New research has revealed a concerning lack of understanding about the role of fire doors among younger adults, prompting fresh warnings from fire safety experts about the risks posed by wedged-open fire doors. [specificat…line.co.uk], [hsmsearch.com]
The survey, conducted by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) to coincide with Fire Door Safety Week 2026, found that 38% of Gen Z adults aged 18 to 29 believe they are safe when a fire door is wedged open. Almost three in ten (29%) also believe fire doors can safely remain open if smoke alarms are installed in the building. [specificat…line.co.uk], [hsmsearch.com]
Fire safety specialists warn that these beliefs are dangerously incorrect. Fire doors are specifically designed to slow the spread of fire and smoke, protect escape routes and provide occupants with valuable time to evacuate safely. When a fire door is held open, it cannot perform its life-saving function. [specificat…line.co.uk], [psimagazine.co.uk]
The research highlighted a significant generational gap in understanding. While 78% of Baby Boomers and 93% of the Silent Generation correctly recognised the purpose of fire doors, only 40% of Gen Z respondents said they understood their role. [specificat…line.co.uk], [psimagazine.co.uk]
Further misconceptions were uncovered around identifying fire doors. More than one in five younger respondents believed a fire door is simply a door painted red, while others thought fire-resistant paint alone makes a door fire safe. [hsmsearch.com], [facilitate…gazine.com]
Despite the knowledge gap, the findings suggest there is an opportunity to improve awareness. Almost two-thirds of Gen Z respondents said they notice fire doors when entering unfamiliar buildings, while many also pay attention to their condition. Experts believe targeted education could help transform this awareness into better fire safety behaviour. [specificat…line.co.uk], [psimagazine.co.uk]
Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the British Woodworking Federation, described the findings as “deeply concerning”, warning that a wedged-open fire door creates a false sense of security. She stressed that only a correctly installed, maintained and closed fire door can effectively prevent the spread of smoke and fire. [psimagazine.co.uk], [facilitate…gazine.com]
Fire Safety Reminder: Never wedge open a fire door unless it is fitted with an approved automatic release device. A closed fire door could save lives by protecting escape routes and slowing the spread of fire and smoke. [psimagazine.co.uk], [specificat…line.co.uk]
