Learning from structure fires

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A fire in 2003 “took less than 5 minutes for fire to engulf The Station nightclub, packed with concertgoers, on Feb. 20, 2003. One hundred individuals died in the West Warwick, R.I., fire,” making it one of the deadliest nightclub fires of all time.

Mitigation

What to do?

  • Install a properly functioning sprinkler system.
  • The level of safety provided is not the result of any single safety system or feature, but rather is achieved through the combination of multiple safeguards that are provided.
  • NFPA code provisions mandate that a considerable number of safety systems and features be present in order to keep everyone safe should an unwanted fire occur.

What not to do?

  • The building that hosted The Station was not protected with any sprinkler system.
  • Fires in assembly occupancies have shown to be some of the most deadly — when the proper features, systems and construction materials were not present.
  • One single entrance/exit for a large number of people in one main space.

Safety Tips

Download the safety tip sheet.

Before you enter

  • Take a good look. Does the building appear to be in a condition that makes you feel comfortable? Is the main entrance wide and does it open outward to allow easy exit? Is the outside area clear of materials stored against the building or blocking exits?
  • Have a communication plan. Identify a relative or friend to contact in case of emergency and you are separated from family or friends.
  • Plan a meeting place. Pick a meeting place outside to meet family or friends with whom you are attending the function. If there is an emergency, be sure to meet them there.

When you enter

  • Locate exits immediately. When you enter a building you should look for all available exits. Some exits may be in front and some in back of you. Be prepared to use your closest exit. You may not be able to use the main exit.
  • Check for clear exit paths. Make sure aisles are wide enough and not obstructed by chairs or furniture. Check to make sure your exit door is not blocked or chained. If there are not at least two exits or exit paths are blocked, report the violation to management and leave the building if it is not immediately addressed. Call the local fire marshal to register a complaint.
  • Do you feel safe? Does the building appear to be overcrowded? Are there fire sources such as candles burning, cigarettes or cigars burning, pyrotechnics, or other heat sources that may make you feel unsafe? Are there safety systems in place such as alternative exits, sprinklers, and smoke alarms? Ask the management for clarification on your concerns. If you do not feel safe in the building, leave immediately.

During an emergency

  • React immediately. If an alarm sounds, you see smoke or fire, or other unusual disturbance immediately exit the building in an orderly fashion.
  • Get out, stay out! Once you have escaped, stay out. Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. Let trained firefighters conduct rescue operations.

Cited directly from nfpa.org

The 10 deadliest nightclub fires in world history

  • Cocoanut Grove nightclub, Boston, MA
    • November 28, 1942
    • Deaths: 492
  • Disco/dance hall, Luoyang, China.
    • December 25, 2000
    • Deaths: 309
  • KISS nightclub, Santa Maria, Brazil
    • January 27, 2013
    • Deaths: 242
  • Rhythm Club dance hall, Natchez, MS
    • April 23, 1940
    • Deaths: 207
  • Cromagnon Republic club, Buenos Aires, Argentina
    • December 30, 2004
    • Deaths: 194
  • Beverly Hills Supper Club, Southgate, KY
    • May 28, 1977
    • Deaths: 165
  • Ozone Disco Club, Quezon City, Philippines
    • March 18, 1996
    • Deaths: 160
  • Lame Horse Nightclub, Perm, Russia
    • December 5, 2009
    • Deaths: 154
  • Club Cinq, St. Laurent du Pont, France
    • November 20, 1971
    • Deaths: 143
  • The Station nightclub, W. Warwick, RI
    • February 20, 2003
    • Deaths: 10

NFPA files on major fire incidents. <https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/building-and-life-safety/nightclubs-assembly-occupancies#deadliest-fires>

“Disclaimer: Death tolls are based on information in NFPA’s records. Please contact us at research@nfpa.org to provide any updated information.