In light of a recent fire tragedy that ripped through a Swiss bar, Detroit officials are reaching out to remind the local nightlife industry to strictly adhere to the city's fire safety protocols. The Detroit Fire Department, according to a report by the City of Detroit, is making a concerted effort to reach bars and restaurant owners, reinforcing regulations designed to avert similar catastrophes. Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms and Fire Marshal Don Thomas are pushing for heightened adherence to these preventive codes. This comes in the aftermath of an incident in Switzerland where sparklers are believed to have ignited ceiling foam, underscoring the hazards that can arise in closed public spaces when open flames come into play.
"Fire safety regulations are not arbitrary — they are built on hard lessons learned from tragedies like this," Simms told detroitmi.gov. Fire Marshal Don Thomas also emphasized that "Compliance with the Detroit City Code is essential to public safety." Efforts have been ramped up to educate businesses on fire code adherence, hoping to prevent fires before they have a chance to start. In an effort to ensure ongoing compliance, the Detroit Fire Department has inspected more than 400 bars and restaurants throughout 2025, working closely with proprietors to mitigate dangers and clarify any confusion regarding the regulations.
Detroit's own regulations, as detailed in the report, echo the importance of keeping the public safe by prohibiting sparklers, fireworks, pyrotechnics, and other open flame devices in establishments without explicit consent from the Fire Marshal. Among other key fire safety measures, Detroit businesses are required to keep all exits unblocked and easily accessible, maintain operational fire protection systems, and have the proper extinguishers in place. Crucially, commercial kitchens must also be equipped with approved hood and fire suppression systems, subject to regular inspections, according to the City of Detroit.
The Fire Department is urging all local bars and restaurant owners to review their fire safety practices, make sure they're up to code, and immediately correct any inadequacies. "Detroit is home to some of the most vibrant restaurants and bars in the country, and the Detroit Fire Department is committed to making sure residents and visitors can enjoy them safely," Simms reiterated. For more details or to schedule an inspection, business owners are directed to visit the Detroit Fire Department's website or call their office directly.
