Common Causes of Fires For Business Owners

Common Causes of Fires in the Workplace
Causes of Work Place Fires

Common Causes of Fires for Business Owners in Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County Georgia

Common Causes of Fires for Business Owners – Fires are one of the most devastating disasters that can happen to any business. Not only can they cause significant damage to property and equipment, but they can also put the safety of employees and customers at risk. As a business owner in Cherokee, Cobb, and Fulton County, Georgia, it is crucial to understand the common causes of fires and take the necessary precautions to prevent them.

In this article, we will discuss the common causes of fires for business owners in Cherokee, Cobb, and Fulton County, Georgia. We will also provide tips on how to prevent fires and ensure the safety of your property and employees.

Common Causes of Fires for Business Owners

  1. Electrical Malfunction: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and outdated electrical systems can cause electrical fires. This is a common cause of fires in commercial buildings, especially in older buildings that have not been updated with modern electrical systems.

  2. Heating Equipment: Heating equipment, such as furnaces, boilers, and space heaters, can also cause fires if they are not properly maintained. Dust and debris can accumulate on heating equipment, causing it to overheat and ignite.

  3. Cooking Equipment: Restaurants and commercial kitchens are at high risk of fires caused by cooking equipment. Grease buildup and overheating of stovetops, fryers, and ovens can cause fires.

  4. Smoking: Smoking inside the building can also cause fires. Cigarettes, matches, and lighters can ignite flammable materials, such as paper, fabric, and furniture.

  5. Arson: Arson is a deliberate act of setting fire to a property. Unfortunately, this is a common cause of fires for business owners in Cherokee, Cobb, and Fulton County, Georgia. It is important to have proper security measures in place to prevent arson and ensure the safety of your property and employees.

Fatalities Directly Related to Commercial Fires in Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton Counties

Fatalities from commercial and business fires are rare, with an average of 2 fatalities per year in Cherokee County, Cobb County and Fulton County combined. The majority of fatalities from commercial and business fires are employees of the affected business, with customers and bystanders making up a smaller percentage of fatalities.

Financial Cost to Business Owners from Commercial and Business Fires in Cherokee County, Cobb County and Fulton County:

The average financial cost to business owners from commercial and business fires is estimated to be north of $20,000 per fire.

This cost includes the cost of rebuilding the damaged structure, replacing lost inventory and equipment, and any other related expenses such as legal fees or business interruption costs.

It is important for commercial and business owners to understand the potential risks and consequences of fires, and to take steps to prevent them. This includes regular maintenance of equipment and electrical systems, installing fire alarms and smoke detectors, and properly training employees on fire safety procedures.

Prevention Tips:

  1. Install smoke detectors and fire alarms in your building. Make sure they are working properly and tested regularly.

  2. Keep your building clean and free from clutter. Dispose of flammable materials properly.

  3. Have a fire safety plan in place and train your employees on what to do in case of a fire.

  4. Regularly maintain and inspect your electrical and heating systems. Replace outdated systems and equipment.

  5. Prohibit smoking inside the building and provide designated smoking areas outside.

FAQs:

Q: What should I do if there is a fire in my building?
A: Evacuate the building immediately and call 911.

Q: How often should I test my smoke detectors and fire alarms?
A: Smoke detectors and fire alarms should be tested at least once a month.

Q: Can I use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire?
A: Only use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small and contained. If the fire is spreading or out of control, evacuate the building and call 911.

Contact Atkins Systems For a Fire Alarm Solution That You Can Count On

At Atkins Systems, we are committed to helping commercial and business owners in Cherokee County, Cobb County and Fulton County stay protected from the dangers of fire. Our fire alarm system installation services can provide peace of mind and help reduce the risk of fire in your business.

In conclusion, commercial and business fires are a serious concern in Cherokee County, Cobb County and Fulton County. Cooking equipment, electrical equipment, heating equipment and arson are common causes of these fires, with an average of 2 fatalities per year and financial costs to business owners estimated at above $20,000 per fire. By taking steps to prevent fires and installing fire alarms and smoke detectors, commercial and business owners can help reduce the risk of fire and protect their property and employees.

Sources:
National Fire Protection Association: //www.nfpa.org/
U.S. Fire Administration: //www.usfa.fema.gov/
Federal Emergency Management Agency: //www.fema.gov/

ADT Buys Ackerman Security

ADT Buys Ackerman Security - Atkins Systems Remains One of Few Local Choices for Commercial and Residential Security

Atkins Systems is a locally and owned and operated low voltage security company that has serviced Metro Atlanta and North Georgia since 1983.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Canton, GA, February 7th, 2023 — ADT Security Systems has recently purchased locally owned and operated Ackerman Security’s commercial division and is continuing to take over accounts previously associated with Ackerman Security. Atkins Systems is proud to remain locally owned and operated and will gladly provide any commercial or residential security system needs.

Atkins Systems is a business that began with a few local referrals and quickly grew to thousands of installations and monitored customers thirty years later, where you can have confidence that you are working with a locally owned and operated professional organization. Among our top-quality services, you’ll be able to find commercial security systems, residential security systems, and commercial alarm monitoring.

At Atkins Systems, we start the process with a free, in-person quote. Our salesperson will offer knowledge and advice on protecting your business or home with a custom solution. With us, you only get and pay for what you need- nothing is packaged or bundled. While building a system that works best for you, we are also continuously following codes, staying in contact with the local fire marshal, and getting approvals to guarantee the job gets done right the first time. Additionally, you can rest assured that if you need customer service or support after your alarm system has been installed that you can reach a local representative anytime.

For more information on installing a custom access control system for your metro Atlanta security business, call us today at 770-924-2400.

Security Intrusion Alarms

Security Intrusion Alarms
Security Intrusion Alarms

What Are Security Intrusion Alarms?

Security intrusion alarms help protect your business and property from intruders and burglars. Atkins Systems security intrusion alarms provide you with the peace of mind that your business is protected from unauthorized, criminal entry 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our systems can integrate with other security and safety equipment to provide complete protection for you business and property.

Security intrusion alarms are alarms that alert you to an intruder. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why someone may want to break into your business including theft and vandalism. Many businesses across the metro Atlanta area experience break-ins every day.

A security intrusion alarm can oftentimes act, as a deterrent to would be intruders. These alarms will also help law enforcement respond quickly in case a break in does occur. Security intrusion alarms detect when an unauthorized individual enters your building and will then notify law enforcement. Security intrusion alarms can also be paired with other security measures like security cameras and access control systems.

There are various components to a security intrusion alarm system that helps it function. These include:

  • Contact Sensors- These sensors rely on constant contact between two pieces to work. When the contact is broken, the alarm will sound. Contact sensors work well as door and window sensors.
  • Motion sensors- These sensors detect movement inside your building. Motion sensors are key for after hour’s security when no one should be in your building. If these sensors detect motion inside your building, an alarm will sound.
  • Infrared sensors- These sensors are also great for protecting your building after hours when it should be empty. Infrared sensors detect heat changes associated with a human body.
  • Sound Sensors- Similar to motion sensors and infrared sensors, sound sensors are key components for protecting your building after hours when it should be empty. Sound sensors detect sounds like talking, rummaging around of items, or breaking things.
  • Glass Break Sensors- These sensors do exactly what they say and detect breaking glass. These sensors will help detect if an intruder breaks a glass window or glass door to enter your building. Glass break sensors work by listening for the sound of breaking glass or by detecting vibrations made by someone attempting to break the glass.
  • Panic Buttons- Panic buttons are a key component to any security intrusion system. Not all break-ins happen after hours when a building is empty. A member of your staff to alert law enforcement quickly if a break in occurs can use panic buttons.

At Atkins Systems, we offer turnkey security systems for businesses. We can help design and install a custom security system that meets all of your unique needs for your business. For more information on protecting your business, call us today at 770-924-2400.

What is Access Control

Access Control Systems - Access Control Keypad
Access Control Systems - Access Control Keypad

What is Access Control?

 You may have heard the term access control, but you may not know what it means or how it can benefit your business. A commercial access control system lets you control who enters your business, as well as where and when they can enter. Today we’ll go over some access control basics, like different types of systems, how they work, and how they can be beneficial to your business.

Types of Access Control Systems and How They Work-

  • Key fob or access card- The most common and basic form of access control is a key fob or access card. These are wallet-sized devices that have built in authentication data inside them. You can install door readers at any access points you wish to control. You can then choose which employees to give a key fob or access card to and customize access credentials for each employee.
  • Pin code or password with keypad- Instead of using physical objects like key fobs, many businesses today are opting for a keyless entry approach like a pin code or password. You can assign each employee a unique pin code or password giving them access to the areas you’d like them to be able to access. With this approach, it’s easy to restrict access to your business if an employee leaves your company.
  • Mobile apps with barcodes or Bluetooth- With the rise in popularity of smartphones, many business owners are opting for a mobile access control system. Some mobile access control systems use an app that employees can log in to and scan at a door to enter or exit a building. Other mobile access technology systems use Bluetooth technology, allowing employees to simply wave their phones in front of a sensor at entrance and exit points.
  • Biometric devices- Biometric devices offer the most advanced access control. A biometric device consists of a scanner that has fingerprint or facial recognition software. Other types of access control software rely on what equipment a person owns (key fob, card, phone, etc.), while a biometric devices is reliant on who a person is. Some companies, like banks, require such high security that they may implement 2-factor authentication such as a biometric device along with another system.

Benefits of an Access Control System-

  • Easy control- As a business owner access control systems make it quick and easy for you to add or remove access privileges for your employees. Some systems even allow you to do it straight from your phone.
  • Higher levels of security- Access control systems allow you to program all of your doors to automatically lock at a certain time, negating the chances of an employee forgetting to lock up at closing time.
  • Quick emergency response- In case there is an emergency or intruder, you can quickly lock all access points to prevent further theft, vandalism, or harm to your employees while you wait for law enforcement personnel to arrive.
  • Full integration- Most access control systems can be integrated with your existing security measures to provide more comprehensive coverage of your business.

For more information on installing a custom access control system for your metro Atlanta security business, call us today at 770-924-2400.

Security Camera Placement For Businesses

Security Camera Placement
Security Camera Placement

Security Camera Placement for Businesses

Video surveillance is becoming a more and more popular security measure to use among metro Atlanta business owners. Having security cameras at your business is a great deterrent against would be criminals. It can also help law enforcement catch criminals if a crime does occur at your business. Because video surveillance is becoming so popular with businesses, not having security cameras installed at your business can unfortunately place a target on your business. Not all security camera systems are created equal, and it’s important to have your security cameras placed strategically to protect your business completely.

The best way to ensure that your video surveillance system is set up for the most complete coverage is to work with a professional like Atkins Systems. There are many things to consider when setting up security cameras. Lighting can be crucial to the functionality of your security cameras. Poor lighting can drastically reduce the effectiveness of your cameras. Even if you have high quality cameras, it can also be beneficial to brighten up the areas where you’re going to install cameras. However, its also important not to have the cameras facing directly into a bright light source as this can also reduce the effectiveness of the cameras.

Its also important to think about angles when considering where to put your cameras. Many people believe that placing cameras high up is the best placement. While this will allow the cameras to capture a large area of surveillance, it also makes it likely that you’ll only capture the tops of people’s heads as opposed to faces or other details. Placing cameras lower at head level will allow for more comprehensive security.

You also have to consider any local laws that may apply to your video surveillance systems. Laws can vary by county and city. Its important to keep cameras away from any areas where patrons of your business should be able to expect privacy, such as bathrooms, dressing rooms, or locker rooms.

Although there are some areas that can’t have security cameras, there are other areas that should always have security cameras. Cameras at all entrances and exits are a great place to start. This allows you to have video surveillance of everyone entering your building. Another commonplace to install cameras is at each corner of your building. This can help you keep an eye on parking lots, any loading and unloading docks, and dumpsters. You may also want to install cameras on the interior of your business. Common spots for interior security cameras include near the cash register, near valuable items, and in high traffic areas.

Every business and building is different, which is why it’s crucial to work with a security professional when designing and installing a video surveillance system for your metro Atlanta business. When you’re ready to learn more about protecting your business by installing video surveillance, call us at 770-924-2400.

Commercial Burglar Alarms

Commercial Burglar Alarms Cherokee County
Commercial Burglar Alarms Cherokee County

What Goes into a Commercial Burglar Alarms System?

A commercial burglar alarm system is essential for keeping your business, property, and employees safe from criminals, break ins, vandalism, and theft. Depending on the size of your building and nature of your business, your burglar alarm system may be simple or more complex. Each commercial security system is unique and will require a different solution. It’s important to work with experienced professionals when securing your business. Commercial burglar alarm systems may incorporate several types of sensors designed to detect threats. These are then routed through an alarm control panel which receives signals and activates the appropriate responses. 

Let’s take a closer look at the components of a burglar alarm system-

  1. Alarm Control Panel- The panel is the center of any alarm system. Each of the system’s components are routed through the alarm control panel. When the control panel receives signals from different alarm sensors, it will then process them and activate the corresponding response. These responses include activating the alarm sound and alerting the monitoring service and police. Generally, the alarm control panel will have its own power source so it can continue to operate even if the power source to the building has been compromised.

     

  2. Alarm Keypad- The alarm system keypad is where you can activate or disarm your alarm system. You can also use the keypad to program the system. Keypads generally have a display panel that will let you know if the system is functioning properly or if there are any areas that need attention (an open window or door). Some keypads are wireless while others are hardwired.

     

  3. Door and Window Contacts- Door and window contacts are sensors that detect whether doors and windows are securely shut. One part attaches to a door or window and the other part sits inside the frame. When the doors and windows are shut properly, the contacts touch. When a burglar alarm system is armed, it can detect when the contacts are separated and can trigger an alarm response.

     

  4. Glass Break Detectors- These detectors will trigger an alert when an intruder breaks a window. There are two types of glass break detectors. Acoustic detectors use microphones to detect high pitch frequencies. Shock break sensors detect vibrations.

     

  5. Motion Detectors- Motion detectors are electronic devices that will alert your alarm system when movements are detected within your property when the burglar alarm system is armed. These sensors use ultrasonic sound waves or infrared waves to detect motion.

     

  6. System Interruption Sensors- These are fail safes that are triggered if your burglar alarm loses power for any reason. They will alert you if your system is ever compromised, whether the system has been tampered with by a burglar or if it’s been accidentally damaged.

     

  7. Access Control- This can be integrated into your alarm system to control levels of access to your building. You can also access reporting that will let you know who has entered an area.
     
  8. Cameras- Security Cameras are a crucial part of any burglar alarm system. They give you and your monitoring company the ability to see what is happening at your property at any given time. If your alarm is triggered, you’ll be able to see in real time what triggered the alarm.

Atkins Systems is a locally owned and operated low voltage company that has serviced Metro Atlanta and North Georgia since 1983. With a company that has been in operation for 30 years, you can have confidence that you are dealing with experienced professionals. For more information on protecting your commercial property contact us today!