Online fire safety supplies store

Small businesses, restaurants, landlords, property managers, contractors and maintenance firms, plus some homeowners.

Markup on products, with higher earnings from bundles (for example, a restaurant kitchen pack) and repeat orders from property managers and maintenance companies.

• Online selling and basic website setup
• Product knowledge of fire safety ratings and classes
• Organized with stock and shipping

• Check that products are UL-listed or otherwise approved and suitable for the claims you make
• Pressurized extinguishers can have shipping restrictions, so check carrier and DOT rules
• Some states or cities may regulate who can sell or service extinguishers, so check with your state fire marshal's office
• General liability and product liability insurance, since you are selling safety products
• Do not give fire code advice you are not qualified to give, and point customers to their local fire marshal

Startup costs are typically around $800 to $5,000, depending on how much stock you buy, whether you use drop-ship suppliers, and your website and insurance costs. These are estimates, so compare wholesaler pricing before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how well you reach small businesses, landlords and property managers. These are estimates, not guarantees.

Check that products are UL-listed or otherwise approved for your claims, and check carrier and DOT shipping rules for pressurized extinguishers. Also ask your state fire marshal's office who may sell or service extinguishers, and arrange general and product liability insurance.