Fire door safety in hot weather: Why you should never wedge doors open

Posted on July 17, 2026

Keeping Buildings Cool Without Compromising Fire Safety

As we continue to see heatwave conditions across the UK, keeping buildings cool, comfortable, and accessible is becoming more important than ever.

In schools, workplaces, and public buildings, it’s common to see fire doors wedged open in an attempt to improve airflow. While this might feel like a quick fix during hot weather, it creates a serious safety risk and is not legally compliant.

The Problem with Wedging Fire Doors

Fire doors play a critical role in protecting people and property. When closed, they help to contain fire and smoke, slowing its spread and allowing safe evacuation.

Wedging them open removes this protection entirely. In the event of a fire, a wedged door will not close — putting lives, assets, and compliance at risk.

It’s a simple action, but one that can have serious consequences.

A Safer, Compliant Solution

The Agrippa range from Geofire is designed to solve this challenge properly.

Agrippa devices safely hold fire doors open, allowing buildings to benefit from improved airflow and accessibility — without compromising fire safety.

In the event of a fire alarm, the device automatically releases the door, allowing it to close as intended.

Designed for Everyday Environments

Agrippa is ideal for a wide range of settings, including:

• Schools – helping create cooler, more comfortable learning environments
• Workplaces – improving airflow and supporting employee wellbeing
• Public buildings – enhancing accessibility while maintaining compliance

By keeping doors open safely, Agrippa supports both comfort and convenience in busy, high-traffic spaces.

Ventilation, Accessibility and Peace of Mind

With warmer weather becoming more frequent, the need for practical, compliant solutions is growing.

Agrippa offers:

• Improved natural ventilation to reduce heat build-up
• Easier movement throughout buildings
• Reliable fire door release linked to alarm activation
• A fully compliant alternative to unsafe door wedging

Choosing a compliant system like Agrippa ensures buildings remain safe, comfortable, and accessible — without cutting corners on fire protection.

Find out where you can purchase the Agrippa range