Flats are the most popular type of residence for modern families, going by the real estate market trends in Kochi. While most of the maintenance and cleaning work is centralized, it’s good for you to know about some of the safety mechanisms in place so that you know what to do in the event of a hazard, like fire. Let’s look at how you can maximize your safety in Kochi apartments:
Sprinkler System
A sprinkler system is a system which automatically sprays water when it detects a fire. They are usually installed in areas which are more vulnerable to fire, like the kitchen, and bathrooms. Sprinklers are fitted with sensors that detect fire based on the acoustic wave principle, and the sprinkler is activated. Sprinklers help to douse fires and prevent them from spreading and becoming uncontrollable. The role of technology in modern luxury homes can’t be emphasized enough. Smart sprinklers can help save lives. However, it’s important to note that sprinkler systems are not required for buildings under a certain height, specifically 55 feet.
Fire Alarms
Installing fire alarms is essential in apartment buildings, as they sound the alarm immediately as a fire is detected. They trigger a loud sound that alerts everyone in the flat, helping them to escape the fire. Automated fire alarm systems aim to save lives rather than put out the fire. Manual fire alarms are also available, and they are triggered when someone notices a fire and pushes a button. Automated systems have sensors that detect smoke or high temperatures and activate the alarm.
Fire Extinguishers
Reputed builders like Varma Homes include fire safety norms in the buildings, and installing fire extinguishers in easily accessible places like corridors, is one of them. Different types of extinguishers are used to put out different types of fires, as water may not suffice every time. For example, grease and cooking fires need chemical fire extinguishers. You can also have a small fire extinguisher in your flat to protect your family and others if a fire starts in your home.
Fire Blankets
These are handy to have inside your apartment in Kochi. It’s a compact device that can be easily deployed in case a fire breaks out in your kitchen or due to electrical shorting. You simply have to remove it from the packaging and spread it over the fire.
Fire Evacuation Routes
This is critical. To prevent confusion, stampedes, and danger, there must be a fire evacuation route properly established and displayed in prominent places. Residents must be educated about this by conducting fire drills. The evacuation path must be well-marked, with the nearest exits highlighted boldly. Emergency exits from each flat must be established for safe passage of residents. Ideally, the location of the path must be painted in bright, bold lettering. The most important thing to do is to leave the building as soon as fire breaks out.
What you Need to Do:
Inspect and Test Equipment
Get a certified fire safety professional to come and inspect the equipment you have in your flat, like fire extinguishers, fire blankets, smoke detectors, fire alarm systems, and sprinklers. You can also test your alarms and detectors by simply pressing the test button to see if the alarm works. Replace batteries or malfunctioning equipment immediately.
Your building association must arrange for the fire protection equipment in common places to be checked and calibrated regularly to ensure they are functional. Conducting fire drills regularly will ensure that all residents know what to do in case of a fire.
Conclusion
Ensuring safety of your loved ones is of utmost importance. When it comes to a reputed builder like Varma Homes, you can be sure that every precaution has been taken to help prevent the spread of fires and to protect the lives of the building residents. A separate fire escape route can be found in all Varma Homes projects, and firefighting equipment is installed in common areas.
FAQs
How do sprinkler systems work in apartment buildings?
Sprinkler systems in apartment buildings are designed to automatically spray water when they detect a fire. These systems are typically installed in vulnerable areas like kitchens and bathrooms. They operate using sensors that detect fire based on the acoustic wave principle, which activates the sprinklers. This helps to douse fires quickly and prevent them from spreading, significantly enhancing safety.
2. What types of fire extinguishers should be used in different fire scenarios?
Different types of fires require specific types of fire extinguishers. For instance, water extinguishers are not suitable for all fires. Grease and cooking fires should be tackled with chemical fire extinguishers, while electrical fires require extinguishers specifically designed for such scenarios. It’s advisable to have a small fire extinguisher in your apartment for immediate use and to be familiar with its operation to protect your family effectively.
3. Why are fire evacuation routes critical in apartment buildings?
Fire evacuation routes are essential to ensure residents can safely exit the building during a fire. Properly established and prominently displayed evacuation paths prevent confusion, stampedes, and potential danger during an emergency. Regular fire drills and education about these routes help residents understand the quickest and safest way to exit, significantly reducing risks during an actual fire incident.
Leave a Reply