October 2025

Autumn Awareness: Staying Fire Safe from September into October

Hello from everyone at Smiths Fire LLP in Kettering! Now that September has come to a close and we find ourselves halfway through October, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on last month’s key fire-safety stories and look ahead to the season’s priorities.

September brought a strong message about preparation and prevention. Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue launched its annual reminder for households to have chimneys swept and heating systems checked before winter fully arrives, a small step that prevents many fires every year. Local crews were also kept busy, responding to several overnight incidents, including a house fire on Military Road in Northampton in the early hours of September 7. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported, but it served as a timely reminder that fire safety never takes a break.

On a more positive note, the county’s fire service received recognition from HMICFRS, confirming that previous “causes of concern” around equality, diversity and inclusion had been addressed which is an encouraging sign of progress and professionalism within our local service. September also saw the “30 Days 30 Ways” emergency-preparedness campaign run by West Northamptonshire Council. It encouraged residents to think about wider safety planning. Everything from home fire precautions to flood readiness, highlighting how resilience and awareness go hand in hand.

October has already brought a noticeable change in the air, shorter evenings, cooler temperatures and the first real signs of autumn settling in. These changes come with their own set of fire-safety considerations. With boilers, log burners and electric heaters being switched back on, now’s the ideal time to check your smoke alarms, ensure extinguishers are serviced, and make sure emergency lighting is working correctly.

We’ve also seen important local developments. A Northamptonshire secondary school temporarily closed ten classrooms early this month while fire-safety measures were reviewed and upgraded. Proof that vigilance and early action make all the difference. Meanwhile, plans have been submitted for a new, modern fire station in Kettering, which, once approved, will strengthen emergency coverage in our area and provide better facilities for crews and the community alike.

Recruitment for Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue’s wholetime and on-

call firefighters has also reopened this month; a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to make a direct difference in public safety.

September 2025

August in Review, September Ahead: Staying Fire Safe in Northamptonshire

Hello from Smiths Fire LLP in Kettering! With August behind us and September well underway, it’s a great time to reflect on the fire-safety challenges of last month and to share what’s still to come this month.

August will be remembered for its extremes. Across the UK, firefighters faced relentless pressure from wildfires fuelled by hot, dry conditions. Crews tackled hundreds of blazes in the countryside, with the Langdale Moor fire in North Yorkshire standing out for its scale—burning peat and even triggering old WWII ordnance. These incidents were stark reminders of how fast fire can spread in open landscapes, and how vital both prevention and preparedness remain.

On the regulatory side, there were key developments too. The British Standards Institute released a revised code for carrying out fire-risk assessments in housing, helping to raise the bar on consistency and quality. Alongside this, new government updates on fire-door guidance were issued—important changes that affect both property owners and businesses. Staying ahead of these standards is key to ensuring safety and compliance.

Here in Northampton, September carries special significance. This month marks 350 years since the Great Fire of 1675, and the town is honouring its history with a programme of exhibitions, walks, and talks. The celebrations will culminate on 20th September in the Market Square, with a day of community events followed by a film screening and light show at All Saints’ Church. It’s an inspiring moment to remember the lessons of history while appreciating how far fire-safety practices have advanced.

Celebrations planned to mark 350-year Anniversary of The Great Fire of Northampton

September also brings a seasonal shift. As cooler evenings draw in, risks change too. Households and businesses are beginning to use heating again, leaves are starting to fall, and outdoor fires and BBQs are still in play during the late summer sun. Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service is already encouraging people to stay mindful of these seasonal hazards, and we echo their advice: now’s the time to double-check alarms, service extinguishers, and review evacuation plans.

At Smiths Fire LLP, we’re here to make sure you’re protected as the seasons change. Our services include:

• Tailored fire risk assessments
• Expert installation and maintenance of extinguishers, fire alarms, and emergency lighting systems
• Practical, hands on fire safety training
• Guidance to keep you up-to-date with evolving standards and legislation

August 2025

July Highlights & What’s Ahead in August

Hello from all of us at Smiths Fire LLP in Kettering! With August already well underway, now feels like the right moment to pause, look back on July’s fire-safety highlights, and share what’s still to come before the month is out.

July turned out to be one of the hottest, driest months the UK has seen in years, and the impact was clear to see. Across England and Wales, fire crews dealt with more than 649 wildfires between January and early July. Twice as many as in 2022. From moorlands to farmland, the blazes were a stark reminder of just how quickly our countryside can become vulnerable when the heat and dry weather take hold.

Closer to home, local fire crews were kept on their toes. On 25th July, firefighters from Rushden, Wellingborough, Irthlingborough, and Moulton were called to a 25 acre farmland fire in Wollaston. With support from Wildfire Officers and “wildfire backpacks” they were able to bring the flames under control. It was an impressive reminder of how teamwork and the right equipment can make all the difference in protecting both land and community.

As we move through August, local fire services remain committed to visibility and prevention. Be on the lookout for future community safety events and school outreach across Northamptonshire, especially as families spend more time outdoors and fire risk remains elevated.

For landowners and farmers: consider filling out the digital rural safety form launched by Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service. This helps the service plan tactical approaches better and act swiftly if fire breaks out.

Thanks for following along with our July review and August outlook. Stay cool and stay prepared. You can count on Smiths Fire to bring expert fire protection to your home or business.

Office Temporary Closure

📢 Important Notice
Please note that our offices will be temporarily closed on Friday, 18th July from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM for a staff event.
📞 Emergency support will still be available during this time.

Thank you for your understanding!

📧 sales@smithsfire.com | 📞 01536 484846

#OfficeNotice #StaffEvent #CustomerUpdate

July 2025

June 2025 Round‑Up & July Preview

As June draws to a close here in Kettering, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the key fire safety events of the month followed by a look ahead at July.

June began a significant incident when the massive blaze at Northampton’s Nene Valley Retail Park tore through the Dunelm store on May 31 and spread to Pets at Home. Fire crews worked rapidly to evacuate staff, pets, and customers, and the site remained under active control into early June as investigations continued. The incident reminded us how swiftly fires can escalate in commercial environments and why robust alarm systems and evacuation plans are vital. It has since reported that police have charged a 15 year old with arson, with two other youths on bail.

Community safety was centre stage too. On June 21, Northampton’s Market Square hosted the fun and informative #StaySafe4Summer event. Emergency services, including Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue, provided family-friendly demos, from fire engines to CPR tutorials, helping to raise awareness on summer fire and water safety. Fire safety teams even teamed up with PAW Patrol’s Marshall, making safety education engaging for all ages.

The end of June saw police and fire teams working together across West Northamptonshire to promote Anti‑Social Behaviour Awareness Week (June 30–July 6). Teams visited neighbourhoods to discuss reporting crime and creating safer environments—tying in closely with the region’s broader “Summer of Safety” campaign.

Heat warnings and hot weather brought fresh warnings about BBQs and countryside campfires with Northants Fire & Rescue urging residents to follow safety advice like monitoring flames and ensuring proper extinguishing practices.

Looking ahead, July continues the theme of community connection and practical engagement. On July 4, the Great Fire Symposium at the University of Northampton examined the town’s 1675 fire, offering historical insights and lessons for modern fire prevention.

Northants Firefighter Challenge kicked off at Rushden Lakes, showcasing the fitness, teamwork, and resilience of Northamptonshire’s fire crews in a public arena.

On July 19 and 27, Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue—alongside the police and local crime commissioner—will open its doors for free Community Open Days at Wicksteed Park (Kettering) and Delapre Abbey (Northampton). These events invite everyone to explore fire‑service vehicles, equipment demos, and meet the human faces behind the uniforms.

Enjoy a safe summer and stay tuned for next month’s update as we continue to look after your fire safety.

June 2025

May Round-Up & a Look Forward to June

Hello from Smiths Fire LLP in Kettering! Welcome to our first blog post. Let’s reflect on some important fire safety events from May and to look ahead at what June holds for us.

In May, Northampton commemorated the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of 1675. The celebrations kicked off with the traditional Oak Apple Day parade at All Saints’ Church, community events, art installations, light shows, and exhibits. It’s a powerful reminder of how fire safety isn’t just about equipment, but about the spirit and readiness of the community.

On a more sobering note, May also saw the tragic fire in Bicester that claimed the lives of two firefighters and a civilian. The National Fire Chiefs Council issued a heartfelt statement highlighting the ongoing need to review and improve safety measures for those who risk their lives to protect us. This incident reminds us of the bravery involved in fire safety and the importance of continual vigilance.

A fire at London’s Maida Vale electrical substation disrupted London’s Tube lines, underscoring that fire safety must extend beyond homes and offices to critical infrastructure, where the impact of a fire can be felt city-wide.

Closer to home, the major fire at Nene Valley Retail Park in Northampton, which started on May 31 at the Dunelm store and quickly spread to the adjacent Pets at Home, which also housed a veterinary practice. Thanks to the swift response from the fire and rescue teams, all staff, customers, and even the animals were safely evacuated. The scale of the blaze was substantial, with multiple fire crews working hard to contain the fire over several days. Investigations are ongoing, and police have arrested individuals on suspicion of arson. This event is a stark reminder of how quickly fires can escalate in commercial environments and the importance of effective fire detection, prevention, and emergency planning.

Locally, Corby Fire Station hosted a “Have-a-Go” recruitment event, welcoming members of the community to experience what being a firefighter is really like. These kinds of events bring fire safety closer to home, fostering awareness and encouraging people to get involved.

Looking ahead, June is packed with industry events. The FSM Live conference in Coventry on June 5 will unite 450+ professionals to discuss innovations and training. The Fire Safety Live event at Olympia will feature practical demonstrations and expert talks on topics from high-rise evacuations to smoke systems.

On June 24, a webinar will focus on Martyn’s Law, upcoming legislation designed to improve safety at public venues, with insights from campaigner Figen Murray OBE. This is a must-attend for business owners looking to stay ahead of compliance requirements.

At Smiths Fire LLP, we continue to offer tailored fire-risk assessments, expert installation and maintenance of extinguishers, alarms, and emergency lighting systems, as well as comprehensive fire safety training. Whether you’re a business or homeowner, we’re here to guide you through evolving regulations and help you stay safe.

– Serena Smith-Buchanan, Managing Partner

New Fire Safety Rules: Key Updates for Managing Agents