Fire Doors Save Lives: Why You Should Never Prop Them Open

Fire doors are one of the most important safety features in buildings, yet they are often overlooked or misused. Many people prop them open for convenience, not realising that this small act could have devastating consequences in the event of a fire. Whether at home, in the workplace, or in public buildings, keeping fire doors closed can mean the difference between life and death.

What is a Fire Door and Why Does It Matter?

A fire door is specially designed to withstand fire and smoke for a certain period, typically 30 to 60 minutes. Unlike regular doors, fire doors help slow down the spread of flames and toxic fumes, giving people more time to escape and allowing firefighters to do their job safely.

Fire doors are part of a building’s compartmentation system, which means they help contain a fire within one area, preventing it from spreading rapidly throughout the building. If these doors are left open, fire and smoke can move quickly, putting lives and property at greater risk.

The Dangers of Propping Fire Doors Open

It’s common to see fire doors propped open with wedges, doorstops, or even chairs, often for reasons like:

• Making it easier to move between rooms

• Improving ventilation

• Allowing deliveries or equipment to pass through

While this may seem harmless, an open fire door can be deadly in an emergency. Here’s why:

🚫 Fire Spreads Faster – A closed fire door can hold back flames for at least half an hour. If left open, fire and smoke spread unchecked, cutting off escape routes.

🚫 Toxic Smoke Kills Quickly – Smoke inhalation is the leading cause of fire-related deaths. A closed fire door stops smoke from filling hallways and stairwells.

🚫 Escape Routes Become Dangerous – Fire doors protect corridors and staircases, giving people time to evacuate safely. An open door removes that protection.

🚫 Firefighters Face Greater Risks – Fire doors help contain the blaze, making it easier for firefighters to control. A wedged-open door allows fire to spread, making their job harder and more dangerous.

Fire Door Safety: What You Can Do

✅ Always keep fire doors closed – Unless they are fitted with an approved automatic release system, fire doors should remain shut at all times.

✅ Never wedge fire doors open – If you see a fire door propped open, remove the obstruction and report it to the relevant person (e.g., building manager or fire warden).

✅ Check fire doors regularly – Make sure fire doors close fully and are not damaged. A fire door with a broken seal, missing intumescent strip, or faulty hinges may not work effectively in a fire.

✅ Ensure fire doors are legally compliant – Businesses and landlords are responsible for maintaining fire doors under fire safety legislation. If you live in or manage a building with fire doors, ensure they meet current standards.

✅ Raise awareness – If you see someone propping open a fire door, educate them on the dangers. Many people do not realise how important these doors are.

Final Thoughts

Fire doors are not just another door – they are a lifesaving barrier in the event of a fire. Keeping them closed and properly maintained helps protect you, your family, colleagues, and neighbours.

It only takes a moment to shut a fire door, but that simple action could save countless lives.