Fire Sprinklers, Friend or Foe?

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler inspections should be done regularly to ensure your business in Jamestown is safe incase of a fire

Fire sprinklers are your company’s best friend in Jamestown, NY, when it counts most. This wonderful invention protects your business and prevents it from going down in flames. But, what happens when the device malfunctions and causes water damage instead? When the sprayers accidentally cause flooding in your building, you are left wondering what to do next. Follow these four tips to quickly recover from this unfortunate occurrence:

1. Disconnect the Water Supply

As soon as possible, turn off the water supply to the building. The earlier the fire sprinklers stop spraying water, the faster the damage is contained. Remember, your safety is most important. If there is danger of electricity coming into contact with water, first turn off the main electricity to the building or wait until the specialists arrive.

2. Call a Water Restoration Company

After water damage occurs, it is essential to immediately contact a water restoration specialist. When the experts arrive, they assess the damage and make a plan for drying and restoring the space. Since the water came from a clean source, you do not need to worry about contamination if you act quickly.

3. Contact Your Insurance Agent

Most often, commercial property insurance covers loss and restoration from flooding. Have your insurance papers and contact information in an easily accessible place that is not susceptible to water.

4. Mitigate the Damage Until Help Arrives

While you are waiting for the specialists, increase ventilation in the building. Open windows to allow fresh air to flow freely through the space, or use air conditioning in the summer. If your building is more than one story, dry the top level first to prevent water leaks through the ceiling to the floor below. Mop and blot excess water from floors and furniture. Remove art and other valuable items to a dry location.

Fire sprinklers are the perfect way to avoid fire and smoke damage at your business in Jamestown, NY. However, a device glitch can leave you with flooding and water damage instead. Follow the above tips to quickly return your business to its preloss state.

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