Show All Answers

1. Why should I have an annual evaluation?

The McKinney Fire Code requires that every business receive a fire inspection regularly. These inspections greatly reduce the occurrence of injury and fire in your business.

2. What are the most common issues noted by Fire Inspectors?

Following is a list of the items fire inspectors most frequently find during an inspection. Use the list to help you with your self-evaluation.

• Portable fire extinguishers that need to be annually inspected by a state-licensed company
  
• Non-operational emergency lighting and exit signs. In most cases a light bulb just needs to be replaced. These can be purchased at most home improvement stores
  
• Extension cords are used instead of a UL-listed surge suppressor
  
• Boxes and other combustibles are stored up to the ceiling or in front of the exit door
  
• Exit door is locked or obstructed during business hours
  
• Address and suite number are not clearly displayed on entry and rear door.
  
• Address and suite number are not displayed on the electrical and gas meters outside
  
• Combustible materials, boxes and other similar items are stored in the mechanical / electrical room in front of the electrical panel

3. What can I do to prevent fires in my business?

Read through these FAQs for preventive measures you can take to keep your business fire-safe.

4. How does the McKinney Fire Department help?

The self-evaluation is designed to educate you and save you time. The McKinney Fire Department can answer any questions you might have, or if you would like a trained and skilled inspector to come out to your business, just ask! You can call us at 972-547- 2860.

5. What are some good-housekeeping tips on how to prevent fires at my business

• Remove trash to a covered, locked dumpster away from the building every day
  
• Keep hallways, corridors and aisles clear of storage and clutter
  
• Keep exit doors clear and free of clutter
  
• Ensure that exit signs are illuminated
  
• Remember to turn off small appliances like coffee pots
  
• Do not use electrical extension cords for permanent operations. For heavy-duty equipment, consult an electrician. A store-bought circuit breaker strip plug can be used for minor electrical equipment
  
• Keep all storage 24 inches from ceilings or 18 inches below fire sprinkler equipped areas.
  
• Prohibit smoking in your building
  
• Store combustibles more than 36 inches away from a heat-producing appliance like a water heater
  
• Store combustibles more than 36 inches away from the electrical box
  
• Keep outside brush and weeds away from the building
  
• Dispense flammable and combustible liquids in a properly ventilated area using safety cans or original containers. Always follow proper bonding and grounding procedures
  
• Assign someone to check these things daily and create a maintenance log
  

6. How can I make the outside of my business more fire-safe?

• Make sure fire lanes are clear and marked
  
• Find out if there is a Knox Box on the property, and whether it contains keys to the building
  
• Ensure that the utilities are clearly marked
  
• Check to see that there is a clear pathway away from the building
  
• Make sure street numbers are clear and visible
  
• Ensure that fire hydrants are unobstructed

7. How do I contact the Fire Marshal's office?

Call us at 972-547-2860. We can help explain results of your evaluation and answer any questions you might have.

8. How can I be more prepared for any fire that might happen at my business?

• Post your building’s evacuation plan
• Know at least two ways out of your work area or building
• Conduct regular fire drills
• Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them
• In case of a fire, always use the stairs to exit; do not use elevators
• Keep exits clear
• Keep hallways, stairways and exits clear of trash, cleaning supplies and other storage
• Report locked or blocked exit doors to the building owner and the Fire Department
• McKinney Fire Department offers classes on Fire Safety in the Workplace and Fire Extinguisher Training. Call the Public Education Division at 972-547-2893 or go to the Fire Department website.