Keeping Your People and Property Safe on Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night, celebrated on November 5th, is a time of festivity across the UK, marked by bonfires and firework displays. However, these celebrations can pose significant fire risks, especially to commercial properties.

Here are some essential preparations to ensure your property remains safe during this period.
 

Securing Flammable Materials

One of the primary steps in safeguarding your property is to secure and make safe any flammable materials that are stored outside your premises. This includes:

• Storing Flammable Materials Safely: Ensure that all flammable materials, such as wooden pallets, cardboard, and chemicals, are stored in secure, fire-resistant containers or are moved indoors. This reduces the risk of these materials catching fire from stray fireworks or embers.
   
• Clearing the Perimeter: Remove any debris, dry leaves, or rubbish from around your property. These can act as fuel for fires and should be disposed of wherever possible.
   
• Using Fire-Resistant Covers: If you do have to store materials outside, you can use fire-resistant covers to protect them. This adds an extra layer of protection against stray sparks.
   

The risks facing businesses who store flammable materials outside their properties was illustrated by a fire that occurred at a recycling plant in Birmingham in 2013. It is believed that this fire was caused by a burning Chinese lantern landing on plastic materials waiting to be recycled.

Such incidents highlight the importance of proper storage and safety measures, and while it can be difficult for large-scale businesses to protect all combustible items on their premises, whatever measures that can be taken to limit the risk of an outbreak of fire should be taken.
 

Check Roofs and Gutters

Ensure that roofs and gutters are clear of leaves and other debris that could catch fire. Regular maintenance can prevent these areas from becoming fire hazards.
 

Secure Windows and Doors

Close and secure all windows and doors to prevent sparks from entering the building. Consider using fire-resistant shutters or screens for added protection.
 

Prepare Firefighting Equipment

Make sure that firefighting equipment is readily available and ensure that all staff know where this equipment is located and how to use it. This is even more important if your premises is manned 24/7 where staff will be onsite whilst nearby bonfires and firework displays may be happening.
 

Fire Detection and Fire Suppression Systems

Investing in robust fire detection and fire suppression systems is crucial for protecting your business, especially during high-risk times like Bonfire Night.

• Fire Detection Systems: These systems are designed to detect the earliest signs of fire, allowing for a swift response. Modern fire detection systems can include smoke detectors, heat detectors, and multi-sensor devices that incorporate carbon monoxide detection to even provide reliable early warning of a fire situation.
   
• Fire Suppression Systems: These systems are an invaluable as a means of controlling and extinguishing fires before they can cause significant damage. Options include sprinkler systems, gas suppression systems, and foam systems. Each type has its advantages depending on the nature of your business and the materials you handle. 
   

Additional Safety Measures

• CCTV Video Surveillance: Having a monitored CCTV system is a game-changer in making sure that your premises are kept safe, especially if the building is unmanned outside normal working hours. If a fire situation were to break out, the connected monitoring station would raise the alarm and take the appropriate action. This would be especially helpful were the fire to start outside your property. In this case, CCTV monitoring may raise the alarm before an automatic fire detection system installed inside the building.
  
  
• Conduct Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your fire detection and suppression systems to ensure they are in working order. This includes checking alarms, sensors, and ensuring that fire extinguishers are accessible and functional.
  
  
• Employee Training: Train your employees on fire safety protocols, including how to use fire extinguishers and what to do in case of a fire. Regular fire drills can help ensure everyone knows the evacuation routes and procedures.
  
  
• Liaise with Local Authorities: If you are unsure what measures to take, you can seek guidance from your local fire services, or alternatively your fire safety systems supplier can provide valuable insights on how to keep your property and your people safe.

   

By taking precautions such as these, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire and ensure that your commercial property remains safe during Bonfire Night. Remember, proactive measures and proper planning are key to preventing fire-related incidents.

If you need to talk to anyone about how to better protect your premises against the risk of fire, our fire detection and fire suppression experts are available to answer any of your questions.