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  3. Safety in the stands - is your venue prepared

Key takeaways

  • Large indoor and outdoor venues face fire protection challenges during an era of heightened scrutiny around safety.
  • Guidelines from NFPA and IBC are followed by venues worldwide, while local and federal laws require annual checks and inspections.
  • Technology is continually advancing fire detection safety for venues so programs can be easily updated.
  • Venues can benefit from remote connectivity to monitor fire detectors, computer workstation monitoring, and addressable voice notification during emergencies.
  • One facility was able to reduce first-responder response times to five minutes after upgrading their fire system.
During a time of increased anxiety and scrutiny over public safety and security, stadiums, venues and theaters can elevate their fire protection strategy by following guidelines and modernizing their technology.

Large-venue safety is causing anxiety


There are 1,530 stadiums, venues and theaters worldwide. That’s 44.3 million square metres of space where players, performers, attendees and employees need to be protected in case of a fire emergency.

70%

of Americans feel anxious or extremely anxious about safety in public spaces.

How to build your fire protection strategy


In this article from International Fire Protection magazine, Dr. Rodger Reiswig shares his advice on protecting your venue, all during a time of rapid expansion, digital transformation and heightened scrutiny around safety and security. He provides details on how you can elevate your own fire protection strategy to be prepared for real emergency situations.

You’ll learn about:

  • Safety and security complexities of large venues
  • Fire detection guidelines impacting indoor and outdoor venues
  • Specific fire detection technologies that increase safety and response

You’ll also read how one New York facility reduced first-responder response times to only five minutes.

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Final insight

Your venue's fire protection strategy is key to protecting your people and property. By following the proper standards and guidelines and modernizing your fire safety system, you'll be on a path to success.

“Establishing clear detection plans are critical for venues.”

– Dr. Rodger Reiswig, Fellow and Vice President of Industry Relations, Johnson Controls

Elevate your venue strategy.

Read article

Got questions? We’ve got answers.

Explore our FAQ section to find quick, helpful information.


Why is fire detection so critical for larger indoor and outdoor venues?
Large venues host a considerable amount of people and a wide variety of events, all with varying safety and security needs. Some may feature concerts with pyrotechnics and high demands for electricity, while others host sporting events or simple conferences. These venues require sophisticated fire detection, notification and evacuation systems in conjunction with a safety strategy.

Which fire detection guidelines apply to venue facilities?

  • NFPA 72 provides regulations on appropriate fire alarm applications as well as recommendations on ideal locations and installation steps for venue systems.
  • NFPA 101 provides guidelines based on occupancy type and size for exit access and protection to ensure exit pathways are safe during evacuations.
  • Section 907 of the IBC mandates fire alarms and detection systems in new buildings based on occupancy type, load and building height. It also requires either manual pull stations, automatic smoke detection, or both, designed to alert occupants.
  • Local, state and federal laws often require annual checks with local authorities to ensure all safety precautions are working and up to date.

For more information, visit NFPA.org.

How can I learn more about fire detection technology for my venue?
To learn more about our fire safety solutions, visit our website or contact us.

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