Professional Fire Systems Training at Silco’s James A. Fraser Training Center

Fire safety often begins with reducing everyday risks and arming yourself with the knowledge to respond confidently in an emergency. Silco’s state-of-the-art James A. Fraser Training Center in Columbus, Ohio, provides hands-on fire systems training designed to help teams better understand how life safety systems work, respond, and integrate in real-world environments.

Featuring two fully equipped classrooms, advanced audiovisual capabilities, a water-based suppression lab, and dedicated spaces for kitchen and gaseous suppression systems, the center is designed to support immersive, real-world learning. All equipment is fully functional and can be disassembled and reassembled for instructional purposes—ensuring participants gain practical experience with the systems they encounter in the field.

Continuing Education Credits (CEUs)

To support ongoing professional development, CEU credits are available for Ohio fire service professionals. CEU availability varies based on state laws and organizational requirements, and our team can assist with the CEU approval process if your organization requires review. Attendance certificates are available upon request.

Class Breakdown

Our training program covers a wide range of topics, including General Firefighter Awareness, Fire System Basics, and Fire Inspector Knowledge.

Below, you’ll find an overview of the core classes available at our Columbus fire systems training center.

Firefighter’s Basic Awareness Class
Designed for fire service professionals, the firefighter’s basic awareness class includes three sessions:

1. Tour of Fire Alarm Control Panel Exhibits (90 minutes)

This session features multiple live fire alarm demonstration panels, including:

  • Addressable and conventional fire control equipment
  • Smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detection
  • Low-frequency alert, strobe, horn, and voice evacuation devices
  • High-rise evacuation and emergency simulations
  • Elevator recall and smoke control simulation
  • Reset procedures for emergency activation, pull stations, and control panels

2. Tour of the Live Water-Based Protection Systems Exhibit (90 minutes)

Participants will explore:

  • Wet, dry, and pre-action sprinkler risers and controls
  • Foam and standpipe system examples
  • Fire department connection (FDC)
  • Water motor gongs
  • Electronic monitoring of waterflow, tamper, and low air
  • Fire pump and jockey pump examples
  • UL-listed fire air compressors
  • Riser-mounted air compressor (coming soon)

3. Tour of the Suppression Systems Lab (60 minutes)

Hands-on learning includes:

  • Kitchen suppression equipment and examples
  • Captive Aire hood demonstrations
  • Link-style, pneumatic tubing, and electronic detection
  • Mechanical and electric gas valve examples
  • Residential kitchen hood suppression
  • Operational CO₂ fire suppression system
  • Pre-action sprinkler head activation example

Custom Fire Training Classes
If the options above don’t fit your needs, we can tailor a session on request to focus on the systems and scenarios most relevant to your facility, team, or organization.

Schedule a Session at Silco’s Training Center Today
Ready to strengthen your team’s understanding of fire protection systems? Schedule a visit to Silco’s James A. Fraser Training Center by completing the Schedule Training form, emailing training@silcofs.com, or calling 614-449-2101.

Safeguard Your Security Systems with Silco’s Preventive Maintenance Program

At Silco Fire & Security, we believe strong security starts with systems you can trust to perform when it matters most. Preventive maintenance plays a critical role in supporting the reliability of your systems and reducing the risk of unexpected failures or interruptions to protection.

Silco’s Preventive Maintenance Program provides a proactive approach to system care through routine inspections performed by trained technicians. By identifying visible deficiencies and potential concerns early, preventive maintenance helps maintain system readiness and minimize unplanned service calls.

With flat-rate pricing, our preventive maintenance plans also help make budgeting more predictable by reducing surprise costs related to normal wear and tear. And because Silco manages the inspection process, your team can stay focused on daily operations while helping ensure your security systems are positioned to protect your people, property, and assets.

Let’s take a closer look at what these security maintenance plans include and how they help safeguard what matters most.

Security Maintenance Plans

Silco technicians are trained and certified to inspect supported security systems and document system conditions during each preventive maintenance visit.

Coverage may include the following system types, based on equipment condition and serviceability:

Service Scope
Silco offers flexible service plan options designed to support eligible, serviceable equipment. Preventive maintenance services help identify potential issues early and promote ongoing system performance.

Our Parts & Labor Plan includes preventive maintenance along with coverage for labor and replacement parts associated with normal wear and tear on supported equipment.

For customers seeking broader coverage, the Comprehensive Plan builds on the Parts & Labor Plan by offering expanded service support for eligible systems, based on system condition and serviceability.

Secure Your Peace of Mind Today
Silco’s preventive maintenance plans help strengthen security readiness, reduce unexpected disruptions, and support long-term system reliability.

By addressing potential issues early, preventive maintenance helps protect your investment and support safer, more secure operations.

Contact Silco today to request a security system maintenance quote or schedule a preventive maintenance review.

Google News Appendix
Publisher: Silco Fire & Security
Website: https://www.silcofs.com
Author: Silco Marketing Team
Published: Dec 8, 2025
About Silco Fire & Security:
Silco Fire & Security protects more than 45,000 customers across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana with certified fire protection, security systems, inspections, and training.

Why Live Fire Training Matters More Than Ever 

Prepare your team for the moment it matters most 

When a fire breaks out, every second counts. Panic, confusion, and hesitation can turn a small incident into a major loss. But when your team knows what to expect, how to react and how to use the right equipment, they’re far more likely to stop a fire before it spreads. 

That’s why live fire training has become one of the most valuable safety investments organizations can make. It gives employees the confidence and hands-on experience to act quickly and effectively in a real emergency. Not just in theory, but in practice. 

What live fire training really teaches 

Classroom learning and safety videos have their place, but nothing compares to standing in front of a controlled fire with a fire extinguisher in hand. During our live fire training, participants learn: 

  • How to identify the type of fire and choose the correct extinguisher 
  • How to approach a fire safely and maintain a proper exit path 
  • How to use an extinguisher with confidence using the P.A.S.S. technique 
  • How to work as a team under pressure 
  • What to expect physically and emotionally when facing open flames 
  • How to respond if the fire grows or conditions change 

These skills can’t be developed from manuals alone — they come from real experience. 

Why on-site group training makes all the difference 

Every facility is different. Hallways, equipment, hazards and evacuation route all shape how your team should respond. When a Silco technician conducts training on-site, they can customize the session to your actual environment and the equipment your employees use every day. 

Our certified trainers walk your team through: 

  • Realistic scenarios based on your facility 
  • Hands-on exercises tailored to your workforce 
  • Emergency roles and responsibilities 
  • Evacuation routes and safety protocols 
  • Common mistakes and how to avoid them 
  • How to stay calm, focused and in control 

This type of personalized instruction helps your team understand not just how to put out a fire, but how to respond safely and effectively in your building, with your procedures and your equipment. 

Training options to fit your team’s needs 

Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive fire safety session or hands-on extinguisher practice, Silco offers several training formats to meet OSHA requirements and prepare your workforce. 

  • Training class + live fires
    A complete, instructor-led safety class combined with live fire extinguisher training using a 5-foot fire pan. Includes professional video, a verbal presentation, Q&A and hands-on suppression practice. Silco manages all permits and supplies extinguishers. 
  • Live fires only
    A focused, interactive hands-on session that meets OSHA annual requirements. Participants learn extinguisher use and fire response techniques in a controlled environment using our 5-foot fire pan, extinguishers and provided materials. 
  • Training class only
    A 30-minute classroom-style session featuring video, instructor-led training, Q&A and a short quiz. This training meets OSHA annual requirements and includes handouts and a company certificate. 
  • Supplied extinguishers only
    Ideal for teams that already have training scheduled or need additional equipment. Includes 10-pound BC extinguishers and handouts, with participant minimums required. 

Training That Builds Real Confidence  

One theme shows up repeatedly: “I didn’t realize how different it feels until I tried it.” 

That moment of realization is exactly why hands-on training matters. 

When your team practices in a safe, controlled environment with an experienced instructor, they gain more than information — they gain confidence. A calm, trained employee can protect people, reduce property damage, and prevent small issues from becoming emergencies. 

Silco’s training is designed to give your team the knowledge, skills, and preparedness they need to respond when it matters most. 

What Participants Are Saying 

“Attended Silco Fire training safety course. The trainers were very educated and professional with their presentation. Would definitely recommend this for anyone wanting to learn more about fire protection systems.” 

“Great instructors who truly know their trade. They answered every question and demonstrated scenarios we’d never be able to see anywhere else.” 

“10/10 experience. Excellent knowledge and training. Huge thanks to the trainers for their great class.” 

Safety Tip: Training helps build confidence, but if you are unsure or hesitant about using a fire extinguisher, do not attempt to approach or extinguish a fire. Evacuate immediately and call 911. 

Ready to equip your team with real-world experience? 

Silco offers on-site group live fire training led by certified technicians who bring unmatched experience directly to your facility. Whether you’re training a small team or an entire department, we’ll tailor the session to your environment so your staff can respond with confidence. 

Schedule on-site live fire training for your team today.

 

Google News Appendix
Publisher: Silco Fire & Security
Website: https://www.silcofs.com
Author: Silco Marketing Team
Published: Nov 21, 2025
About Silco Fire & Security:
Silco Fire & Security protects more than 45,000 customers across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana with certified fire protection, security systems, inspections, and training.

These Fire Code Violations Could Cost Your Business

Fire prevention isn’t just a good idea. It’s a way to ensure compliance and keep your business—and your budget—from going up in flames. A single overlooked violation could put lives at risk and cost your business thousands in fines and damages.

This National Fire Prevention Month, let’s review nine common fire code violations and how to address them before they spread into a costlier issue.

#1: No Fire Plan
More than a formality, a fire safety plan is a blueprint for keeping your business and your employees safe. Without a sufficient one, you risk confusion and chaos in an emergency.

Solution: Create a clear, up-to-date fire safety plan and practice regular drills so everyone knows their role when it’s time to evacuate. The fire safety experts at Silco can help you develop a custom fire protection plan. We also offer hands-on training that simulates actual fire situations, empowering your team to navigate high-stress situations calmly and confidently.

#2: Faulty Fire Alarms
Fire alarms are often the first alert that danger is near, giving your building’s occupants precious time to react and evacuate.

Solution: Regularly test batteries, check alarm sensitivity, and ensure the entire system is in sound working order. Silco can inspect, service, and monitor virtually all brands of fire alarm systems, including many proprietary brand systems.

#3: Obstructed Exits
In an emergency, every second counts. Blocked exits can turn a quick escape into a costly delay.

Solution: Make sure doors aren’t obstructed by things like storage shelves, furniture, or construction materials. Conduct regular walkthroughs and routine checks to help clear the path and keep you compliant.

#4: Malfunctioning Emergency Exit Lighting
Emergency exit lights help guide people inside a building to safety during a fire emergency. Lighting that doesn’t work properly can lead to panic, which may result in injuries or even loss of life.

Solution: Regularly test and maintain emergency lighting. Schedule monthly and annual inspections of your facility. Silco can inspect your emergency exit lights to ensure they are functioning properly and up to code.

#5: Insufficient Fire Extinguishers
Having too few fire extinguishers is a serious code breach. Having ones that don’t work properly can lead to a false sense of security and devastating consequences.

Solution: Ensure there are enough fire extinguishers in your building and that they are properly maintained.

Key Tip: Silco can assist in making sure your fire extinguishers are up to code with yearly inspections and maintenance.

#6: Ignoring Electrical Risks
Plugging in too many devices into electrical outlets and using damaged extension cords are serious fire hazards. Electrical risks can also be one of the most overlooked fire hazards, especially in office environments.

Solution: Avoid overloading outlets, and never use damaged extension cords. Remember, extension cords are intended to be for temporary use, not powering high-wattage appliances.

#7: Overlooked Fire Sprinklers
Fire sprinklers that don’t work or are blocked by storage or debris won’t activate when you need them most.

Solution: Ensure sprinkler heads are not blocked and regularly inspect and maintain the systems. Also, be sure that nothing is hanging from sprinkler systems.  Since parts of sprinkler systems are often overlooked, your Silco technician can help determine what needs to be inspected and when.

#8: Improper Storage of Flammable Materials
If your business deals with flammable materials, proper storage is essential.

Solution: Store flammable materials in well-ventilated, secure areas designed to contain potential hazards.

#9: Inadequate Fire Separations
Fire separations—walls and doors built to contain fires—play a critical role in slowing down blazes.

Solution: Regularly inspect these barriers for cracks, gaps, or damage to keep the flames contained.

Partner with Silco for Reliable Fire Safety Solutions
Don’t let your business get burned by fire code violations. To support your emergency readiness, Silco offers:

Reach out to Silco today to learn more or schedule a site visit. Your safety is our priority.

Don’t Risk It: Reduce Business Risks with these 5 Essential Security Products & Services

Running a successful business means thinking beyond the daily operations. What are you doing to protect your assets, employees, and customers, even after hours?

With 2025 security trends indicating commercial surveillance as a must-have, now is the time to safeguard your business against evolving threats. And with today’s advanced security technology, there are many smart ways to help minimize your business risk.

Let’s take a closer look:

#1: Security Alarms
When it comes to break-ins and intruders, every second counts. A reliable security alarm is key in detecting these threats and alerting the right people.

Silco security alarms have a user-friendly app that allows for seamless integration with your existing devices so you can monitor your facility remotely from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Our mobile apps are compatible with Apple® and Android® devices.

Plus, with tap of a button, you can lock down your facility while our UL®-certified monitoring center provides 24/7 protection.

#2: Video Surveillance
Video surveillance keeps eyes on your business 24/7, 365, so you can close yours each night knowing you’re protecting your assets.

The advanced analytics of Silco’s video surveillance systems bring your security game to the next level by alerting you to potential threats in real time.

At Silco, we design, install, service, and monitor video surveillance solutions for any size building, campus, or scenario. Our experienced techs know just where to place the cameras for optimal coverage. They can help you integrate the cameras with your DVR, NVR, network, Edge, or server configurations.

#3: Access Control
It’s your business, and who comes and goes—and when—should be your business, too. Access control gives you the ability to secure your workplace with on-site and remote access control in real time.

With Silco’s access control, you can instantly grant or deny access using the following methods:

  • Keycards
  • FOBs
  • Fingerprints
  • PIN codes
  • Biometric readers
  • Video intercom or tap of the app

What’s more, our cloud-based platform is available 24/7 through a simple mobile app or web portal, giving you full control anytime, anywhere.

#4: Automatic Gates
Automatic gates can deter potential trespassers and keep unwanted guests out.

Whether it’s slide gates, swing gates, lift gates, barrier gates, or forced protection security gates, Silco’s gate products are UL325 compliant and integrate seamlessly with RFID sensors, keypads, remotes, biometric scanners, intercoms, and underground sensors for vehicle and pedestrian access.

#5: Automatic Doors and Turnstiles
Automatic doors and turnstiles can optimize pedestrian flow and further enhance security within your business.

Our technicians service automatic doors and turnstiles, integrating them with surveillance and card access systems for secure, seamless operations.

Preventive maintenance isn’t just best practice—it prevents false alarms, ensures your school’s system works when it matters most, and ultimately saves lives. Use this checklist to make certain your school’s fire safety systems stay ahead of the curve.

Monthly:

  • Look for dust, corrosion, or damage on equipment and clean or repair where necessary.
  • Conduct routine fire drills so that students, teachers, and other staff members know how to respond calmly and safely.
  • Maintain thorough records of fire extinguisher inspections, maintenance, and repairs.

Annually:

  • Repair or replace components as needed. Old or outdated parts can be swapped out with newer ones to stay compliant with modern codes.
  • Review fire codes and safety regulations to make sure your building meets all requirements.
  • Update your fire safety plan and make sure all staff are familiar with the plan.

School Security Measures

In today’s world, proactive planning is essential for school security. This checklist will help you protect everyone in your building and ensure your school’s security system is ready for any threat.

Monthly:

  • Inspect gates, fences, and security cameras for proper function.
  • Test security alarms regularly to make sure they’re alerting the right people at the right time.
  • Verify that communication systems, such as intercoms and emergency alert systems, operate as expected.
  • Hold regular emergency drills so that responses become second nature.

Annually:

  • Develop a crisis response plan for situations like active shooter events, natural disasters, and more.
  • Train staff and teachers on how to respond in each scenario.
  • Equip staff with resources to identify early warning signs in student behavior.

Emergency Lighting & Exits

In an emergency, everyone needs a clear and safe way out. Use this checklist to ensure your school building’s emergency lighting and exit systems illuminate the path to safety.

Monthly:

  • Test battery and light output for at least 30 seconds.
  • Inspect for corrosion or wear and repair or replace as needed.
  • Clean fixtures to remove dust and debris.

Annually:

  • Run a full 90-minute emergency light simulation.
  • Adjust light beams for optimal coverage.
  • Consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED systems.
  • Draw up clear emergency exit routes for each section of the building.
  • Train all staff on emergency exit routes and lighting locations.

First to Final Bell: Make Safety a Priority Year-Round

Safety isn’t a one-time lesson. It’s an ongoing commitment. By staying proactive with regular fire safety inspections, safety training, and security system checks, school administrators can create a secure learning environment for all.

Ready to Start the School Year with Confidence?

As you prepare for the new school year, contact your local Silco Fire & Security office to schedule a comprehensive school safety assessment or inspection. We’re here to help you protect what matters most!

Safety 101: Your Back-to-School Roadmap

It’s that time of year again when students are prepping their backpacks, sharpening their pencils, and getting ready to learn. This back-to-school season, school administrators should also be doing their homework to brush up on the most important subject: safety.

The start of a new school year is the perfect time to review your safety protocols and create a clear roadmap for inspections, training, and emergency preparedness.

Use these monthly and annual checklists to keep your school safe, compliant, and secure — so students and staff can focus on learning, not worrying.

Fire Safety Essentials: School Fire Alarms, Sprinklers & Extinguishers

Preventive maintenance isn’t just best practice—it prevents false alarms, ensures your school’s system works when it matters most, and ultimately saves lives. Use this checklist to make certain your school’s fire safety systems stay ahead of the curve.

Monthly:

  • Look for dust, corrosion, or damage on equipment and clean or repair where necessary.
  • Conduct routine fire drills so that students, teachers, and other staff members know how to respond calmly and safely.
  • Maintain thorough records of fire extinguisher inspections, maintenance, and repairs.

Annually:

  • Repair or replace components as needed. Old or outdated parts can be swapped out with newer ones to stay compliant with modern codes.
  • Review fire codes and safety regulations to make sure your building meets all requirements.
  • Update your fire safety plan and make sure all staff are familiar with the plan.

School Security Measures

In today’s world, proactive planning is essential for school security. This checklist will help you protect everyone in your building and ensure your school’s security system is ready for any threat.

Monthly:

  • Inspect gates, fences, and security cameras for proper function.
  • Test security alarms regularly to make sure they’re alerting the right people at the right time.
  • Verify that communication systems, such as intercoms and emergency alert systems, operate as expected.
  • Hold regular emergency drills so that responses become second nature.

Annually:

  • Develop a crisis response plan for situations like active shooter events, natural disasters, and more.
  • Train staff and teachers on how to respond in each scenario.
  • Equip staff with resources to identify early warning signs in student behavior.

Emergency Lighting & Exits

In an emergency, everyone needs a clear and safe way out. Use this checklist to ensure your school building’s emergency lighting and exit systems illuminate the path to safety.

Monthly:

  • Test battery and light output for at least 30 seconds.
  • Inspect for corrosion or wear and repair or replace as needed.
  • Clean fixtures to remove dust and debris.

Annually:

  • Run a full 90-minute emergency light simulation.
  • Adjust light beams for optimal coverage.
  • Consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED systems.
  • Draw up clear emergency exit routes for each section of the building.
  • Train all staff on emergency exit routes and lighting locations.

First to Final Bell: Make Safety a Priority Year-Round

Safety isn’t a one-time lesson. It’s an ongoing commitment. By staying proactive with regular fire safety inspections, safety training, and security system checks, school administrators can create a secure learning environment for all.

Ready to Start the School Year with Confidence?

As you prepare for the new school year, contact your local Silco Fire & Security office to schedule a comprehensive school safety assessment or inspection. We’re here to help you protect what matters most!

 

 

Fire Safety: Regular Inspections of Fire Alarms & Sprinklers

For fire safety, few systems are as essential as fire alarms and sprinklers. These two components often act as the first line of defense against the devastating effects of fire, but their reliability depends on one crucial factor: maintenance. 

Regular inspections ensure that these systems function as intended in the event of an emergency, saving lives, reducing property damage, and maintaining compliance with safety regulations. Let’s explore why regular inspections are so vital and what you should know to keep your fire safety systems in top condition.

1. Prevent System Failures

Fire alarms and sprinklers are respond instantly in the event of a fire, but without regular inspections, these systems can become faulty. Dust, dirt, electrical issues, corrosion, or even accidental damage can impair their functionality over time. Routine inspections help identify these problems early, so they can be fixed before they compromise safety.

Key Tip: Schedule annual inspections by a certified professional, and conduct monthly visual checks on your fire alarms and sprinklers to spot any obvious signs of damage or malfunction.

2. Ensure Compliance with Regulations

Building codes and fire safety regulations, such as those outlined by the NFPA, mandate regular inspections of fire safety equipment. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, penalties, or even legal action if a fire occurs and your systems were found to be inadequately maintained.

Key Tip: Make sure to keep records of all inspections, repairs, and maintenance to prove compliance during audits or inspections from local authorities.

3. Reduce False Alarms

A fire alarm system that is not properly maintained may start to issue false alarms, causing unnecessary panic or complacency among building occupants. Likewise, sprinkler systems can accidentally activate, resulting in water damage and costly repairs. Regular inspections help prevent these disruptive false alarms by ensuring the system is calibrated correctly.

Key Tip: Test your fire alarm and sprinkler system during inspections to confirm they’re functioning properly without triggering false alarms.

4. Increase Lifespan of Equipment

Just like any mechanical or electrical system, fire alarms and sprinklers have a finite lifespan. However, with regular inspections and timely maintenance, you can extend the life of this equipment. Addressing minor issues before they become major problems will reduce the likelihood of expensive replacements and prolong the effectiveness of your fire protection system.

Key Tip: Replace outdated parts or components promptly to avoid a system-wide failure. Older systems may require upgrades to comply with modern safety standards.

5. Protect Lives and Property

The most important reason to inspect fire alarms and sprinklers regularly is to protect lives and property. A properly functioning fire safety system can mean the difference between a minor fire event and a catastrophic disaster. Regular inspections ensure that your alarms will sound in time to alert occupants, and your sprinklers will activate to control the spread of fire.

Key Tip: Engage all building occupants in regular fire drills to ensure they know how to respond when fire alarms sound.

Final Thoughts

Fire alarm and sprinkler systems are essential to keeping your property and its occupants safe, but they are only as reliable as their maintenance schedule. By investing in regular inspections and adhering to safety regulations, you not only avoid potential legal issues but, more importantly, you help protect lives and property. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule your next fire safety inspection today and make sure your system is always ready to respond.