Every workplace needs someone looking out for fire safety—someone who knows what to do if the worst should happen. That person is your fire marshal, and choosing the right one is more important than many people realise.

At The Fire House Group, we support businesses across South Yorkshire and beyond with fire marshal training and expert advice. Here's a guide on what to consider when selecting the right person for the job.

1. They'll Need to Stay Calm Under Pressure

A fire emergency is rare—but if it does happen, it can be stressful. Your fire marshal should be someone who remains calm and focused, even in chaotic situations. They'll be the ones helping people get out safely, sounding alarms, and guiding others with a cool head. It's a significant responsibility, but with proper training, they'll feel confident and well-prepared.

2. Familiarity with the Building Helps

Ideally, your fire marshal should know your premises inside out—or at least be willing to learn. That means knowing where the exits are, where extinguishers are kept, and which areas might pose a higher risk. The more familiar they are, the better equipped they'll be to handle any situation.

3. Look for Someone Reliable and Observant

A fire marshal isn't just there in case of an emergency—they play a vital role day-to-day, too. They might check that fire doors are kept shut, escape routes are clear, and that fire extinguishers are in place and good condition. It helps if your fire marshal is naturally observant and doesn't mind keeping an eye on things. Someone dependable and detail-focused is perfect for the role.

4. Training Is Key

Even if someone seems like the ideal candidate, they still need training. Fire marshal training provides them with the knowledge and confidence to act in the event of a fire. They'll learn about evacuation procedures, how to use fire extinguishers safely, and their legal responsibilities.

At The Fire House Group, we offer friendly, hands-on fire marshal training designed to suit your workplace. Whether you're in an office, warehouse, café or shop, we'll make sure your team feels informed and capable.

5. Make Sure You Have Enough Cover

If your workplace is large, spread over several floors, or runs multiple shifts, you may need more than one fire marshal. It's also worth thinking about holidays or sick days—do you have someone who can step in if your main fire marshal is away? It's always better to be safe than sorry.

The Fire House Group are Here to Help

Choosing the right fire marshal is a small step that makes a big difference. With the right person in place—and the right training to support them—you'll be doing your part to keep everyone safe, calm, and protected.

If you're unsure where to start or would like to book fire marshal training for your team contact our team of experts who will be on hand to help.

We'll walk you through everything with no jargon and no pressure—just friendly, expert advice you can rely on.