West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging hospitality venues across the county to review their fire safety arrangements following a series of serious and fatal fires in similar settings overseas.
Recent incidents in Switzerland in 2026 and Madrid in 2023 have highlighted how quickly fires can escalate in busy hospitality environments and the devastating consequences they can have. In the Madrid incident, where two people lost their lives, the fire is understood to have started during a flambé demonstration at a customer’s table. Flames spread rapidly to artificial foliage and decorative materials on the ceiling and walls, leaving little time for people to escape.
In response, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has released updated guidance for owners and managers of hospitality venues, aimed at reducing the risk of similar incidents and ensuring the safety of customers and staff.
The service says responsibility for fire safety rests with the “Responsible Person” — usually the employer or licence holder. They are being reminded of their legal duty to carry out suitable and sufficient fire risk assessments, manage ignition sources such as flambé equipment, candles and blow torches, and ensure decorative materials meet appropriate fire resistance standards. The guidance also stresses the importance of staff training, well-maintained fire detection systems, clear emergency routes, and regular inspection of fire doors and firefighting equipment.
Dave Bray, Head of Protection at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, said recent incidents overseas were “a stark reminder of how quickly fire can spread in a busy hospitality setting”.
He urged businesses to review their arrangements, ensure staff are fully trained, and take extra care when using ignition sources, particularly near combustible wall or ceiling linings. He also reminded venues using indoor fireworks or ice fountains to ensure they are correctly stored and licensed.
Hospitality businesses unsure of their responsibilities are being encouraged to contact the fire service for advice. Fire crews will also be visiting venues across West Sussex in the coming weeks and months to carry out fire safety checks and help keep customers and staff safe.
Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today!
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK - Back Then Festival is coming to Chichester this August, with Tinchy Stryder and Toploader live at Westgate Fields – plus food stalls, a vintage funfair and family fun.
EXCLUSIVE V2 Vouchers deal: half-price tickets - Adult tickets Back Then Festival in Chichester (adult ticket) - V2 Vouchers are available at half price for £17.50.
Major flooding around Bognor Regis & Chichester - Updated @15:37 06/02/2026
Bike-A-Thon for Chichester's Camilla Chapman
Man pleads guilty to killing Anthony Scarrott from Worthing
The Holloways will perform in Chichester
Extensive refurbishment of the Sails of the South begins this February
Appeal following collision in Portsmouth
New community safety grant fund launched to support local projects across Arun
Arrests and safeguarding in Sussex for Child Sexual Abuse Intensification Week
Boy stabbed in Brighton
Bishop of Chichester to retire from office
On Air