Category Archives: Fire News

The Top 10 Intumescent Products for Fire Protection

Fireman extinguish fire with the hose

Fire safety is a crucial aspect of modern construction, and intumescent products play a vital role in passive fire protection. These specialised materials react to heat by expanding and forming an insulating char, slowing the spread of fire and helping to protect the structural integrity of buildings. From intumescent paints to fire-rated door seals, the […]

Do Fire-Retardant Products Last Forever? Understanding Their Lifespan and Maintenance Needs

Firefighter using water to put out a fire

Fire-retardant products play a crucial role in protecting buildings, materials, and people from the devastating effects of fire. Whether it’s fire-retardant paints, coatings, fabrics, or treatments for timber and other materials, these products help slow down the spread of fire, giving occupants valuable time to evacuate and reducing damage to property. However, a common misconception […]

The Lifecycle of Intumescent Paint: When and How to Reapply

Apartment building fire

Intumescent paint plays a critical role in modern fire protection, offering a passive solution that helps maintain the structural integrity of buildings during a fire. When exposed to high temperatures, this specially formulated paint expands to form an insulating char layer, slowing down the heat transfer to structural elements like steel, timber, or concrete. This […]

Fire Extinguisher Placement: Are You Storing Them Correctly?

A man practises how to use a fire-extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are a crucial part of any fire safety plan, providing a first line of defence against small fires before they escalate into major emergencies. However, having fire extinguishers on-site isn’t enough—they must be correctly placed and easily accessible to be effective. In the UK, there are specific guidelines and regulations that dictate where […]

Phasing Out of AFFF Foam Fire Extinguishers: What You Need to Know

Man carrying a clipboard inspecting a fire extinguisher

By 4th July 2025, the use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers will be completely banned in the UK. This significant regulatory change comes as part of the government’s efforts to address the growing environmental and health concerns linked to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—the chemicals found in AFFF. These substances, often called […]

Enhancing Safety: New Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) Policy

Norwegian firefighter trying to put out flames house on fire

On 2nd December 2024, the UK government released its response to the Emergency Evacuation Information Sharing Plus (EEIS+) consultation, introducing new requirements for Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs). These policies are designed to ensure that individuals who require assistance during emergencies, particularly in multi-occupancy residential buildings, have tailored evacuation plans in place. The changes […]

UK’s Transition to European Fire Testing Standards: What You Need to Know

Fireman inspector uses clipboard and conducts investigation to determine circumstances of fire in house.

In a significant move to enhance building safety and align with international best practices, the UK government has announced the withdrawal of the national fire testing standards (BS 476 series) in favour of the European standards (BS EN 13501 series). This transition will be implemented in stages, with the first major changes taking effect from […]

Sprinkler Systems Mandatory in New Care Homes from March 2025

Detail of young and old human hands holding each other.

In a landmark move to improve fire safety in care homes, the UK government has announced that all newly constructed care homes, regardless of height, must have sprinkler systems installed from 2nd March 2025. This change forms part of a broader review of fire safety regulations and aims to provide greater protection for vulnerable residents […]

What Happens If Your Business Fails a Fire Safety Inspection?

Fire and smoke blaze from apartment in a high building

Fire safety is a critical aspect of running a business, and regular fire safety inspections ensure that commercial properties meet the necessary legal requirements. However, failing a fire safety inspection can have serious consequences, from legal penalties to putting lives at risk. If your business doesn’t meet fire safety regulations, it’s essential to act quickly […]

Hollywood vs. Reality: What Movies Get Wrong About Fires

Huge fire blazing in commercial building and firefighter on a roof in winter condition.

Fire is one of the most dramatic and terrifying forces in nature, making it a perfect element for action films, thrillers, and disaster movies. Hollywood often portrays fire in a way that maximises excitement and suspense, but how much of what we see on screen is actually accurate? In reality, fires behave very differently from […]