Advancing equality, diversity and inclusion in the Fire Service: a call for urgency and comprehensive action
In this short and insightful analysis, Professor Jagtar Singh OBE delves into the persistent challenges surrounding cultural change and equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) within the Fire Service (FRS). Despite a multitude…
The devastating impact of suicide and a call to action
Suicide is a tragedy that leaves a lasting impact on families, loved ones and colleagues. In 2021, the Asian Fire Service (AFS) recognized this profound impact and embarked on a crucial study. We aimed to identify the latest research and…
Reputational risks in fatal and serious fires
Reputational risk is something that is often linked to commercial and global organisations but is now a key factor in how public services are managed, including fire and rescue services (FRS). Having worked in both fire and rescue services and…
Dräger helps Red One protect Hinkley Point from the dangers of Fire
Dräger, an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology, has provided Red One, the commercial trading arm of the Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, with its most advanced fire-safety technology available to help protect Hinkley…
Managing fire risk with compartmentation
Compartmentation is a critical line of defence for fire safety, with accurate specification being essential to delivering life-saving performance in the event of a fire breaking out. Here Joshua Slack, UK Commercial Director for passive fire-protection specialist Promat, defines what…
Make heat sources visible and extinguish with pinpoint accuracy
Thermal imaging cameras and extinguishing monitors Early fire detection systems using infrared technology enable the early recognition of fire and potential sources of fire (hotspots) within minutes, sometimes even before smoke or flames develop. Conventional fire detection systems, such as…
Keeping the freeze on fires in Europe’s growing cold storage space
Europe’’ freezers are filling up fast. Fuelled by the surge in online grocery shopping, a growing preference for healthy fresh produce and the expansion of the pharmaceutical industry, demand for cold storage is booming. Allied Market Research forecasts the European…
Strengthening resilience – NFPA 1660 Disaster Preparedness: Planning and Implementation
This article is the second of a four-part series that discusses the key elements of NFPA 1660 (2024) Standard for Emergency, Continuity, and Crisis Management: Preparedness, Response, and Recovery. The first article in the series introduced the significant consolidation of…
International Fire Training Centre launches new Electric Vehicle fire training course
The UK’s first dedicated Electric Vehicle (EV) fire course, which will provide emergency responders with practical training in managing EV involved fires combined with critical safety awareness, has been developed at the International Fire Training Centre (IFTC), managed and operated…
The safety challenge of achieving net zero
It is often the case that modifications to training schedules or the introduction of new content is required following major or critical incidents locally, regionally, or in some instances, internationally. As the Fire and Rescue Service respond to the impacts…
Offsetting the environmental impact of essential new fire safety testing facilities
Warringtonfire’s new $30m laboratory at Birchwood Park, Warrington, is set to open in January 2025. Acting as a pinnacle of excellence for fire testing and certification provision in the UK, the site has incorporated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles…
Panic hardware vs emergency exit hardware: where, when and why?
Sue Corrick of Allegion UK explores the evolution of panic and emergency exit hardware, examining the specification and installation points that decision makers must consider throughout modern application. The swift evacuation of a building and its occupants is critical in…
EU PFAS restrictions: a safer future for fire safety and the environment
The upcoming EU-wide restriction on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’, marks a significant shift in industry standards, particularly in the fire-safety sector. With growing environmental concerns and increasing scrutiny on the impact of PFAS,…
Make a positive switch to Fluoroketone (FK)
For decades, CO2 fire extinguishers have been the go-to choice for many professionals. However, they come with inherent risks – high pressure, heavy weight, risk of freeze burn and static charge, potential danger to people in confined spaces and the…
The critical role of Evacuation Alert Systems (EAS) in high-rise safety
Evacuation Alert Systems (EAS) are vital for ensuring safety in high-rise buildings, especially in emergencies. On 30 October 2019, Sir Martin Moore-Bick published the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report. This recommended that ‘all high-rise residential buildings (both those already…
Leading the charge in firefighting innovation: Rosenbauer’s electric fire appliances
In an age where sustainability and innovation are paramount, Rosenbauer stands at the forefront of the firefighting industry with its range of cutting-edge electric fire appliances. Bringing together powerful performance, environmental responsibility and operational efficiency, these vehicles represent the future…
Enhancing safety and efficiency on the fireground with connected devices
The integration of voice, video and data technology is revolutionising fire and rescue services. This article delves into the evolving landscape of fireground operations, highlighting the critical role of connected devices in enhancing safety and efficiency. Sharing their insights are…
Wildfires in the UK: a growing threat fuelled by climate change and human activity
As the world grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, the UK is facing an emerging threat long associated with the Mediterranean region: wildfires. Traditionally a problem for hotter, drier climates, wildfires are now a significant risk in the…