5 November 2025
As the UK lights up for Bonfire Night, the celebration brings excitement, but also an increased level of risk for commercial properties. Whether you’re hosting a fireworks event at your venue, operating near a public display, or simply managing business as usual in a busy area, fire safety must be a priority.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) consistently reports a rise in fire related incidents during this period. From stray embers and unattended fireworks to overcrowding and improper waste disposal, the combination of festivities and fire introduces unique challenges for business owners and facility managers.
Bonfire Night is one of the busiest evenings of the year for emergency services, and a crucial test of your organisation’s fire safety and risk management measures.
Our Bonfire Night Safety Checklist
To help you safeguard your premises and people, we have outlined key actions to take:
- Review Perimeter and External Areas: Conduct a full external inspection of your site, particularly if you’re near a public event or open space. Remove any flammable materials such as cardboard, packaging, dry vegetation, or waste bins from building perimeters, loading bays, and around vents or ducts.
- Confirm Your Responsible Person: Ensure a competent ‘responsible person’ is clearly assigned and briefed on all fire safety procedures, including emergency communication and evacuation.
- Check Fire Alarm Integrity: Verify that your fire alarm panel and detection systems are fully operational and recently tested. A system fault or delayed response during peak activity could be costly and dangerous.
- Maintain Clear Escape Routes: Large crowds and outdoor gatherings can block exits or obstruct pathways. Double check that all escape routes, exits, and assembly points remain unobstructed and well lit throughout the evening.
- Respect Safe Distances: If you’re operating near bonfires or fireworks, maintain generous separation from buildings, fences, trees, and power lines. Heat output and flying debris can reach further than expected.
Safety First — Tonight and Every Night
The precautions you take for Bonfire Night reinforce the foundation of your year round fire safety and compliance strategy.
Our accredited team helps businesses across the UK stay compliant, confident, and operational, not just on November 5th, but every day of the year.
From all of us at Global Fire & Security, we wish you a bright, safe, and memorable Guy Fawkes Night.