Dangerous ignorance: This is what fire protection is like in Göttingen clubs!

Dangerous ignorance: This is what fire protection is like in Göttingen clubs!

The terrible fire disaster in Crans Montana, Switzerland, in which at least 40 people died, raises questions about fire safety in clubs and discos. These concerns are not unfounded, as the situation in many clubs is not always optimal. [Göttinger Tageblatt]. 100 visitors. In Lower Saxony, special fire protection requirements apply to meeting places with this number of visitors.

The focus is on checking escape routes. Problems are often encountered, such as wedges under fire doors or boxes that get in the way of quick access in an emergency. Every restaurant is obliged to have at least two exits in order to evacuate quickly in an emergency. Basically, the structural conditions in Göttingen clubs are usually solid, but a much bigger problem is pointed out: people's ignorance of how to behave properly in the event of a fire.

Education and training necessary

Raising awareness among club operators and training for employees are crucial. Videos have often shown people failing to react at crucial moments in fires. A well-thought-out fire protection concept is of the utmost importance. Fire protection concept specialist planner emphasizes that an effective concept not only corresponds to legal requirements, but is morally necessary. This is particularly important in discos, where large crowds and complex rooms come together.

The basics of an effective fire protection concept always include clear emergency exits that are accessible at all times, as well as fire alarm systems for the early detection of fires. Fire extinguishers must always be available in sufficient quantities and easily accessible. Regular training of staff and the interpretation of escape and rescue route plans are central to creating awareness of this.

Minimize risks through prevention

Although the likelihood of an incident similar to that in Switzerland is assessed to be low in Göttingen, there remains a certain level of misconduct on the part of the responsible authorities in the handling of fire protection measures. Another problem is the very rare use of pyrotechnics, which is strictly prohibited without the approval of the professional fire department. Interestingly, in this day and age of LED technology, overheated headlights hardly pose a risk anymore.

In summary, it can be seen that the city of Göttingen is well positioned when it comes to fire protection in the nightlife sector, but continued attention must be paid to raising awareness and training. This is the only way future tragedies can be effectively prevented.