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On 6 March 2025, Ms. Yuting Zhuo, director of the Dragon & Peacock Chinese takeaway restaurant in Burgess Hill, appeared at Crawley Magistrates Court after pleading guilty to six breaches of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
The case followed a serious fire in September 2023, caused by a faulty electrical supply, which left the rear of the building heavily damaged. Four people were rescued by firefighters after a quick-thinking member of the public raised the alarm.
The court heard that Ms. Zhuo’s failings significantly increased the risk of death and serious injury to those living above the premises. She was ordered to pay over £9,000 in fines, prosecution costs, and a victim surcharge.
Speaking after the sentencing, Area Manager Dave Bray, Head of Fire Safety for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, said:
“This case serves as a strong reminder to business owners—particularly those providing sleeping accommodation above commercial premises—that they must ensure suitable fire detection systems and escape routes are in place. It was only through luck that this fire did not have far more tragic consequences.”
This incident underscores a vital truth: fire safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s about saving lives. Every business owner, landlord, and manager has a legal and moral duty to protect staff, residents, and customers.
Proper training ensures that those responsible for safety understand how to assess risks, maintain systems, and respond effectively in an emergency.
Fire alarm installers must recognise the elevated risk when commercial premises (like takeaways) share a building with residential flats, especially when utilising common escape routes. Your installation and certification must strictly account for the mixed-use nature of these buildings. Owners/Landlords of these properties must be explicitly informed of their increased responsibilities regarding fire safety strategy and maintenance due to this heightened danger.
“This case highlights the importance of fire safety for flats above restaurants and the need for proper fire alarm installer training.”
At LFS, our Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Fire Alarm Courses go beyond basic installation skills. We teach you how to identify, assess, and mitigate the risks that often lie beyond your direct control — from inadequate compartmentation to unsafe escape routes in mixed-use buildings.
Gain the qualifications, confidence, and competence to carry out compliant fire alarm installations that meet the code of practice every time.
🚨 Don’t risk your livelihood for short-term profit. Protect yourself, your clients, and the people you serve — train the right way with LFS.