Partnering with a reliable fire protection company is an important step toward ensuring that your fire system works correctly in an emergency. However, not all fire protection companies offer the right mix of services to meet your facility’s needs.
So, how do you choose the best fire service firm? In this article, we’ll suggest questions that you should ask prospective fire service partners.
Emergencies and accidents are unpredictable, but your fire protection company shouldn’t be.
When employees are in the building, they can often address fire hazards or small fires as soon as they happen. However, fires can spread quickly in unoccupied buildings. If your fire service company doesn’t offer 24/7 service, it’s time to look for a better option. You need someone who can help you address emergencies on and off regular business hours.
Do you have to call the company to find out when your inspection is going to be, or do they offer a convenient online portal with your inspection information?
Does your prospective partner offer conveniences like an online customer portal? Can you see your inspection schedule and reports anytime you want? If having information at your fingertips matters to you, choose a partner who offers unlimited access to your reports and inspection schedule.
If you want a partner who is willing to go the extra mile, then choose a firm that also stores your inspection records for no charge beyond the cost of the inspection.
Is the fire protection company open and honest about their charges? If the company charges you for an estimate before you even have a contract, run the other way.
The company should be able to give you an in-depth description of their inspection process. Your life and the lives of your customers and employees could depend on your fire protection system. Your fire protection partner must conduct a thorough inspection of every component of your system.
An inspector needs to do more than walk through your property, hanging new inspection tags on all of your equipment. If he or she isn’t conducting in-depth tests, you’re wasting your money and putting yourself at risk.
Make sure, before you sign a contract, that you fully understand what the company will inspect and maintain. If they aren’t able to care for your entire facility, you may want to search for a different company.
Technology evolves quickly, and your fire inspection team needs to evolve too. In addition to staying current on licensing and certifications, companies should provide employees with ongoing training in new technologies. To thoroughly inspect your fire system, the fire services personnel need to be proficient in maintaining new and old systems.
You should specifically inquire about the firm’s experience with fire systems and buildings like yours. Familiarity with your system is a significant advantage in a fire services partner.
Search for online reviews and see what other customers are saying about your prospective fire services partner. Poor customer service, insufficient inspections, and high costs are reasons to keep searching.
Look for reviews signaling professionalism, skill, and flexibility. Does the firm interrupt your workflow during regular business hours, or do they work with your schedule to create a seamless inspection? A great fire services partner cares about your safety AND your business.
Companies across Oklahoma choose FPS Technologies as their fire services partner. In addition to building inspections, FPS Technologies provides fire system installation, service, and training.
For more information or a free estimate, please call FPS Technologies at (405) 842-8708 or email us at support@fps-technologies.com.