House fires happen and can be devastating to families and communities. They can happen anywhere at any time. While unpleasant to consider, it’s prudent that your HOA board has a plan in place to ensure community-wide fire safety. What measures can your board take to ensure fire readiness is a top concern? These are questions that every board should ponder at some point.
If you haven’t broached the subject yet, make it a priority this year. Consider the guidelines offered here:
Landscaping
It’s probably not top of mind, but landscaping can be a factor in fires because it can act as fuel. Prune vegetation and trees, especially any branches that hang over roofs or are less than six feet from the ground. Remove any dead trees and cut grass often.
Inspections
Start with the basics: how often do your buildings need to be inspected? This is a major concern for condo associations, but even HOAs with public/common buildings need protocols in place. There is no universal answer here, as local governments vary in how often they require fire inspections. However, a good rule of thumb is to make sure you’re getting inspections done annually, at minimum. The good news is that local fire departments offer this for free as a public service.
Fire drills
Remember fire drills in school? Holding an annual one is a great way to help owners understand the procedures they should follow in the event of an incident.
Prevention
There may be dangers lurking where you least expect it. You might consult with your local fire marshal about some common fire hazards that your HOA might need to ban.
Education
Your HOA can do a lot in terms of education. Use your newsletter or social media pages to share some basic fire safety tips. Also, invite residents to reach out if they have questions about fire safety. In addition, remind them that fire safety doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as putting a reminder on the calendar to monitor smoke detectors. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and the batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year.
Your HOA board is charged with preparing your community to handle any serious fire threats that might arise. These fire safety guidelines should help you get started! Don’t forget it never hurts to be extra cautious.
