At Twenty4 Fire & Security, we work closely with businesses across South Wales and beyond, many of which operate out of large warehouses and industrial units. These are busy environments, often packed with valuable stock, machinery and equipment. But they also carry serious fire risks—especially when safety systems aren’t properly maintained.

The truth is, a fire can destroy everything in under two hours. Below is a real-world timeline of how fast things can escalate when just a few common safety issues are overlooked.

18:00 – The Day Ends

The workday finishes and the warehouse is locked up. It’s in a fairly isolated location, and with no one on-site, there’s nobody around to notice if something goes wrong.

The fire alarm system was once reliable—but it hasn’t been tested in years. So if something happens, will it even work?

18:30 – A Simple Oversight

Earlier that day, a staff member plugged a laptop into a chain of three extension leads—just to reach a socket. It’s a temporary solution that’s slowly become permanent. The laptop wasn’t needed overnight, so it was left charging.

This overload of power quietly builds heat.

18:45 – Ignition

The overloaded extension leads spark. A small electrical fire begins in the office area. With no alarm sounding and no one present, the fire spreads unchecked.

18:50 – Rapid Spread

Within five minutes, flames engulf the room. Paperwork, office furniture, and tech equipment feed the blaze. The fire finds new fuel—and a new path.

19:30 – Warehouse Under Threat

The fire has now reached the warehouse. Stock, packaging, machinery—it all becomes fuel. Structural elements begin to weaken.

Still no alarm. Still no call to the fire brigade.

19:45 – Finally Spotted

A neighbour notices the smoke from a nearby street and calls emergency services. But by this point, the fire is completely out of control.

20:00 – Everything Lost

By the time firefighters arrive, the warehouse is fully engulfed. There’s no saving it. Everything inside is destroyed.

The Aftermath: Insurance and Responsibility

The business had fire insurance, but after investigation, it’s discovered that essential maintenance hadn’t been carried out. The fire alarm hadn’t been tested in over two years. The outcome? A potential refusal of the insurance claim—and a much larger financial loss than anticipated.

How Twenty4 Fire & Security Can Help

This scenario is far too common—and almost always preventable.

At Twenty4 Fire & Security, we help businesses stay compliant and protected. We don’t just install fire safety equipment—we look after it for the long term.

We offer:

  • Fire alarm system design, installation, and servicing

  • Emergency lighting and extinguisher supply & maintenance

  • Fire risk assessments and compliance support

  • Ongoing maintenance packages tailored to your site

  • Electrical safety testing (PAT & EICR)

Whether you’re running a small distribution unit or a large-scale warehouse operation, we ensure you meet safety standards, reduce risk, and avoid situations like the one above.

Peace of Mind Starts with a Simple Check

If you’re not sure when your fire alarm was last tested, or if your extinguishers are in date, don’t leave it to chance.

Contact us today for a no-obligation fire safety check or to arrange a routine service visit. We’ll help you protect your people, your property and your peace of mind.