- There is fire or smoke right now Emergency
Get everyone out, pull the fire alarm if it has not activated, and call 911. Do not go back in and do not use elevators.
- A carbon monoxide alarm is sounding Emergency
Get everyone to fresh air immediately and call 911. Do not re-enter until responders say it is safe.
- Fire alarm panel shows a trouble or supervisory signal Address promptly
A trouble signal means the system has detected a fault in itself, such as a wiring problem, a failed battery, or a disconnected device. A supervisory...
- Fire alarm keeps going off with no fire Have it checked
Nuisance alarms usually come from dirty or wrongly placed detectors, cooking or steam near smoke detectors, or failing devices. Many fire departments...
- Sprinkler head leaking, painted over, or damaged Address promptly
A leaking head can be a failing seal or corrosion; a painted, damaged or obstructed head may not operate correctly in a fire. Heads should be replaced,...
- Sprinkler system is shut down or a valve is closed Address promptly
A closed control valve or a system shut down for repairs means part of the building has no sprinkler protection. Impairments usually require notifying the...
- Fire extinguisher tag expired or missing Have it checked
Portable extinguishers need a monthly visual check and a periodic professional inspection with a tag, plus internal maintenance and hydrostatic testing on...
- Kitchen hood suppression system inspection is due Have it checked
Commercial kitchen suppression systems need periodic inspection (commonly every six months), and the exhaust hoods and ducts need regular cleaning. Grease...
- Emergency lights or exit signs not working Have it checked
Emergency lighting and exit signs keep escape routes visible when power fails. Most failures are batteries or lamps.
- Fire door does not close or latch on its own Have it checked
A fire door only works if it closes and latches by itself. Propped doors, broken closers, and damaged latches are common and let smoke and fire spread.
- Standpipe or fire pump problem Address promptly
Standpipes and fire pumps supply water for firefighting. Leaks, low pressure, or a pump that will not start mean firefighters may not have water where...
Describe it in your own words
Not sure which one it is? The interactive Problem Solver can match a plain description to the likely problem and show the local rules for your building.
Open the Problem Solver