It has been said that “what you cannot see can sometimes kill you.” But in commercial real estate, it can often be some of those things that you cannot see that save you.
Behind the walls and ceilings contain some very sophisticated safety devices and equipment. A battery operated smoke detector is no longer the construction standard for commercial buildings. And with good reason. As building systems become more and more sophisticated, so does the need for early warning fire suppression systems. Underground parking, multiple floors, multiple tenants, and uses of a commercial property all determine what system is needed.
Early warning systems prevent the loss or injury to life and damage or destruction to property.
“Making it safe for everyone—tenants, owners, and the public— is our number one goal,” says Deputy Chief Rich Sander, a 24-year veteran of the Naperville Fire Department.
Naperville utilizes the National Fire Protection Association and International Fire and Building Code standards which each cover different building safety requirements. Deputy Sander further mentioned that for the public, some of the same basic safety rules apply when visiting a commercial building as in the home.
For one, know your address, which can sometimes get complicated with the prolific use of cell phones.
Always be aware of your environment, paying attention to pull alarms, exits, and possible alternative exits. Think about an evacuation plan, including a meeting place so that everyone in your group can be accounted for during an emergency.
Finally, when you are safe, call 911.
Newer buildings provide the newest technology available to help commercial property owners and users, but a little old-fashioned common sense can go a long way, too.
