What does fire safety mean to you?
For me, fire safety means protecting what I hold most dear. Having a young family has heightened my awareness of the necessary precautions to protect my loved ones and working in this industry keeps these considerations at the forefront of my mind whilst providing me with a unique insight into the measures that are put in place to protect people.
What has been your most embarrassing moment professionally?
I was visiting a supplier event for one of my key customers and to introduce ourselves to the group the Managing Director asked us all to stand and tell a joke. My mind went blank and I announced “I can’t tell a joke funnier than your flashy shirt”. Thankfully, it went down well and everyone laughed (including the MD) and I still received a big order the following month – phew!
What is your most important fire safety tip?
Stay prepared and carry out all the preventative measures that you can to protect people’s safety. For families with children, teach kids about fire safety too – educating them on the dangers of fire, the sound of smoke alarms, how to escape buildings safely and even practicing stop, drop and roll techniques for when clothing catches fire.
What do you consider to be your greatest success?
My family is my greatest success. I have immense pride in my little family unit and they have always supported me through my career, which has allowed me to grow and progress both personally and professionally.
What’s the most important trend you see today?
Social media is a huge influencing factor for people and speaking from an industry where safety is paramount, it’s crucial that appropriate and accurate information is being shared on these platforms.
If you didn’t work in the industry, what would you be doing?
I would probably have found myself in the hospitality industry as I love bringing people together and hosting. To take something I enjoy from my personal life and introduce it into my working life would be brilliant.
If you could be part of any fictional universe, book, film or TV, what would it be?
I love Sherlock Holmes and if I could have been a part of that, whether a character in the books or the TV show, I imagine it would be fascinating. I seem to have a knack of guessing plot lines and knowing who it is when it comes to a ‘whodunnit’ story so I could make a great sidekick to Sherlock!
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
The ability to slow down time, for sure. I could enjoy and savour each moment, especially when going on holiday – a carefree and totally relaxed feeling that lasts forever sounds perfect.
What is your favourite activity outside of work?
Travelling with my family is always top of my list. Our weekends are usually full of trips all over the place, from mini breaks in Europe to exploring the hidden gems closer to home. Next up, Scotland!
What advice would you give somebody looking to enter the industry?
Educate yourself on the regulations and other components that work hand in hand with fire safety products. It’s also useful to network and attend industry events to keep yourself current and prepared for what’s around the corner. By developing a full picture and insight into the industry, you can further your understanding on what can be improved and spot areas where there may be gaps.
