Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Journey back in this video timeline to see what Brooks has done to meet the challenge of COVID-19 in our industry, from its very beginnings to present day.

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

This week, Robert talks about a very special video that we have for you—Crisis in Review. It’s an emotional look back for him that he wants to share with you. From early on when we worked to get classified as an essential business to FEDs sharing their own efforts for the good of the industry, he’s all about thriving and surviving. He also mentions the Brooks YouTube® Channel, where you’ll find informative videos like Crisis In Review, TechTalk, COVID-19 Updates, and more.

Thursday, November 12, 2020

On this episode of FireTech Talk, Robert Bell talks with Jeff Terrey of Rasky Partners, who works with the FEMA GRC on tracking and influencing legislation related to Fire and Life Safety equipment. They discuss a DOD building code that would remove portable extinguishers from DOD facilities. Learn how manufacturers, FEMA GRC, and Brooks have been working together to head this off.

Thursday, November 12, 2020

Robert introduces our latest FireTech Talk, where he interviews Jeff Terrey, Partner and Senior VP of Rasky Partners, who works with the FEMA GRC on tracking and influencing legislation related to Fire and Life Safety equipment. They talk about a Department of Defense plan for removing portable extinguishers from military bases. He also touches on the Brooks FAQ resource page as well as the Free PPP Loan Forgiveness Webinar. He wraps things up with this week’s Product Spotlight, featuring Kidde Worry-Free Smoke and CO Alarms.

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

Robert discusses this weeks Fire Drill topics, starting with our latest Tech Series covering Class K Extinguishers. He wraps things up with a new backflow product that Brooks is really excited about—the Watts 757 Double Check Valve Assembly.

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

Get the low-down on this week’s Fire Drill as Robert runs through our 4th quarter Hot Topics, helping to keep you current. He also touches on the Brooks SDS Resource that’s a must, if you deal with hazardous chemicals. And he’s really pumped about the Tess® BMTTS. It will save you tons of time—and make you money—testing e-lights, detectors, and a lot more!

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

Brandon Stephens walks you through how to access Safety Data Sheets to meet OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standards. This comprehensive Brooks Resource offers downloadable Safety Data Sheets—both by category and by individual product—including those that fall under California’s Proposition 65.

Thursday, October 22, 2020

This time around, Robert addresses PPP Loan Forgiveness, a very important video about a very important program that you’ll want to catch below. He’s also really excited about our Digital Catalog resource that you can access anytime, anywhere—Sean Kelly shows you how. Finally, Robert goes over our latest Product Spotlight, featuring more Space Age products—Low Voltage and Hybrid Fire Alarm Surge Protectors, which he knows you’re going to love.

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Brandon Stephens walks you through the process of applying for PPP Loan Forgiveness, reviewing the application itself along with key topics, payroll costs, eligible non-payroll costs, and the submission process. This detailed presentation is a must-see for all FED businesses!

Friday, October 16, 2020

Sean Kelly walks you through how to find and use our digital catalogs. A great resource that you can carry in your pocket, Brooks’ Digital Catalogs can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Sean shows you where to search and view any topic or, if you just want to browse the catalog, how to do it. He also points out the other digital media Brooks offers, like Hot Topics and other specialized publications.

Friday, October 16, 2020

Today, Robert gets pumped up about Diane Pein’s interview on our latest FireTech Talk where she offers some outstanding points about recruiting, hiring, and retraining personnel in the industry. He’s also excited about the latest Product Spotlight, featuring VESDA products and accessories.

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Brandon Stephens walks you through how to use and view the Space Age Resource page on the Brooks Equipment Website. This step-by-step tutorial will help you and your technicians navigate all things Space Age—from who they are to what they make.

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Today, Robert talks about our Tech Series covering Code Compliance and Safety at Construction Sites—a big topic these days because of all the temporary structures being utilized due to COVID. He also touches on our new Webinar: Space Age Electronics Resource Page “How To”, which shows you how to navigate this great resource. Finally, he introduces you to the latest Product Spotlight, featuring Space Age’s WES3 Wireless Notification devices and the specs and product details.

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Let Brandon Stephens walk you through how to find current and archived Hot Topics on the Brooks Equipment Website! Use this resource to access legislation and code updates as well as educational pieces for your team.

Friday, October 16, 2020

Today, Robert gets pumped up about Diane Pein’s interview on our latest FireTech Talk where she offers some outstanding points about recruiting, hiring, and retraining personnel in the industry. He’s also excited about the latest Product Spotlight, featuring VESDA products and accessories.

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Brandon Stephens walks you through how to use and view the Space Age Resource page on the Brooks Equipment Website. This step-by-step tutorial will help you and your technicians navigate all things Space Age—from who they are to what they make.

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Today, Robert talks about our Tech Series covering Code Compliance and Safety at Construction Sites—a big topic these days because of all the temporary structures being utilized due to COVID. He also touches on our new Webinar: Space Age Electronics Resource Page “How To”, which shows you how to navigate this great resource. Finally, he introduces you to the latest Product Spotlight, featuring Space Age’s WES3 Wireless Notification devices and the specs and product details.

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Let Brandon Stephens walk you through how to find current and archived Hot Topics on the Brooks Equipment Website! Use this resource to access legislation and code updates as well as educational pieces for your team.

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Diane Pein, President of Approved Fire Protection Company, discusses some of the biggest challenges our industry faces today and what goals to focus on. She also has some advice for women joining the industry as well as what tech trends to invest in.

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

In this weeks Fire Drill, Robert introduces a new Hot Topics edition available for you today, digitally! In this new Hot Topics, you will be able to click on resources, read about the Fire and Life Safety Industry resilience through the COVID-19 crisis, business reopening advice, and more!

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

In today's Fire Drill Robert invites us to read the Tech Series linked below that details NFPA's fire extinguisher standards for commercial kitchens that use cooking oil. He also reminds us that the Tech Series monthly articles are a great tool to keep in your training tool bag to use with your team. Lastly, Robert touches on the Brooks Pocket Price tool where you can receive up-to-date catalog pricing anywhere, from any device! Get more details on this tool below.

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

In today's Fire Drill, Robert discusses the importance of continuing your routine service checks on Fire Suppression Systems. With your customers visiting their buildings less, they are less likely to catch a potential fire hazard. This means we must make sure the Suppression System is ready to go when needed! Robert also lets us know about a new FireTech Talk with Stan Oman from JCI, that specifically discusses the benefits of a Dry Chemical system. Lastly, the Brooks Digital Catalog has arrived! Robert explains it's key benefits, and how it will make viewing or ordering products even easier!

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Stan Oman, Program Manager with Pre-Engineered Systems at Johnson Controls, sits down with Steve Mauro to discuss the benefits of a Dry Chemical system. Stan breaks down how much servicing these systems require, what applications are fitting for a Dry Chemical System, and more!

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Today, we bring you a FireTech Talk with Kyle Coleman from Reliable Fire. Kyle stresses the importance of training your customers on how to properly use a Fire Extinguisher. He discusses the benefits that this brings to your FED business as well as different resources to help you build your training program.

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Robert opens today’s Fire Drill with a reminder on a study conducted by FEMA on how easy (and important) it is to teach end-users the proper use of fire extinguishers. This study says that with minimal instruction, end-users can safely and properly operate a fire extinguisher. Click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5vOZ... to watch a previous FireTech Talk episode on this study. This previous FireTech Talk perfectly coincides with today’s FireTech Talk with Kyle Coleman. Robert also reminds us that properly training FED technicians and office staff is more convenient than ever with the FED Learning Center Virtual Training course offering. And, in true Robert fashion he reminds us to have fun in the sun and to Keep Pounding!

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Today, Brandon Stephens steps in to remind us to keep doing our part at containing the spread of COVID-19. He encourages us to speak with our customers about the safety precautions and guidelines your company and techs are following. Next, we are introduced to Michael Proos from Servant Fire! Watch his full video below. And last, but not least, we have Volume V of our Technician Slideshow for you! We hope you have been enjoying seeing familiar technician faces as much as we have!

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Volume V - The work never stops! Thank you to all the Fire and Life Safety professionals who have worked to maintain systems through this crisis. Here are some images our customers sent us of their techs out in the field.

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Michael Proos with Servant Fire discusses what he has been up to during the epidemic. He talks about how having to work outside of normal business hours has allowed their techs to not feel rushed and do an even more thorough job than before.

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Today, Robert gets us excited for the new Tech Series: Work Safely to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19. This is a piece you are used to seeing in its own separate email, but we are now including it in our weekly update for you all. Robert also gives us the PPP Loan deadline, and introduces the new Main Street Program from the federal reserve. He also lets us know that our sister company, the FED Learning Center, is now offering virtual classes with live instructors!

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

There is a new loan from the Federal Reserve called the Main Street Program and we gathered everything you need to know. Watch this webinar to get the details and determine if this loan is a good fit for you.

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

Check out our new Tech Series: Work Safely to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 by Mark Conroy! This Tech Series talks about steps you can take to stop the spread, as well as some other recommendations to stay safe. This is a great article to send to your techs or customers, and even hang in your building!

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Brandon gives us a quick update on the PPP Loan and how there is still $130 billion still available! He details the new loan updates, and with the application rush over, you can receive your money in days.

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Volume IV - The work never stops! Thank you to all the Fire and Life Safety professionals who have worked to maintain systems through this crisis. Here are some images our customers sent us of their techs out in the field.

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Brought to you by Brandon Stevens, we break down the changes to the PPP Loan you don't want to miss! Make sure you are up-to-date on all things PPP and watch this video.

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Listen to Dave Randolph from A.B Fire talk about successful strategies they have used for their customers during this time. He goes into detail on the importance of creating value for your brand, and how interest in our industry has grown since being named essential.

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Robert stresses the importance of learning the new PPP Loan updates that you can find in the video with Brandon Stephens below. He also shares some good news: many people in the industry are seeing increases in hiring because Fire and Life Safety is essential! Lastly, Robert thanks you for being our customer, and if there is anything more we can help with during this time to let us know at COVID19@BrooksEquipment.com.

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Let’s open up correctly! We are going over the NFPA checklist that is designed to help guide building owners and facility managers to ensure all their fire and life safety systems are protecting their occupants. Learn all about it in less than 6-minutes!

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

With 9-years of industry experience, Josh Borem, owner of Borem Fire talks about how he has diversified his business over the years. He goes into detail on how that diversification has helped soften the blow of COVID-19 and the processes that he has implemented to keep his employees safe and on the road. In closing, he offers advice to the next generation of the Fire and Life safety industry on how to be successful.

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Thought of the Day: Resilience. As the economy continues to change, Robert reminds us to stay strong and to never give up! In addition, he briefly highlights the other pieces of content in today’s email and how they can help your business.

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

We have a message from your account managers - you aren’t alone in what you are feeling. We ask them to all say a word that communicated the emotions they have felt during this time, here is what they had to say…

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Robert sits down (digitally) with Mike Ventola from Space Age Electronics to discuss how to bridge the gap back into a more normal way of life. The two specifically dive into how Fire and Life Safety systems are the "silent guardians" that continue to protect facilities, and buildings, even when we are at home during this time. Robert and Mike also discuss how FEDs can best work with local AHJs to ensure buildings are recognized as up to code, even with backlogs posing a large issue.

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Robert talks about the exciting developments in states entering stages 2 and 3 of the reopening plan. Also, he touches on his interview with Mike Ventola from Space Age on creative ways to work with your local AHJ. Thought for the day - Proud. Robert talks about how proud he is of both his team and the customers for hanging in there during this difficult time.

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Today, Steve interviews Jordan VanDelinder, owner of CleanerQ, located in Billings Montana. Started in 2015, CleanerQ started pressure washing trucks and expanded into hood cleaning and then fire protection. During this time, Jordan talks about how he has utilized corporate transparency in working with customers to best serve them. Outside of COVID-19, the two discuss industry education, the role of technology, and more!

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Volume III - The work never stops! Thank you to all the Fire and Life Safety professionals who have worked to maintain systems through this crisis. Here are some images our customers sent us of their techs out in the field. If you have any images of your tech's at work, and would like us to feature, please send them to MarketingSupport@BrooksEquipment.com

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

For today's update, Robert highlights some of the new content on the COVID-19 landing page, like the PPP Loan Forgiveness application. He also talks about our current search for new and upcoming industry leaders to interview on how this situation has affected you. Interested?Shoot an email to Brooks Equipment.

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Loan Forgiveness – a topic equally as critical as applying for the Paycheck Protection Program Loan you received. No need to worry, we are here to help. Brandon breaks down everything you need to know for the Loan Forgiveness Process, helping you better understand what actions you need to take to ensure your PPP loan is forgiven.

For more information about the PPP Click Here.

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Today, our Director of Marketing, Sean Kelly, sits down with Steve Mauro to deconstruct the COVID-19 pandemic. With over 40-years in the industry, and as a former FED owner, Steve discusses the strategy he would use to navigate the market, and how crucial communication is right now.

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Thought for the day: Moving forward. Slowly but surely, Robert talks about how the market is starting to come back on for business. He touches on today’s other video updates and closes with a thought of encouragement. For more information head to our COVID-19 resources page: https://www.brooksequipment.com/covid19/

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

At Brooks, we have implemented strict warehouse protocols to ensure the safety of our employees, and you, our customer. We are determined to keep business moving in a safe and responsible way to ensure the stability of your business during this time.

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Today, Steve sits down with John Vollrath, owner of Fire Ace, located in Southern California. Having been in the business for over 30 years, John talks about the business strategies he is using during these uncertain times.

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Robert unveils survey statistics regarding the PPP Loan in the FED market. The Positive thought for the day - say thank you. While we have all been negatively impacted, take the time today to thank someone in your life, like an essential worker or someone who has assisted you during this time.

Thursday, April 30, 2020

The work never stops! Thank you to all the Fire and Life Safety professionals who have worked to maintain systems through this crisis. Here are some images our customers sent us of their techs out in the field. ​

Thursday, April 30, 2020

There is no time like the present to innovate and transform the way your company works. In today’s update, Robert talks about how to utilize a checklist we developed to help spark ideas on ways to assist your clients as things start to reopen. While no-one knows what the future holds, we can all focus on improving ourselves and our businesses during this time Head to our COVID-19 resource page to learn more about how to navigate this difficult time successfully: https://www.brooksequipment.com/covid19/

Thursday, April 28, 2020

This week Brandon Stephens joins us again in a short webinar to take a deep dive on the new Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care act. This second round of funding is designed to assist your business through this public crisis! He helps walk you through the specific documents you will need along with a few other details.

For more information about the PPP Click Here.

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Keep adapting! With some states beginning to reopen, Robert talks about what you can do to help your customers transition back to being open for business. He also touches on the fact times are changing, but that doesn’t have to be a negative thing for your business!

Thursday, April 23, 2020

CEO of BHC, Eric Smith, interviews a proprietor of one of the hardest-hit areas so far - the restaurant industry. This restauranteur also happens to be his younger brother, Brad Smith. Listen to the two talk about how COVID-19 has hit the restaurant industry, and how he is moving forward. ​

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Show me the Money! In today’s video, Robert talks about the new round of federal funding. Applied to a Federal program and haven’t received your payment yet? You are in a good spot. Thinking about applying? Do not wait. Hang in there tough! You matter.

Friday, April 17, 2020

Brooks Director of Sales, Steve Mauro, interviews Mace Bourgeois, owner of Fire Safety Commodities located in Louisiana. Mace talks about how they are looking inwardly to help pull their community together. He goes on to talk about how they have successfully navigated the SBA loans and how they are adapting to keep working.

To view information about Federal Financial Aid Click Here

Friday, April 17, 2020

General Manager, Robert Bell, interviews James Mongeau, from Space Age Electronics. In the interview, they discuss how Fire and Life Safety professionals can incorporate new services that their customers need during this time. James also touches on how they put extra measures into place to protect their workforce and gives tips on how you can protect yours!

To view our Space Age Electronics resource page Click Here

To view available sizes and combinations of our custom engraved signs Click Here

Friday, April 17, 2020

Let’s all Keep Pounding! The mantra of the Carolina Panthers is a good battle cry for us all as we close out this week. Robert gives an update on the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program and measures you can still take. It’s important to take a moment and remind yourself that better days are ahead. So, let’s Keep Pounding!

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

The work never stops! Thank you to all the Fire and Life Safety professionals who have worked to maintain systems through this crisis. Here are some images our customers sent us of their techs out in the field.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

In today’s update, Robert Bell talks about how to continue to utilize the Brooks COVID-19 page to learn facts about the latest updates in programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program and other small business loans. He also briefly touches on Brooks Will-Call being open again, and how we all need to pay it forward!

Friday, April 10, 2020

Our Sales Development Manager, Brandon Stephens, gives a detailed breakdown of the Paycheck Protection Program. In this webinar, Brandon helps simplify all the aspects of the program and makes it easy for you to see how it can best benefit your small business.

For more information about the PPP Click Here.

Friday, April 10, 2020

Steve Mauro interviews Joseph Cervantes, Western Region Business Development Manager, about some of the notification devices Space Age works on and how FEDs can pivot during this time to focus on temporary sites that require products like the WES3 system.

Friday, April 10, 2020

Robert Bell talks about some of the latest content on the Brooks Resource Page! Aside from business, Robert talks about faith's counterpart, fear, and how to stay positive during these trying times.

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Watch and learn how Mel Folbrecht, Owner of Fire Equipment Services in Fort Pierce Florida, is responding to the COVID-19 crisis

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

We are back with Robert Bell for Bright Spot Wednesday! Watch this video to hear about our Will-Call counters re-opening, new and important updates to our COVID-19 page, and the thought for today: Grateful.

Friday, April 3, 2020

In today’s video, Robert talks about the Paycheck Protection Program. This program, provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides loans for small businesses that were in business before February 15, 2020 and have fewer than 500 employees.

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Bethany Bassett, from Rasky Partners, talks all things legislative! From her work in helping reverse the recent Department of Defense rollback of fire extinguishers (on military bases), to how businesses will be able to take advantage of COVID-19-related stimulus packages.

FEMA Tracks Legislation - Summaries and Links to COVID-19 Legislation Click Here

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Brooks General Manager, Robert Bell, offers words of encouragement and how professionals in the Fire & Life Safety industry can navigate the current market.

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Jeff Terrey talks about working with Fire Equipment Manufactures’ Association’s Government Relations Committee to ensure Fire extinguishers are protected in national and state fire codes. Specific to the COVID-19 situation, they have been working to ensure the supply chain for fire safety equipment is deemed as essential tools and services during this time with the Department of Homeland Security.

Department of Homeland Security guidance memorandum dated March 28, 2020 Click Here.

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Brooks General Manager, Robert Bell, offers words of encouragement and how professionals in the Fire & Life Safety industry can navigate the current market.

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Brooks Equipment Attorney, Johnathan Crotty, talks about some of the key provisions of the 2 trillion dollar CARES Act (Coronoavirus Aid, Relief & Economic Security), and how it specifically helps FEDs and small businesses.

CARES Act Small Business Implications Click Here

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Brooks General Manager, Robert Bell, offers words of encouragement and how professionals in the Fire & Life Safety industry can navigate the current market.

Monday, March 30, 2020

Brooks General Manager, Robert Bell, offers words of encouragement and how professionals in the Fire & Life Safety industry can navigate the current market.

Friday, March 27, 2020

BHC CEO, Eric Smith, talks with Jeff Terrey from Rasky Partners about the ongoing battle to make Distributors and technicians in the Fire and Life Safety industry classified as essential business.

FEMA Urges State Fire Marshals to Advocate for the Inclusion of Fire and Life Safety Companies as Essential Businesses Click Here

Friday, March 27, 2020

Jonathan Crotty, long-time legal counsel for Brooks Equipment discusses how to best navigate dealing with employees who are sick or potentially have been exposed to COVID-19.

Key Employment Provisions in Families First Coronavirus Response Act Click Here

Monday, March 23, 2020

BHC CEO, Eric Smith, talks with Mark Conroy, Melinda Wanke and Robert Bell

To read Brooks Equipment's opinion on the Essential nature of the Fire and Life Safety Industry Click Here