Artificial Intelligence

Landscape professionals have been turning to the tested and reliable power solutions from Vanguard Commercial Power for decades. From rugged single-cylinder engines to cutting-edge lithium-ion battery packs, the power provider’s expertise will be on full display at Equip Expo 2024 show. Show attendees will find the latest commercial engine and battery pack technology from Vanguard in the Briggs & Stratton indoor booth (#5016) and outdoor booth (#6480D) in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, from October 15 to 18, 2024. Understanding the needs of landscaping crews “As a Briggs & Stratton brand with deep roots in the professional turf and landscape industry, Vanguard is working to create solutions to address the pain points we hear from our peers across the landscape market,” said Christine Davison, Senior Director of Product and Brand Management – Utility and Electrification at Briggs & Stratton. She adds, “By truly understanding the needs of landscaping crews, business owners and manufacturers of turf equipment, we're able to deliver power solutions that allow them to work more efficiently and achieve success on the jobsite.” Electrifying Turf Care: Vanguard Lithium-Ion Lineup The turf market has been an eager and early adopter of electric power The turf market has been an eager and early adopter of electric power, and Vanguard has been there to deliver robust battery options that are ready to take on the tough jobs landscapers face every day.  Vanguard has developed a full line of commercial lithium-ion battery packs that are available in both fixed and swappable configurations and feature a range of power options: 1.5kWh, 3.5kWh, 5kWh, and 7kWh. In addition to offering reliable power sources, Vanguard also provides application engineering expertise and consultation to its original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers, as they begin to incorporate electric equipment into their product lineups. 1.5kWh Commercial Battery Pack The Vanguard™ battery product that’s generating the most excitement among turf stakeholders is the 1.5kWh Commercial Battery Pack (Si1.5). With a standard charge time of 75 minutes and the ability to swap in freshly charged batteries, landscape professionals can avoid the range anxiety often associated with battery-powered equipment. The Briggs & Stratton indoor booth (#5016) will feature equipment powered by the Si1.5. Vanguard Commercial Fixed Series Batteries Vanguard will also be showcasing several of its Fixed Series batteries at the show Vanguard will also be showcasing several of its Fixed Series batteries at the show. The 3.5kWh Battery (Fi3.5) is a total solution that provides instant, reliable power. Available in both 24V and 48V configurations, the Fi3.5 is designed to keep out debris and dirt and withstand harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, impact and vibration. The 7kWh Commercial Battery Pack — available in both long and tall configurations — delivers more power in a compact footprint. The long configuration is ideal for golf and recreation applications, while the tall configuration opens up new opportunities for turf applications. The Briggs & Stratton outdoor booth (#6480D) will have ride-on mowers powered by Vanguard Fixed Series battery packs. Motors and Motor Controllers Vanguard leads the industry in offering landscape equipment manufacturers a complete system package with the introduction of its motors and motor controllers. Built tough and engineered with ease of service in mind, the MVG Series of motors and MC Series of motor controllers include different power options to meet voltage needs across equipment sizes. Vanguard will have its new MVG1500, MVG2200, MVG3000 and MVG4000 motors and MC2000, MC4000 and MC8000 motor controllers in the Briggs & Stratton booth. Designed, engineered and assembled in the United States, Vanguard battery products are backed by the robust Briggs & Stratton service network. Vanguard also recently extended its commercial limited warranty to eight years on its entire commercial battery lineup. Engineered for Performance: The Latest in Briggs & Stratton Engine Solutions Briggs & Stratton CXi with Oil Xtend™ The CXi Series offers the option to add on Briggs & Stratton Oil Xtend™ system Briggs & Stratton will have an exciting selection of its renowned commercial engine technologies on display, including the 27.0 Gross HP engine from the CXi Series V-Twin engine lineup. Engineered for high-debris applications, the CXi Series offers the option to add on Briggs & Stratton Oil Xtend™ system, which helps maximize uptime and keep you on the job longer. Oil Xtend boasts maintenance intervals 2.5 times longer than the industry standard, allowing you to work up to 250 hours between maintenance intervals for oil changes and replacing oil filters, spark plugs, fuel filters and air filters. Vanguard® 300 Also in the Briggs & Stratton booth will be the newest engine from Vanguard, the 300 single-cylinder horizontal shaft engine. Offering 307cc and 10.0 Gross HP, this innovative engine is designed to outperform the competition in overall performance, rugged power and lower maintenance. Ideal for applications like leaf vacuums and blowers, the Vanguard 300 offers extended maintenance intervals and improved cold-weather starting. With innovative technologies like the exclusive TransportGuard® and Cyclonic Air Filtration, it is engineered to minimize downtime and increase ROI. The Vanguard single-cylinder engine lineup is backed by an industry-renowned three-year commercial limited warranty plus one warranty bonus year when an engine is registered.

Whelen Engineering is pleased to announce the release of version 2.9.0 for the Whelen Cloud Platform® (WCP®). This update introduces new functionality, system optimizations, and extended vehicle support. Key Updates in WCP version 2.9.0: User Alerts Management: Alerts are now automatically prevented from being sent to deactivated users, ensuring more accurate communications. Expanded Alert Timing Options: Additional intervals of 15 and 30 seconds have been added to the ‘Wait to Send Alert’ dropdown, providing greater flexibility in alert scheduling. Enhanced Vehicle Maintenance: Support for Ford F-150 and F-250 models has been integrated, extending the platform’s maintenance capabilities. Updated Fleet Data: The Engine Hours feature has been updated for Ford Explorer vehicles to improve data accuracy. Analytics Optimization: The default start and end dates on the Analytics Dashboard and Analytics Logs pages are now set to a 1-week range, allowing for more streamlined data review. Action Required Restart the Whelen Cloud Platform application to activate these latest enhancements. For a complete list of changes and improvements or for those who have any questions or require assistance, please contact a Whelen sales representative.

There are past instances where the construction industry has come under huge scrutiny for the way organizations have failed to comply with fire regulations and were systematically dishonest to customers. Damien McKenna, Founder and Co-Owner of BORIS Software Ltd, a compliance and workforce management tool, shares three simple ways that those working in the fire-stopping sector and other construction settings can ensure they’re fully compliant with the latest regulations. Make fire safety in design and materials When considering building design and the materials to use, it is paramount to use non-combustible materials. The use of safety-approved fire-resistant materials in all areas ranging from cladding, insulation, and internal fittings will minimize the risk of fires starting and spreading.  Digital recording applications allow those responsible for the installation of safety-critical fire seals Using an effective digital workforce management platform can ensure accurate stock control and purchase order features that facilitate ordering and managing the required materials in the correct quantities.  Additional features such as the digital recording application allow those responsible for the installation of safety-critical fire seals and fire doors to record the correct installation of materials. Closely follow building regulations Following building regulations is a basic standard procedure that aligns with the ‘Golden Thread’, a concept that ensures contractors have the correct information to understand the building and the steps that follow to ensure the safety of residents and the building itself. In adherence to the Golden Thread, it is also essential for construction firms to be aware of any changes to building regulations which can be achieved by regular audits of projects. Companies that digitize their workforce management can view live digitally marked-up drawings of the site they are working on which show any hazards that need addressing and allow users to take before, during, and after pictures that enable companies to demonstrate their correct installation in the event of a fire. This digital recording is a key recommendation under the Golden Thread as advised in the Hackett Report. Strong communication and community engagement Being transparent with the materials used and reiterating any fire safety procedures to be aware of fosters Establishing effective communication methods and swiftly addressing any raised concerns regarding safety will allow residents to feel at ease. The Golden Thread again proves beneficial in this instance, due to those in charge of the building being obliged to demonstrate that the work completed meets the requirements of building regulations. Being transparent with the materials used and reiterating any fire safety procedures to be aware of fosters community engagement and protects people’s well-being. It is also important for workers to ensure their safety is not in jeopardy while working. The Golden Thread With BORIS, workers can utilize the bulletin's function that permits the sending of business-wide communications and creates a smooth communication process between members of an organization. The Golden Thread requires workers to digitally store vital details of a building before construction has even begun and continues as long as the building exists. Transitioning to digital workforce management software allows those operating in the construction industry a clearer guide to following safety procedures, ultimately leading to the creation of safer environments.

Whelen are excited to introduce their vehicle-specific lighting solutions for the 2024 Ford Mustang Fastback. The Inner Edge® XLP and Inner Edge RST™ offer powerful, discreet lighting, with a seamless fit for easy installation and minimal vehicle modification, perfect for high-performance vehicles like the Mustang Fastback.

Under the heading “heise goes INTERSCHUTZ”, a new event series by the cooperation partners INTERSCHUTZ and Heise Medien GmbH & Co. KG will kick off in January 2025. The cooperation will involve joint talks and networking events in the lead-up to INTERSCHUTZ 2026. These events will focus on overarching industry topics, such as digitalization and AI in civil protection. New event series “INTERSCHUTZ, held every four years as the world’s pioneering trade fair for fire services, rescue services, and civil protection in Hanover, Germany, is a very special event. To make the time until the next fair as informative and brief as possible for all INTERSCHUTZ fans, and to report on the trends currently being intensely discussed in the community, we have teamed up with our media partner ‘heise’ in Hanover." "As two well-known Hanover brands, we have set ourselves the goal of strengthening the Hanover location and showing its potential with this new event series,” says Bernd Heinold, Project Manager of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe AG. Digitalization and AI “Whether for climate research, extreme weather early warning systems, or more efficient crisis management: digitalization and AI are key technologies in civil protection as well." "We are excited to discuss these developments with IT experts and industry representatives,” says Jörg Mühle, Member of the Management Board at Heise Medien. “As a media company based in Hanover, we also have a great interest in showcasing the innovative strength of our region.” Concrete insights of AI The premiere of the new event series “heise goes INTERSCHUTZ” is scheduled for Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Hanover exhibition grounds as a half-day afternoon or evening event for 50 to 100 participants. In a total of four presentation slots, experts will provide concrete insights into the topic of “AI, Cybersecurity (and Storage) in Use for Rescue & Security.” The talk format will be complemented by live demonstrations and opportunities for personal exchange during a post-presentation get-together. The target group for the new format focuses on Lower Saxony, specifically municipalities, emergency services representatives, Lower Saxony politicians, and companies from the INTERSCHUTZ industry in the region.

RapidSOS are excited to announce that it is officially integrated with Apple Emergency SOS Live Video, now available with the release of iOS 18! Emergency SOS Live Video allows those in need to share streaming video and recorded media during emergency calls. During an emergency call, participating emergency dispatchers can send a request to share live video or photos over a secure connection, making it quicker and easier to provide urgent assistance. Emergency SOS Live Video ECC telecommunicators can now access Emergency SOS Live Video directly within RapidSOS UNITE Emergency Communications Center (ECC) telecommunicators can now access Emergency SOS Live Video directly within RapidSOS UNITE. This service is available at no cost to the 5,700+ ECCs using RapidSOS, covering over 99% of the U.S. population. With the integration of Emergency SOS Live Video into RapidSOS, they’re making it easier and faster for iPhone users to get the help they need, enhancing safety for everyone. Interested in learning more about how to access Apple Emergency SOS Live Video with RapidSOS?  More on RapidSOS UNITE RapidSOS UNITE centralizes calls, texts, video, and data from sensors for faster and more efficient emergency response, with flexible upgrades to meet an ECC’s needs. UNITE’s ecosystem improves workflows by taking a holistic approach to what’s needed for modern 911 operations. With UNITE, ECCs can: View all of the agency’s 911 calls, with a redundant pathway for cellular calls and ability to integrate the local GIS data for improved mapping. Communicate with callers via messaging, multimedia and video, including using AI-powered translation and transcription without additional tabs. Get instant access to sensor-based data — and use AI to reduce telecommunicator time spent on alarm calls. Create interoperability between peer agencies, and even share data via the field application built by and for responders. Consolidate data from 540+ million devices and go beyond call-handling based reporting to truly understand the agency’s workload. RapidSOS remains a champion for 911 and connecting communities to public safety.

As a company officer, the day will come where you and your crew are first to arrive at what looks like the beginning of a major incident. Your Battalion Chief (BC) is delayed or diverted to other incidents, so YOU are the Incident Commander (IC). How you set the table for this incident with regard to quickly setting up the Incident Command System (ICS) is critical. And how you use your channels of communication, including the ways you communicate, will be crucial to your success. Before we jump into the ‘how-to’, let’s examine something that looms over everything we do during emergencies, especially fires - ‘The NIOSH 5’. I first became aware of the NIOSH 5, when listening to one of Anthony Kastros’ lectures on incident command and the need for an organization on the fire ground. ‘The NIOSH 5’ Firefighters and emergency workers typically get lost, hurt, or killed at incidents, when any one of five causal factors identified by The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are present: Improper risk assessment Lack of incident command Lack of accountability Inadequate communications Lack of SOPs (or failure to follow established SOPs) Statistically, 50 percent of these line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) and injury events occur in the first 15 minutes of an incident. Half of those occur in the first three minutes! If you’re the initial IC, it’s statistically likely this could happen while you’re in charge. Need for training and practice in handling emergencies Keeping ‘The NIOSH 5’ at the forefront of your mind should trigger the need for training and practice in handling emergencies. Although there are factors you simply can’t control during an emergency, you can control communications, incident command, accountability, repetitive training, and standardization. The following are some things to keep in mind while managing an incident: Arrival on Scene In incident management, setup is everything and oftentimes, determines the outcome of the incident. To use a sports analogy, you definitely want your first pitch to be a strike. So how do you do that? Provide a Solid Size-up Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications The first step is taking a deep breath and giving a good size-up. Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications, and a command tone. Your tone and tempo in your size-up will help focus everyone and create a tactics-driven incident, rather than an emotions-driven one. But, if we’re being honest, being cool takes practice and repetition. Your agency should have a standardized way for how and when this size-up is delivered. In many cases, it’s a fill-in-the-blank script that includes the following four things: What you see (smoke and flames/or nothing showing) The area you see it affecting (the second story, the alpha/bravo corner) What’s happening/what’s on fire or causing the hazard (a two-story home or a sedan next to a building) Establishing command (a must-take command or pass, if you’re going to rescue a citizen) By practicing within your agency’s standards, it enables you to project a cool tone over the radio like you’ve ‘been there before. Order resources early and often Tunnel vision is a death sentence for any IC. In most cases, this is not the time to get sucked into task-level problems. The exceptions to this are structure fires and other emergencies where there is an immediate and known rescue. Otherwise, it’s time to step back, take in the big picture, and make decisions as an IC. Ask yourself: ‘What will this incident do in five minutes? 10? 20? One hour?’ If the answer is ‘get bigger’, then you need more resources. Order them early and often, because they can always be turned around. Don’t try to do too much with too little. Trusted Incident Command System equals early accountability As the initial IC, you’ll be sending crews into the hazard zone. It’s a red flag if, during the initial portion of the incident, you don’t have solid accountability. It’s during this initial ‘fog of war’ that we lose track of crews, and it’s when personnel gets hurt or killed. NFPA 1561, along with other best practices, requires that you know where everyone is and what they’re doing. If you don’t have that knowledge, stop and figure that out, or assign someone to figure it out and report back to you as soon as possible. Benefits of an all-in-one digital platform - Tablet Command Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crew Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crews – a notepad, whiteboard, tactical worksheet, or better yet, a digital command board. The huge advantage of an all-in-one digital platform like Tablet Command is that it’s CAD-integrated and will populate resources for you in real-time. There’s no writing and scribbling while listening to garbled radio traffic, and no trying to ‘catch up’ with resource orders that change on the fly. Accountability integrated into command processes With a platform, such as Tablet Command, all you’re doing is dragging and dropping resources into their assignments, which automatically time-stamps their activities. Maintaining accountability becomes seamlessly integrated into your command processes. These digital platforms also tend to be highly recognizable and easy for others to assume command. It’s paramount that you train extensively on whatever system your agency uses, and that everyone in your region or agency is squared away on how to maintain accountability in a standardized fashion. It’s a problem if you have several chiefs and company officers, and too many (or not enough) ways of maintaining accountability. Many agencies need the first-arriving officer to implement an ICS to track crews Segment and subdivide How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Use your knowledge of your ICS to break up the incident into manageable bites. When the Fire Chief arrives, they’ll have simple questions: Where is everybody? What are they doing? How are they doing? How do I talk to them? Knowing where your people need to deploy and what channel they’re on are critical to accountability. Using the command board is a great way to have all of those questions answered. Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly. This is true because it ensures you’re talking to the supervisors of each segment of the emergency, especially when assessing conditions, actions and needs. Setting up an incident this way should also be an expectation that is agency-wide and practiced in scenario-based training. The terminology should be standardized so that your agency and neighboring agencies aren’t interpreting what you’re trying to accomplish in the heat of battle. Summary A clear communications plan, solid scene size-up, and early establishment of the ICS by company officers are critical to incident success. Combine this with accurate and solid accountability systems, either through analog methods or with a modern digital solution in real-time, and you guarantee safer outcomes for your crews. The best way to be prepared is through long hours of dedicated practice in the command role and, more importantly, an agency-wide understanding of what’s in the play book: Standardization! A standard approach to managing incidents will help you remedy the chaos and enable you to hand over a well-organized incident to the first-arriving Chief.

There’s no doubt the Building Safety Act and Fire Safety Act are driving major improvements in the construction industry’s quality and approval processes. Although the initial focus of the legislation is on high-rise residential buildings, it’s predicted to be rolled out across the entire sector soon, tightening fire safety regulations in hospitals, hotels, and commercial offices and we await the rafts of secondary legislation that will really redefine the regulatory landscape. Many fear that commercial real estate professionals will be unprepared for the higher levels of compliance required, by the incoming regulations. New requirements for competency, collaboration, and digitally presenting joined-up information will inevitably be imposed on architects, building inspectors, owners, and construction product manufacturers. Fire regulations for commercial buildings However, currently, fire regulations for commercial buildings remain lax and there’s ambiguity about what constitutes appropriate fire safety system management, as well as how to prepare for revised building and fire safety requirements, as they become available. It’s all too easy to take a laissez-faire attitude, but adopting an ‘it will never happen to me’ approach is likely to lead to problems down the road, so contractors, asset owners and FMs alike need to get with the legislative program and fast. Understanding of fire safety ratings for things to increase If specifiers are cutting corners and installing inadequately rated products today, there will be very costly consequences later It is certain that office interior specification, coupled with ongoing checks and a robust understanding of fire safety ratings for things, such as interior doors, panels and partitions is likely to be increasingly challenging going forward. Importantly, if specifiers are cutting corners and installing inadequately rated products today, there will be very costly consequences later. As a result, it is advisable to go above and beyond current construction regulations, when specifying materials for commercial office interiors, in order to future-proof and keep occupants safe. The Grenfell turning point Grenfell was a wake-up call for the construction sector, particularly for construction product manufacturers and those involved in fire protection and fire testing. Before the tragedy, many believed their products were safe and their methods were flawless and tested according to official guidelines. However, this terrible event compelled the industry to examine its manufacturing procedures, the efficacy, adequacy and relevance of testing and certification, as well as product performance claims made in marketing collateral. This re-evaluation, which found many parts of the specification process not fit-for-purpose, has, thankfully, culminated in a total cultural overhaul. Asking important questions regarding building fire safety Fundamentally, there was not enough questioning before Grenfell. Now, we’re re-thinking everything, asking ourselves: Are we doing things correctly? What’s the risk? How can we mitigate that risk? Five years on, the interpretation of evidence, whether direct fire test evidence or third-party assessment, has become much more refined, and rightfully so. Designers and contractors are paying more attention to the evidence used to support proposed items and applications, while manufacturers are re-thinking their use of evidence, in line with post-Grenfell thinking. Adequacy of test evidence The adequacy of test evidence for a given application is now being scrutinized much more closely The adequacy of test evidence for a given application is now being scrutinized much more closely, as are the testing methodologies. It now raises the important question: ‘Does this test accurately represent the effect in a real-world scenario?’ Unfortunately, the capacity to deliver on these questions is not matching good intentions. The rising need for test evidence of fire resistance rather than merely accepting an assessment has caused testing facilities to become overloaded, resulting in much longer wait times. Assessments are now heavily connected to appropriate fire test findings, which necessitate the gathering of evidence and a higher level of analysis, in order to provide assessments. The entire process has become necessarily more complicated, but this has affected efficiency, something which will need to be addressed as construction output inevitably increases. R&D cultivates innovation Fortunately, there are solutions within reach, thanks to significant advancements in the development of fire-safe products and materials across the industry. There’s been an increase in project-specific developments, as suppliers collaborate with designers and fire regulatory organizations to share their expertise. As a result, rather than merely installing the best fit, projects are now specified with fully customized fire-rated systems. Meanwhile, continuing R&D has led to many organizations looking ahead and anticipating shifting demands and trends in the built environment. It’s leading to additional testing and product development for applications that aren't already covered by existing technologies, and a commitment to the highest-quality fire solutions, meaning safer and higher-performance products. Expertise and training are key It’s important to note that choosing fire-rated products does not make the area fire-safe by default. Once the facility is in operation, a systems approach is needed to ensure that the installation and risk assessment of fire-rated products are periodically monitored. Extensive training and CPD must be taken into account for specifiers Even the slightest modification to a fire-rated product, such as changing a glass door’s opening system, might compromise its integrity. It’s critical to completely understand the ins and outs of the product being defined, in order to ensure that it's used correctly. As a result, extensive training and CPD must be taken into account for specifiers and office building managers alike. Increased training and CPD Increased training and CPD will keep the industry on track to deal with the level of comprehensive knowledge necessary Increased training and CPD will keep the industry on track to deal with the level of comprehensive knowledge necessary, specifying according to need and meeting the high standards of the near future. Continued development of fire knowledge is crucial, as the latest high-performance glass doors in offices today are specialized pieces of technology and fire-rated systems behave very differently from other glass partitions or doors. The design dilemma Another significant challenge is incorporating fire safe components into a space without losing its aesthetic appeal, but remaining compliant. Designers are increasingly aiming to open up space to bring in natural light and encourage a sense of well-being for the occupants, meaning walls that would previously have been solid are being specified as glazed. This means that large panels of glass, beyond the capacity of fire test facilities, must be handled sensitively and installed within a bespoke system. This necessitates close liaison with certification authorities to identify what can be assessed from the test evidence provided. Of course, workplaces must be fire safe, look good, and feel pleasant to work in. The sheer complexity of the day-to-day office functionality is a difficult issue. Aesthetics are often a requirement that is added to the fire resistance of fire doors. But it’s often the case that suitably certified hardware simply doesn’t exist. Glass office partition systems Can fire safety and great design coexist in the office space? Yes, definitely. Can fire safety and great design coexist in the office space? Yes, definitely. This is because, the latest glazed and sliding doors, adjustable ‘office pods’, and acoustically-optimized walls are all made with fire safety, sustainability, and elegant design in mind. Many glass office partition systems allow natural light and air circulation to flow through the room, which helps to improve employee well-being and boosts performance. Fire safety is of the utmost importance Fire safety and design can harmoniously co-exist in an office space, but it comes down to managing expectations. Fire safety is of the utmost importance, and as the requirements tighten, the commercial office industry will catch up with fire safety standards, testing and reporting regimes, and ongoing compliance. Fortunately, fantastic fire-resistant workplace solutions are entering the market, built for safety, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal.

Last year was the largest wildfire season recorded in California in modern history, with six of the top 20 largest wildfires in the state, according to the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). In 2020, firefighters faced a total of 9,917 wildfires that consumed a record 6,653 square miles. These fires took the lives of 33 people and damaged or destroyed 10,488 structures. Ahead of the 2022 wildland fire season, climatologists are predicting another record-shattering year of frequent and intense wildfires across the United States. This reflects a continuing trend of more wildfires and more acres burned, with seasons that are more severe and last longer. Growing concern for WUI firefighters DuPont believes these dedicated men and women deserve the best protection Concern is growing for wildland urban interface (WUI) firefighters as fires today frequently intersect with residential areas, in and around wildland fields. WUI firefighters are fighting both wildfires and urban fires. This comes with combined hazards and the clear need for their gear to work harder than ever before. DuPont believes these dedicated men and women deserve the best protection and the best gear to match their unwavering commitment to keeping everyone safe. At DuPont, we look at singular and multiple threats simultaneously. Our decades of experience, wide portfolio of solutions and unique partnerships with firehouses around the world, allow us to continue to innovate our next-generation gear to face emerging threats. Uncompromised Protection The DuPont Nomex brand has been trusted for over 50 years. WUI firefighters can depend on apparel made with Nomex and Nomex Nano to offer higher fire resistance along with over 99% particulate protection in lighter weight options. Nomex Nano was developed to address the growing problem of heat stress. It is engineered to be thinner than other advanced flame-resistant (FR) materials used for thermal liners and features a higher limiting oxygen index (LOI) than traditional Nomex and DuPont Kevlar. Nomex Nano We have seen Nomex Nano provide up to 40% reduction in thermal liner thickness, when compared to other advanced liners available in the market, while providing similar thermal protection performance. By reducing the weight and bulk of current turnout gear (TOG) systems, liners made with Nomex Nano can help give firefighters increased mobility and a better range of motion, thereby helping to reduce fatigue, disorientation and heat exhaustion. Reduced heat stress and enhanced moisture management Nomex Nano also helps reduce heat stress due to its enhanced moisture management Nomex Nano also helps reduce heat stress due to its enhanced moisture management, which includes a high absorption rate to remove sweat quickly and a high evaporation rate to drive water out of a firefighter’s skin and the thermal liner system. Kelly Whitt, Business Development Manager at DuPont said, “Our existing products have been proven with years in the structural firefighting arena. Today, we’re looking at ways to bridge the gap and give WUI firefighters the same level of protection from harmful smoke particulates that can be found in structural fire turnout gear.” Field test of new laminated composite fabric technology Kelly Whitt adds, “We are field testing a new laminated composite fabric technology – utilizing Nomex® Nano – that will provide superior particulate protection for both wildland-urban interface and brush fire firefighting.” DuPont understands that collaborating with a variety of stakeholders is the key to taking the technology to the next level and providing WUI firefighters with a better level of protection, than what they have previously experienced with traditional wildland gear. Game-changing barrier protection Scientists are just starting to learn more about what firefighters are exposed to, when they are battling a wildland blaze. They know that a variety of airborne pathogens get kicked up in a fire. They have tracked countless living microbes and airborne pathogens that could seep into the skin, enter lungs and cling to clothing. But the long-term effects of wildfire smoke aren’t really known, as fires haven’t burned for this long until recent years. At this point, experts don’t have a good understanding of the many trillions of microbes that survive and proliferate in wildfires. “The diversity of microbes that we've found are really mind-bending,” said Leda Kobziar, the University of Idaho’s Wildland Fire Science Director.  The addition of Nomex Nano Flex to a firefighter hood composite structure Enhanced protection against particulates As we look to the next generation of gear, we want to focus on increasing protection against particulates. We know that when added to a firefighter hood composite structure, hoods made with Nomex Nano Flex provide higher than 99% particulate, bacterial and viral filtration efficiency, without compromising on comfort. The addition of Nomex Nano Flex to a firefighter hood composite structure provides improved particle barrier protection in the neckline and upper jaw. These are areas that are known to be the most vulnerable and least protected. In fact, it results in up to a 4x increase in particle barrier efficiency. And comfort doesn’t take a back seat. Better situational awareness and high breathability “I speak with firefighters daily, and they tell me hoods with Nomex Nano Flex have exceptional durability,” said Chris Nowacki, Regional Sales Manager – Emergency Response and Utility/Arc at DuPont, adding “In addition, fire departments specify Nomex Nano Flex over other particulate-blocking materials for enhanced safety, better situational awareness, high breathability, low shrinkage and enhanced performance, when soaked with perspiration.” Protection That Lasts Tests show that hoods and composites made with Nomex Nano Flex offer 99% particulate-blocking efficiency Tests show that hoods and composites made with Nomex Nano Flex offer 99% particulate-blocking efficiency, which is four times better than conventional hoods, even after 150 washes. To further validate the durability of the hoods, a test was performed at two local fire stations using hoods from three different manufacturers with different designs, including quilted and non-quilted options. Nomex Nano particulate-blocking gear Each trial consisted of 250 cycles of donning and doffing, followed by one NFPA 1851 recommended washing and drying for 10 cycles. Despite these aggressive trials, the hoods maintained their protective performance. Nomex Nano particulate-blocking gear helps prevent crews from being exposed to particulates and aerosolized microbes. At DuPont, we are committed to continuing our work with our industry partners to leverage our proven technologies and push the boundaries of science so that the next generation of WUI firefighting gear offers the highest level of protection possible. We are the innovation partner and ingredient. We stay with partners throughout the entire process of adoption and make sure the end user also has what they need to be safe and successful in their jobs. Our heroes deserve it.

Information can transform and guide emergency response. For example, in a structure fire, real-time sensor feeds throughout a building can help 911 and first responders understand how the fire is progressing. In fires and other emergencies, more information provides a better understanding and empowers potentially life-saving decision-making. Emergency response teams depend on information to guide their efforts and to deliver targeted assistance. On the front lines of emergency response are 911 and field responder agencies, which must direct reaction to life-or-death situations rapidly and efficiently. Historically, 911 operators had to respond based on very little information, perhaps just a voice on the phone or a location on their screen. Providing critical information Today, there are literally millions of information sources available, ranging from connected buildings to vehicle telematics to live video streams to health information from wearable devices. In fact, there are 540 million connected devices, any one of which could provide critical information in an emergency. But how can those information sources be leveraged to improve emergency response? That’s the mission and value proposition of RapidSOS, an ‘intelligent safety platform’ company that connects 911 operators with the vast universe of information available to promote better and faster emergency response. Highly sophisticated operation The platform is integrated into every major public safety software system and first responder agency “RapidSOS fuses human and artificial intelligence to put critical information from any connected device directly into the existing systems and operating procedures of first responders across the United States,” says Michael Martin, CEO of RapidSOS. RapidSOS is widely used by first responders. The platform is integrated into every major public safety software system and first responder agency. There are more than 4,600 software integrations that serve more than 21,000 first responders and 911 agencies. In 2023, RapidSOS supported the lifesaving work of public safety across 171 million emergencies with 3.3 billion data payloads. The system is adaptable and configurable to support any agency, from a highly sophisticated operation in New York City to a local sheriff running their own 911 center. Intelligent analytics and reporting RapidSOS Unite is the latest evolution of the product, a single solution that includes AI automation, rich content pathways, redundant connection to caller phones, and access to millions of connected devices. In an emergency, Unite intelligently fuses data from among millions of sensor feeds into a unified picture of an incident, allowing public safety officials to view real-time location, health profile, telematics, alarm data, and more. RapidSOS Unite is the latest evolution of the product, a single solution that includes AI automation RapidSOS offers core modules that handle call, text, video, sensor, mapping, and administration tools, and that provide partner data from connected devices. Additional modules provide enhanced geographic information system (GIS) data, and automated translation and transcription. There is also a single sign-on (SSO) upgrade, intelligent analytics and reporting, and seamless integration into field responder applications. Field responder applications Consider how an emergency might unfold and how RapidSOS can help. In a car accident, data from a modern automobile telematics system can alert a 911 operator of the accident as it happens. Data from a passenger’s wearable device might provide information about their health and condition. A nearby video or traffic camera could fill in details of how the accident occurred. Useful information in an emergency might come from any one of thousands of sources, including public safety data, sensor feeds, enterprise security systems, smartphones, etc. In a train derailment, electronic access to the cargo manifest can identify which train cars contain hazardous materials and how to manage the specific type of hazmat. This information could save valuable time when responding to incidents like the Feb. 3, 2023, Norfolk Southern train derailment involving 38 cars in East Palestine, Ohio. Consider how an emergency might unfold and how RapidSOS can help Institutional security partners Norfolk Southern is one of the companies that provides information to first responders using RapidSOS; in effect, the company provides a direct digital link from their rail security operations to any first responder in the United States. Amazon’s global operations centers also interface with RapidSOS to provide critical information to first responders. Partnering with corporate security helps to better support the flow of data from institutional security partners and their solutions. Real-time security camera footage Having access to live feeds can save lives as 911 provides pre-arrival instructions such as CPR Leading the way to providing video feeds from private camera systems to 911 operators is an agreement between Eagle Eye Networks and RapidSOS, which was announced in April 2024. The agreement allows an enterprise to opt-in to share real-time security camera footage from an Eagle Eye video stream during a live 911 call. Having access to live feeds can save lives as 911 provides pre-arrival instructions such as CPR.  “Security cameras are crucial in many locations, including schools, but previously those cameras could not be accessed by 911 during an emergency but were only used for investigation after an incident,” says Martin. Improving fire and life safety systems RapidSOS is also integrated with Honeywell’s Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS) system, a cloud platform that combines software and hardware to improve fire and life safety systems. Technology integrations between the two companies further modernize and digitize the public safety communications process to provide faster, more accurate communications with emergency centers (i.e., 911 agencies). RapidSOS technology securely transmits detailed data about an emergency CLSS provides real-time visibility and connectivity to help systems integrators and facilities managers make informed decisions and manage fire systems more efficiently. When combined with Honeywell's solutions, RapidSOS technology securely transmits detailed data about an emergency, such as the type of hazard, severity, and location within the impacted building, to emergency response centers. Video object detection Rapid SOS’s emerging Harmony artificial intelligence (AI) product serves as a ‘co-pilot’ for 911 operators, helping them manage the high volume of emergencies by making their response more efficient. Harmony pulls all the sensor feeds in an emergency and works to make only the most important information available in the hands of 911 and first responders. Harmony can take key insights from text and video data, use ‘sentiment analysis’ to determine the emotion tone of a message, and help 911 professionals using language translation, keyword alerts, and video object detection. Harmony can help local agencies as they address a 25% average staffing shortage by providing additional support to 911 professionals while lessening the workload. Harmony is also working to help RapidSOS expand the ecosystem, stitching more data together and quickly making it more actionable than ever. Emergency response system RapidSOS also interfaces with Iamresponding, a comprehensive end-to-end emergency response system for first responders in the fire and other emergency sectors. Iamresponding’s field responder application is used by RapidSOS to get information out to first responders in the field. More than 650,000 first responders use RapidSOS’s field application RapidSOS’s recent acquisition of Iamresponding helps the company improve the connection with the last mile “in-the-field” piece of the puzzle, ensuring partners across computer-aided dispatch (CAD), integrated applications, mobile data terminals, body cameras, and other responders have access to critical data. More than 650,000 first responders use RapidSOS’s field application. Enhancing emergency response RapidSOS’s Safety Pioneer Program formalizes the important partnership between RapidSOS and public safety agencies. Participants in the program receive early access to new platform features, contribute to the platform roadmap, and drive feedback to enhance emergency response. “911 and first responders do incredible lifesaving work,” says Martin. “Everything we have done and built at RapidSOS is a direct result of the engagement, partnerships, inside advice and insight we have gotten from public safety. We have learned from them, developed new technologies and tested them.” Martin adds: “Companies have data and we now know how to make that data actionable into the hands of 911 and first responders to save lives. This is an exciting moment for us continuing our mission in partnership with public safety, and for technology and security companies to have a major hand in that.” {##Poll1720595927 - What is the most valuable benefit of artificial intelligence (AI) in an emergency call center?##}

To be a smart city, modern urban areas leverage technology to improve operations and services, in effect deploying a network of sensors and devices to collect data on city operations such as traffic flow, energy use, and waste management. Analyzing the data points enables cities to identify areas for improvement and additional solutions to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life. But what are the opportunities for the fire service in today’s smart cities? Smart cities enable the creation of a more dynamic and data-driven approach to fire response. Technology enables quicker fire detection, faster routing of first responders through traffic management, and proactive fire prevention strategies, among other advantages. Analyzing Risks and Planning Prevention The fire service plays a crucial role in keeping citizens safe in smart cities, and with the integration of technologies, their capabilities are expanding. For example, smart cities utilize sensor networks and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to constantly monitor buildings for temperature fluctuations or other signs of potential fire hazards. This allows fire departments to identify risks early and take preventative measures. Real-time traffic data can be used to optimize ways for fire trucks, ensuring they reach the set faster Smart technologies can improve response times by automatically alerting fire services the moment a fire breaks out. Additionally, real-time traffic data can be used to optimize routes for fire trucks, ensuring they reach the scene quicker. Firefighters in smart cities can benefit from wearable technology and sensor data to gain better awareness of the fire environment. This can include data on temperature, air quality, and even the location of fellow firefighters, all of which improve decision-making and firefighter safety. Addressing Obstacles of Traffic Congestion Traffic congestion is a major obstacle for emergency vehicles. Smart cities use sensors and data analytics to monitor traffic flow in real time. This data can be used to dynamically adjust traffic lights, prioritizing emergency vehicles, and clearing a path to the fire. Fire stations can be equipped with software that analyzes real-time traffic data and chooses the fastest route to the fire scene. This can take into account accidents, road closures, and even weather conditions to optimize the route for emergency vehicles. Lessons Learned from Historical Data Smart city data assigns fire units to analyze historical fire incidents and recall high-risk areas Smart city data empowers fire departments to analyze historical fire incidents and identify high-risk areas. This helps them deploy resources strategically and plan fire prevention efforts more effectively. Smart city data can be used to identify areas with a higher risk of fire based on factors like building age, occupancy, and historical fire incidents. This allows fire services to pre-position resources in high-risk areas or implement preventative measures in those locations, potentially leading to fewer fires overall and faster response times when they do occur. Predicting fires in a smart city is not about pinpointing the exact time and location. Rather, it is about using data and machine learning to identify areas with a high risk of fires. A key aspect of smart city fire prediction involves collecting data from various sources. This includes historical fire incident records, building codes and inspection reports, weather data, and even sensor data from cameras and Internet of Things (IoT) devices in buildings. Closer attention or preventative measures The collected data is fed into machine learning algorithms that can identify patterns and relationships between various factors that contribute to fire risk. Based on the analysis, algorithms can assign a fire risk score to different buildings or even city blocks. This allows fire services to create fire risk maps, highlighting areas that require closer attention or preventative measures. Based on the analysis, algorithms can assign a fire risk score to different buildings or even city blocks Knowing high-risk areas allows fire departments to take proactive steps. This could involve increased fire inspections in those areas, educating residents on fire safety, or even pre-positioning fire trucks or resources closer to high-risk zones during periods of high fire danger. In essence, fire services in smart cities are transforming from reactive forces to proactive guardians, leveraging technology to prevent fires, respond faster, and protect both citizens and firefighters. Smarter Systems for Earlier Detection Traditional smoke detectors are helpful in fire prevention and response, but smarter systems with Internet-of-things (IoT) sensors can detect fires earlier and with more precision. These sensors identify both smoke and factors like temperature and air quality changes, thus providing valuable details to firefighters. Additionally, these systems can automatically notify fire services the moment a fire breaks out, eliminating any delay in reporting. Here are some examples of the impact of technology on the fire service. Dryad Networks, a Berlin-based company, builds large-scale sensor networks using the Internet of Things (IoT) specifically designed for forests. Their sensors can be attached to trees and detect gases like carbon monoxide in the early stages of a fire, giving firefighters a crucial head start. Pano is a company that analyzes data from emergency calls to pinpoint the exact location of a fire Another company, OroraTech, leverages satellite technology to meticulously map large areas, identifying zones susceptible to wildfires. This information helps forest managers and firefighters focus their preventative efforts on high-risk zones. Providing a unique approach to fire detection, Pano is a company that analyzes data from emergency calls to pinpoint the exact location of a fire and sends firefighters a text message with a video feed. This helps distinguish real emergencies from false alarms and allows for a faster response. Rain, based in Alameda, Calif., is developing firefighting drones that can be automatically dispatched upon detecting a fire. These drones can reach remote areas quickly and potentially suppress the fire before it spreads, offering a faster response in hard-to-reach locations. Smart Cities: Technologies Continue to Advance It's important to remember that fire prediction is still a developing field, and new technology models are not perfect. However, by leveraging data and machine learning, smart cities can significantly improve their ability to identify areas with a higher likelihood of fires, allowing them to take preventative actions and ultimately improve public safety.

Wildfires swept through the Panhandle region of Texas earlier in 2024. The Smokehouse Creek Fire and the Windy Deuce Fire, both starting on Feb. 26, were the most significant outbreaks. The Smokehouse Creek Fire went on to become the second largest in U.S. history, burning over a million acres across Texas and Oklahoma before it was contained in mid-March. worst-ever wildfire As Texas battled its worst-ever wildfire, firefighters worked to mitigate fire and smoke damage. Among the challenges were staffing shortages. The United States is facing a serious firefighter shortage that makes fighting wildfires, including the Smokehouse Creek fire, even more difficult. Not unrelatedly, over half of all firefighters in the U.S. are volunteers.  training in structural fires Vector Solutions helps agencies train, prepare, and retain their employees to have a safer, better team “We just know how demanding the wildfire season is and how fast these fires can grow,” says Robbi King, Solutions Engineer at Vector Solutions. “We want our people to be current on the expectations of what we are training, preventing our chance of getting hurt,” he says. As fires increasingly occur at the wildland-urban interface (WUI), departments with training in structural fires should expand their training knowledge to prepare. Vector Solutions helps agencies train, prepare, and retain their employees to have a safer, better team. online firefighting training In addition to the availability of more than 450 hours of online firefighting training, the company also provides software platforms to ensure requisite knowledge and the ability to perform various skills.  Ensuring preparation for wildfire season, Vector Solutions has courses that meet the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) requirements to renew certification. shortage of volunteer firefighters The shortage of volunteer firefighters is in part a reflection of the need for volunteers to hold full-time jobs to support their families, which limits their time for volunteering. Coverage of wildfire events, for example, is difficult during the day when more volunteers are at their paid jobs and unavailable.  “It takes the sacrifice of vacation and other things you earn to be a volunteer,” says King. Firefighter staffing is short throughout the U.S., and agencies facing fire emergencies often call on the larger surrounding area for help. Lack of resources in emergencies Local volunteers can perform some of the duties, but outside aid generally comes in the form of paid firefighters Resources are needed to perform search-and-rescue duties after the fire. “The problem is, when you call on all your assets, are there enough people to take care of medical needs and other emergencies?” says King. Local volunteers can perform some of the duties, but outside aid generally comes in the form of paid firefighters. Volunteers cannot commit two weeks of unpaid time even in a fire emergency.  Artificial intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) can help to identify areas to search, but it takes human intervention to perform rescues and to facilitate recovery. A decayed power pole sparking dry grass was determined as the cause of the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Texas, and several other fires were also traced back to faulty power equipment. The fires caused significant damage, including hundreds of homes destroyed, livestock deaths, and widespread destruction of crops and ranch infrastructure.  Wildfire impact and concerns  A huge concern during wildfire season is that individuals heed evacuation orders when they come in. “We don’t want people to be left behind,” says King. “There’s nothing there that is worth your life. Minding the evacuation orders gets you out of harm’s way.” Residents in areas impacted by wildfire should also do their part to protect their homes; sometimes it’s as simple as mowing the grass. role of the weather Additional moisture can contribute to the rapid thickening of undergrowth, which contributes eventually The weather plays a significant role in determining the course of the wildfire season. Additional moisture can contribute to the rapid thickening of undergrowth, which contributes eventually to a cycle of drying out and opening the door to wildfires.  The location of residences near areas prone to wildfires can contribute to risks, especially along the wildland-urban interface. “Communities want to live near nature, so they work with builders, who are trying to appease what they want,” says King. Vector Solutions Cloud “We need to look at where we are placing these homes to make sure we are pushing the vegetation back far enough to prevent the spread of fires.” Keeping firefighter skills current also makes a big difference. The Vector Solutions Cloud stores video of first responders performing skills and the video can be observed and critiqued later for better training.  Scheduling and Check It Vector also provides Vector Scheduling, a time-and-attendance tool. Vector Check It streamlines routine truck and equipment tracking and centralizes asset and inventory management. Vector’s Guardian Tracking is a performance management and early intervention solution that equips first responders with a process for consistent feedback and positive recognition while identifying those in need of intervention before an adverse event takes place.  Guardian Tracking Software The system can also identify when people are performing below expectations or fail to meet standards Vector Solutions can contribute to firefighter retention. The Guardian Tracking software can identify career milestone events and trace the negative impacts of a major fire event, including emotional stress. The system can also identify when people are performing below expectations or fail to meet standards. “Most agencies have de-brief sessions after milestone events, but sometimes we need additional care,” says King. impact due to COVID  “We want to take care of people, but sometimes we need a reminder.” If departments can retain people, it becomes less of a recruitment effort. Four years after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact on the fire service is still being felt. “We are still identifying the long-lasting COVID effects, and there are small segments of communities that have not fully recovered,” says King. ”When you expose them to wildland fire and smoke, it compounds the issues.”  risk assessment It will be some time before the full impact of COVID is understood, including the need for first responders to go inside residences at the height of the pandemic.  “My work with the fire service and the military prepared me to always think about possibilities,” says King. “We do a risk assessment, which has allowed me to understand what the fire service needs and how we can apply our solutions to streamline and improve agencies’ processes. Having that knowledge has helped me find the right solution for firefighter needs.” 

Providing innovative fire safety technology, global wireless solutions provider - Ramtech has revealed its role in protecting the prestigious F1 Hungarian Grand Prix 2024, with its WES system utilized across several temporary buildings for optimum site protection. Working closely with Hungarian partner, High-Security Kft, Ramtech supplied its EN54-25 compliant wireless fire and evacuation system (WES) for various structures including media spaces, bathrooms, dressing rooms, and conference areas. These facilities were purpose-built for the race and lacked permanent fire alarm systems, so the system helped to deliver enhanced safety for personnel and equipment throughout the event. WES fire points and smoke detectors Adam Kovics, Export Sales Manager at Ramtech, said: "It’s a privilege to get to work on such a renowned event as the F1 Grand Prix, which gives us the opportunity to showcase how robust and reliable our systems are on the world stage. WES provided an ideal fire safety solution for the temporary structures, offering ease of installation and removal post-event and ensuring safety and compliance with event regulations." He adds, "It is certainly a proud moment for the team in supporting the safety and 24/7 monitoring of this iconic race. WES fire points and smoke detectors were installed across four container groups at the Hungaroring racetrack in Mogyoród, Pest County. The WES interface was used to connect the system to the permanent fire alarm system, ensuring continuous monitoring and immediate response capabilities." Building reconstructions  In the event of an evacuation, an alarm would sound to alert all workers The system’s robust radio mesh network also ensured seamless communication between devices without interfering with existing systems. In the event of an evacuation, an alarm would sound to alert all workers, prioritizing their well-being as well as helping to prevent potential disasters.  Hungarian Grand Prix The famed Hungarian Grand Prix was held across the weekend of 19–21 July with 20 initial drivers competing in the 70-lap race. The event was the thirteenth round of the 2024 Formula One World Championship and the 39th running in the Hungaroring circuit’s history as part of the Formula One World Championship. The containers and the temporary system were necessary due to ongoing permanent building reconstructions that will only be completed for the 2025 Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix.

Cygnus’ world-first 100% wireless and EN 54 certified SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm solution has been installed at the Contractor’s Village at Heysham Power Station 1 in Lancashire, providing reliable life-saving fire protection equipment in a challenging industrial location. Manchester-based installer - Marlowe Fire & Security worked together with its client, Equans, a provider of technical services, FM, regeneration and energy services, on the project. Marlowe Fire & Security selected Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro solution having successfully worked with the Cygnus team on several projects previously. Challenging Setting Contractor’s Village consists of twenty cabins, each equipped with a Detector and Manual Call Point The Contractor’s Village consists of twenty cabins, each equipped with a Detector and Manual Call Point, connected to a SmartNet-Pro Control Panel in one of the nearest cabins to the main site, alongside an interface for the signal to the main site. Simon Hilton, Systems Account Manager, Marlowe Fire & Security, said "We chose SmartNet-Pro thanks to its proven reliability, robustness, and impressive installation speed. This project presented quite a challenge due to the amount of metal in the cabin construction, which would cause issues if installing a wired system, and means we needed a product with robust signal strength." He adds, "Thanks to SmartNet’s 100% wireless capabilities, it ensured minimal disruption to the site and was quickly deployable. We’ve used Cygnus products before in similar settings and we’ve always been impressed with the outcome and this project was no exception." SmartNet fire detection and alarm system Heysham Power Station 1 experiences intermittent outages for maintenance purposes. SmartNet runs on wireless radio devices as part of a robust, self-forming and self-healing mesh network technology, in which the infrastructure nodes connect dynamically to provide highly efficient and robust network performance. This ensures that the SmartNet fire detection and alarm system can keep operating through these outages for the continuous on-site safety of workers. Being 100% wireless, SmartNet not only reduces cabling complexities that would arise trying to install through metal, but also provides a scalable solution for future needs. Successful Results Simon Hilton commended the fast responsiveness of the Cygnus team, stating, "The support from the Cygnus team was exceptional. They were always on hand to assist us, ensuring a smooth and successful installation." Simon also highlighted the value of the Cygnus Academy one-day training session and becoming a Cygnus Certified Installer, commenting "The team found this hugely beneficial as it combined both theoretical and hands-on practical training to enable them to complete a successful installation."  The Cygnus Academy The Cygnus Academy presents a high-specification, in-person training program, that can be carried out in two bespoke locations. Installers gain understanding and attain certification for installing SmartNet. Geoff Copsey, EDF Energy, expressed satisfaction with the installation, stating, "The implementation of Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro system at Heysham Power Station 1 has provided us with a reliable and robust fire detection solution. We are impressed with the system’s performance and appreciate the peace of mind it brings to our operations."

Since the end of 2023, Bosch's artificial intelligence has been safeguarding the world-renowned Aachen Cathedral, which is more than 1,200 years old. Germany's first UNESCO World Heritage site has been equipped by Bosch Building Technologies and the engineering firm planning with an intelligent video solution that protects it against a multitude of potential threats. Intelligent video solution Fires, in particular, can be devastating for such a historic building of inestimable intangible value and this is precisely why Aachen Cathedral has opted for the new system, which can detect a potential danger particularly quickly: Over 50 Aviotec cameras from Bosch in 16 rooms use intelligent video analytics to visually detect smoke and flames directly at their source. Due to AI algorithms, video cameras can also differentiate, for example, candlelight from a developing fire. This substantially reduces the likelihood of false alarms. Thus, the cameras respond much earlier than conventional ceiling-mounted fire detectors, which require smoke to rise to them. Fire detection "We are proud of this globally unique project at Aachen Cathedral," says Dr. Marcus Nadenau, Head of the European system integrator business Energy and Building Solutions at Bosch Building Technologies. "Aviotec offers an invaluable speed advantage in fire detection, especially in buildings with complex layouts and high ceilings," adds Dr. Nadenau. Video surveillance Cathedral master builder Dr. Jan Richarz, who took over the project from his predecessor Helmut Maintz, emphasizes the significance of this technology for the protection of Aachen Cathedral, supported by the Karlsverein / Cathedral Construction Association and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, "With this video surveillance solution, Aachen is a global leader." "It protects our World Heritage site as reliably and innovatively as befits its historical, religious, and cultural significance. I am very satisfied with the result and the collaborative partnership," says Dr. Richarz. AI protects treasures of immeasurable value Aviotec raises the alarm if someone enters the virtual exclusion zones around individual exhibits Aviotec primarily secures the cathedral's interior with its valuable relics and unique artworks, admired by over a million visitors annually. The video solution ensures that visitors can get as close as possible to the many treasures without endangering them: Aviotec raises the alarm if someone enters the virtual exclusion zones around individual exhibits.  Day-night surveillance During the day, it protects the cathedral from vandalism and theft, and at night from break-ins. Thanks to Aviotec, visitor flows can now be managed much more efficiently, as only a limited number of people are allowed in the cathedral at any one time: The previously laborious manual counting of visitors is now undertaken by the video solution. Protecting an important building together Bosch Building Technologies, in collaboration with the engineering firm, planned, developed, and implemented the comprehensive video solution for the cathedral. Every step was closely coordinated with the Cathedral Construction Lodge, whose challenging task is to preserve the cathedral and its treasures for the future.  "Aviotec from Bosch offers early fire detection and video security functions in one system, perfectly meeting the special protection needs of this sacred building," says Ralf Wolters from the engineering firm planning. "Cutting-edge technology meets centuries-old treasures. This combination has excited me," says the Engineer. Integrated fire alarm system A monitor shows arriving firefighters live images from the cathedral and informs them about the exact location An advantage of the Aachen solution is its close integration with the local fire department: As soon as one of the Aviotec cameras detects a developing fire, the Aachen professional fire department is informed via the normatively integrated fire alarm system. A monitor shows arriving firefighters live images from the cathedral and informs them about the exact location where the danger was detected. This saves valuable time. Due to the high Aviotec standard, the fire department allowed the solution to be connected to its systems as a special detector. As the world's first system for video-based fire detection, Aviotec was certified by VdS in 2017. Close coordination with heritage conservation To determine the ideal position for each camera within the building, digital floor plans were initially created, followed by an elaborate 3D simulation. Heritage conservation was involved early on, allowing the video system to blend almost invisibly into the existing ensemble. During the installation phase, more than 30 craftsmen worked in the cathedral at times, implementing electricity, lighting, and the new video solution in coordination. For the entire team, it was a special experience to work on a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Comelit-PAC has been working with partners - GB Integrated Systems to fit the latest fire safety systems at the Hop House in Deva City Office Park, in order to ensure the safety of all who work and visit the unique work environment. Part of the former Threlfalls Brewery, an iconic feature of the Manchester city skyline, Deva City Office Park presents an eclectic mix of business space presented in a Grade II listed Brewery building or 17 high-spec self-contained office units. Balancing modern design GB Integrated System worked directly with the site management team to upgrade the addressable panels With the need to offer 24 / 7 security and fire safety, GB Integrated System worked directly with the site management team to upgrade the addressable panels, and specified Comelit-PAC’s latest LogiFire solution. Iain Taylor, Director of Asset Management at Northwood Investors International Limited, said: “We knew we had complex requirements for Deva City when it came to security and fire safety, with each individual business on site needing its own risk assessments. This was set against the buildings themselves, where any upgrades had to be sympathetic to the specific interest Grade II classification and balance modern design and use of technology.” Easy fire safety solution Iain Taylor adds, “GB Integrated Systems made it a priority to understand this and work with us right from initial design and specification to implement a bespoke solution that could accommodate our requirements. From a fire safety perspective, Comelit-PAC was recommended, to ensure we could reduce installation time and minimize disruption to business activity for the benefit of our occupiers.” GB Integrated System specified Comelit-PAC’s LogiFire Easy fire safety solution. The office park required a stand-alone 1-loop analog addressable panel. Fire safety solution We recommended Comelit-PAC’s Logifire solution essentially because of its simple design" Mike Gray, Technical Director at GB Integrated Systems, stated: “We recommended Comelit-PAC’s Logifire solution essentially because of its simple design, and ability to easily install using existing cabling, so as not to interfere with the style of the development and its unique character. From the owner’s perspective, its style and flexibility of use means that it is the best fire safety solution to protect the occupiers collectively and blend seamlessly with its surroundings.” Logifire addressable system, has been designed to offer a simple to install, fire safety solution that is compliant with BS and EN standards. It is complemented with a range of detectors, offered with award-winning designs to ensure systems blend with their surroundings. Mind fire safety Mandy Bowden, Comelit-PAC Fire Manager, concluded: “When it comes to fire safety, the market is growing rapidly amid greater awareness of the need for risk assessments, remediation work, building upgrades and ongoing maintenance in the new-build sector as well as at existing sites. What our work with GB Integrated Systems at Deva City Office Park demonstrates is the need to assess each development as early as possible in a works program to ensure solutions meet exact requirements." She adds, "We understood that any upgrade had to be carefully considered with regards to how it will impact on the aesthetics of the overall premises. Together, we identified how LogiFire as a single solution, could be installed quickly and effectively for the benefit of all who work on-site. It allows for total peace of mind fire safety.”

In recent years, Tyler Technologies, the largest and most established provider of integrated software and technology services focused on the public sector, has been laser-focused on driving better outcomes for the fire service. In 2018, the company acquired MobileEyes, a SaaS company that improved public safety by supporting fire prevention, suppression, and response. MobileEyes, now known as Fire Prevention Mobile, is primarily used by state and local fire prevention agencies and fire departments as job-enabling technology for inspectors to use in the field. Integrate NFPA Code Data Packs Inspectors have always referenced NFPA® codes and standards as the backbone of their work, but critical code content was often accessed via hardcopy documents or disparate PDFs, thus slowing down the inspection process and leaving room for error.  Tyler Technologies saw an opportunity to integrate NFPA Code Data Packs into its Fire Prevention Mobile product to enable fire marshals and inspectors to quickly incorporate precise code citations into their inspection reports as violations are identified during the inspection process. Consequently, prevention agencies are completing more inspections while producing inspection reports that are more accurate, more complete, and less prone to legal challenges.    By understanding the needs of its customers and applying technology to integrate authorized NFPA data packs, Tyler Technologies has been able to foster digital transformation, increase efficiency, and promote a higher level of effectiveness among inspectors, ultimately pioneering to safer communities. Customer-centric approach Fire Prevention Mobile became first in the industry to pioneer a product that digitized NFPA code  At the inception of Fire Prevention Mobile, the team hosted several focus groups with chiefs, fire marshals, and inspectors. At the time, the prevailing approach to conducting fire inspections was a slow, labor-intensive paper process. When the focus groups concluded, two things became immediately clear: (1) inspectors needed an easy-to-use, mobile software solution to perform and complete inspections in the field, and (2) final inspection reports needed to incorporate precise, published code and standard citations that would withstand scrutiny.  Armed with this input, Fire Prevention Mobile became one of the first in the industry to pioneer a product that integrated digitized NFPA code packs. This digitization of code information aimed to increase efficiency and accuracy while reducing costs and providing better service to state and local governments. Authoritative NFPA code content With NFPA Code Data Packs serving up critical code content for delivery through Fire Prevention Mobile, inspectors no longer need to copy and paste information from PDFs. The app instead allows them to instantly access the authoritative NFPA code content at the click of a button with both online and offline search capabilities. This allows fire personnel to reference the correct code content at the point of use, serving as a major selling point for Tyler Technologies’ customers.  Increased Inspections, Increased Prevention And Safety Inspectors improve their inspection effectiveness while completing 20 to 50% inspections per year Speed and thoroughness are paramount when it comes to fire inspections.  At the same time, fire departments are often overwhelmed by the volume of inspections that must be completed by under-resourced prevention units. This challenge has resulted in a significant opportunity for Tyler Technologies. Using Fire Prevention Mobile with integrated NFPA content, inspectors have been able to improve their inspection effectiveness while completing 20 to 50 percent more inspections per year. Author's quote “The NFPA relationship has been hugely important, enabling us to provide the fire service a game-changing solution,” said Joe Krehel, General Manager of Fire Prevention Mobile, Tyler Technologies.   “Integrated NFPA content has enabled faster, better inspections that benefit the fire service and the public. The next chapter will be even more exciting as Fire Chiefs and IT Directors increasingly demand integrated solutions that leverage data within and across departments—a requirement that plays directly into the strengths of Tyler. We have only just begun seeing the power of integration and shared data as cities, counties, and states leverage their data across their organizations to transform the way decisions are made and public services are delivered.”

Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc., a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation announces Airservices Australia has issued a purchase order for four Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® Volterra™ 6x6 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) hybrid electric vehicles. These environmentally advanced fire apparatus will be deployed at the new Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), set to open in 2026. Striker Volterra 6x6 The Striker Volterra 6x6 comes equipped with an Oshkosh-patented hybrid-electric drivetrain, featuring an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission. This enables zero-emissions operation through the integrated onboard batteries and uninterrupted power supply by coupling with the internal combustion engine for pumping and drive systems. innovative design  Airservices Australia is making a significant investment to support the development of an 'airport of the future' WSI is a transformational infrastructure project expected to boost economic activity, provide local employment opportunities, meet Sydney's carbon-neutral sustainability initiatives, and meet the area’s growing aviation needs. Airservices Australia is a government entity making a significant investment to support the development of an 'airport of the future', featuring world-pioneering technology, innovative design, and a sustainability plan incorporating assets like the Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles.  sustainability "As the first airport built in Australia in over 50 years, WSI is not just an airport; it's a statement of intent for a more sustainable future,” said Dave Archer, Vice President of Engineering for Oshkosh Vocational. He adds, “The Striker Volterra vehicles, with their hybrid electric technology, align perfectly with Airservices Australia and WSI’s goals. These vehicles are not only an asset to emergency response capabilities but also play a crucial role in larger environmental sustainability initiatives." environmentally conscious choice Dave Archer continues, "They symbolize a dedication to intelligent design, energy optimization, fire crew safety and efficiency, and ultimately, a carbon-neutral future." Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles demonstrate the most advanced acceleration and reduced fuel consumption compared to our standard diesel models, making them an environmentally conscious choice for emergency response services. Striker Volterra features Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models WSI’s four new Striker Volterra 6x6 vehicles will feature an industry-pioneering modular cab design, TAK-4® all-wheel independent suspension, and a 50’ Snozzle® High Reach Extendable Turret. They each house an 11,356-liter (3,000-gallon) water tank, a 1,590-liter (420-gallon) foam tank, and a 7,570 lpm (2,000 gpm) water pump, along with a 250 kg (550 lb.) dry chemical powder system. Accelerating from 0 to 80 kph (0 to 50 mph) in under 25 seconds, the Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models when fully loaded. training, implementation, and service support Dave Archer said, “The collaboration between Oshkosh Airport Products and Airservices Australia marks a significant step forward in the aviation industry's commitment to sustainability." He adds, "We remain committed to a strong partnership, providing world-class training, seamless implementation, and unwavering service support to ensure these vehicles exceed expectations in the critical missions of ARFF crews.” By leveraging new technologies and innovations like Oshkosh Airport Products’ Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles, WSI will showcase the feasibility of low-carbon operations and set a new standard for airports worldwide.

Thermal imaging is an advantageous tool for firefighters on the frontline. As thermal cameras have become more compact and affordable, their availability has expanded, along with their usefulness. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How does thermal imaging serve the needs of firefighters and how is it changing?  

New tools and technologies are emerging that augment the efforts of the fire market to prevent and fight fires. Modern firefighting is benefiting from an ongoing sea change in technological capabilities, spanning equipment, electronic components, greater connectivity and firefighter monitoring, to name just a few. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What technologies will have the greatest impact on the fire industry in 2021?