Summer Fire Safety for Small Businesses UK: Your Essential Checklist

Summer fire safety for small businesses should never be overlooked. With higher temperatures, reduced staff, and fluctuating business hours, fire risks often increase during the warmer months. 

Whether you’re operating at full capacity or planning some well-earned time off, now is the time to protect your people, premises, and peace of mind.

Fire Alarm Maintenance: A Must for Your Summer Fire Safety as a Small Business

A functioning fire alarm system is the cornerstone of summer fire safety for small businesses UK. Make sure your system:

• Is tested weekly and serviced in line with BS 5839 standards

• Covers all occupied areas with audible and visible alerts

• Is accessible, with no blocked manual call points

Don’t assume things are working just because no alarm has gone off—summer is the perfect time to double-check.

Sprinkler Systems and Summer Safety for Small Businesses

If your property has a sprinkler system, it must be regularly maintained to remain effective. 

For strong fire protection in summer, ensure:

• Control valves are open and tagged correctly

• Sprinkler heads are not obstructed by stock or fittings

• The system has had its annual inspection under BS EN 12845

If your business doesn't yet have a sprinkler system, summer downtime is a good opportunity for installation with minimal disruption.

Electrical Hazards

Small businesses often see a surge in electrical equipment usage during summer—think fans, portable air conditioning units, and cooking appliances.

To strengthen summer fire safety for small businesses UK, check:

• All electrical devices are PAT tested

• Sockets aren’t overloaded

• Extension leads are used correctly (never daisy-chained)

Escape Routes and Signage: Vital for Summer Fire Safety

Blocked exits and unclear signage can cost valuable seconds in an emergency. For safe and compliant summer fire safety in UK small businesses, ensure:

• Escape routes are kept completely clear

• Fire doors are closed (not propped open for air flow)

• Emergency lighting and signage are working and visible

Staff Holiday Cover and Fire Safety Responsibilities

Staff absences are common in summer, which can lead to fire safety gaps. Part of your summer fire safety planning should include:

• Designating a fire warden or responsible person if the usual lead is away

• Briefing all staff on fire safety procedures

• Updating your fire risk assessment to reflect summer operations

Protect Your Business with Concept Fire Sprinklers

At Concept Fire Sprinklers, we help ensure summer fire safety for small businesses UK with compliant sprinkler systems, expert maintenance, and trusted guidance. If your system needs servicing or you’re considering an upgrade, our team is ready to support you.