No matter the size of the event or where it is located, there is always the risk of a fire breaking out. When you’re in charge of planning a special activity, it’s your responsibility to make sure attendees, the home, and surrounding areas are adequately protected in the event of a fire emergency.
Event fire safety is something that can be provided by a professional fire safety company. There are groups that provide fire extinguishers, vehicles, labor and more so you can put emergency fire detail in your hands while you focus on what you need to successfully entertain your guests.
Guidelines for fire safety at events will vary slightly depending on where your activity is taking place. Indoor activities will require different implements and actions than outdoor events. However, by being properly prepared and following the listed strategies, it can make all the difference in saving your event from catastrophe.
For the safety of both indoor and outdoor fire events, you should put someone in charge of notifying emergency response teams in case something happens. Chances are, if the problem is big enough, everyone with a cell phone will call for help. However, you should designate one of your own team members to take on that role just to be safe.
Indoor locations are most likely equipped with some type of alarm system. Assign one person the task of activating these warning devices in the event of a fire. They will have to activate the alarms and also supervise a safe and effective evacuation of the building. It is common for guests to panic if a fire occurs. The assigned person should work to keep everyone as calm as possible.
When planning an indoor event, there are two main things to keep in mind when sending out invites and setting up the venue. All buildings will have maximum occupancy. You must ensure that no more people are inside the building than can be safely evacuated. Too many people make a quick exit impossible when necessary.
You also need to make sure you don’t block any of the exits. When setting up tables, accessories and other items for the activity, you may think that a place in front of the door will be the perfect place. The reality is, when it comes to fire safety at events, this is the worst place. People have to be able to get out without jumping over obstacles.
Outdoor events will be a bit easier because the chances of people getting stuck are greatly reduced. However, fires are still possible, so you need to be prepared. Install fire extinguishers in places that are easy to see and access. If your event has food vendors or areas where there are open flames, make this a focal point for most fire extinguishers.
Next, consider bringing a fire safety vehicle. There are companies that specialize in event fire safety and have trucks, four-wheelers, and other vehicles that can help access and put out fires. If you don’t want to hire a professional firm due to budget or cost constraints, ask around and see what people you know have available to use.
As long as you’re properly prepared, you should be able to host your event indoors or outdoors with fire concerns on your mind.