Common Fire Safety Violations Restaurants Make and How to Avoid Them

Running a restaurant involves so much more than just preparing delicious food. One of the most crucial aspects that restaurateurs need to consider is fire safety. Breaking fire safety rules is a common mistake, which can lead to dangerous situations and hefty fines.

With the help of our fire extinguisher service in NJ, you can find and fix fire safety issues before it’s too late. We can help you with everything from servicing your fire extinguishers to installing a fire suppression system.

Below are some common restaurant fire safety mistakes and how to avoid them.

Improper Exit Signage or Lack of Emergency Lighting

A common mistake many restaurants make is not having proper exit signs or emergency lighting. These are very important for safety. Everyone needs to know where the exits are in case of a fire. If the power goes out, emergency lighting helps guide people safely out of the building.

Making sure all your exit signs are easy to see and read is crucial. They should be bright and big enough to catch someone’s attention immediately. Also, install enough emergency lights, especially in normally dark areas with no windows. Our team can regularly check these lights and address any problems we discover.

Overfilled Grease Traps

One of the major fire risks in a restaurant comes from overfilled grease traps. These are containers that catch and hold cooking fat from your kitchen. If grease traps get too full, they can cause a fire. Regular cleaning and maintenance of grease traps are essential to prevent this violation.

You should have your grease traps cleaned at least every three months and more often if needed. Our team can help you schedule regular cleaning services to ensure your grease traps are always in compliance with safety standards. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of a fire in your restaurant.

Failure to Properly Maintain Fire Extinguishers

Another common mistake restaurants make is not properly caring for their fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers are key tools for stopping small fires before they get out of control.

If a fire extinguisher is improperly maintained, it may not work when needed. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure the fire extinguisher is in good shape and ready to use.

Our fire extinguisher service in NJ can help with this. We check each part of the extinguisher, such as the pin, seal, and pressure gauge. We also make sure it’s fully charged and ready for action.

Blocked or Locked Exit Doors

An all-too-common oversight in restaurants is the blocking or locking of exit doors. This mistake could turn a simple fire into a disaster. Picture this: a fire breaks out in your restaurant. People need to escape quickly, but the exit doors are locked or blocked by boxes. What happens? Panic sets in, and the situation becomes much more dangerous.

To avoid this, exit doors must never be locked from the outside during business hours. It’s equally necessary always to keep exit paths clear of any objects. This will allow everyone to exit quickly and safely during an emergency.

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You can keep your restaurant, employees, and customers safe by avoiding these common fire safety violations. If you need help, contact our fire extinguisher service in NJ!

Fire Suppression Solutions for Food Trucks: Unique Challenges and Solutions

Every food truck owner knows the importance of a good meal, but something else is equally important – safety. Ensuring your food truck is safe from fire hazards is critical. One of the best ways to achieve this goal is by investing in a quality fire suppression system in NJ

However, food trucks present unique challenges when it comes to fire safety. In this blog, we will discuss the specific challenges that food trucks face and how a proper fire suppression system can effectively solve these challenges.

Compact and Efficient System Design

Food truck fire suppression systems need careful design to be compact and efficient. Every inch matters in a small kitchen space like a food truck. The fire suppression system must fit well in the limited space without disrupting the busy kitchen workflow. Despite being small, these systems must be powerful enough to put out fires quickly, ensuring the safety of everyone in and around the food truck.

It’s like packing a big punch in a small package. This balance between size and efficiency makes designing fire suppression systems for food trucks a unique task. This is why you must let our team help you choose the right fire suppression system in NJ. Once the correct system is selected, our team will install it quickly and correctly.

Compliance with Regulations

Getting a food truck business up and running means more than just cooking great food. You also need to follow the rules. This includes fire safety rules made by local and state governments. These rules are important and help keep everyone safe.

For example, in many places, food trucks are required to have a fire suppression system. This is a unique system that can quickly put out fires. It’s not enough to have a fire extinguisher. A proper fire suppression system protects your investment and, more importantly, the lives of you, your staff, and your customers.

When choosing a fire suppression system in NJ, ensure it meets all the safety rules. Our team can help guide you to make sure you’re making the right choices when it comes to fire safety for your food truck.

Integration with Emergency Plans

Installing a fire suppression system in your food truck is essential to enhance safety, but it should not be the end of your fire safety measures. A fire suppression system should be part of a broader emergency response plan encompassing clear evacuation procedures and active coordination with local fire departments.

Evacuation procedures must be clear, easy to follow, and communicated to all staff members. Things can get chaotic in an emergency, so having a well-rehearsed and easy-to-execute plan is key. Regular drills can help reinforce these procedures and make them second nature to your team during an emergency.

Coordination with local fire departments involves ensuring they are aware of the location of your food truck, the type of fire suppression system installed, and any other pertinent information that could help them respond effectively if a fire occurs.

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Are you serious about protecting your food truck investment? If so, contact us to invest in a quality fire suppression system in NJ!

Rechargeable Fire Extinguishers: A Great Option For Your Business

Every business needs protection against potential fire threats. Among the different types of safety equipment available, rechargeable fire extinguishers stand out due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use.

When you choose a fire extinguisher service company in NJ, look for one that offers rechargeable units. These devices can be reused after servicing, making them a preferred choice for many businesses.

Want to learn more about the benefits of using rechargeable fire extinguishers? If so, check out the information below.

The Cost Efficiency of Refillable Fire Extinguishers

One of the main benefits of rechargeable fire extinguishers is their cost efficiency. While the initial investment might be higher than disposable units, they can save your business money in the long run.

Here’s why:

  • Refill Instead of Replace: Once a disposable fire extinguisher is used, you must buy a new one. But with rechargeable units, you simply refill them, and they’re good to go again.
  • Longer Life Span: Rechargeable fire extinguishers typically have a longer life span than disposables. This means you won’t have to replace them as often, leading to savings over time.
  • Servicing Costs: With a reliable fire extinguisher service company in NJ, servicing costs for rechargeable units can be affordable.

Remember, safety is an investment. Choosing refillable fire extinguishers can be a cost-effective decision for your business in the long term.

Enhanced Durability

Rechargeable fire extinguishers are not just cost-effective; they are also more durable. They are made with high-quality materials that ensure they last for a long time. With the help of our fire extinguisher service company in NJ, you can find the correct extinguishers for your business.

Durable refillable extinguishers provide reliable fire safety protection, giving you peace of mind knowing that your business is secure from fire threats. This long-term reliability makes rechargeable fire extinguishers a smart addition to your business’s fire safety measures.

Greater Capacity

Rechargeable fire extinguishers often come in bigger sizes compared to their disposable counterparts. This means they hold more fire-fighting material. They can fight fires for longer with more material, giving you a better chance of putting out a fire before it spreads. This increased capacity makes rechargeable fire extinguishers a highly effective tool in your business’s fire safety arsenal.

Suitable for Various Fires

Rechargeable fire extinguishers are available in many types, making them ideal for different areas in your business. Each type is designed to put out specific kinds of fires:

  • Class A extinguishers are best for fires caused by common materials like wood, paper, and cloth.
  • Class B extinguishers can tackle fires ignited by flammable liquids such as gasoline or oil-based paints.
  • Class C extinguishers are used for fires involving electrical equipment.
  • Class D extinguishers are designed for fires fueled by combustible metals.
  • Class K extinguishers are used in kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats.

By having the correct type of rechargeable fire extinguisher in each area, you increase the safety of your business.

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Are you looking for rechargeable fire extinguishers for your business? If so, contact our fire extinguisher service company in NJ!

From Safety To Air Circulation: The Many Benefits of a Commercial Hood

A well-functioning hood system is a vital component of any commercial kitchen. It’s not just a metal box that hangs over your stove. It’s your first line of defense against fire, helping to keep your kitchen safe and compliant with health and safety regulations.

It also contributes to a cleaner, more comfortable, and more productive working environment by removing heat and airborne grease, smoke, odors, and steam. With the help of a fire suppression contractor in NJ, you can install a hood and keep it maintained.

Are you curious about what a high-quality hood can do for your commercial kitchen? If so, check out the information below.

Improved Fire Safety

Commercial hoods aren’t just for keeping your kitchen free of smoke and smells. They can also play a big part in keeping your kitchen safe from fires. Many hoods come with built-in fire suppression systems.

Think of these systems like a hidden superhero, waiting and ready to protect your kitchen. If a fire starts, the system springs into action, spraying special chemicals that quickly extinguish the fire. This means less damage to your kitchen and a safer environment for your staff.

Grease Reduction

A significant advantage of a top-quality hood is its ability to tackle grease. Picture this: tiny grease particles float into the air when you’re cooking, particularly frying. These particles settle all over your kitchen without a hood, making everything sticky and grimy. Over time, this buildup can be hard to clean and even become a fire risk.

But with a good hood, you won’t have this problem. The hood acts like a giant vacuum cleaner, sucking up these bothersome grease particles before they have a chance to spread. This helps keep your kitchen cleaner and reduces the need for labor-intensive deep cleaning.

Better Ventilation

A high-quality hood does more than handle grease and helps prevent fires. It also plays a significant role in making your kitchen a cool and pleasant place to work by improving air circulation. We all know that kitchens can get stuffy and hot.

This can make it hard for your staff to work comfortably, especially during those busy lunch or dinner hours. But, with a good hood system in place, this won’t be a problem. The hood works like a powerful fan.

As you cook, it sucks up the hot air and smoke, then pushes it out of the kitchen. This means less heat and more fresh air for your staff. This is another reason to consider consulting a fire suppression contractor in NJ for hood installation.

Odor Control

A top-notch hood in your kitchen helps control unwanted smells. By sucking up food odors and smoke, it keeps your workspace smelling clean and fresh. This creates a more pleasant working environment for your staff and customers.

It’s Time To Hire a Fire Suppression Contractor in NJ!

Are you ready to reap the rewards offered by a high-quality kitchen hood? If so, contact us to hire a fire suppression contractor in NJ!

4 Things Professionals Will Check During Fire Extinguisher Inspections

As a business owner, the safety of your establishment is paramount. One key aspect of this is ensuring your fire extinguishers are always ready to perform when needed. You may already know that regular fire extinguisher inspections in NJ are crucial, but do you know what professionals look for during these checks?

Understanding what gets checked and why can give you peace of mind and help ensure your fire safety equipment is in top shape. Below are some of the things professionals will check during fire extinguisher inspections.

Manufacturing and Expiration Dates

Inspectors pay close attention to the fire extinguisher’s manufacturing date and any expiration dates. This is because each fire extinguisher has a specific operational lifespan. If your fire extinguisher is past its expiration date, it may not work effectively when you need it most.

Professionals understand this and make it a priority during their inspections. They ensure your fire extinguisher is within its operational lifespan and capable of performing its duty in case of a fire.

Physical Condition

Another essential element that professionals will look at during fire extinguisher inspections in NJ is the physical condition of the extinguisher. They will carry out a thorough visual inspection of the extinguisher body. This means they’re checking for any dents, rust, or other signs of wear and tear.

Why is this important? These factors can compromise the effectiveness of your fire extinguisher. For instance, dents might indicate possible internal damage, while rust could suggest vulnerability to leaks. These issues could mean it might not work as expected when you need the extinguisher in an emergency.

Weight and Pressure

The weight and pressure of your fire extinguisher are also crucial factors that professionals will evaluate during an inspection. Inspectors will verify that the extinguisher meets the required weight and pressure specifications. How do they do this? They will check the gauge of the device.

Fire extinguishers need to have the right amount of pressure to work effectively. If the pressure is too low, the extinguisher won’t be able to discharge its contents properly. On the other hand, if it’s too high, it could rupture, posing a safety risk.

Equally important is the weight of the extinguisher. A decrease in weight could indicate a leak or that the extinguisher has been partially discharged.

Professionals understand these nuances and pay close attention to them during inspections to ensure your fire extinguisher’s readiness in case of a fire.

The Pin and Handle

Professionals also focus on the accessibility and condition of the safety pin and handle during fire extinguisher inspections in NJ. They want to ensure these components are easy to remove or operate during a fire.

Why is this necessary? The safety pin keeps the fire extinguisher inactive; removing it is the first step to activating it. If the pin is stuck or damaged, it might delay or even prevent the use of the fire extinguisher.

The handle enables you to control the discharge of the extinguisher. A damaged or broken handle could render the extinguisher unusable.

We Provide Fire Extinguisher Inspections in NJ

Do you want to keep everyone in your commercial building safe? Investing in professional fire extinguisher inspections in NJ helps you accomplish this goal.

 

Business Illumination: Possible Causes of Emergency Light Failure

Few things are as essential and overlooked as functional emergency lighting. A fully operational emergency lighting system can be the difference between a swift, orderly evacuation and a potentially disastrous situation. But what happens when your emergency lighting isn’t working?

Stay a step ahead of emergency light problems is possible with professional help. By investing in professional emergency light inspections in NJ, you can find and fix issues before they jeopardize the safety of your business.

Keep reading to learn about possible causes of emergency light failure.

Faulty Charging Systems

One key factor contributing to emergency light failure is malfunctioning charging systems. The charging system is essential because it prepares the battery for potential power outages. This ensures the emergency lights are ready to activate when needed.

When the charging system is faulty, it may fail to charge the battery sufficiently. This could mean that in an emergency, the lights may not work or may only work for a short duration, both potentially dangerous scenarios.

Regular professional emergency light inspections in NJ can help you identify and rectify any charging system issues.

Battery Issues

A failed or deteriorated battery is another common reason emergency lights may not activate. The battery is the backbone of the emergency light system, supplying the necessary power to illuminate the lights in the event of a power outage. Over time, batteries can wear out or fail for several reasons, such as age, faulty wiring, or exposure to extreme temperatures.

When a battery fails, it cannot supply power, so the lights will not activate during an emergency. During an emergency light inspection, professionals will test the battery backup. If the light doesn’t work on the battery backup, professionals will replace it. This can help you avoid dangerous situations in the future.

Lamp or Bulb Failures

Another component that can contribute to emergency light failure is burnt-out lamps or bulbs. The lamps or bulbs are the visible part of the emergency light system. They provide the necessary illumination during a power outage. Like any other light source, these lamps or bulbs have a certain lifespan and may burn out over time due to prolonged use or other factors such as power surges.

If the lamps or bulbs are burnt out, the emergency lights will not function, even if the battery and charging system are working correctly. With the help of an emergency light inspection in NJ, you can find and replace damaged bulbs.

Incorrect Installation

If emergency lights are not installed correctly, they may not operate as designed. This could include many issues, such as improper wiring, incorrect positioning, or failure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions during installation. The best way to avoid these problems is by hiring professionals to install your emergency lights.

Need An Emergency Light Inspection in NJ?

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4 Problems You Can Avoid By Hiring an Experienced Ansul Installer

When it comes to fire safety in your commercial kitchen, there is no room for error. A professional Ansul fire suppression system installation can help you avoid certain risks and costly repairs.

DIY installations are often inadequate due to incorrect system pressurization, lack of coverage, and improper maintenance. The system must be professionally installed to ensure functionality and optimal fire protection. This is why hiring an experienced Ansul installer in NJ is vital.

Here are some problems you can avoid by hiring professionals to install your Ansul fire suppression system.

Inadequate Coverage

One of the critical problems that can arise from DIY installations of Ansul fire suppression systems is inadequate coverage. An inexperienced installer may not understand the unique needs of a commercial kitchen and how to protect it from potential fire threats adequately.

A professional Ansul installer in NJ will perform an in-depth analysis to understand your facility’s specific needs and to ensure every potential fire source is adequately covered. This includes hoods, ducts, walls, ceilings, floors, and refrigerators. 

They’ll also check the system’s nozzle placement and the type of nozzles used to ensure that all areas are protected from a potential fire.

Incorrect System Pressurization

Another common problem with DIY installations is incorrect system pressurization. A professional installer will properly pressurize your Ansul fire suppression system after installation, ensuring it’s ready to protect you in the event of a fire. If the system is not adequately pressurized, it may fail to extinguish the flames and cause costly damage to your kitchen and equipment.

Avoid Warranty Issues

Improper self-installation of the Ansul fire suppression system can void its manufacturer’s warranty. If you cannot provide proof of professional installation, you may be left covering all repair and replacement costs if there is an issue with your system. 

By hiring a professional Ansul installer in NJ, you can ensure all manufacturer guidelines are followed and your warranty remains intact.

With an experienced Ansul installer on the job, you’ll feel secure knowing your system is up to code and functioning correctly. Not only will this save you time and money, but it will help protect your employees and customers from potential fires.

Potential Injuries

Installing a fire suppression system involves handling heavy equipment and materials. Without proper training and safety measures, this can lead to potential injuries such as slips, trips, sprains, strains, cuts, scrapes, burns, and more. Professional Ansul installers understand safety protocols and have the skills and knowledge to safely handle this type of equipment.

At Atlantic Fire Protection, our professional technicians are experts in Ansul fire suppression system installations. We provide quality work and ensure your system is properly installed and functioning. With our help, you can protect your commercial kitchen.

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Do you want to avoid the problems discussed here? If so, it’s time to hire an experienced Ansul installer in NJ. Our team is here to help you install a new fire suppression system!

Glaring Red Flags 3 Signs You Need a New Fire Suppression System

Glaring Red Flags: 3 Signs You Need a New Fire Suppression System

A working fire suppression system is essential for the safety of any restaurant. A functional fire suppression system can drastically reduce the risk of property damage and injury during a kitchen fire. However, an outdated or malfunctioning one can put your staff and customers at serious risk.

Unfortunately, like all other equipment, these systems will eventually wear out over time due to regular use and age-related deterioration. Recognizing the signs that a new Ansul fire suppression system in NJ is needed can save you lots of time and stress in the future.

Below are the signs you might notice when investing in a new fire suppression system.

The Current System Is Over a Decade Old

Age is a crucial factor in the safety and reliability of your fire suppression system. While the exact lifespan of a fire suppression system varies, a system should typically be replaced after 10 years of use.

As these systems age, they become more prone to corrosion and wear out from regular use. Additionally, they may no longer meet current safety codes and regulations. As a business owner, you are responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the fire suppression system are up-to-date and working correctly.

Replacing your outdated system with a brand-new Ansul fire suppression system in NJ can help you avoid many problems. Our team can help you choose the right replacement system and will install it correctly.

Rust or Corrosion

The presence of corrosion or rust on the components of a fire suppression system is a major sign that it needs to be replaced. Fire suppression systems are designed to handle extreme temperatures and high-pressure water, which can cause wear and tear over time.

Rust and corrosion can form on various fire suppression system components, including:

  • Hoses
  • Pipes
  • Valves
  • Nozzles
  • Sprinkler heads

The parts of the system should be inspected regularly to identify any signs of corrosion. If rust or corrosion is found, then it’s essential to invest in a new fire suppression system as soon as possible.

Issues Involving Inadequate Coverage

Inadequate coverage for areas where flammable materials are stored or used to prepare food items can turn a small fire into a massive disaster. Your fire suppression system must have adequate coverage in all kitchen areas. Flammable materials, such as oils and grease, can easily ignite and spread quickly.

Therefore, it’s essential to have your fire suppression system cover every area of the kitchen where these materials are stored or used.

If you find that the system does not cover certain areas of the kitchen, then you should consider investing in a new Ansul fire suppression system in NJ immediately. We will help you choose the correct size suppression system for your commercial kitchen.

Need a New Ansul Fire Suppression System in NJ?

Has your existing suppression system seen better days? If so, it’s time to invest in a new Ansul Fire Suppression system in NJ!

Why Conducting Routine Fire Drills is Important

A fire drill is a safety procedure that simulates an emergency situation and tests how well employees respond. Fire drills are essential for businesses because they help ensure the safety of both customers and staff in the event of an actual fire or other emergency.

By regularly practicing fire drills, business owners can ensure their staff knows what steps to take in a real-life emergency, minimizing confusion and helping keep everyone safe. Additionally, having regular fire drills also helps businesses comply with local laws and regulations regarding workplace safety.

Conducting routine fire drills is essential, and here are some reasons why.

Better Employee Safety Awareness

Conducting routine fire drills is an effective way to increase employee safety awareness. This can help ensure that everyone knows what to do in a fire and can help reduce panic in an emergency situation. Having regular fire drills also helps to create a culture of safety within the workplace, which can encourage employees to take extra precautions in hazardous situations.

Make Sure Everyone Knows Evacuation Routes

One of the most critical aspects of fire drills is ensuring that everyone in a building knows the proper evacuation routes. Ensuring all employees understand the designated exits and how to get out quickly and safely is important when conducting a fire drill. It’s helpful to provide diagrams and maps outlining the correct evacuation routes so everyone is familiar with them before an emergency occurs.

Improved Reaction Time in Emergencies

Regular fire drills can help reduce reaction time during an emergency, as employees have already been trained to respond quickly and correctly. Fire drills also improve the efficiency of evacuation processes by teaching staff members the best way to quickly and safely evacuate a building.

Provide a Sense of Security

Conducting routine fire drills can also provide security to staff members. Knowing everyone is prepared for any potential emergency can help reduce stress levels and ensure everyone feels safe. Fire drills also help create a sense of community within the workplace, as employees work together towards a common safety goal.

Additionally, regular fire drills can ensure employees feel comfortable in their work environment, helping improve employee engagement and morale.

Evaluating How Well Emergency Plans Are Working

Businesses need to evaluate how well their emergency plans are working regularly. This helps ensure that they remain up-to-date and effective in the event of an actual emergency. Regularly evaluating emergency plans also allows business owners to identify areas needing improvement and take steps to ensure everyone is safe.

Test Fire Prevention Systems

Fire prevention systems are integral to keeping a building safe and secure. These systems help detect the presence of fire and alert occupants to take appropriate action.

Fire prevention systems should be tested regularly to ensure they are working correctly. Testing the system ensures it is reliable and can detect a potential fire in time for occupants to evacuate safely.

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There’s no denying just how important routine fire drills are. We can help you plan and execute these drills.

4 Benefits of Employee Fire Extinguisher Training

Providing employees with fire extinguisher training is essential for a safe and secure workplace. Fire extinguishers are a vital part of any emergency preparedness plan. It’s even more critical that your staff knows how to use them properly in the event of a fire.

With proper fire extinguisher training, you can reduce the risk of workplace fires and give employees the knowledge they need to respond quickly and calmly in an emergency. This training will also create a safer work environment for everyone. Our fire extinguisher service in NJ will happily provide this training for you and your employees.

Read on to learn more about the benefits of employee fire extinguisher training.

Educate Employees About the Risks Associated With Fire

Employee fire extinguisher training ensures that all staff knows the risks associated with fires and how to respond in an emergency. With proper fire extinguisher training, everyone in the workplace will be better prepared and more confident in their ability to identify, control, and extinguish fires if they occur.

Having employees knowledgeable about fire safety and the skills to use a fire extinguisher can mean the difference between a minor incident and an uncontrollable blaze.

The Ability To Use a Fire Extinguisher Properly

Employees adequately trained to use a fire extinguisher can make all the difference when attempting to control a fire. With the proper knowledge and skills, employees will know how to use a fire extinguisher correctly, efficiently, and safely.

They will also be able to identify which type of extinguisher is best for certain types of fires, such as an ABC-rated extinguisher for combustible materials or a CO2-rated extinguisher for electrical equipment.

Your employees can also be trained to use special firefighting techniques such as the PASS method (pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep) to put out flames quickly and safely. With the help of our fire extinguisher service in NJ, you can properly educate your employees.

Help Employees Pinpoint The Location Of Fire Safety Equipment

When providing fire extinguisher training, employers should highlight where the nearest fire safety equipment is located in an emergency. Employees should also know how to access the fire alarm system and evacuate properly during a fire.

This knowledge will ensure that everyone knows what to do when faced with a potential emergency, helping them to stay calm and act quickly. Employers should ensure that employees are familiar with the workplace’s safety equipment and evacuation routes.

Learning About Proper Fire Safety Equipment Storage and Maintenance

Employees should also be trained on properly storing and maintaining fire safety equipment. Properly storing and caring for fire safety equipment is essential in ensuring that it remains ready for use in an emergency. Our fire extinguisher service in NJ can inspect and test your fire safety equipment regularly.

Call On Our Fire Extinguisher Service in NJ!

If your employees need fire extinguisher training, we can help. Our fire extinguisher service in NJ provides comprehensive training classes for clients.