Surrey Fire and Rescue Service warns venues against indoor pyrotechnics

Key Information:

Who: Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards.

What: Formal warning to stop using indoor pyrotechnics in entertainment venues.

Where: Licensed premises and event spaces across Surrey.

When: Published 6 February 2026.

Why: High life-safety risks following a fatal bar fire in Switzerland.

Surrey Fire and Rescue indoor fireworks experts have issued an urgent "no" to pyrotechnics in venues following a series of fatal international fires.

This intervention comes after a New Year’s Eve tragedy in Switzerland highlighted how indoor displays can turn celebrations into life-threatening emergencies in seconds.

The warning is part of a push by Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and Trading Standards to strengthen public protection. Venues are now urged to review their fire risk assessments and stop using indoor displays that put staff and customers at risk.

Surrey Fire and Rescue indoor fireworks guidance for businesses

Lee Spencer-Smith, Area Commander for Protection at SFRS, said that keeping people safe is the core priority for the service. He emphasised that fireworks are designed for strictly controlled environments and are not suitable for standard indoor settings.

"We’re asking businesses and organisers to follow our new guidance," added Commander Spencer-Smith. He urged venues to use competent professionals to ensure similar incidents do not happen in the UK.

Simple safety steps for Surrey venues

Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards have outlined simple steps to ensure safety and compliance for those handling these products. Unsafe products or misuse put customers, staff, and local communities at significant risk.

Mandy Poole, Assistant Director at Trading Standards, offered the following advice:

• Only buy from licensed retailers.
• Check for UKCA or CE markings on all products.
• Follow the supplied manufacturer instructions precisely.

How to report unsafe practices

Businesses can request a support visit from the Surrey Fire and Rescue indoor fireworks team to gain help in complying with fire safety legislation.

This service supports venues in meeting their legal duties under national fire safety laws.

If you suspect unsafe sales or practices, you can report them to Trading Standards through Citizens Advice.