Fire and Safety Commodities

09/26/2025

Fun Fact Friday: Backflow Preventers

What is a Backflow Preventer?

A backflow preventer is a safety device that stops contaminated water from flowing backward into a potable (safe to drink) water supply system.

Did you know that back in 1933, a backflow disaster at the Chicago World's Fair, caused widespread illness from a contaminated water supply, which highlighted the dangers of backflow and led to the creation of plumbing codes requiring backflow prevention.

Since 1974 when the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was passed, Backflow preventers have been required. Establishing the requirement to eliminate or protect cross-connections to safeguard drinking water.

Today Louisiana laws and regulations require buildings with backflow prevention to have the system tested and inspected once a year by a licensed professional, per NFPA25.

Is your building up to code?

Call today to schedule your backflow inspection. 504-456-5994

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09/17/2025

We got over 50 reactions on our posts last week! Thanks everyone for your continued support! 🎉
Stay tuned as we transition to Encore Fire Protection!
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09/12/2025

Fun Fact Friday: Fire Alarms

Did you know that William F. Channing and Moses Farmer designed the first fire alarm that wasn't a person back in 1852.
The system comprised two fire alarm boxes with a telegraphic key and a handle. If someone cranked the handle, an operator at a nearby station would alert the fire department to go to the scene.
Louisiana's fire alarm requirements vary by occupancy, but generally require smoke alarms in all one- and two-family dwellings at the time of sale or lease, and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors under specific circumstances, particularly with the installation of home generators.
For commercial and public buildings, fire alarm systems must be Designed, Installed, and Maintained according to the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code (NFPA 72), which Louisiana has adopted, with annual inspections for fire alarm systems and other protection systems to ensure compliance.
Call today for your quote. 504-465-5994
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09/11/2025

Work Anniversaries:
August & September Edition
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08/29/2025

Fun Fact Friday: Labor Day

Did you know that Labor Day became a federal holiday in the US in 1894 after President Grover Cleveland signed it into law, honoring the achievements of American workers with parades and picnics.

It is celebrated the first Monday in September, marking the unofficial end of summer, the peak of hot dog season, and the kickoff for NFL and NCAA sports.

Most other countries celebrate their version of Labor Day on May 1st, a date linked to the Haymarket Affair in Chicago.
The US chose a date in September partly to avoid celebrating on May 1st, which commemorates the Haymarket affair's violence.
• Extra Fun Fact: Waffle House Debut
The first Waffle House restaurant opened on Labor Day in 1955 in Georgia.
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&Safety

08/08/2025

Fun Fact Friday: Kitchen Hood Cleaning

Did you know that Fire & Safety Commodities is a licensed Kitchen Hood Cleaning provider?
Commercial kitchen hood cleaning requirements are primarily outlined by the NFPA 96, the Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations.
This standard dictates cleaning frequencies, certification requirements for cleaners, and documentation practices.
Cleaning Frequencies:
-High-volume operations (e.g., 24-hour cooking, charbroiling): At least every 3 months.
-Moderate-volume operations: Every 6 months.
-Low-volume operations (e.g., churches, day camps): Annually.
-Systems serving solid fuel cooking: Monthly
Call today for your KEC estimate. 504-465-5994
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08/03/2025

LRA Showcase booth 1316
Come say hi!

08/02/2025

Louisiana Restaurant Association booth 1316

07/25/2025

Fun Fact Friday: Sno-balls

As we try to beat the Louisiana heat, we were able to enjoy some Guidry Goody's Snoballs.
Do you know that Sno-balls are different from Snow Cones?
Sno-balls are made with finely shaved ice, making them fluffy and snow-like, unlike the crunchy, coarsely crushed ice of a snow cone. This fluffy texture helps the sno-ball absorb the flavored syrup evenly, ensuring a delicious taste from top to bottom.
Sno-balls emerged in the 1930s in New Orleans, with two inventors, Ernest Hansen and George Ortolano, independently creating machines to shave ice efficiently. This innovation allowed for the production of the delicate, snow-like ice that defines the sno-ball.
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07/22/2025

******Reminder******
With Louisiana's intense summer heat and humidity, your health and safety are more important than ever. High temperatures and high humidity can lead to serious heat-related illnesses if we’re not prepared. Please take a few minutes to read this advisory carefully.
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Fun Fact Friday: Heat Prevention

Of course we know that in Louisiana we experience high humidity, which makes it harder for the body to cool down naturally. Fun facts include that Louisiana averages 35 dangerous heat days per year which are projected to increase to nearly 115 days by 2050.
1. Hydration is Key:
Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses. Avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Wear Appropriate Clothing:
2. Loose-fitting, light-colored clothing helps reflect sunlight and allows for better airflow.
3. Worker Safety:
Outdoor workers are at higher risk for heat-related illness. OSHA and the Louisiana Department of Health provide resources and guidance for employers and workers on heat illness prevention, including training, hydration, rest, and shade.

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