What Is a Fire Strategy and Why Does Your Building Need One?

Fire safety in buildings isn’t just about reacting to danger, it’s about planning for prevention, protection, and escape. That’s where a fire strategy comes in. Often confused with fire risk assessments, a fire strategy is a foundational document that defines how fire safety objectives are achieved across a site. Whether you're planning a new build, upgrading an existing premises, or trying to meet compliance standards, a robust fire strategy is critical.

What Is a Fire Strategy? 

A fire strategy is a detailed technical document that outlines a building’s approach to fire safety. It addresses both life safety and property protection. It considers layout, occupancy, escape routes, structural fire protection, fire detection and alarm systems, suppression systems, and firefighting access. Unlike a fire risk assessment, which is a snapshot in time, a fire strategy is part of the design philosophy of the building.

When Is a Fire Strategy Needed?

• New building design and construction

• Major refurbishments or change of use

• Fire Safety Order enforcement notices

• Buildings with complex occupancy or layouts

• Heritage or listed properties

  
  

The Dangers of Not Having One 

Without a coherent fire strategy, fire safety decisions can be piecemeal and contradictory. We often see buildings with conflicting FRA findings, uncoordinated fire systems, and escape routes that don’t reflect the occupancy risk. In the event of a fire or an audit, these shortcomings can lead to serious consequences.

How PyroActive Develops Fire Strategies 

Our consultants assess your building’s construction, use, layout, and existing systems. We produce clear, building-specific fire strategy reports that align with current regulations and guidance such as BS 9999 and Approved Document B. We work with architects, contractors, and facilities teams to ensure strategies are practical, compliant, and easy to implement.

More Than Just a Document

A fire strategy is the roadmap for all other fire safety activity, from compartmentation surveys to alarm installations. It gives stakeholders a common reference point and ensures long-term compliance.

If your building doesn’t have a clear fire strategy or you’re unsure if it’s still valid, now’s the time to act. Contact PyroActive for expert-led, compliant strategies that turn building safety into peace of mind.