Release date: 4 February 2026
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging hospitality venues to review their fire safety arrangements following a series of serious fires in similar settings internationally.
Fatal fires in Switzerland (2026) and Madrid (2023) highlighted how quickly fires in hospitality venues can escalate and the devasting impact they can have.
The fire in Madrid where two people lost their lives started during a flambé demonstration at a customer’s table which spread rapidly to artificial foliage adorning the ceiling and walls.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has released updated guidance for owners and managers of hospitality venues to help prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety of customers and staff.
Responsibility for fire safety rests with the Responsible Person – usually the employer or licence holder of the premises. The guidance reminds Responsible Persons of their duty to:
- Undertake a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment, reviewing it regularly or when changes are made to décor, layout, or building use.
- Manage ignition sources such as flambé equipment, candles, blow torches, and indoor fireworks responsibly.
- Ensure decorative materials such as seasonal decorations, floral arrangements, sound proofing materials, fabric wall coverings, panelling and façades meet appropriate fire resistance standards.
- Provide adequate staff training, covering emergency procedures, evacuation, firefighting equipment and general fire safety.
- Maintain appropriate fire detection and alarm systems, tested and serviced to recognised standards.
- Ensure emergency routes, exits, signage and lighting are unobstructed and maintained correctly.
- Inspect and maintain fire doors and firefighting equipment regularly.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Head of Protection Dave Bray said: “Recent incidents overseas are a stark reminder of how quickly fire can spread in a busy hospitality setting, especially where ignition sources and decorative materials are present.
“We urge all hospitality business owners and managers to take this opportunity to review their fire safety measures and ensure their staff are fully trained and prepared.
“Staff should take extra caution when handling sparklers, candles, blow torches or other ignition sources which can significantly increase the risk of fire. Venues that use indoor fireworks or ice fountains should be aware of the rules on storing explosives and ensure they have the appropriate licence. It is also imperative that any of these sources of ignition are not used in the vicinity of combustible wall or ceiling linings or decorations that could rapidly escalate and spread a fire.
“I would encourage hospitality businesses in West Sussex to please reach out to us for guidance if you are unsure of your responsibilities by emailing firesafety@westsussex.gov.uk.”
Fire crews will also be visiting hospitality venues across the county and conducting fire safety checks over the coming weeks and months to ensure the safety of customers and staff.
