After Goa Nightclub Fire: What Travellers Must Check Before Visiting Clubs

As the festive travel season reaches its peak, thousands of tourists are preparing to flock to popular holiday hotspots for Christmas, New Year and the winter break. Nightlife destinations, especially beach towns such as Goa in India, become central to these plans. However, it is important for venues and establishments to follow all structural safety norms for fire or other safety risks.

On Sunday, twenty-five people, including four tourists and 14 staff members, were killed in a fire at a nightclub, the Birch by Romeo Lane, in Goa. The fire broke out around 12 am, officials said. The devastating fire has cast a sharp spotlight on safety concerns inside enclosed entertainment venues and what it means for travellers. 

What Happened At The Goa Nightclub

According to reports and survivor accounts, the fire ignited when fireworks were lit during a dance performance inside the club. The firecrackers seemed to trigger the blaze, creating a stampede-like situation as thick smoke rapidly filled the premises. People scrambled to escape through narrow exits, leading to chaos. Fire officials later stated that most fatalities occurred due to suffocation, as many people were trapped on the ground floor.

Why Nightclubs Pose Higher Fire Risks

Nightclubs across the world share certain characteristics that can make emergencies particularly dangerous. According to fire safety guidelines issued in West Hollywood, California, these venues come with several high-risk factors:

• Heavy crowding
• Alcohol consumption, which can impair response time
• Use of fog machines and similar effects
• Pyrotechnics, sparklers and stage set-ups that heighten ignition risks
• Loud music and limited lighting can delay the detection of hazards

When combined, these elements significantly complicate evacuation and crowd control during emergencies.

Before You Party: Safety Checks Every Traveller Should Do

Whether you're visiting a nightclub, bar, resort venue or event space - in India or abroad - a quick assessment can help determine whether the place adheres to basic safety norms. Here are the checks travellers should keep in mind:

1. Locate Emergency Exits and Staircases

Do not rely on elevators. Identify staircases and emergency doors as soon as you enter. Avoid overcrowded places with limited and narrow entry-exit points. 

2. Single Entry-Exit Is A Serious Safety Red Flag

If the same narrow passage is being used for entry, exit, and service movement, it is a serious crowd-disaster risk. During emergencies, this creates instant choke points and trampling pressure. Nearly every major nightclub tragedy globally has involved single-exit failure.

3. Overcrowding Is A Big Risk

Fire becomes lethal when overcrowding prevents escape. If security keeps admitting guests even after the venue is visibly packed wall-to-wall, it shows capacity violations and poor emergency judgment.

4. If Indoor Fire Effects Or Fireworks Are Being Used, Stay Alert

Indoor pyrotechnics, spark machines, flame throwers, or even repeated use of cold-fire effects instantly multiply fire risk inside enclosed spaces. Even a small ignition near decor, wiring, or acoustic panels can trigger flash fires in seconds.

Fire Safety: Key Dos and Don'ts For Travellers

In case you do end up in a fire emergency, here are some basic dos and don'ts to always follow:

Dos

• Evacuate Immediately: Leave the venue as soon as you spot fire or hear an alarm.
• Use Extinguishers If Trained: Only attempt to control a small fire if it is safe to do so.
• Call Emergency Services: Contact the fire department promptly and provide accurate details.
• Close Doors While Exiting: This slows the spread of smoke and flames.
• Know Exit Routes: Always keep an evacuation plan in mind.

Don'ts

• Do Not Use Elevators: Stairs are the only safe option during a fire.
• Do Not Re-enter The Venue: Wait for authorities to declare the place safe.
• Do Not Block Exits: Ensure all pathways remain clear of furniture or bags.
• Do Not Panic: Stay calm and assist others where possible.
• Do Not Fight Large Fires: Leave the scene immediately and allow professionals to handle it.