Total Fire & Safety Blog

How important is the fire code for animal shelters?  Deadly fires at kennels and animal shelters are not uncommon across the U.S.  In the past year, over 100 dogs have died in kennel fires, including here near Chicago.

On the night of January 14, 2019, a West Chicago animal kennel went up in flames. Thirty-one dogs perished in the fire.  The exact cause of the fire is unknown, but investigators determined no staff was present at the time and no working fire sprinklers were on property.  The kennel did have fire detectors, but no one was around to hear them.

The tragedy prompted lawmakers to come up with legislation to ensure such an event never happens again.  The new law, signed in August, went into effect January 1.  The legislation requires kennels to be staffed 24/7 or have sprinkler systems or alarms that alert local fire departments.

When it comes to arming animal shelters with lifesaving equipment, Total Fire and Safety can help with the installation of …..

Wireless Fire Alarms

• Preferred by fire departments, they are more reliable than land-based systems for their quick and accurate response.
• They can save phone line costs.
• They reduce false alarms to fire departments
• Minimal and guaranteed wireless radio alarm monitoring fees

Fire Sprinkler Systems

• A working fire sprinkler is 96% effective in containing a fire.
• Monthly, quarterly, and annual inspections are necessary to ensure safety and keep your building fire code compliant.
• TFS uses the most up-to-date technology and thorough process to prevent sprinkler failure.

Working fire extinguishers can keep a small fire from getting out of control when someone is in the facility. Every business needs working fire extinguishers at the ready, and be trained to use them.

• A fire extinguisher is your first line of defense, 24/7.
• 30% of fire extinguishers are not in working order. We complete a 12-point inspection to make sure they are fire ready.
• On-site training is provided to guarantee proper employee usage.

All it takes is basic fire protection to save animal and human lives.

Illinois’ new fire code will help protect our furry friends from another senseless tragedy and prevent irreparable damage to lives, structures, and pocketbooks.  Total Fire and Safety can equip your facility with the latest fire protection and help maintain the equipment installed.  Give us a call today at (630) 960-5060.