Strategies for Restaurant Staff to Minimize False Alarms
At Strong Systems, we understand that the safety and security of your Restaurant are of utmost importance. We strive to ensure that alarm systems are effective and minimize the strain on emergency services. By adhering to best practices, we can work together to prevent false alarms, avoid fines, and maintain a reliable security infrastructure.
Here are some detailed recommendations for Restaurant staff to enhance the effectiveness of your alarm system:
Understand The System
- Familiarize Yourself: Ensure that every staff member undergoes thorough training on how to properly arm and disarm the alarm system. This includes understanding the specific entry and exit delays programmed into the system, which allow for safe exit without triggering the alarm.
- Emergency Procedures: Develop a clear protocol for staff to follow in the event that the alarm is triggered. All employees should understand which personnel needs to be contacted during an emergency situation.
- Offer refresher courses periodically: Refreshers are important, especially when new staff are hired or when
Avoid Common Triggers
- Secure Doors and Windows: Implement a final walk-through procedure where staff checks every entry point before closing. Assign this task to a specific team member during shifts to ensure consistency. Consider using visual reminders, such as checklists or signs near exits, to reinforce the importance of securing doors and windows before activating the alarm.
- Manage Airflow: Conduct an assessment of your Restaurant’s layout to identify any potential drafts that could affect motion detectors. Adjust the placement of fans or vents if necessary.
Handle Monitoring Station Calls
- Answer the Phone: Designate a staff member or create a rotation for someone to be available at all times to answer incoming calls from the monitoring station. This is crucial to prevent unnecessary police dispatches, which can occur if calls go unanswered.
- Verify Call List: Schedule regular updates to the call list that the monitoring station uses. Ensure that the contact information is current, reflecting any employee changes and confirming that all listed contacts can respond appropriately.
Continuous Improvement
To foster an ongoing culture of safety, consider implementing a feedback loop where staff can report any issues or anomalies they encounter with the alarm system. Regularly review incident logs to identify patterns that may require further training or system adjustments.
By following these tips, your Restaurant can significantly reduce the number of false alarms and ensure effective safety protocols. Remember, a well-trained and informed team is key to maximizing the benefits of your alarm system.