Fire Drills vs. Fire Tests
Behind every door, there's a story... and a to-do list. Fire Drills vs. Fire Tests: What’s the Difference and Why You Should Care
MANAGER'S CORNERBLOG
3/24/20254 min read
Fire Drills vs. Fire Tests:
What’s the Difference and Why You Should Care
Fire safety isn’t just about alarms blaring and people speed-walking down the stairs pretending not to panic. It’s a critical practice that ensures everyone knows what to do when flames decide to crash the party. But let’s get one thing straight—fire drills and fire tests are not the same thing. Confusing the two is like mistaking a fire extinguisher for a leaf blower (please don’t try that).
Let’s break it down.
Fire Test vs. Fire Drill: The Key Differences
A fire test is a scheduled check to ensure all fire safety equipment, alarms, and systems are in proper working order. Think of it as a routine doctor’s check-up—just for your building.
A fire drill, on the other hand, is a full-fledged evacuation exercise where occupants practice getting out safely and efficiently. This is more like a fire escape "dress rehearsal" so that, if the real thing happens, no one is standing around asking, "Wait, is this a drill?"
Fire Safety Schedule: Low-Rise vs. High-Rise
Low-Rise Buildings: Fire tests should be conducted monthly, while fire drills should take place every six months.
High-Rise Buildings: Fire tests remain monthly, but fire drills should occur every three months (because the more floors, the more organized we need to be).
Fire Test: The Procedure
1. Post Notice for Tenants the Day Before
Make sure to notify tenants in advance by posting notices in common areas, elevators, and near entrances at least 24 hours before a scheduled fire drill or test. The notice should clearly state the date, time, and purpose (fire test or drill) to avoid confusion and unnecessary panic. Emailing or sending a digital notification through building management apps can also help ensure everyone is informed
2. Call the Monitoring Company and Fire Department
Before each fire test, building managers must inform the monitoring company to go offline and notify the fire department to prevent them from arriving sirens-blazing unnecessarily. Once testing is complete, don’t forget to call them back and confirm it’s finished!
3. Check Alarm Systems
Make sure they work because a silent alarm is about as useful as a chocolate teapot in a fire.
4. Test Smoke Detectors
If they don’t beep, they don’t keep (you safe, that is).
5. Sprinkler System Inspection
Ensure they’re ready to rain down salvation.
6. Fire Extinguisher Check
Ensure they are charged, accessible, and not doubling as coat hangers.
7. Exit Signage and Emergency Lighting
Because no one wants to play "find the exit" in the dark.
8. Paperwork Completion
Yep, you must document everything. If it’s not on paper, it didn’t happen.
Fire Drill: The Procedure
1. Post Notice for Tenants the Day Before
Make sure to notify tenants in advance by posting notices in common areas, elevators, and near entrances at least 24 hour before a scheduled fire drill or test. The notice should clearly state the date, time, and purpose (fire test or drill) to avoid confusion and unnecessary panic. Emailing or sending a digital notification through building management apps can also help ensure everyone is informed.
Call the Monitoring Company and Fire Department
- Just like fire tests, building managers should notify them in advance and after the drill is completed.
Announce the Drill (or don’t, for a Surprise Effect)
-Just make sure the local fire department isn’t called for no reason.
Sound the Alarm
- The moment everyone realizes they should have read the fire safety notices.
Evacuate in an Orderly Fashion
-No shoving, no sprinting, and definitely no detours to grab snacks from the break room.
Use Stairs, Not Elevators
-Elevators could shut down, and no one wants to be stuck mid-floor in an emergency.
Gather at the Assembly Point
– Yes, you must wait there. No sneaking back in for forgotten items.
Evaluate Performance
– Did everyone make it out in time? Were hallways clear? Take notes!
Fill Out the Paperwork
– Again, if it’s not documented, did it even happen?
A Note for Tenants
Read notices. The building management isn’t putting them up for decoration.
Do not call the building manager to ask, "Is this a test?" If you're unsure, just evacuate. It won’t hurt you to step outside for a few minutes, but staying inside during a real fire might.
Know the alarm timing: A fire drill alarm typically lasts 1 to 2 minutes, while a real fire alarm will continue until the fire department arrives. If it keeps going—don’t wait around. Get out!
Hallways: Not Your Storage Unit
While we’re talking fire safety, let’s address an overlooked hazard—cluttered hallways and stairwells.
Fire exits should be clear, always. That means:
✅ No shopping carts (this is an apartment, not a grocery store).
✅ No door mats (tripping hazard, anyone?).
✅ No strollers, bikes, or scooters (you’re not parking in the stairwell).
✅ No personal storage—your flamingo-shaped pool float needs another home.
Blocked exits slow everyone down and put lives at risk. In an emergency, time is everything. So, let’s keep those hallways as empty as a Monday morning coffee pot.
The Bottom Line
Fire drills and fire tests aren’t just items on a checklist; they’re essential for keeping you, your neighbors, and your property safe. Do your part—participate in the drills, don’t ignore the tests, and for goodness’ sake, stop using the fire extinguisher as a makeshift doorstop.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep those hallways clear!