Historic buildings are remarkably resilient—but when it comes to fire, even the strongest structures are vulnerable. Across Buffalo and beyond, we’ve seen how quickly a fire can threaten not just a building, but the history and identity tied to it. The reality is simple: fire prevention and preparedness are some of the most effective preservation tools we have.
Start with a Simple Question: Do You Have a Plan?
If a fire broke out in your building today, would you know what to do?
For many property owners, the answer is unclear. A basic fire response plan doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to exist. Staff, tenants, and occupants should know:
- Where exits are located
- How to safely evacuate
- Who to contact in an emergency
- Where fire suppression tools are located
Preparedness is about seconds—and seconds matter.
The Basics: Small Tools, Big Impact
Too often, we focus on large-scale solutions and overlook the simplest ones. Every historic building—whether occupied, partially vacant, or under renovation—should have:
- Working smoke detectors installed and regularly checked
- Fire extinguishers placed in accessible, visible locations
- Clear access points for emergency responders
Fire extinguishers, in particular, are one of the most effective first lines of defense. A small, contained fire can often be stopped before it becomes catastrophic—but only if the right tools are within reach.
Every office needs more than one.
A Close Call in Buffalo
Last year, the Guaranty Building came dangerously close to being lost due to a fire in an adjacent building. Thanks to the rapid response of Buffalo firefighters, the building was saved.
But the outcome could have been very different.
That moment serves as a reminder: even buildings that are well-maintained and occupied are at risk from external factors. Fire doesn’t respect property lines.
Prevention is Preservation
At Preservation Buffalo Niagara, we often talk about stabilization, rehabilitation, and reuse—but prevention is just as critical.
Simple, proactive steps can mean the difference between:
- A close call and a total loss
- A repair and a demolition
- A saved landmark and a vacant lot
Historic buildings cannot be replaced once they are gone. But many fires can be prevented—or contained—through preparation and awareness.
Take Action Today
We encourage all property owners, tenants, and building managers to take a few immediate steps:
- Check your smoke detectors
- Confirm you have accessible fire extinguishers (and know how to use them)
- Walk through your building and identify exits and risks
- Develop a basic emergency plan
These are small actions with enormous impact. Because in preservation, the goal isn’t just to save buildings after something goes wrong—it’s to make sure we never get there in the first place.