What should be ensured about emergency lights in a fire inspection?

Ensuring that emergency lights are functional is crucial during a fire inspection because their primary purpose is to provide illumination and guidance to safely exit a building during an emergency situation, such as a fire. Non-functional emergency lights can lead to confusion and potentially increase the risk of injury or loss of life if individuals cannot see their evacuation routes in a time of need. Regular testing and maintenance of these lights are essential to verify they will operate correctly when needed and that they meet safety codes and regulations.

The other options do not address the critical operational aspect of emergency lights. For instance, while new lights may function well, it's more important that all lights currently installed are operational, regardless of their age. Turning off emergency lights would defeat their purpose, as they need to be on during an emergency. Decorative features may enhance the aesthetic appeal of lights, but they do not contribute to their effectiveness during an emergency scenario. Therefore, focusing on functionality directly aligns with best practices for safety compliance.