As we approach the festive season, businesses are busy preparing for increased foot traffic, special displays, seasonal stock, and decorations. While this is a great opportunity to engage with customers and boost sales, it’s also a critical time to reinforce fire safety measures. The Fire Services Business Engagement Team urges all business owners and managers to review their fire safety protocols to ensure the safety of staff, customers, and premises.
Seasonal Considerations: Stock, Displays & Decorations
The festive season brings unique challenges:
- Increased Stock Levels: With higher volumes of merchandise, especially flammable items such as packaging, textiles, and plastics, it’s vital to manage storage safely. Avoid blocking fire exits, fire extinguishers, or access routes with stock.
- Decorations: Christmas trees, string lights, and other decorative items can pose significant fire risks, especially when placed near heat sources or overloaded electrical outlets. Always use certified electrical decorations and switch them off when unattended.
- Themed Displays: Ensure that festive displays, especially those made from cardboard or fabric, are kept well away from heaters or other ignition sources. Never obstruct fire safety signage or emergency lighting with decorative items.
Clear and Safe Exits
One of the most common issues we encounter during festive inspections is obstructed or locked fire exits. With crowded retail floors and festive stock overflow, it’s easy for escape routes to become blocked, putting lives at risk.
- Ensure all fire exits remain clear, unlocked, and easy to open at all times during trading hours.
- Clearly signpost all escape routes, and check that emergency lighting is fully operational.
- Conduct regular checks throughout the day to keep exits unobstructed—especially if your layout changes to accommodate seasonal displays.
Electrical Safety
Many fires in commercial settings begin with faulty or overloaded electrical systems—something that becomes more likely with festive lighting and additional equipment.
- Avoid daisy-chaining extension leads.
- Use PAT-tested equipment and certified lights only.
- Inspect cables for signs of wear, damage, or overheating.
Staff Awareness and Fire Drills
Seasonal staff may not be as familiar with your fire safety protocols. Take the time to:
- Train all staff (temporary and permanent) on fire procedures, evacuation routes, and the location of fire-fighting equipment.
- Display your fire action plan prominently in staff areas.
- If you haven’t recently conducted a fire drill, now is the time to do so.
Fire Risk Assessments
Every business is required by law to carry out a fire risk assessment—and it should be reviewed whenever there are significant changes, such as increased stock or altered floor plans. Make sure:
- Your fire risk assessment is up to date.
- You have appropriate fire-fighting equipment for your business type and size.
- You’re keeping records of checks and maintenance on alarms, extinguishers, and emergency systems.
In Summary
The festive season brings excitement and opportunity—but also increased fire risk. Taking simple, proactive steps now can prevent devastating consequences later. Remember:
- Keep exits and escape routes clear
- Don’t overload sockets or electrical circuits
- Use flame-retardant decorations and safe lighting
- Train all staff on fire safety procedures
- Review and update your fire risk assessment
If you need advice or support with fire safety planning, the Fire Services Business Engagement Team is here to help. Let’s keep this festive season safe for all.
Contact us for free guidance or to schedule a visit from your local fire safety team.