Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) is stepping up efforts to keep people safe in entertainment and event venues with a new programme of proactive fire safety checks and support for businesses across the county.
The initiative comes as the world reflects on the devastating fire at a Swiss nightclub on New Year’s Eve, which claimed the lives of several young people. While investigations continue, early reports suggest indoor pyrotechnics and flammable materials may have contributed to the tragedy.
For Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, this serves as a sombre reminder of how quickly celebrations can turn to disaster when fire safety is compromised.
John Pratt, NFRS Protection Team Leader, said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the unimaginable loss at Le Constellation bar in Switzerland. It reinforces why our work here in Northamptonshire is so important.
“We’ve had a lot of enquiries from businesses regarding fire safety, and we’re determined to do everything possible to prevent such an incident from happening in our communities. That means working with businesses, offering practical support, and making sure venues are safe for everyone.”
In the coming months, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s crews will be available to carry out out-of-hours visits to licensed premises to support with safety, checking safety measures such as escape routes, understanding occupancy limits, and maintaining fire safety systems.
These visits will also provide venue managers with free training packages for staff and practical advice on reducing risks, including guidance on the safe use of pyrotechnics and ensuring décor is fire-retardant. The initiative is designed to complement more detailed inspections by Fire Protection Officers and will cover a wide range of venues, from nightclubs and pubs to village halls and schools.
The fire service is also urging all venue owners and managers to take immediate steps to protect lives.
- Review fire risk assessments and ensure it is up to date.
- Keep all escape routes and exits clear of obstructions.
- Avoid indoor sparklers and other forms of pyrotechnics, which can ignite flammable materials.
- Check that wall and ceiling linings are fire-retardant and avoid using highly flammable décor.
Every premises, other than a private home, is legally required to have a fire risk assessment, and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service provides guidance and tools, including an occupancy calculator, to help businesses comply.
Members of the public also have an important role to play by staying alert when visiting venues. They should take a moment to identify the nearest exits and escape routes, and if they notice blocked routes or unsafe pyrotechnics, they should report it to venue management. If concerns remain, they can contact Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Fire Protection team.
John Pratt added: “We want everyone to enjoy Northamptonshire’s entertainment venues and spaces safely. By working together with businesses and the public, and by offering practical support and training, we can protect our communities, reduce risks and prevent tragedies.”
For more information or to request a visit from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service crews, email fireprotection@northantsfire.gov.uk, visit www.northantsfire.gov.uk or call 01604 797000 and ask for Fire Protection.
