Home Affairs Department says it will only encourage hotels to ensure supply of fire escape hoods in guest rooms, other spaces
2-MIN READ2-MIN ListenLeopold ChenPublished: 3:10pm, 31 Jul 2026Hong Kong authorities have backtracked on plans to require hotels to provide fire escape hoods in guest rooms and other spaces after industry leaders expressed concerns, and have said they will only encourage the equipment’s usage at this stage.The Home Affairs Department said on Thursday evening that it would only encourage the supply of fire escape hoods in rooms for now, following a meeting with the hotel industry and the Fire Services Department.
“As an international tourism capital, ensuring the safety of visitors to Hong Kong is of paramount importance. Providing smoke hoods in hotels and guest houses can further enhance fire safety and offer more comprehensive protection for visitors,” the department wrote in a social media post.
“Hotel and guest house operators shall provide a sufficient amount of smoke hoods in rooms to cover their maximum occupancy. [The government] encourages its implementation at this stage.”
The Home Affairs Department added that authorities would not offer advice on the supply of such equipment in common and staff areas, though the Fire Services Department would offer guidance on procuring the hoods.
Under the initial proposal, hoods were also to be kept in staff areas – such as lobbies, offices and kitchens – and communal areas, according to a Home Affairs Department letter to operators.
