Category Archives: Fire News

How to Store and Maintain Fire Extinguishers in Cold or Damp Conditions

Fire extinguisher in Fire extinguisher cover for Risk area with Sunshine.

Fire extinguishers are a vital part of your fire safety strategy, but if they’re stored in cold, damp, or exposed environments, their reliability can suffer. From construction sites and barns to unheated warehouses and historic properties, many UK premises face seasonal and environmental challenges that standard fire extinguisher guidance doesn’t always address. In this blog, […]

Why Your Fire Alarm System May No Longer Be Compliant

Smoke detector and interlinked fire alarm in action background

If your building’s fire alarm system was installed to meet regulations at the time, it’s easy to assume it will always remain compliant. But fire safety isn’t static. As buildings evolve and people come and go, your fire detection and warning system must evolve too. A fire alarm system that was compliant five, or even […]

The Fire Safety Implications of Modern Construction Materials

Old half-timbered house under renovation. Scaffolding surrounds building.

Modern construction is evolving at speed. From modular buildings to timber-framed homes and composite panels, the drive for quicker builds, sustainability, and energy efficiency is changing not just how we build, but how we manage fire safety. While many of these materials offer clear advantages, they also introduce new fire risks that must be carefully […]

Do You Need Fire Protection for Solar Panels and Battery Storage?

Solar panel on a red roof

As the UK accelerates its shift to greener energy, solar panels and battery storage systems are becoming increasingly common, not just in large-scale solar farms, but also on homes, offices, warehouses, and commercial buildings. While these systems are generally safe when properly installed and maintained, they do introduce new fire risks that property owners, facilities […]

How to Conduct a Fire Safety Walkthrough (And What You’ll Usually Miss)

Modern hallway with stairs and metal railings in a bright building, featuring geometric lines and a long corridor leading to multiple doors.

Fire safety isn’t just about formal inspections and official risk assessments. While those are critical and legally required, some of the most preventable fire hazards are often caught by people already on-site, such as building managers, caretakers, or site supervisors. That’s where the informal fire safety walkthrough comes in. It’s a simple, visual check of […]

Fire Alarm Grades Explained: What’s Right for Your Building?

Fire alarm on the wall of shopping mall warning and security system

Understanding BS 5839-6 and Choosing the Right System for Your Property Choosing the correct fire alarm system isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s about protecting lives and ensuring your building meets its legal obligations under UK fire safety legislation. But if you’ve ever looked at the British Standard for fire detection systems, you may have […]

Maintaining Fire Safety in Mixed-Use Buildings (Shops with Flats Above)

firefighters silhouettes on fire background

Understanding Responsibilities and Reducing Risk in Combined Residential and Commercial Properties Mixed-use buildings—such as high street shops with flats above—are a common feature across the UK. While convenient and space-efficient, these buildings can pose significant fire safety challenges due to the combination of commercial and residential activities under one roof. If you own, manage or […]

Fire Safety Compliance for Airbnb’s and Short-Term Lets

smoke detector fire alarm detector home safety device setup at home hotel room ceiling

What You Need to Know as a Holiday Rental Host in the UK Whether you rent out a spare room or manage several short-term holiday properties, as an Airbnb or short-let host in the UK, you’re legally responsible for the safety of your guests—including when it comes to fire protection. Fire safety laws apply even […]

Intumescent Coating Thickness: Why It Matters and How It’s Measured

firefighters wearing fire fighter suit for safety and using twirl water extinguisher for fighting the fire flame in emergency situation

Understanding Dry Film Thickness (DFT) in Passive Fire Protection When applied correctly, intumescent coatings provide vital protection to structural steel and other materials during a fire. These coatings expand when exposed to high heat, forming a char that insulates the substrate and helps delay collapse. However, the effectiveness of an intumescent coating depends heavily on […]

Tenant Fire Safety: What Landlords Are Required to Tell Residents

Close-up of firefighter extinguishing fire in building

Your Responsibilities Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 If you’re a landlord or managing agent of a residential building in England, you have a legal duty to ensure your tenants are aware of fire safety arrangements in their building. The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which came into effect on 23 January 2023, introduced […]