Fire Prevention

According to a report by FEMA put out in June 2004, Nightclub Fires in 2000, FEMA reports the following:

• Among all structure fires, nightclub fires in the United States are proportionately few in number (0.3%). However, maximum or over-capacity crowds at popular nightclubs create the potential for high numbers of casualties in the event of a fire

• Local jurisdictions that do not routinely inspect nightclubs or are lax in enforcing existing safety regulations

• A common safety violation at nightclubs is locked or blocked exits

• The most common causes of fire at nightclubs and bars are incendiary, electrical, cooking, and smoking

So we've read about fires at nightclubs, so we know that they can occur. We've read some statistics about some common causes and code violations. Now, how do we protect ourselves? I'm going to put out a few suggestions for club or bar safety. Feel free to comment and leave your ideas or suggestions below.....

TIP 1 : Know your surroundings.  Not only for safety reasons, but for the sake of fire as well. If a club or bar doesn't feel right, or has visible overloaded extension cords, or too much decorations near electrical appliances or outlets, then this probably isn't the safest place to be.

TIP 2 : Know your exit route.  Take a look around, look for EXIT signs, make sure they aren't blocked. Keep these in mind in case there is a need to leave quickly.

TIP 3 : Have a plan.  This doesn't mean performing an emergency drill while out having fun, but it does mean be prepared and have a cell phone readily available with emergency contacts, and let your friends and family know where you will be for the night.

It is also the responsibility of the night club owners to make sure patrons are safe. A Fairfax, Virginia Fire Prevention Code 110.2 states, " the owner shall be responsible for the safe and proper maintenance of any structure, premises, or lot. In all structures, the fire protection equipment, means of egress, alarms, devices, and safeguards shall be maintained in a safe and proper operating condition as required by the SFPC and applicable standards".

Make sure the environment you are in looks like the owners have kept conditions up to proper standards. Here is a short sample clip of employees being trained for fire safety at a nightclub :