Franklin Tower was designed in accordance with the District of Columbia’s Building and Fire Department codes at the time of construction. Smoke detectors, speakers, and strobes are located throughout the building in accordance with current building codes.
- The central fire alarm system is activated whenever a fire alarm condition exists. The Engineering staff is trained on the system and will take the proper action for such emergencies.
- The building has a public address system.
- Manual fire alarm pull stations are located throughout the building, generally near exits from an area or floor.
- Fire extinguishers are located in cabinets next to the stairwell doors and strategically throughout tenant spaces. Please arrange for training of your staff on the proper use of fire extinguishers. Individuals who have not been trained how to use a fire extinguisher should not attempt to use one. The Fire Department and properly authorized fire extinguisher companies can assist you with training. Property Management can assist you in arranging for training.
- In the event of a power outage, an emergency generator will power the elevators and emergency lighting, and enough illumination will be provided to guide you out of the building. Emergency power to the elevators is limited to one elevator at a time being automatically turned on, brought to the lobby, and then turned off. This is a safety system designed to free passengers trapped in the elevators at the time of the power outage.
- A telephone is present inside each elevator that directly rings to Kastle Systems. Persons trapped in an elevator can get assistance through this means of communication. In addition, a trapped occupant during business hours can push a button labeled, “EMERGENCY ALARM”. An alarm bell can be heard to alert building occupants that someone is trapped inside.
- Stairwells are pressurized with outside air to prevent smoke from entering and allowing a safe, smoke free, exit from the building.
- Elevator shafts are also pressurized with outside air in case someone is unknowingly trapped in an elevator during a fire emergency.