Bar and nightclub fire safety advice

In light of the extremely tragic recent event in Switzerland club fire where at least 40 people have been killed and 119 injured (statistics accurate at the time of posting 23.02.26), Avon Fire and Rescue Service has launched a proactive engagement project to identify similar risks within our unitary areas. 

Our goal is to work closely with businesses – specifically basement bars and clubs – to raise fire safety awareness, provide education on risk reduction, and ensure standards are met. We will do all we can to prevent a similar situation happening here.  

You can read more about the Switzerland fire here: ‘We just want to find him’: Families of missing and injured describe agonising wait after Swiss bar fire – BBC News  

Do you own a club or bar? Here’s some things to consider in your venue to keep everybody safe: 

Escape routes

• Ensure all exit doors are unlocked when the building is occupied and that they are not blocked internally and externally by furniture, storage, rubbish, or vehicles parked outside the building. 

• Ensure that escape routes have sufficient emergency lighting installed to light the way out in the event of a power failure to the main lighting for the building. 

Capacity

• Ensure that all management and door staff are aware of capacities and are vigilant with counting people in and out of the premises. 

• Remember that capacity for building and specific rooms within a building include employees 

Furniture 

• Ensure that all furniture within the premises is fire retardant. Check the label to make sure that the furniture complies with BS 5852 and has been subject to Crib 5 testing. 

Wall/Ceiling Linings 

• Ensure all wall/ceiling coverings such as fake plants, fabrics, tapestries, drapes etc. are fire retardant. They should meet either BS 476 Class 1 rating or European Standard BS EN 13501-1 Class C-s3, d2 rating. Circulation spaces or areas critical to evacuation may require higher classification materials 

Use of Pyrotechnics and Sparklers 

• Pyrotechnics and sparklers should be operated by competent professionals. 

• Usage should be approved by the venue and included within the Fire Risk Assessment for the premises 

• Adequate separation distances and non-combustible surroundings should be guaranteed 

• Consider safer visual alternatives 

If you need any further advice or information, please reach out to our Business Fire Safety Team Contact the business safety team – Avon Fire and Rescue Service 

*40 people have been killed and 119 injured – Statistics from BBC – What images and videos tell us about why Swiss bar fire spread so quickly – BBC News‘