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During the festive season, many businesses make changes—whether that’s taking on extra staff, increasing stock levels, or adding decorations. These changes can affect the safety of your customers, staff and business, so here are a few simple reminders from us...

Extra stock Bringing in more stock to meet customer demand or manage supply chain pressures can increase fire risk. It increases the fire load and potentially blocks exits, meaning that if a fire occurs, it could spread more quickly and be harder to control.  Make sure you have sufficient space to store extra stock safely Keep fire exits and escape routes clear at all times

Decorations Festive decorations are great—but they shouldn't compromise safety. Keep your Christmas trees and decorations away from fire exits and escape routes Use Christmas lights responsibly: avoid overloading plug sockets only use lights from reputable suppliers always switch them off when the building is empty

Extra staff If you're taking on temporary or seasonal staff, make sure they know your fire safety procedures. Brief all new and existing staff on fire safety Make sure everyone knows escape routes and what to do in an emergency

If you need more support We are here to help with free, friendly guidance and advice on fire safety for your building. Simply contact our Business Safety Helpline during our office hours of Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on:

• phone:  01622 212 442    
• email: buildingsafetyenquiry@kent.fire-uk.org