Fire Safety at Weddings: What Kent Venues Need to Know

Weddings are a celebration of joy, but for venue owners and event managers, they also come with important responsibilities — including fire safety. With kitchens, open flames, lighting, and large groups of people all in one place, venues must have robust fire protection measures in place.

At EK Fire Protection, we work with wedding venues across Kent to ensure that fire risks are managed professionally — and that you’re fully compliant with current regulations.

Here’s how your venue can be prepared.

1. Ensure Your Fire Alarm Systems Are Fully Compliant

Your first line of defence is a well-installed, well-maintained fire alarm system. Whether your venue is a country house, marquee site, or converted barn, you should:

●     Have a suitable fire alarm system installed (not just detectors — a full system designed for your premises).

●     Ensure regular servicing and maintenance by a qualified provider (as required by BS 5839).

●     Check that manual call points, detectors, and sounders are functional before each event

EK Fire Protection offers full fire alarm installation and servicing across Kent, ensuring your system is tailored to your venue’s needs.

2. Know Your Legal Duties as a Venue

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all non-domestic premises — including wedding venues — must carry out a fire risk assessment and put appropriate measures in place.

Key responsibilities include:

●     Keeping escape routes clear and accessible.

●     Providing fire extinguishers and emergency lighting.

●     Training staff on evacuation procedures.

●     Ensuring all fire safety equipment is regularly tested and maintained.

If you’re unsure whether your venue meets current standards, EK offers fire risk assessments across Kent and can recommend practical, cost-effective improvements.

3. Brief Event Staff and Suppliers

Your venue may be compliant, but temporary staff, caterers, or decorators may not be aware of fire safety procedures.

Before each event:

●     Brief staff on the fire alarm location and evacuation routes.

●     Ensure suppliers know where electrical sockets, kitchens and exits are — and avoid overloading circuits.

●     Assign a fire marshal or key contact who can coordinate in an emergency.

We can provide on-site fire safety briefings or bespoke training for venues hosting frequent or large-scale events.

4. Offer Peace of Mind to Your Clients

Brides and grooms may not think about fire safety, but knowing that your venue is well-prepared adds a layer of trust and professionalism. Mention in your client materials that:

●     Fire alarms are tested before every event.

●     Staff are trained in emergency procedures.

●     The venue meets current fire safety regulations.

Not only does this reassure clients — it could also set you apart from less-prepared competitors.

Need Expert Advice? We’re Here to Help

EK Fire Protection supports wedding venues and event spaces across Kent with:

●     Fire alarm installation and maintenance

●     Risk assessments and compliance checks

●     Emergency lighting, extinguishers and signage

●     Staff training and safety briefings

Whether you’re preparing for peak season or updating your systems, we’ll help you keep your guests safe — and your business fully protected.

Contact our team today to arrange a consultation or fire safety audit.