What Can You Do If You Spot Unsafe Fire Equipment in a Public Building?

Fire safety equipment is installed to protect lives, but when that equipment is damaged, missing or poorly maintained, it can become a serious risk in itself. In public buildings, where large numbers of people may be present and unfamiliar with the layout, unsafe fire equipment can have devastating consequences.

If you spot unsafe fire equipment in a public building, knowing what to do — and acting responsibly — can make a real difference. Fire safety is a shared responsibility, and raising concerns can help prevent accidents before they happen.

What Counts as Unsafe Fire Equipment?

Unsafe fire equipment can take many forms. It does not always mean something is broken beyond use — sometimes it simply means equipment is not fit for purpose or not positioned correctly.

Common examples include:

  • Fire extinguishers that are missing, damaged or leaking

  • Extinguishers that are out of date or not serviced

  • Fire extinguishers blocked by furniture or stored items

  • Fire alarm call points that are covered or inaccessible

  • Fire doors that do not close properly or are wedged open

  • Emergency lighting that is not working

  • Missing or unclear fire safety signage

Any of these issues can delay evacuation, prevent early intervention, or increase the risk of injury.

Why Unsafe Fire Equipment Is a Serious Issue

Fire safety equipment is designed to work as part of a wider system. If one element fails, the effectiveness of the entire fire safety strategy can be compromised.

In a public building, this is especially concerning because:

  • Occupants may not know where exits are

  • People may panic or hesitate

  • Vulnerable individuals may need assistance

  • Staff may be unfamiliar with the equipment

Unsafe equipment can lead to confusion, delayed responses and increased danger during an emergency.

What Should You Do If You Spot a Problem?

If you notice unsafe fire equipment, it is important to act sensibly and proportionately. You should never attempt to repair or alter fire safety equipment yourself unless you are trained and authorised to do so.

Report the Issue Immediately

The first step is to report the issue to:

  • A member of staff

  • The building manager or caretaker

  • Event organisers or supervisors

  • Reception or facilities management

Clear reporting allows the Responsible Person to take appropriate action quickly.

Provide Clear Information

When reporting the issue, explain:

  • What you have noticed

  • Where the equipment is located

  • Why it appears unsafe or inaccessible

This helps ensure the issue can be identified and resolved efficiently.

If You Are a Member of Staff or Volunteer

If you work or volunteer in a public building, you may have additional responsibilities.

You should:

  • Follow internal reporting procedures

  • Record the issue if required

  • Escalate concerns if they are not addressed

  • Avoid using unsafe equipment

Staff should never ignore fire safety concerns, even if they seem minor.

When Should Concerns Be Escalated?

In some cases, issues may not be resolved promptly or may pose an immediate risk.

If unsafe fire equipment presents a serious or ongoing danger and is not addressed, concerns can be escalated to:

  • Senior management or trustees

  • Local authority building management

  • The local fire and rescue service (for non-emergency fire safety concerns)

Escalation should always be a last resort, but public safety must come first.

The Role of the Responsible Person

Under UK fire safety legislation, the Responsible Person has a legal duty to ensure that fire safety equipment is:

  • Suitable for the building

  • Correctly installed

  • Maintained in working order

  • Regularly inspected

If unsafe equipment is identified, it is their responsibility to arrange repair, replacement or professional servicing.

Why Regular Inspections and Maintenance Matter

Many fire safety issues arise simply because equipment has not been checked or maintained properly.

Routine servicing and inspections help ensure:

  • Fire extinguishers are in date and functional

  • Equipment remains accessible

  • Changes in building layout are accounted for

  • Compliance with fire safety regulations

Professional maintenance reduces the likelihood of problems being spotted only when it is too late.

Public Awareness Plays a Vital Role

Members of the public are often the first to notice issues in shared spaces. By reporting unsafe fire equipment responsibly, you help create a safer environment for everyone.

Fire safety is not about blame — it is about prevention and protection.

Supporting Safer Public Buildings

At Fire Extinguisher Maintenance, maintaining safe, compliant fire safety equipment in public buildings is a priority. Regular servicing, professional inspections and expert advice help ensure that fire safety equipment performs as intended when it is needed most.

Unsafe fire equipment should never be ignored. Taking action today can prevent serious consequences tomorrow.