“Fires are terrifying, expensive and, for many businesses, fatal,” says Richard Green, President, Paul Davis Ottawa, Ontario. “There’s a long list of reasons why companies can’t recover: customers find new sources before repairs finish, suppliers find other outlets, talented personnel leave, communities form new habits. But the precipitating factor is the same: a blaze put the business in freefall.”
Though it specializes in mitigation and restoration after disasters like fires, Paul Davis Restoration focuses heavily on prevention. “Avoiding the fire is by far your best move to keep your business healthy,” Green remarks. “If your company falls into one of three specific categories, be sure you know the facts and what to look for.”
Is your business one of three types most at risk for fire?
Business Type: Manufacturing
Number of fires yearly: 600-700
Top Sources: Heating, tools and equipment
Additional fire risks: Lack of dust control, no standard operating procedures for hot work, improper flammables storage, insufficient electrical capacity, clutter and rubbish, failure to train employees in fire prevention and failure to follow applicable fire codes.
Business Type: Commercial cooking/restaurants
Top Sources: Cooking equipment and cooking materials
Additional fire risks: Grease buildup in hoods, vents and exhaust systems; short circuits/insufficient electrical capacity; staff lacks training and standard operating procedures; fire extinguishers are not present or properly maintained; and failure to follow applicable fire codes.
Business type: Warehousing
Number of fires yearly: 900-1000
Top Sources: Electrical and lighting
Additional fire risks: Densely packed contents; fires smolder unseen due to impaired visibility and few personnel; rubbish and refuse accumulation; lack of climate control; and intricate layouts impair firefighting.
“We’re here to assist, whether we help you evaluate risks, choose a restoration partner in case of fire, or recover after a blaze,” Green concludes. “We are a phone call away.”