your business produces chemical waste, that waste should be taken out of the facility every day rather than compiling. Cleanliness and orderliness are also crucial to increasing fire protection: the fire marshal will check that your location is not dirty or disorganized.
Just as you experience on an airplane, a key component of emergency preparedness is knowing how to get out of an enclosed space in the event of an emergency. You need properly lit EXIT signs above every door of your building – this helps victims of a fire who might be disoriented from smoke inhalation and poor visibility. These should also be clear of obstructions.
Two types of electrical wiring are often associated with fires – so the fire marshal will look for these situations: wires that are either exposed or not insulated. You should not have multiple extension cords connected together – only one running from the outlet to the device it’s powering. Also ensure that all your fuses are designated in writing within the fuse box. It’s not enough to know these by memory. If a fire starts, whoever is present in the building should be able to immediately know which switch to disengage to cut electrical power to the right location.
Outdoor Tents
Commercial entities planning to erect outdoor tents in Guilford should coordinate with the Fire Marshal’s Office early in the planning process to ensure compliance with the Connecticut Fire Safety Code and local requirements. In general, tents exceeding 400 square feet require review and approval, and applicants may be required to submit a site plan showing tent locations, access roads, nearby buildings, fire lanes, exits, seating arrangements, and any cooking or heating equipment. Tent materials must be flame resistant and typically require documentation demonstrating compliance with NFPA 701 standards. Fire extinguishers must be provided as required, emergency exits must remain unobstructed, and adequate separation distances from buildings, property lines, vehicles, and other tents must be maintained. Any use of generators, electrical equipment, propane, or open-flame cooking may require additional permits and inspections. A final inspection by the Fire Marshal may be required before occupancy to ensure the installation is safe for public use.