We recently held a Fire Marshal course here at Coventry Training Consortium, and as you can see from the images - we hardly needed the use of fire extinguishers! Well done delegates for persevering with our practical element, despite the weather conditions. Here are a few fire facts for you…
A smoke alarm was present and raised the alarm in only 48% of dwelling fires as of March 2025
In 2020-21, the UK Government spent £3.13 billion on fire protection services, the highest amount since 2010-11
The number of workplace fires attended by emergency services has declined from 26,670 in the year 2000 to 10,052 in 2023
Cooking is the leading cause of fires in London and one of the major causes nationwide, with 1 in 3 accidental house fires in 2022 starting because of cooking
“A smoke alarm was present and raised the alarm in only 48% of dwelling fires as of March 2025”
Taking Action: What We Can All Do
These statistics highlight the critical importance of fire safety education and prevention. As a training provider, we see firsthand how proper fire marshal training can make a real difference in workplace safety. But fire safety isn't just about having the right equipment - it's about knowledge, preparation, and creating a culture of safety.
Simple steps that save lives:
Test your smoke alarms weekly - those 48% detection rates could be much higher with properly maintained alarms
Never leave cooking unattended - with cooking being the leading cause of fires, kitchen vigilance is essential
Plan and practice escape routes - knowing how to get out quickly can be the difference between life and death
Invest in proper fire safety training - whether for your workplace or personal knowledge
At Coventry Training Consortium, our Fire Marshal courses equip delegates with the skills to identify fire hazards, implement prevention measures, and respond effectively in emergency situations. Because when it comes to fire safety, knowledge truly is power.
Want to make a difference in your workplace? Our next Fire Marshal courses in October and November cover key fire prevention strategies, and emergency procedures.
Email us on admin3@coventrytraining.org.uk to book your place.
Sources and References
All statistics cited in this article are from official UK government and fire service sources:
"A smoke alarm was present and raised the alarm in only 48% of dwelling fires as of March 2025"
Source: Detailed analysis of fires and response times to fires attended by fire and rescue services, England, April 2024 to March 2025 - GOV.UK"In 2020/21, the UK Government spent £3.13 billion on fire protection services"
Source: Fire Safety Facts and Statistics UK | First Mats Guide"The number of workplace fires attended by emergency services has declined from 26,670 in 2000 to 10,052 in 2023"
Source: Fire Safety Facts and Statistics UK | First Mats Guide"Cooking is the leading cause of fires in London and one of the major causes nationwide, with 1 in 3 accidental house fires in 2022 starting because of cooking"
Sources: Fire safety at home | London Fire Brigade and Home Safety Advice | Essex County Fire and Rescue Service
Additional Data Sources:
All statistics current as of September 2025. For the most up-to-date fire safety information, visit GOV.UK Fire Statistics or contact your local Fire and Rescue Service.