Following the reopening of nightclub venues without Covid restrictions at the start of August, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is reminding licenced premises owners and proprietors to ensure that their fire safety provisions are in order and that occupancy numbers are kept to a safe level.

Bob Mason, Head of Business Fire Safety for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “After the long shutdown it is understandable that pubs and nightclubs in North Wales are looking forward to welcoming back customers following the lifting of Covid restrictions.

“With the increased number of seasonal visitors to the area and the lifting of Covid restrictions, it is very likely that licensed premises in the region will be exceptionally busy over the coming weeks. 

“With this in mind, it must be ensured that your fire safety provisions are in full working order for the safety of your customers and staff. It is of paramount importance that occupants can be alerted to a fire and are able to quickly and safely escape from the premises in an emergency.

“It is a legal requirement for licenced premises to have a recorded fire risk assessment. It is important that you review and update your Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) to account for any changes made to the premises, to identify if your existing general fire precautions remain adequate and where deemed necessary, implement additional control measures to ensure occupants are kept safe in the event of a fire.

“Your fire risk assessment will also determine the maximum occupancy figure for the premises - the maximum number of people that can be safely accommodated. This figure is based on the number and size of available exits and floor space factors. The maximum occupancy figure must never be exceeded.”

Further Business Fire Safety information is available via the North Wales Fire & Rescue Service website: www.northwalesfire.gov.wales/keeping-you-safe/at-your-business/.

Or further advice contact your local Business Fire Safety team for Conwy at Colwyn Bay Fire Station, Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay. LL29 8AB. Email: ConwyOffice@nwales-fireservice.org.uk or telephone 01745 355 450.