Category Archives: Fire News

Retrofit Fire Stopping: What Can Be Done After the Walls Are Up?

Fire saftey retrofit plans spread out on a table with a fire alarm sat on top

When it comes to fire protection, prevention is always better than cure. But what happens when the building is already finished, walls plastered, ceilings boarded, tenants moved in, and someone discovers that passive fire protection is missing or inadequate? This is where retrofit fire stopping comes in. Whether you’re dealing with a listed building, a […]

Do Fire Doors Need Third-Party Certification?

Fire exit sign with light on the path way in the hotel or office

Fire doors are one of the most critical components of any building’s fire safety strategy. They provide vital protection by containing fire and smoke, preserving escape routes, and giving the fire service time to respond. But simply installing a door with a “fire door” sticker isn’t enough. So, do fire doors need third-party certification? While […]

How to Spot Non-Compliant Fire Safety Products Online

Chemical is sprayed by fire extinguisher CO2 type to cover on valve of LPG gas tank to put out fire by trainee for fire fighting training , trainer is background.

In a world of next-day delivery and competitive pricing, it’s tempting to buy fire safety products online. But not all products marketed as “compliant” actually meet UK standards. In fact, the growth of online marketplaces has also made it easier for counterfeit and non-certified items to enter workplaces, rental properties, and even schools. If you’re […]

What Is Fire Load, and Why Should You Care?

Office engulfed in flames

When assessing fire risk in a building, most people think about alarms, extinguishers, or escape routes. But one of the most critical, and often overlooked, factors is fire load. If you’re responsible for fire safety in a building, whether as a business owner, landlord, or facilities manager, understanding fire load can make all the difference […]

Do You Have a PEEP in Place? (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans)

Person in wheelchair overlooking city skyline from office

In the event of a fire, getting everyone out of the building quickly and safely is the top priority. But what happens if someone on site has mobility issues, hearing or vision impairments, or another condition that makes standard evacuation procedures unworkable? That’s where Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans, or PEEPs, come in. These are legally important […]

Why Fire Safety Isn’t ‘One and Done’: The Case for Ongoing Maintenance

fire in the room smoke comes out of doors

It’s a common misconception: once your fire alarm system, extinguishers or emergency lighting are installed and signed off, you’re fully protected for years to come. But fire safety is not a “fit and forget” task. Buildings evolve, sometimes gradually, sometimes overnight. Offices get rearranged, staff numbers increase, storage piles up in new areas, and tenancies […]

How Fire Compartmentation Is Breached Without You Realising

People walk through the smoke-filled corridor of a public building to escape the fire

Fire compartmentation is one of the most effective ways to limit the spread of fire and smoke in a building. It’s a cornerstone of passive fire protection, designed to give occupants time to escape and emergency services time to respond. But it’s also vulnerable, especially when those working on your property don’t realise it’s there, […]

Do You Need Voice Alarm Systems? When Sounders Aren’t Enough

Firefighters Battling Large Fire

In many buildings, the shrill tone of a traditional fire alarm sounder is enough to prompt swift evacuation. But in certain settings, that noise alone might cause confusion, delay, or even panic. This is where Voice Alarm (VA) systems come in. Instead of just a siren, these systems broadcast clear, pre-recorded or live voice messages […]

Are Your Fire Escape Windows Compliant?

Burning window at night

When it comes to fire safety in dwellings, it’s not just alarms and extinguishers that matter. One often-overlooked feature, especially in older properties and loft conversions, is the fire escape window. Also known as egress windows, these are crucial for allowing occupants a safe alternative route out of a room when the main exit is […]

What Happens If You Use the Wrong Fire Extinguisher?

Red fire extinguisher in modern kitchen

When a fire breaks out, instinct might tell you to grab the nearest fire extinguisher and start spraying. But using the wrong type of extinguisher can quickly turn a manageable situation into a dangerous one. Fire extinguishers are colour-coded and classified for good reason; each is designed to deal with specific types of fires. In […]