Fire Industry News for July 2023

The FIA is pleased to announce that following extensive and detailed discussions with BAFE, the independent register of Third Party Certificated fire safety service providers, BAFE will be acquiring the operation of the FIA AO.   BAFE will be establishing FireQual Ltd as an OFQUAL-approved Awarding Body to run the existing Fire Detection and Alarm qualification examinations and to develop new qualifications across the fire sector that will support the call for greater competence and avail...

A structure fire was reported at the Golden Bear Lodge on Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake at approximately 2:02 a.m., on Saturday, August 8, 2020. Upon arrival, fire crews observed a two-story structure to be fully involved.  Amidst firefighting efforts to the first structure, crews noticed the structure next door showing heat damage and small flames. Fire suppression activity All occupants of the cabins were evacuated prior to arrival. Big Bear Fire Department units commenced fire...

Fireworks can be beautiful, but they can be unpredictable and deadly. Numerous fires have resulted from the use of personal fireworks, not to mention causing severe injuries to the users. Personal fireworks are illegal throughout Big Bear Valley, including 'safe and sane' fireworks. In addition, all fireworks that explode, shoot into the air, or move along the ground are termed dangerous and are illegal anywhere in California, USA. fines up to $1,000 Big Bear Fire Department’s Assistant...

Big Bear Fire Department announces that it will suspend its popular chipping program for the 2020 season. This grant-funded program has been highly successful in helping residents create defensible space around their structures.  denied grant letters The Fire Department actively researches and applies for hazardous fuel reduction grants to keep the chipping program and the hazardous tree removal program going. The Department recently received denial letters for the three grants appl...

Big Bear Fire Department personnel are wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) during 911 medical calls for service, as a part of their updated safety procedures, due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Out of an abundance of safety, Big Bear Fire Department staff members are wearing PPE that includes, masks, eye protection, gowns, and gloves, during many patient contacts. They feel it was important to let the public know, that although their appearance might not be typically what they...

Big Bear Elks Lodge held its annual Firefighters’ Appreciation Dinner on Wednesday, January 15, 2020. Big Bear Fire Department and retirees were invited to join this celebration where the Elks Lodge recognized the Department’s Firefighter of the Year and Rookie of the Year. Elks Lodge representative Mike Anderson recognized both firefighters with plaques commemorating their achievements. Jon Bidwell and John Stein Engineer/Paramedic Jon Bidwell earned the Firefighter of the Year h...

Kent Fire and Rescue Service has unveiled its new and improved protective kit, which will be worn by over 30,000 firefighters across the country. KFRS took the lead role in a collaborative project involving fire services throughout the UK to source a modern personal protective equipment (PPE) kit that is suitable for all crews. The joint partnership involved 11 other fire services, with the new uniform now accessible to 24 authorities and more are expected to join. KFRS unveils new and improve...

Thanksgiving is a time for friendship, sharing, and busy kitchens. Big Bear Fire Department reminds everyone that crowded kitchens and busy cooks can lead to serious burns and tragic fires. Thanksgiving is one of the leading days of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. That’s why it’s important to know what users can do to help keep friends and family safe while entertaining for the holidays. Safety Tips To avoid dangerous incidents, the National Fire Protection As...

Sirens will once again become a tool of Big Bear Fire Department to notify the public of emergency situations requiring action. This will be an additional way to notify the community in the event of an emergency. The first test will begin on Thursday, August 22, 2019 at 11:00 am with a 15 second siren blast. Tests will continue to run every month on the fourth Thursday at 11:00 am. During a true emergency, the full siren cycle will be run for three minutes. Radio frequency changes When the p...