FIRE SAFETY FOR PLACES OF PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
Released March, 2003

The Department of Public Safety, Fire Safety Division is responsible for the safety, protection and welfare of people where they work, live and play. This is achieved through public education, licensing, code enforcement inspections, plan review and technical assistance.  Night inspections have been completed in the past and we will continue the effort to ensure the safety of the public.y

In light of the recent tragedies in Rhode Island and Chicago we all need to be reminded that the responsibility for providing a safe environment for all Vermonters is everyone’s responsibility.

Places of public assembly (gatherings of more than 50 people) require special fire safety considerations.  The consumption of alcohol in combination with unfamiliar surroundings impairs the ability for an occupant to take appropriate action should an emergency condition arise. 

Vermont is presently inspecting buildings under the provision of the National Fire Protection Association Standard 101 known as the “Life Safety Code”.  The purpose of the Life Safety Code is to provide minimum safety requirements that will provide protection of life from fire.

1. Exit doors must be maintained free from obstructions at all times.  During the winter months more attention is needed to ensure the exits are free and usable.  Exit doors must be properly marked with illuminated exit signs with battery back up.  Exit doors must swing in the direction of exit travel.  If your nightclub has an occupant load capacity of 100 or more persons, the emergency exit doors must be provided with approved panic hardware.
    
2. Governor Douglas has announced a moratorium on the use of indoor pyrotechnics. The use of pyrotechnic devices or fireworks in a public building is strictly prohibited, absent the express written consent of the Commissioner of Public Safety and the chief of the local fire department. The Department of Public Safety will be reviewing and updating its rules on the indoor use of pyrotechnics in the near future.
    
3. Interior finish material on walls and ceilings is a major contributor to fire spread and smoke development.  Cork board, foam board, plastics, wood paneling, most carpet and other materials that will provide for rapid flame spread are not permitted on the walls and ceilings of most public buildings.
    
4. All fire protection systems including fire alarms, sprinkler systems and hood suppression systems are required to receive annual inspections.  Please ensure these systems have been inspected and that a current proof of inspection sticker has been affixed to the system.

Please contact your local Fire Safety Regional Office if you have questions or concerns.

Daily Fire Safety Inspection Checklist

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