North West Fire Training delivered a focused and engaging fire safety training session for 40 delegates at Burnley Mechanics theatre group.

Burnley Mechanics is a landmark venue at the heart of the Burnley community, with roots dating back to 1855 as part of the Mechanics’ Institute movement. Today, it stands as a much-loved theatre and performance space, hosting a wide range of live events, productions, and community activities welcoming large numbers of staff, volunteers, performers, and members of the public throughout the year.

With that comes a clear responsibility to ensure fire safety arrangements are robust and that people know exactly how to respond should an incident occur.

During the training, delegates were guided through essential fire safety principles, including:

• Accountablity
• Legislation
• Fires Service Awareness
• The evolving and changing risk of fire
• Case studies
• Classes of fire and extinguisher selection
• When it is safe (and not safe) to tackle a fire
• Evacuation procedures in busy, public-facing environments
• Live practical

The live fire practical exercise conducted outdoors, allowed all participants to gain hands-on experience in a controlled setting without disrupting normal operations. Realistic practice builds confidence, helping people remain calm and effective if a real emergency ever arises.

Fire safety training is a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, particularly in venues where members of the public gather. Ensuring staff and volunteers understand their roles during an evacuation is critical to protecting life.

A key focus of the training was the role of Fire Marshals individuals who help coordinate safe evacuation, support fire prevention routines, and assist the Responsible Person in meeting their legal duties. Well-trained Fire Marshals play a vital role in maintaining calm, providing clear direction, and reducing risk during an emergency.

We’d like to thank everyone at Burnley Mechanics for their engagement during the session, and especially the volunteers who give their time to help keep this historic venue safe and resilient.

North West Fire Training is proud to deliver practical, professional fire safety training, tailored to the unique risks of each premises at times that work for our clients.

If your organisation would like engaging, hands-on fire safety training delivered by experienced professionals, please get in touch.