Contingency Corner: Fire Safety
Fire Safety
Why fire risk is different in emerging markets
Older electrical systems, inconsistent code enforcement, and longer emergency response times mean fire preparedness cannot rely on outside services alone. Organizations that build their own first line of defense fare far better than those that wait for help to arrive.
Key prevention steps
- Install smoke detectors in key areas and test them monthly
- Keep a fire extinguisher accessible in every high-risk zone and train staff to use it
- Post at least two evacuation routes from every room or workspace
- Keep exits, stairwells, and extinguishers clear of clutter at all times
- Know your local emergency number and post it visibly
How to prepare your team
- Hold a fire drill at least once a year, ideally twice
- Assign a fire warden for each floor or work area
- Review evacuation routes whenever the office layout changes
- Debrief after every drill to capture what didn’t work
Frequently asked questions
How often should a workplace run a fire drill? At minimum once a year, though twice a year is better for larger or higher-risk facilities, and after any significant change to the physical layout.
What is the most common fire safety gap in emerging market offices? Untested equipment. Extinguishers and smoke detectors are often installed once and never checked again, so they fail exactly when needed.
Interested in strengthening your organization’s security and contingency posture? Contact our team.