Jamie Aten

Tips for a Safe, Merry Holiday Season

December 4, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Here are some important tips to keep you and your home safe.

This holiday season, it’s important to keep your family protected and ensure a joyful time for all. While it may not be the most cheerful topic, we want to inform you about potential dangers that can arise during this festive time of year. Did you know that U.S. firefighters respond to approximately 200 live Christmas tree fires annually? Fortunately, with the rise in popularity of artificial trees, this number is decreasing. Many artificial trees are now flame resistant, which is a great improvement. It’s astonishing to think that not long ago, and still in some European countries, people used real candles to decorate their Christmas trees!

If you’re a fan of the real thing and love the fresh tree smell, there are ways to reduce the risk of fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, around 25% of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical issues or heat sources too close to the tree. A dry tree can become engulfed in flames in less than 10 seconds. Here are some important tips to keep you and your home safe:

Inspect your lights for any damage caused by rodents throughout the year and discard any with cracked cords.
Replace broken or burned out bulbs.
Avoid tucking extension cords under the tree skirt or area rugs.
Choose the freshest tree possible and water it daily.
Remember to unplug the lights before going to bed.

Additionally, we strongly encourage you to check your fire extinguisher and have it easily accessible. If you don’t have one, consider getting one or even gifting one to someone else. Fire extinguishers can be recharged by certified fire equipment dealers, like us. It’s a good idea to have one in the main rooms of your home, such as the kitchen, living room and bedrooms.

Above all, prioritize safety this holiday season. Protect yourself and your loved ones, and may you have a very Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year in 2024. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. All West Fire & Security are experts in smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.

The Importance of Regular Fire Inspections for Commercial Buildings

October 28, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure that it is functioning properly at all times.

As a business owner, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of your employees and customers. One crucial aspect of building safety that should never be overlooked is fire protection. In case of a fire emergency, having a functional and reliable fire alarm system can mean the difference between life and death.

It is not enough to simply install a fire alarm in your commercial building. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure that it is functioning properly at all times. In this article, we will discuss the importance of regular fire inspections for commercial buildings and how they can help keep your business and those inside safe.

Commercial buildings are subject to strict fire safety regulations, and regular fire inspections are necessary to ensure compliance. Failure to meet these regulations can result in fines or even closure of your business. Our local fire agencies in the Prescott area have new codes that are important for you to be aware of. By having your fire alarm system inspected and maintained regularly, you can rest assured that your building meets all the necessary standards and regulations.

During a fire inspection, trained professionals will thoroughly examine every aspect of your fire alarm system, including its components and wirings. This allows them to identify any potential malfunctions or issues that could compromise the effectiveness of your fire alarm. By catching these problems early on, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure the safety of your building.

In many cases, insurance companies require proof of regular fire inspections to maintain coverage for your commercial building. These inspections serve as evidence that you are taking the necessary steps to protect your property and those inside in case of a fire emergency. Without proper inspections, your insurance coverage may be at risk, leaving you vulnerable to financial losses.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to invest in regular fire inspections for your commercial building and prioritize the safety of everyone inside. Your employees and customers will thank you. So, do not delay any further! QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Fire Wise Festival Puts the Fun in Fire Safety

September 28, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

In addition to fire safety tips from experts, the family-friendly event will have food, giveaways and music.

As a community leader in fire prevention services, we’re proud to be a part of the 2nd Annual Fire Wise Festival in downtown Prescott. Local fire safety organizations and businesses are coming together in downtown Prescott to celebrate the National Fire Prevention Week in a street festival outside Founding Fathers Collective at 281 N. Granite Street. The one-day event, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, will highlight local businesses that can help residents prepare for future fire risks and keep our communities safe from fire. Local fire agencies attending the event include Prescott Fire Department, Yavapai Firewise/PAWUIC, BLM Fire, Arizona Public Safety, LASER (Large Animal Shelters & Emergency Readiness) and All West Fire & Security, to name a few. Admission is free.

Our area is surrounded by national forests. We all need to be diligent and prepare for fires that can happen any time of the year, not just during fire season. Everyone who attends the Fire Wise Festival will come away with information that can help prevent fires and save lives.

“Last year was well attended and we really wanted to continue to support our local fire agencies, so we’re happy to bring this event back,” said Jesse Burke of Founding Fathers Collective. “It’ll be fun for the kids to enjoy a bouncy house and check out big red fire engines. Adults can enjoy our Fire Engine Brew.”

In addition to fire safety tips from experts, the family-friendly event will have food, giveaways and music.

The event is sponsored by Founding Fathers Collective, All West Fire & Security, Barrett Propane, Yavapai Fire Wise/PAWUIC, Signals AZ, 93.9FM the Mountain, Magic 99.1FM, Arizona Hope 103.9FM, Yavapai County Contractors Association, Quad Cities Business News and Trafficade Service Companies.

We hope to see you there! QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

What Building Owners in Yavapai County Need to Know About New Fire Compliance Requirements

September 2, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Your fire protection company can provide pricing to address identified deficiencies and provide a solution in a timely manner.

The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority and the City of Prescott Fire Department have implemented a new “Compliance Engine.” As part of the commitment to fire safety and compliance with local regulations, fire safety companies like All West Fire & Security are obligated by law to submit an inspection report for any facility to this new designated compliance engine. This new process requires all compliant and non-compliant fire protection systems’ test reports to be submitted electronically to the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority and City of Prescott Fire Department via The Compliance Engine’s online system at www.thecomplianceengine.com.

The purpose of the compliance engine is to serve as a platform that facilitates the inspection process and ensures adherence to fire codes, regulations and safety standards. A trusted fire protection service provider can handle all the necessary steps to ensure that your fire protection system is complying.

Upon completion of the inspection, a technician will review any deficiencies identified during the inspection. You will also receive a copy of the inspection report and be notified of any changes you’re required to make. It is encouraged that you to review the inspection report carefully and take appropriate action to rectify the identified deficiencies within the specified timeframe. Your consent is vital to ensure transparency and provide you with the opportunity to assess the situation and make informed decisions. Your fire protection company can provide pricing to address identified deficiencies and provide a solution in a timely manner.

As a building owner, your main objective should be to work together with all fire departments to maintain a safe and compliant environment.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this new inspection process, the compliance engine or the inspection report addressing deficiencies, please do not hesitate to reach out to your fire protection company or us. We are here to assist you and provide any necessary guidance. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Valuing Customer Service in the Fire Protection and Security Business

July 30, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

We hope this type of “old-fashioned” service never ends, no matter how efficient our lives become.

With all the talk about artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of business, customer service has become increasingly important in this current era of technology and automation. As more companies move toward using AI to provide customer service, it is critical that a human element remain present as well. In-person customer service provides advantages that are invaluable for businesses and customers alike.

When it comes to fire protection and security companies, having a personal contact is more important than perhaps in any other industry. Direct customer service reinforces an aspect of trust between the security business and consumers; it shows that the company is invested in listening to their customers’ feedback and responding appropriately. It also provides additional emotional trust. If you use AI or any automated security service, do you really know how your system is being monitored in your home or business? Who is really there to protect you and your assets in a time of need?

While technology has made customer service more accessible and efficient, it is important for businesses to maintain a personal connection to customer service in order to build relationships and ensure customer satisfaction. Ultimately, in-person customer service helps foster strong relationships between businesses and their customers. By providing a contact point for customers to get help and leave feedback, businesses are able to ensure that customer needs are met while strengthening their overall reputation in the market. It is essential for companies to invest in personal customer service if they want to maintain strong relationships with their customers and remain competitive in today’s digital world.

In business, just having a person to answer the phone can be reassuring. Customers don’t have to go through a series of automated questions and wait in seemingly endless queues. Instead, customers are immediately connected with a friendly staff member who can answer their question or direct them to the appropriate department. We hope this type of “old-fashioned” service never ends, no matter how efficient our lives become. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Protecting Yourself and Your Property During Wildfire Season

June 30, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Protecting yourself from an out-of-control wildfire is essential to preventing further damage to your home or business.

We all know that fire season here in Northern Arizona is inevitable every year. With dry conditions and overgrowth of our forest lands, the chances of a non-prescribed burn fire will occur. On average, Arizona can see 2,500 plus fires during the dry summer months. As you know, during fire season, it is important to protect your property from the risk of an out-of-control wildfire.

In addition to fire sprinklers, which most commercial buildings and homes over 5,000 square feet in Yavapai County must have, it is important to have portable fire extinguishers in any building as well. They should be inspected annually and maintained to keep them in top working condition.

A fire and intrusion alarm system can also help, especially if you are away from your building or residence. This type of system is a set of devices that can detect the presence of smoke, fire, carbon monoxide and other fire emergencies. They truly offer extra security.

Finally, it is important to keep your property clear from debris during fire season. This includes making sure any surrounding vegetation is kept trimmed so that it does not catch fire easily. Additionally, any combustible materials like gasoline and oil should be stored away from the property.

By following these tips, you can protect your property during fire season and stay safe. Protecting yourself from an out-of-control wildfire is essential to preventing further damage to your home or business. Take the necessary steps to protect your property today! QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Surveillance Systems, Cloud Storage Provide Extra Security

May 26, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

With Cloud storage, you can rest assured knowing your business is in safe and secure.

This month, we look at the importance of having the proper backup or cloud storage for your security surveillance system. If you have a surveillance system, you know how important access to recordings can be. Whether you need to check on a delivery or what an employee is working on, you need to be able to review any recordings. What if the recordings are needed for a police investigation or even a lawsuit? Do you know how long they are stored?

Cloud storage is an essential feature of any surveillance system, providing businesses with a reliable and secure way to store their videos. Your system should not only provide you access to recorded videos but also offer adequate storage for safety recall. You should also be aware of how long the recordings are stored. Most systems have limited onsite storage, but you can pay to have them stored for longer periods of time in the Cloud. This makes it easier for business owners to keep track of the events that have taken place in their facility for recall purposes and make sure that any suspicious activities are addressed promptly.

With a proper surveillance system, the cloud storage feature will allow businesses to enjoy greater peace of mind, knowing that their videos are safely stored off-site and easily accessible with remote access. This allows business owners to review video footage from anywhere, even on a cell phone, and also share a link with others. With more control over your security systems, your business can take proactive steps to ensure the safety and security of your premise.

For our clients, we have Cloud storage contract with a company that has several servers off-site in a secured location, ensuring that businesses have reliable access to their surveillance videos and the peace of mind that comes with it. By leveraging this feature, businesses can be confident that they are taking all the necessary steps to protect their premises from any potential threats. So, the biggest part of a surveillance system isn’t just the recording of activities, but making sure you have access to them. With Cloud storage, you can rest assured knowing your business is in safe and secure. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. They’ve designed and installed thousands of fire protection and security systems for industrial, commercial, residential and special hazard clients. They work closely with architects and contractors to ensure your new construction or remodeling project meets all safety code requirements. All West Fire & Security are experts in smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.

Why it is Important to Include Security, Fire Specialists in Building Plans

April 27, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

All West Fire & Security also specializes in installing fire sprinklers and alarms.

When it comes to building a new home or commercial business, working with All West Fire & Security is essential. They are dedicated to helping you create the most secure and efficient systems that meet all government regulations while still meeting your desired aesthetic. All West Fire & Security specializes in installing fire protection systems, alarms and security surveillance systems—all designed to keep you and your property safe. It is important to connect All West Fire & Security with the architect you are working with, as they have extensive knowledge of fire protection systems and can help ensure that your new build meets all necessary safety regulations. If you don’t plan ahead for your required fire and safety installation, it can cost money and time.

All West Fire & Security also specializes in installing fire sprinklers and alarms. Fire sprinklers are designed to help mitigate damage by containing and controlling the spread of fires. Fire alarms are also key in providing an early warning system if a fire occurs, allowing occupants to safely evacuate and minimize property loss. All West Fire & Security can provide the necessary products, installation and maintenance required for both systems. For instance, many people don’t know that a residential home requires a fire sprinkler system if it is 5,000 square feet under roof, including livable, garage and entry overhang. Your architect should know this, but you should also be aware.

By working with All West Fire & Security, you can rest assured that the new construction of your home or business is receiving the highest quality fire protection and security services, ensuring that you and your family are safe. With their expertise in fire safety systems and regulations, All West Fire & Security will provide you with the peace of mind required when building a new home or commercial business.

When it comes to your safety, and that of your property, remember to plan ahead for what your new build might require. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. They’ve designed and installed thousands of fire protection and security systems for industrial, commercial, residential, and special hazard clients. They work closely with architects and contractors to ensure your new construction or remodeling project meets all safety code requirements. All West Fire & Security are experts in smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.

Having and Knowing How to Use the Right Fire Extinguisher for Your Home, Business

March 30, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

The most common question we get is, “How do you properly use a fire extinguisher?”

A fire extinguisher is an important tool in any household and required in any business, as it can quickly put out a small-sized flame before it has the chance to grow and cause serious damage.

Fire extinguishers are classified by letters that represent the types of fire they’re designed to fight. The most common type of extinguisher is the Class ABC, and there are specialty extinguishers like Class D and Class K. It is important to determine the size – yes, they come in different sizes, too – and how many extinguishers your home or office may need.

Some businesses, like a restaurant, may be classified higher than others, depending on the risk of fire and the materials present, and will need more than one and most likely a specialty extinguisher. We always recommend working with a professional to determine what size and how many are best for the safety of employees and customers.

The most common question we get is, “How do you properly use a fire extinguisher?” We recommend trying to remember following the acronym “PASS” and following these steps:

Pull the pin – Pulling the safety pin on top of the fire extinguisher releases the locking mechanism and allows you to discharge it.
Aim – Point the Fire Extinguisher at the base of the flame, not at the top of the flames, as this will allow you to use it effectively.
Squeeze – Squeeze the handle or lever slowly and evenly to discharge the fire extinguisher.
Sweep – Move the Fire Extinguisher in a sweeping motion to ensure that the entire flame is extinguished.

Having your fire extinguisher checked annually by a professional is also important, as this will help you make sure it’s up to date and ready for use in an emergency. Many are rechargeable, but only a certified professional can properly service one. Most extinguishers last from six to 12 years, and if you’re like many folks, you probably have an old one lying around. It’s important to remember they are filled with hazardous material, so make sure you dispose of them properly.

If you have a business and would like to train your employees on how to properly use a fire extinguisher, we can come to your business and offer a demonstration. For just under an hour of your time, you can get a peace of mind that you and your employees are prepared and knowledgeable about how to properly operate a fire extinguisher. Fire safety is key in preventing serious damages and potential injury; by following these tips and having the necessary equipment on hand, you can stay prepared for any emergency. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Do You Know Who Provides Your Security Service?

February 24, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

We promise this will be extra security for you and offer peace of mind, which is why we are in the business ourselves.

Security systems are a great way to protect your property from intruders. They can be set up with motion sensors that detect any movement within the building or outside its perimeter. When an intruder is detected, they will trigger an alarm, which will alert those nearby of potential danger. But have you ever asked yourself, who is monitoring my security or fire alarm system? Many companies have the actual monitoring provided out of the United States. It can be unsettling for some homeowners and businesses, but the main reason is lack of workforce and cost. Some say it’s a way of doing business today, but we feel it’s better to have a monitoring company close to home.

More importantly, who is setting up your system or providing your service? Not only should they be professional with a crew who has knowledge and experience, but also the company should be a licensed contractor. It ensures that those who are employed as contractors have met the necessary qualifications and have been approved by relevant authorities to perform work on behalf of their clients. A license also provides assurance to potential customers that they can trust their contractor, knowing that they are qualified, experienced and knowledgeable about their field of expertise. It also helps protect customers from any liability issues or legal repercussions should something go wrong with the project or service. And with changing technology, a licensed contractor must stay up to date with industry trends and best practices. And finally, it also helps ensure that they have proper insurance and liability coverage in place to protect themselves and their clients.

So, if you currently have a security system or fire alarm system or are in the market for one, you should consider who you are working with, not just what you are receiving for your purchase. Make sure to ask where the monitoring is being done and if the company is currently a licensed contractor. We promise this will be extra security for you and offer peace of mind, which is why we are in the business ourselves. QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Jamie Aten

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