Fire Safety Archives - Titan Alarm

Essential Fire Safety Tips for Tucson Homeowners

Posted on April 4, 2025April 10, 2025 by Saad Javaid

As a homeowner in Tucson, Arizona, fire safety might not always be something on your mind… until that annoying chirp from your smoke detector wakes you up at 2am because of a low battery… If you’ve ever been woken up by that before, you know exactly what I’m talking about!

Your desperate search in the dark for a ladder and a new battery with your tired eyes causes your frustration to boil over. Sound familiar? That happened to me once, and I didn’t have a new battery on hand. I had to drive to my local convenience store (luckily they were open) and purchase a new one. It’s moments like these that remind us how easy it is to forget the importance of fire safety. It’s something we should be thinking about regularly!

The unfortunate truth is, fires can start at any moment. It’s usually when we least expect it. They can cause an immense amount of damage all in just a short time. Fires can come from natural causes like wildfires in the area, kitchen accidents while you’re cooking, or even electrical malfunctions causing a spark.

Tucson homeowners need to prepare for unexpected fires. Fire safety isn’t something you deal with after a fire happens, it needs to be part of a routine and something you actually invest time into, for the sake of your family and home’s protection.

The first step to getting started is making sure you have a reliable fire safety system for your home. In Tucson, with it being a desert and having unique home styles, it’s especially important to follow this first step and have a fire system that is up-to-date and functional. If you’re reading this and realizing you haven’t checked your system in a while, it might be time for you to upgrade your system.

Technology changes and advances at a fast rate, and in 2025, we have the best fire safety products the world has ever seen. If you’re dealing with older technology or just want better peace of mind knowing you have the best protection, you can have a solid fire system installed. Having a good system does things like alerting you to potential dangers before they become actual emergencies. A system like this could save your home and, even more importantly, the ones you love.

Be Proactive, not Reactive

After you have your high-functioning and up-to-date system in place and ready to go, the next step is to make fire safety a habit. Making fire safety a habit instead of something that’s often forgotten can prevent a lot of disasters! The more you remember to add fire safety to your routine, the more prepared you’ll be in the case of an emergency. Fire prevention and preparedness don’t end once you have your fire system installed. It’s about being proactive and teaching the people in your home to also be proactive and prepared.

Here are some essential fire safety tips that Tucson homeowners should follow to help keep their homes safe:

1. Keep Fire Extinguishers in Places You Might Need Them

It’s easy to forget about fire extinguishers. I’ve been guilty of opening my kitchen cabinet and seeing a discharged extinguisher sitting there. Don’t be like me! Remember, fire extinguishers are a great tool to have in case of a small fire that you can fight. They should be placed in areas where a fire is most likely to start. Some of these areas for example could be the kitchen, the garage, and near any other appliances that produce heat. Make sure that everyone in your household knows where the extinguishers are located and how to use them in the case of a fire.

It’s also important to check the pressure on your fire extinguishers regularly. This helps to make sure they’re charged and ready to go. If they’re not charged, swap them out with new ones. A fire extinguisher is relatively affordable and something that could end up saving your home in the event of an emergency.

2. Test Your Alarms Monthly To Make Sure They’re Working (Even If It Annoys Your Pets)

One simple and effective thing you can do to protect your home is to test your smoke alarms every single month. Luckily, if they’re low on batteries, they’ll typically let you know (as we discussed previously)… You can’t always rely on your smoke detector to let you know when it needs attention. Instead, be proactive and schedule a time every single month to check them yourself. It’s a quick task that could end up saving lives. Even though it might drive your pets (or kids) crazy, remembering and taking the time to press that test button will help ensure your smoke detectors are functioning properly.

Even if you’re not hearing that annoying chirp telling you the batteries have gone bad, you should still make sure to change the batteries at least once a year. This will help avoid the annoying chirp from waking you up in the middle of the night, or way more importantly, make sure they’re still working in the case of an emergency.

On a side note, some smoke detectors also come with a 10-year battery installed already. If you’ve had yours for a while, be sure to check it to see if it’s time to be replaced.

3. Create a Family Fire Escape Plan

Having a fire escape plan is undoubtedly one of the most important ways to prepare your loved ones in the case of a fire emergency. It’s one thing to have alarms in place, and to be checking your smoke detectors, but what happens if they’re all going off and your little ones don’t know what to do? If they’re not familiar with what to do in the event of a fire, all of the previous steps would be useless. Have a family meeting and plan out a safe escape route for each room in your home. Help your family members identify exits, and make sure everyone knows where to go and what to do.

Make sure the plan includes a specific meeting spot outside, away from the home, so everyone knows where to wait for the other family members. A great idea would be to practice. They do fire drills at schools and other official buildings all the time. We should be drilling this every once in a while in our own homes as well. By doing so, the plan will become second nature to everyone, including young children. The more practices, the better prepared everyone will be.

4. Upgrade to a Home Fire Alarm System with 24/7 Monitoring

If you’re looking for the ultimate peace of mind, upgrading to a Tucson Home Fire Alarm System with 24/7 monitoring is the way to go. This type of system doesn’t just notify you when there’s a fire, but it also notifies emergency responders immediately, whether you’re at home or not. During an emergency, every single second counts. If you’re trying to escape your home from a fire, you’re probably making sure your family members are safe, not immediately dialing 911. Let your system do that for you. Those seconds could be the difference between a home still standing and a complete disaster.

5. Stay Informed About Local Fire Hazards

Living in Tucson, Arizona means you have to stay aware of local fire hazards, especially during specific times of the year. Tucson being a desert means it’s prone to wildfires, and even if your home is deep in a residential area, the smoke and air quality can still impact you.

Tucson’s heat can sometimes cause fires caused by electrical equipment, vehicles, or other outdoor activities. Make sure your home’s electrical system is up to code, and regularly check the condition of your outdoor gear, like grills or fire pits.

Conclusion

By following all of the safety tips outlined above, Tucson homeowners can be proactive and prepared for fire emergencies. From maintaining fire extinguishers to installing fire alarm systems with 24/7 monitoring, each small step you take now can be a big factor in keeping your home, loved ones, and peace of mind protected for years and years. Remember, fire safety isn’t about reacting to emergencies when they happen – it’s about making sure you’re prepared in advance.

Fire Alarm Maintenance Can Cut Insurance Costs

Posted on October 10, 2024April 7, 2025 by Taylor

As a business owner, you know how important it is to protect your assets and minimize expenses. One critical yet often overlooked aspect of risk management is fire alarm maintenance, which helps you keep occupants safe, comply with safety regulations, lower the risk of fire-related damage and save you on insurance premiums. When you opt for routine fire alarm maintenance, you keep your system functioning to protect your property from damage — making your business an attractive candidate for lower rates.

Read on to explore how routine fire alarm maintenance can improve your safety and cut insurance costs, and steps for implementing an effective fire alarm maintenance program.

The Connection Between Fire Alarm Maintenance and Insurance Costs

For commercial property owners, the importance of fire alarm systems and maintenance extends beyond their immediate role in fire detection and safety. These systems also influence insurance premium costs. As insurance companies assess risks associated with insuring your property, having a well-functioning fire alarm system can play a pivotal role in lowering your insurance costs.

Insurance Premium Reduction

The relationship between fire alarm systems and insurance premiums is grounded in risk mitigation. Insurance companies strive to minimize risk and, in turn, view fire alarm systems as essential in preventing or reducing the severity of fires. Consequently, they typically deem properties with effective firm alarms low risk, reflecting lower insurance premiums.

For example, say you’re a retail shop owner who regularly maintains your fire alarm system, experiencing fewer false alarms and actual fire incidents. The proactive approach leads to a clean claims history over three years, prompting your insurer to reduce premiums by 25% during the policy renewal process. By investing in proactive fire alarm maintenance plans, you save money in the long run to reinvest in your business.

Is a Smoke Detector a Fire Alarm for Insurance Purposes?

While smoke detectors play a crucial role in fire safety, they are not considered equivalent to fire alarms for insurance purposes. Commercial smoke alarms are designed to detect smoke and signal an alarm when smoke is present but often cannot immediately notify emergency services.

In contrast, fire alarm systems are more comprehensive, featuring smoke detectors, heat sensors, manual pull stations and notification devices. Many are connected to a monitoring service to notify emergency responders. Insurers typically offer lower premiums or special discounts and incentives for properties equipped with robust fire alarm systems than those with only smoke detectors.

Importance of Fire Alarm Maintenance

Fire alarm maintenance can help protect your property and assets, comply with safety regulations and prevent costly penalties. The following are the benefits of maintaining your fire alarm system and steps you can follow to meet regulations.

Fire Safety and Prevention

Well-functioning commercial fire alarm systems play a key role in preventing fire damage by detecting smoke, heat or flames and sending out alerts before the fire spreads. These systems include smoke and heat sensors, which can detect the first signs of a fire and help occupants evacuate the building in time. Many systems also integrate with sprinkler systems to control flames and notify emergency services.

However, the fire protection granted to your business is only as good as your fire alarm system, so you must keep it functioning and in good condition. Over time, dust, dirt and other debris can build up inside your fire alarm detector’s sensing elements, causing it to malfunction. The system may not be sensitive enough to send out prompt warnings during a fire. Fire alarm maintenance companies can maintain and test your system to ensure its reliability in fire safety and prevention.

Compliance With Safety Regulations

Your business can avoid citations and fines by complying with local and national safety regulations and implementing a fire alarm maintenance program. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates that all businesses do the following to make sure fire alarm systems perform as expected:

Operate and maintain your system in working condition and ensure it is always on.
Test and adjust fire detectors and alarm systems to ensure they work correctly and reliably.
Replace or clean and recalibrate unreliable detectors or detectors with reduced sensitivity.
Properly clean dust, dirt or other particulates at regular intervals.
Have a qualified person service, maintain and test all fire alarm systems.

Scheduling professional fire alarm maintenance services makes adhering to these local and national standards and avoiding costly penalties easier. Qualified technicians can inspect your system, perform routine maintenance and prevent minor issues from becoming hazardous.

How to Implement Effective Fire Alarm Maintenance Plans

For business owners, investing in a comprehensive fire alarm maintenance plan can lead to substantial savings on insurance costs, prevent costly damage or penalties and reduce the risk of injuries or lawsuits in the event of a fire. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends annual fire alarm inspections, testing and maintenance to ensure your system works properly:

System inspections: Fire alarm service companies like Titan Alarm & Fire will come to your business and follow a comprehensive inspection checklist as outlined by OSHA and other regulatory bodies. During these inspections, they’ll identify and address common issues to ensure your fire alarm system functions correctly.
Preventative maintenance plans: A professional, structured fire alarm maintenance plan is crucial in complying with safety regulations and keeping your occupants and assets safe. Only qualified technicians, especially those with specific training and certification in fire alarm systems, should install, test and maintain commercial fire alarm systems.
Audits: A fire alarm system audit systematically assesses your building’s fire alarm system. The evaluation can determine its compliance with fire safety regulations and standards, the system’s effectiveness and recommended improvements.

Selecting a reliable service provider is essential in getting quality fire alarm services. Titan Alarm & Fire will inspect your fire alarm system and its components, perform maintenance and ensure it’s up and running to protect your business and maximize cost savings.

Partner With Titan Alarm & Fire for Expert Fire Alarm Support and Maintenance

Ensure your fire alarm system is correctly functioning to protect your business, cut insurance costs and give you peace of mind. Titan Alarm & Fire emerged in the commercial fire and security market in 2010, safeguarding homes and businesses with reliable services and quality safety products. Our experts perform fire alarm maintenance services, including inspections, testing and troubleshooting to detect and correct potential system issues before they become expensive — and potentially life-threatening — problems.

We take pride in being a family-owned business that is 100% local to Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you. Contact us today for expert fire alarm support and services.

How Often Do Schools Need to Check Fire Alarms?

Posted on October 10, 2024March 28, 2025 by Taylor

Whether you’re a small private academy, charter school or large public university, a fire can cause extensive damage — and lead to death. As an educational institution, you are responsible for more than just academics. You are also responsible for the health and safety of all your students and staff.

Because a fire can happen anywhere and at any time, it’s crucial to have a fire plan in place to protect everyone at your school. With proper training and the right fire alarm and sprinkler systems, you can experience peace of mind knowing you can minimize fire threats and be alerted if a fire starts on the property.

Understanding Fire Alarm Regulations in Schools

When it comes to fire alarms for schools, there are certain regulations you need to make sure you’re following to keep students and faculty safe and in compliance.

Overview of School Fire Safety Protocols

A fire can break out in the school cafeteria from a cooking accident or in the science lab from an experiment gone wrong. No matter how or where the fire originates, though, it’s important to adhere to fire safety policies. Even a small spark or flame can quickly become a real threat to the entire school.

Having fire safety policies in place will keep the entire school on the same page. Everyone will know what’s expected when it comes to minimizing cooking hazards to knowing how hazardous materials should be labeled, handled and stored.

Code Requirements and Compliance

While installing fire sprinkler systems or adding fire extinguishers throughout the campus is a great first step, schools need to make sure they are following both local and national fire safety codes. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards outline the different system requirements and inspections that your school will need to follow.

Depending on where the school is located, local fire codes will also need to be considered. Different school levels have their own safety compliance regulations, so staying up-to-date on any changes is crucial.

Inspection Frequency and Maintenance Strategies

Regularly inspecting and scheduling fire alarm maintenance services ensures your system stays fully functional year-round. To keep everything safe and secure, you can incorporate several best practices and strategies into your maintenance plan.

How Often Should Fire Alarms Be Checked?

Once your fire alarm system is installed, you don’t just want to leave it alone. Even if you have a high-quality, reliable system, it’s a good idea to perform monthly checks to make sure there are no visible issues or damage.

As part of your fire alarm maintenance plan, you should also schedule annual professional inspections. During these inspections, a professional will look for potential issues and make any necessary repairs.

Scheduled Inspections and Record Keeping

Once a professional has looked at various components — from the smoke detectors to the alarms to the sprinklers — to make sure everything is in good working order, they’ll make note of everything they’ve inspected. They’ll keep track of all the components that have been tested and any repair work that they completed while they were out.

Maintaining fire alarm inspection records is an important part of staying on top of potential issues and keeping your system operating at peak performance throughout the year.

Equipment and Preventive Maintenance

Depending on your fire safety needs and goals, there are several different types of equipment you can use to keep your school safe, including:

Fire alarms: With fire alarm systems designed especially for commercial properties, you can feel confident knowing your entire school will be monitored. Whether you opt for a traditional system or a wireless system, you can take advantage of benefits like 24/7 monitoring to keep the entire property protected while class is in session and out.
Fire extinguishers: Having fire extinguishers in convenient locations throughout your school ensures you have a way to quickly stop a fire and keep it from spreading. Because different types of fires require different classes of fire extinguishers, ensure you have the right ones in areas like the kitchens, science labs and electrical rooms.
Sprinkler systems: Especially in large buildings like schools, a sprinkler system can quickly spring into action and help keep a fire under control until the fire department arrives. Sprinkler systems are designed with sensors that detect fires, which then start the flow of water to stop the fire.

No matter what type of fire equipment you install, it’s crucial to keep up with preventive maintenance. Having a fire maintenance plan ensures it operates reliably throughout the year. Your system should be inspected, cleaned and tested by a professional to ensure everything is working as it should. These routine maintenance tasks also help extend the life span of your system, protecting your investment for many years to come.

Alarm Testing Protocols and Emergency Preparedness

Even with the best system in place, you should ensure that you have alarm testing protocols and an emergency preparedness plan.

Fire Safety Check and Inspection Procedures

Depending on the type of alarm you have installed in your school, the inspection process could look different. The main focus of the inspection will be on making sure everything is in good working order and in compliance with the NFPA standards.

There are different testing protocols for various types of alarms, which is why it’s important to work with a professional company that can review all the components and systems. A fire system inspection company will likely conduct a thorough inspection of all of the different parts, including:

Disconnect switches
Power supply
Control unit
Fuses

Preparing for Emergencies

Especially in a school setting, you need to develop and practice evacuation plans. In the event a fire breaks out, the large number of students and faculty attempting to flee the building at once can quickly become chaotic. Having a clear plan ahead of time helps ensure that everyone is able to leave the building in a more orderly fashion, keeping as many people as possible safe.

Having regular fire safety training for school staff will help evacuations run more smoothly because there will be set individuals overseeing the process. You’ll increase the chances of saving lives when you have a set plan in place for emergency situations.

Partner With an Industry-Leading Fire Service Company in Arizona

The safety of students at schools is just as important as the quality of the education and extracurricular activities. Regularly inspecting your fire alarms ensures students and faculty stay protected throughout the school year and can thrive academically in a safe environment.

Partnering with an industry-leading fire service company like Titan Alarm & Fire allows you to experience peace of mind knowing your school is protected with an advanced fire alarm system. As a locally owned and operated full-service business, we are committed to learning more about your needs and developing a customized system that works best for you and your community.

With our free consultations, it’s never been easier to learn more about our fully automated systems. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get started.

The Importance of Fire Inspections for Commercial Buildings

Posted on March 13, 2024June 4, 2025 by Taylor

Did you know that more than 100,000 fires occurred in nonresidential buildings in 2021? The ability to detect and address different signs of a fire can save lives and property — but your fire alarm system can only keep your building and its occupants safe when it works.

By conducting routine fire alarm inspections and taking other key measures, you can identify fire system hazards and maintain the integrity of your building’s system.

Why Fire Safety in Commercial Buildings Matters?

No matter your business’s industry, creating a safe atmosphere for tenants, customers and employees is crucial. It’s your responsibility to put effective measures in place to protect anyone who visits your property. A comprehensive fire alarm system can play a major role in keeping patrons and staff safe, alerting them to fire hazards and assisting in mitigating fires until the authorities arrive.

These alarm systems feature various basic components that work together to detect and address fires. For example, smoke detectors and heat sensors can pickup on common fire signs, and indicating elements like bells and strobe lights warn individuals in the vicinity about said signs. This way, they can take prompt action to mitigate the fire when safe to do so or evacuate and contact local fire services.

What happens when commercial building owners don’t test and maintain their fire alarm systems? Everyone who spends time in the building is at risk of experiencing the effects of a fire. At the same time, building owners can face costly legal issues. As a result, commercial fire inspections are a necessary part of operating a business.

The Most Common Fire Alarm System Issues Detected During Inspections

A fire alarm system can be complicated and intricate, especially in larger buildings with unique layouts. Fortunately, knowing common fire alarm system issues can help you locate them faster, allowing you to make the correct fixes the first time. Through regular fire inspections, commercial building owners can detect various system issues:

Corrosion: Depending on the building, fire alarm systems may become exposed to moisture and water, leading to corrosion and rust. These issues can cause crucial components to fail, which is a major concern in an emergency. When conducting an inspection, check for corroded or rusted parts so you can replace them.
Dust: Though dust may not seem like it can cause much damage, dust buildup can particularly affect detection systems, causing the system to falsely trigger or fail to trigger at all. Be sure your system is clean of all debris to ensure it works properly.
Wear: Over time, fire alarm systems will wear down with use and environmental exposure. During inspections, you should take note of visual signs of damage and test essential parts, replacing components that have worn down too much.
Aging: If your building is several decades old, the fire alarm system may not have experienced updates in some time. An outdated system might not be up to code or feature the latest safety technology. Consider updating your fire system to ensure compliance and protection. Typically, business owners should replace systems when they’re more than 15 years old.

Conducting visual inspections yourself can help you address small issues, but you should always have a professional complete a thorough fire alarm inspection for the best results.

Legal Implications of Neglecting Fire Alarm Inspections for Commercial Properties

As mentioned, commercial fire alarm systems must comply with specific fire safety regulations. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides extensive guidelines, particularly the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, that commercial buildings must follow when installing and maintaining fire alarm systems. Ensuring your system meets NFPA 72 fire safety standards and your local fire code keeps you compliant and safe.

Keep in mind that inspections play a major role in maintaining compliance. When you work with an inspection team to review the system and make the necessary updates, you can avoid potential legal issues that may come with falling out of compliance, such as fines. These professionals can help you understand your legal fire safety obligations, which can vary based on your building’s location.

How to Build a Comprehensive Fire Alarm Maintenance Plan

Keeping on top of your fire system is much easier when you have a dedicated plan in place. A crucial part of your safety plan is maintenance — understanding fire alarm system maintenance and when to take certain measures can be the difference between an operational system and one that poses risks. Specifically, preventive maintenance is crucial.

With regular annual inspections, you take consistent measures to repair and improve your system, helping ensure you avoid significant malfunctions down the line. For example, regularly testing your alarms can help you locate issues with noise levels or visual cues, and you can fix them to make sure they’re loud and bright enough to properly alert occupants. In comparison, reactive maintenance can be highly costly — waiting for a part to break before you fix it defeats the purpose of your emergency system.

Depending on your system’s features, you might incorporate the following steps into your safety plan:

Conduct a quick daily system review.
Test one detection point weekly on an alternating basis.
Check that fire doors open and shut correctly weekly.
Take a few minutes weekly to ensure alarms sound properly.
Fix any leaks in the sprinkler system and take measures to prevent pipes from freezing in cold weather.
Check system batteries monthly and replace them accordingly.
Verify fire extinguisher expiration dates every quarter.
Schedule thorough professional fire system inspections yearly.

Having the right team on your side can make a notable difference in the creation and execution of your safety plan. If you aren’t sure where to begin, consult professionals to build the best plan for your specific business. This way, you can pay attention to the right parts of your system at the right intervals, allowing your business to intercept issues with ease.

Titan Alarm & Fire Is Your Partner in Fire Safety in Arizona

Contact Titan Alarm for commercial fire inspections

Titan Alarm & Fire can meet your commercial fire safety needs. Whether you’re interested in routine fire inspections or would like us to help you design, install and maintain your system all the way through, our skilled team is ready to help. Understanding fire alarm systems at a basic level can also help you look after yours better, and we’re happy to help answer your questions about how your equipment might work.

With our group of commercial building fire safety experts on your side, you can ensure compliance and create a safe environment. Explore our array of comprehensive fire and smoke protection services to learn more. Schedule a consultation today to get started making your commercial building safer!

Prevent False Alarms at Home

Posted on January 14, 2020June 4, 2025 by Taylor

Despite advanced technology, false alarms do happen occasionally. This can be a result of faulty equipment, dead batteries, improper installation, user error, or any number of other issues. There can be fines of up to $200 associated with repeated false alarms, but proper system use and maintenance can help you avoid those hefty expenses.

Here are some tips to reduce chances of false alarms:

Arm and disarm the system properly

It’s important to arm and disarm your system properly, as improper use of the system is one of the main reasons there are false alarms to begin with. Disarming and arming systems accounted for 38 percent of all false alarms. Keep track of everyone who has the code. If you aren’t convinced you’ll remember the code, try to choose a system that comes with remote key fobs that will arm or disarm the system instead. Still, even fob holders will need to know the code as a backup in case the key fob batteries fail you.

Choose the right equipment

It’s a good idea to choose cameras that come with smart features, such as motion detection and people detection. Having those types of detectors ensures the camera won’t send you an alert because your pet was strolling across the room or a car was driving by on the street.

Keep the area around motion sensor clear

Objects like balls rolling past sensors can set the alarm off. Balloons are notorious for causing false alarms when they float by. Keep the area free of clutter and tie down anything that could be blown around by the air conditioner.

Keep batteries fresh

Change the batteries in your home security equipment regularly. Low batteries can lead to false alarms. Typically, the equipment will notify you that the batteries are running low, but it’s not a bad idea to consult with your monitoring company to see if it recommends regular battery tests.

Keep devices well-maintained & up-to-date

It’s as important to choose the right devices as it is to maintain them. If you aren’t making sure your safety gadgets work, you won’t know when they aren’t working, either.

Educate houseguests

If you have people over, let them know how the alarm system works. You’d be surprised at how easy it is for a friend or family member to accidentally trigger the alarm, and if you aren’t readily available to tell the monitoring company that it isn’t a real emergency, you’ll end up with emergency personnel at your door.

Learn More About Home Security

Why Are Annual Fire Inspections Important

Posted on December 16, 2019June 12, 2025 by Taylor

When you think about annual fire inspections, it might simply be something you view as an annual requirement by the local fire marshal. However, annual fire inspections serve an important function for your business that goes beyond checking another item off of your to-do list.

Although it might not be something you think much about, fire inspections are critical to the health and safety of your team and your customers.

Why Fire Inspections Are Important

When an institution or organization’s building catches fire, it often results in injury, damage to the building and lost trust from clientele. Putting in place a fire preparedness and prevention program can be key in helping save a life, minimize injury and damages in case of a fire. One of the key aspects of fire prevention and preparedness are fire inspections which are unfortunately given a back seat in many organizations. Irrespective of the staffing confirmation in your organization, the importance of ensuring fire inspections are conducted cannot be emphasized enough.

Benefits of Regular Fire Inspections

1. Fire inspections help identify any potential problems that fire hazards. This way they can be corrected and people can be educated on how to identify them as well as how to respond. Sometimes property owners get lax about maintenance but regular fire inspections help ensure that the owners ensure that the building stays compliant.

2. Fire inspection Columbus GA is required by local ordinances and state statues. So ensuring fire inspections are done is important in keeping with the law and observing statutory requirements. Most states also require that fire departments conduct training and public education on fire safety and prevention.

3. Fire inspections also help in gathering and putting together building data which is key for putting together an education plan as well as aiding in pre-planning in the case of an emergency. Pre- planning informs fire department crew on the various elements of the building such as sprinkler systems and connections thus helping them be more equipped to put off a fire should it occur.

4. Fire inspections also help in establishing noble public relations. When fire departments carry out inspections to homes, properties, and other institutions, they show the community that they care about their wellbeing. This helps create rapport and when the time comes to carry out training on fire safety, the community will give the much-needed support. The inspections also give firefighters an opportunity to have one on one interactions with people and share information on fire safety as well respond to any concerns they might have.

Make Regular Fire Inspections a Priority

Don’t let annual fire inspections sit on the back burner. Staying on top of this important task is critical for keeping your building, team, and customers safe.

Fire Alarm System

Aside from regular inspections, one of the best ways to prevent fire hazards in your workplace is to install a fire alarm system. Alarm systems are primarily designed to warn occupants of a fire so they can safely evacuate the premises. Correctly maintained and operating alarm systems are effective and proven life saving devices.

Contact Titan Alarm for your fire alarm system needs. Titan Alarm is a full-service security system provider offering a complete range of services to protect your home or business in the event of a fire emergency. We utilize the latest technology to take your fire security to the next level with detection and monitoring systems, advanced fire alarms, IP/cellular communications, preventative maintenance, and a variety of other services.

How to Prevent Christmas Tree and Holiday Decoration Fires

Posted on November 29, 2019June 4, 2025 by Taylor

It’s the time of the year again. We love to have holiday lights, candles burning bright and the warm glow around the house. It’s that special time of the year when our homes are bursting with the holiday spirit.

What’s not so lovely is when Christmas glee is turned into horror as the tree bursts into flames or christmas decors catch fire. Christmas trees and other decorations are an annual tradition for many, but misuse and neglect can lead to tragedy.

Fire departments across the country respond to hundreds of fires during the holiday season each year. One in every 31 Christmas tree fires is deadly, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The association says electrical failures and malfunctions caused 30 percent of Christmas tree fires.

What can we do to prevent the creation of a fire hazard? Here are a few tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Choose a tree with fresh, green needles.
Place it at least 3 feet away from a heat source.
Position it so it’s not blocking any exits.
Water fresh trees DAILY to prevent them from drying out.
Turn any lights off at bedtime or before leaving your home.

When using artificial trees, be sure they are flame-resistant and watch out for electric lights on metal versions. Electrocution can occur if the metal on the tree becomes charged.

Christmas trees aren’t the only item you’ll need to be careful with. Holiday décor can create unseen problems, too. Make sure to decorate with fire-safe ornaments and lights. Don’t crowd your outlets with too many plugs or use more than one extension cord for your outlet. Keep light strands to a max of three per cord to avoid a burnout.

Check your lights. Faulty lights can cause a fire, especially the ones around your tree, which is why It’s essential to check the lights you used to decorate your house.

Another thing you’ll need to be mindful of is candles. D.C. Police said two out of every five home decoration fires are started by candles. The four most common days for candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, police said.

With these little extra precautions, you can have a joyful and worry-free holiday.

How to Prevent Fire at Home

Posted on November 16, 2019June 12, 2025 by Taylor

Losing your home to a fire can be a scary thought, but there are a lot of preventive measures you can do to prevent home fire or fire accidents.

Most people know the basics of fire safety at home such as not leaving burning candles or cooking unattended, and keeping a fire extinguisher on hand. But there are more things you can do to prevent home fire or home accidents. Here are some of important home fire safety tips.

1. Check electrical cords throughout the house

Faulty wiring and outlets are some of the top causes of house fires. Check the electrical cords throughout your home for signs of fraying, and replace all frayed wires.

Be aware of the capacity of your home’s electrical system. Do not overload your circuits. If you have questions about your home’s electrical system, you may want to consult a licensed electrician.

2. Check Dryer

If you have a gas-powered clothes dryer, have it inspected once a year to make sure all connections are secure. No matter what type of dryer you have, always clean out the lint filter after a load is finished. Regularly check behind and around the dryer for pockets of lint or items of laundry that have fallen under or behind. Use a shop vacuum or hire a professional to thoroughly remove all lint and debris from the lint trap area and all external dryer vents at least once a year.

3. Inspect Heating Sources

Regardless of what kind of primary heating you have in your home, an annual inspection will reduce your risk of fire.

Change furnace filters regularly to avoid a buildup of dust and lint that can easily catch fire. If you use space heaters, carefully inspect them before and after each use, and place them at least three feet away from anything combustible, such as fabric or paper. Check water heaters as well, especially those that run off gas and have a pilot light. Make sure nothing is close to the heating element.

4. Keep Firewood, Piles of Leaves and Garbage away from the Home

If a grass fire starts nearby, these items next to your home could easily become kindling. Never dump hot ashes inside or near your home; keep them in a metal container well away from your house and garage.

5. Know your Shutoffs

Know the locations of your power shutoffs for all utilities, including gas lines, circuit breakers, appliances, and fuses. Post clear shutoff directions next to each one. Keep a non-sparking tool handy for turning off gas.

6. Install Fire Alarm System

Many people do not have fire alarm systems installed in their homes. Many assume that they are able to smell smoke when they are asleep and wake up in time to escape in case of a fire emergency. Well, this is not true at all. Studies have been conducted and it has been proven that people’s sleep are disrupted when there is sound or noise, but it is NOT the case with smell. Our sense of smell is lost when we are asleep, and we will not wake up no matter how strong the smell of smoke is.

The only thing that can alert you and your family 24/7 from a fire is the sound of a well installed and maintained fire alarm system. Fire alarms are important because they can give you an early signal to something that could be tragic – basically saving your lives.

Titan Alarm is a full-service security system provider offering a complete range of services to protect your home in the event of a fire emergency. They utilize the latest technology to take your home fire security to the next level with detection and monitoring systems, advanced fire alarms, IP/cellular communications, preventative maintenance, and a variety of other services.

Data Center Fire Prevention Tips

Posted on August 16, 2018 by Taylor

A computer room, or data center, serves as the “nerve center” for many businesses these days. A fire in this area of your facility could destroy your expensive computer equipment — as well as the vital data it processes and stores. The resulting downtime and the loss of mission-critical information could have devastating consequences for your operation.

The following prevention tips can minimize your risk of a data center fire:

Manage the paper clutter: Don’t make your computer room a repository for stacks of paper documents or other combustible materials. If you print a lot of documents, keep the paper flow moving through and out of the room instead of creating large piles.
Inspect power cords: If yours is like most data centers, it’s full of power cords that connect all your computer equipment. Check the condition of the cords periodically and replace those that are worn or frayed.
Implement good housekeeping practices: Dust can accumulate on and around your computer equipment, which poses a significant fire hazard. Make sure your office cleaning protocols include regular cleaning and dust removal for your computers, servers, printers, copiers, etc.
Institute a fire response plan: Be certain the room has at least one fire extinguisher and provide training for your employees on how to use it. Integrate an escape route from the room into your facility’s fire evacuation plan.
Install a fire protection system: While you may have a sprinkler system in other areas of your building, water-based fire sprinklers are not a wise choice for a data center — water can damage your sensitive electronic equipment. A clean agent fire suppression system is a better option for a computer room environment.
Schedule regular fire inspections: A timely inspection of your company’s fire prevention systems will verify that your building is fully protected against the possibility of a fire. It will also ensure compliance with local fire codes — and give you peace of mind.

Contact Titan Alarm for All Your Business Fire Protection Needs

As a full-service fire protection solutions provider in Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson, AZ, you can count on Titan Alarm, Inc. for the best commercial fire prevention systems in the region, as well as comprehensive inspection/testing services. Contact us to learn more today.

Learn More About Fire Sprinkler Systems

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

Common “Unknown” Home Fire Safety Pitfalls

Posted on August 14, 2018June 5, 2025 by Taylor

The safety of your family is a top priority. But when it comes to fire prevention, you might not be doing everything possible to prevent a potentially devastating blaze from occurring. Here are a few of the more common, but frequently overlooked home fire safety pitfalls you might not be aware of:

Allowing Clutter near the Stove:

Approximately 40 percent of home fires start in the kitchen, with unattended cooking being the biggest culprit. However, excessive clutter is another “hidden” cause of kitchen fires. For example, some folks inadvertently place paper items such as recipe cards or paper towels too close to the stove. As a rule of thumb, keep any combustible products at least three feet away from the stovetop.

Cleaning the Clothes Dryer Improperly:

Most of know that a buildup of lint in the clothes dryer poses a significant fire danger. While many homeowners clean the dryer’s lint trap after each use, they may neglect to remove lint from inside or behind the unit. Lint that accumulates near the dryer’s heating element can ignite and cause a fire.
Letting Sawdust Buildup:

If you have a home workshop in your basement, the sawdust produced when cutting wood can accumulate on surfaces and potentially ignite — even a thin layer that is difficult to see can catch fire. A standard household vacuum cleaner is not intended to handle sawdust; use a model that’s designed to pick up combustible dust when cleaning these work areas.
Leaving Electrical Outlets Loose:

Electrical outlets can loosen over time, especially if you plug and unplug items frequently. This can cause the blades inside the outlet to generate excessive heat that could cause a fire. If you have difficulty attaining a tight connection when plugging into an outlet, it’s time to consider replacing it.

Keeping Outdated Appliances:

That ancient coffeemaker, blender or space heater may still function properly, but it might not comply with updated fire safety codes. It may also contain frayed wires that pose a fire hazard.

If you live in or around Phoenix or Tucson, AZ, Titan Alarm can conduct a comprehensive safety inspection to help you uncover and address these and other hidden fire safety hazards. Contact us to learn more today.