Fire Safety Planning

CED Fire Protection were engaged to carry out the dry fire protection to this Ferntree Gully 3 level mixed use apartment building with 6 shops, 18 apartments and basement. As part of their works, they installed the Ampac fire indicator panel FIP with BOWS building occupancy system, smoke and heat detection was installed, as well as integrating control to security and mechanical services.

Passionate Fire is excited to announce their collaboration with The Boat Rack on the proposed Boat Storage Facility at Williamstown Marine Center, located in the heart of Victoria’s bustling marine district. This innovative project will feature four distinct buildings, two of which will house two-floor offices and workshops. These buildings will be seamlessly integrated with the main storage facility, designed to accommodate a wide range of vessels, offering state-of-the-art storage solutions for boat owners in the region. Passionate Fire works on Boat Storage Facility At Passionate Fire, they are proud to lead the fire engineering design for this unique development. Their team is working closely with project stakeholders to ensure the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and compliance, while also enhancing the facility’s functionality. Passionate Fire looks forward to pushing the boundaries of fire safety design and sharing more about their progress as the project moves forward.

CED Fire Protection was engaged to carry out the dry fire protection for large modular projects for multiple modular builders. As part of the work, they installed cabling, thermal, and heat detection, including integration to access control and mechanical systems.

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced Reliant Fire Apparatus, Inc. has expanded its exclusive Pierce dealership territory to include all of Wisconsin in addition to its current coverage of southern Wisconsin and Iowa. This expansion exemplifies Reliant Fire Apparatus’ position as a major provider of fire apparatus sales and service across the region. guidance and support Reliant Fire Apparatus has been a trusted Pierce dealer since its founding in 1994, delivering exceptional customer service, expert guidance, and reliable support to fire departments. Headquartered in Slinger, Wisconsin, with a second facility in Des Moines, Iowa, the company’s dedicated team is well-versed in fire department operations and is committed to meeting the unique needs of its customers. reliable service and customer care “For the past thirty years, Reliant Fire Apparatus has set the standard for reliable service and customer care,” said Bob Schulz, president of Pierce Manufacturing. “Their team embodies the values Pierce is known for integrity, innovation, and a commitment to empowering fire departments to serve their communities. We are excited to see Reliant bring their expertise to all of Wisconsin.” state-of-the-art service center The company’s expansion is expected to enhance its ability to serve fire departments with faster response times Reliant Fire Apparatus’ dedication to customer service is emphasized by its state-of-the-art service center in Slinger, Wisconsin, and its extensive mobile service capabilities, including preventive maintenance and routine repairs, pump testing, and emergency repairs. The company’s expansion is expected to enhance its ability to serve fire departments with faster response times, expanded resources, and unparalleled expertise and communication. customer-first approach “Reliant Fire Apparatus has always focused on building trust and providing the highest level of support to our customers,” said Brett Krueger, CEO of Reliant Fire Apparatus. “This opportunity to serve fire departments across all of Wisconsin aligns with our mission to support our customers so they can focus on their mission. Reliant embodies a customer-first approach by delivering prompt, responsive, and dependable sales and service support through our dedicated team."  exceptional sales and service standards "We are excited to strengthen this commitment across Wisconsin as we continue to grow our partnership with Pierce Manufacturing.”Reliant Fire Apparatus is committed to maintaining its exceptional standards as it integrates its new territory. Plans include increasing sales and service support, recruiting additional team members, and deploying Pierce-certified technicians to ensure every department’s needs are met.

The 25th annual Security & Fire Excellence Awards took center stage at the prestigious JW Marriott Grosvenor House, in London, UK, on Monday, 2nd December, 2024. The event recognized the outstanding achievements of professionals and organizations in the UK security and fire sectors, with a strong showing from NSI-certified companies among the winners and finalists. With an emphasis on innovation, inclusion and sustainability, this milestone year for the Awards continued to set a benchmark for celebrating the exceptional contributions and inspiring efforts of those in the private security sector who tirelessly work to help keep the communities safe. Winners and finalists The event's credibility is underscored by the Awards Trust Mark, presented by The Independent Awards Standards Council. This recognition reinforces the rigorous and transparent judging process that underpins the event’s reputation. They extend warm congratulations to all of this year’s winners and finalists, including the 33 NSI-certified companies who, with 76 nominations between them, were celebrated for their excellence, with 15 taking home the top prizes: Industry Choice Security Guarding Company SecuriGroup (Winner) Vigilant Security (2nd) First Response Group (4th) Security Manager of the Year Alex Philiotis, Security Manager, Wembley National Stadium, First Response Group (Winner) Nitu Kashap, NWEC Contract Manager, FGH Security (Silver) Antonio Da Silva, Security Manager, Vigilant Security (Bronze) Security Customer Care Initiative of the Year Ansador Fire & Security Solutions (Silver) Security Guarding Company of the Year over £35m Turnover SecuriGroup (Winner) First Response Group (Bronze) Security Guarding Company of the Year under £35m Turnover Unitrust Protection Services (UK) (Winner) FGH Security (Bronze) Security Installer or Integrator of the Year Securitas Technology (Winner) Reliance High-Tech (Silver) Security Officer of the Year Kyara Hughes, Security Officer, FGH Security (Silver) Michael Chew, St James Quarter, Edinburgh – Vigilant Security (Bronze) Security or Fire Sustainability Champion Magenta Security Services (Winner) SecuriGroup (Silver) Security or Fire Best Company to Work For FGH Security (Winner) Security or Fire Diversity and Inclusion Champion First Response Group (Winner) Corps Security (Silver) Security or Fire ESG Initiative of the Year Pointer (Winner) STM Group with UK Supplier Only Initiative (Silver) Security Partnering Initiative of the Year FGH Security and New West End Company (Silver) SecuriGroup with The W12 Security Intelligence Forum (Bronze) Vigilant Security and Colliers Safe Haven Partnership (Bronze) Security Training Initiative of the Year Spy Alarms with The Spy Academy (Winner) Wilson James @Meta (Bronze) Security Software Product or Software as a Service Innovation of the Year The Keyholding Company with the Risk Management Tool (Winner) Security Project of the Year The Keyholding Company with a Radical New Take on Risk Management (Silver) Security & Fire Excellence Awards NSI Chief Executive - Richard Fogelman praised this year’s winners and finalists, stating: "Congratulations to all this year’s award recipients, particularly those NSI-certified companies whose dedication and expertise are instrumental in keeping people, property, and communities safe across the UK." He adds, "The Security & Fire Excellence Awards remind us of the exceptional talent, innovation and commitment that drive excellence within the private security sector."

Darley, a globally renowned provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment since 1908, is proud to announce that its CEO, Paul C. Darley, has been awarded the prestigious Kathleen Sridhar Small Business Executive of the Year Award by the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA). The Kathleen Sridhar Small Business Executive of the Year Award is presented annually to a small-business executive who exemplifies Dr. Sridhar’s leadership excellence and support for the defense sector. Darley’s success and growth Under his guidance, Darley has continued to innovate and expand its offerings Paul Darley has been recognized for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering a robust small-business sector within the defense industrial base.  Under his guidance, Darley has continued to innovate and expand its offerings, providing cutting-edge technology and equipment solutions to military and first responders growing to over $1 billion in revenue in 2024.  Paul’s dedication to excellence and his visionary leadership have been instrumental in driving Darley’s success and growth. This recognition is a testament to his hard work and the positive impact he has made in the defense industry. NDIA Great Lakes Board “I am deeply honored and truly humbled to receive this award on behalf of our amazing Team Darley members, and I thank them for their unwavering support and commitment to our mission,” said Paul Darley. He adds, “This came as a complete surprise, and I am also grateful to the NDIA Great Lakes Board for their nomination for this recognition. It’s been a pleasure to serve the NDIA for over 15 years.” 

Safe and seamless movement in our built environment hinges on accurately specified and installed door hardware, explains Russell Marks, managing director of Boss Door Controls. With millions of doors used each and every day, it’s important to recognize the details behind effective access and egress. Whether it’s the regular composite doors found in our homes, the electromechanical access points located in public settings, or the emergency exit fire doors that keep us safe in our work and leisure spaces; door hardware plays an integral role in the safety, security and accessibility of our buildings. Door control components Doorsets are assembled in a variety of configurations, sizes and styles, yet, their operation is always reliant on door control components such as hinges, locks, latches, and door closers. Take fire doors, for example, which are designed to stop the spread of smoke and fire when closed and provide an effective means of escape when open. When operating as intended, a fire door will work in tandem with each of its hardware components, but should one area fail, its fire-resistant capabilities become compromised, leaving a building and its occupants at risk. With that in mind, just how significant is accurate specification and installation? Doorsets are assembled in a variety of configurations, sizes, and styles. Suitable specification Incorrect hardware specification is a common problem associated with building safety. Door controls will directly influence the functionality, accessibility and durability of doors, and as such, it’s essential to understand a building and its user’s needs when choosing between hardware options. Considering factors such as fire safety and inclusive design, specifiers and decision makers are urged to review the door application itself, confirming the chosen hardware meets the required performance ratings, fire ratings, and the latest building standards. Where many buildings require escape routes for example, it is necessary for all doors located on those routes to have suitable exit hardware installed - which is determined by a number of factors including the building’s size and whether it is public facing or not. Incorrect hardware specification is a common problem associated with building safety. Revisions of EN 1125 or EN 179 With occupant safety and legal keeping on the line, it’s clear that specification never undervalued Equally, it is also a legal requirement for all exit devices to comply with the latest revisions of EN 1125 or EN 179 and to possess UKCA and CE markings. With occupant safety and legal compliance on the line, it’s clear that specification should never be undervalued. In fact, by focusing on a project’s requirements as opposed to quick, cost-saving wins, decision-makers can preserve the functionality and safety of buildings whilst adding real value for occupants. Fixing improper installation In many cases, an appropriately specified and perfectly operational door control device can be found ineffective solely as a result of poor installation. Door hardware installation remains a pain point for the fire safety industry specifically, with evidence suggesting that incorrect installation is one of the pioneering causes of fire door failure. Hardware products are often unique to the manufacturer, with distinctive components, fittings and fixing points, and as a result, they should never be approached as like for like installation projects. Instead, during installation, installers must look to follow manufacturer guidelines and fitting instructions. Door hardware installation remains a pain point for the fire industry. Fire door’s integrity  With door closers, for example, a fire door’s integrity can quickly become compromised as a result of alignment issues and improper installation methods. Consequently, a fire door may not be able to latch or close fully from its standing position, leaving gaps large enough for smoke and fire to pass through in an emergency situation. Where there is currently no legal framework to assess the competency of installers, it’s important for teams to plan ahead, appreciating that door hardware installation is a specialized task. Fire door’s integrity becomes compromised as a result of alignment issues. Safety standards To further raise safety standards and improve installation accuracy, conscious manufacturers share a wealth of information and detailed walkthroughs in the form of installation templates, product datasheets, and video guides.  Additional guidance can usually be found online, with the product packaging, or can be requested directly from the manufacturer. These materials can also be useful post-installation, where teams are required to perform regular maintenance periods as part of their obligations. Conscious manufacturers share a wealth of information. How Allegion UK can help Boss Door Controls is part of the Allegion UK group, known for its wealth of resources designed to help responsible persons, duty holders and professionals undertake product specification, installation and maintenance checks on fire doors and hardware. For accessible fire door hardware support, Allegion’s new ‘Fire Door Hardware Fundamentals’ guide is available for download and combines expert guidance with helpful terminology and useful fire door safety checklists.

The 2022 Building Safety Act, instituted in direct response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy in London, UK, has outlined a raft of new responsibilities that building owners and managers must adhere to, in line with many of the deficiencies identified post-2017.  With the UK’s building stock notoriously aging, many of us live and work in buildings that were built under outdated regulations and have not been updated for decades in some cases. As such there is an enormous amount of remedial safety work to be done that covers essential fire protection features such as fire doors, alarms, sprinklers, and cladding materials. High-rise buildings Despite £5bn being allocated by the government to replace dangerous cladding, progress is slow, and it has been estimated that the amount needed to fully address the issue is closer to £50bn. In London, more than £1bn has been spent, and 700 buildings over 18m in height have applied for government support. However, almost half of those buildings currently in that process have not seen any remedial work begin.  This means in the capital alone there are more than a thousand high-rise buildings that are currently in need of urgent work. The need for retrofitting is particularly notable in high-rise buildings where fire spread can be rapid, and evacuation can be challenging. Across the country, there are over 11,000 high-risk buildings over 18 meters tall. In total, there could be two decades worth of remediation work. Building regulations Perfectly illustrates the delays people are facing when making their home or place of work safe from fire We had a stark, while thankfully non-tragic, reminder in August, that showed the danger of leaving these buildings in their current state when an apartment block in Dagenham caught fire. In this particular case, an external wall survey, commissioned four years before the fire, found that the block did not fully meet building regulations at the time of construction. Despite permission being granted in May 2023 and work being scheduled for June 2023, it was still ongoing almost 9 months after the target end date of December 2023. This perfectly illustrates the delays people are facing when making their home or place of work safe from fire. Traditional fire stopping The option that is often left to building owners is to completely remove the façade and install traditional fire stopping and, in many cases, requires residents to be relocated, requires large amounts of time, is severely disruptive, and carries a large price tag. This is why I have been vocal in my support of remedial work that doesn’t carry the enormous burden and cost of completely removing a facade to complete the work.  By inserting a protective sock filled with an acrylic-based fire-resistant sealant, the fire can be contained within a small section of the cavity for longer, significantly reducing the speed at which fire and smoke can spread, and I’m a huge proponent of it. Fire-resistant performance The system is devised to reinstate the fire-resistant routine of rigid and flexible wall and floor structures The system is designed to reinstate the fire-resistant performance of rigid and flexible wall and floor constructions where a retrospective cavity barrier is required. I think it’s the best solution for a huge number of cases where remedial work is required. It can be installed in residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings and the work can be carried out in-situ. Without the need to remove the whole building façade, projects can take weeks rather than months and cut out significant costs. When we look at why delays are happening, and the number of buildings where action is yet to be taken, it’s obvious that these are key stumbling blocks. Recent fire in Dagenham We’ve gained experience up and down the country, from London to Manchester, working in fire safety and have identified a number of areas which we hope that we can further improve on. Early reports from the recent fire in Dagenham suggest that the fire alarms sounded too late or were not activated at all. The cause of this has not been formerly identified, however, I envisage, and we are actively developing an ‘early warning system’, that could be installed within any wall, floor or ceiling cavity. The system could then be linked to a current fire alarm system, and/or App on your mobile phone. Expertise in sensor technology Fire can spread quickly before penetrating rooms where it would activate conventional fire alarms The benefit of this system, which would leverage our existing expertise in sensor technology, would be the ability to detect fire and smoke where conventional systems wouldn’t be able to. Where a fire is outside of the core of the building, our system would sit within cavities where fire can spread quickly before penetrating rooms where it would activate conventional fire alarms. In the event of a fire, response time is crucial. This would enable occupants to be able to leave the building or call Fire Brigade at an earlier opportunity, giving vital and potentially lifesaving time. Fire safety retrofitting The failure to address these issues could lead to further loss of life, economic costs, and legal liabilities. Fire safety retrofitting is not just about compliance but ensuring the long-term safety of residents and building occupants, particularly in densely populated areas where the risk of fire can have devastating consequences. We can make this happen far more quickly and ensure far more effective action is taken if we begin to think more imaginatively about the, giving people crucial time to act when disaster hits.

Are people too passive when it comes to fire door safety? Research conducted by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) in 2022 would suggest so, with a third of the British public stating they would not report a problem with a fire door, despite three-quarters of respondents believing a propped open fire door would not perform its role in the event of a fire. From schools and shops to shared areas of employment and accommodation, people are habitually - and sometimes unknowingly - kept safe by passive fire protection systems such as fire doors and their hardware. Yet, in the same breath, occupants and visitors of busy public-facing buildings can be placed in danger by neglected or inappropriately used products. Highlighting these dangers, the Fire Door Inspection Scheme found 75% of inspected fire doors in the UK failed to meet required safety standards in 2021, for example. Importance of fire extinguishers Fast forward to the present day and perceptions are being challenged. Following a period of regulatory updates, greater focus is being placed on the responsibilities associated with both active and passive fire protection, and with a 79% rise in prosecutions related to fire safety violations between April 2023 and March 2024, it certainly pays to pay more attention. Where most recognize the importance of fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, what more can be done to ensure fire doors and their hardware are held in the same regard? Occupants and visitors of busy public-facing buildings can be placed in danger. Regulated and relied upon Passive fire protection is identified as the group of structural measures designed to inhibit the spread of smoke and fire. Frequently hidden in plain sight and sometimes taken for granted, fire doors are a key element of any building’s passive fire safety system and should never fall under neglect. In fact, fire doors are often the first line of defence against fire and smoke, and when closed, will compartmentalize spaces to protect property and provide occupants with an opportunity to escape. Fire doors are a key element of any building’s passive fire safety system. Such is their importance to public safety; fire doors are acknowledged by several professional bodies and are listed as a legal requirement in all non-domestic premises and houses in multiple occupations (HMOs). Under the recently updated Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, a building’s designated Responsible Person (RP) must perform regular duties to review the condition of fire door systems, while providing residents with access to comprehensive fire safety information in the process. Fire door hardware Functional fire doors and clear exit routes are critical in ensuring appropriate precautions and preventative measures are in place and as such, responsible persons must recognize that a building’s fire doors will not perform as intended unless essential hardware has been correctly specified, installed, and maintained. As correctly acknowledged by most of the British public, an open fire door is rendered useless in the event of a fire and to form an effective barrier against fire and smoke, fire doors must be capable of closing fully from an open position. When performing a closing action, a fire door will call upon its hinges, locks, latches and door-closing devices, and in the event of a fire, not one of these elements can fail. In view of this, fire door hardware is methodically designed and tested to support the integrity of fire doors. To meet necessary standards, a fire doorset must pass one or more of a series of standardized tests, confirming its UKCA and CE certifications and FD ratings. Users can identify a certified fire door by its label, usually found on the top edge of the door. Functional fire doors and clear exit routes are critical in ensuring appropriate precautions. Shared responsibilities and results As part of their research in 2022, the BWF found that almost half of those who neglect to report a problem with fire doors would not take action because they were unsure who to report it to, or cited it was simply not their place or role to report it. Seemingly then, in many cases, improved communication and education towards fire door safety can help mitigate risk and further raise standards across the built environment. In any circumstance, people must continue being urged to keep buildings safe by reporting damaged or propped open fire doors to designated responsible persons. In higher-risk buildings where many rely on the same fire safety systems for example, it’s imperative that people know who they can turn to when a fire door safety issue arises, and often, this will be the landlord, owner, manager, or occupier of the premises. Equally, responsible persons must also adopt a hands-on approach by ensuring fire doors and their hardware are ‘subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair’, as per the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Higher-risk buildings where many rely on the same fire safety systems. True purpose of fire doors Where a fire alarm will inform you when something is wrong, fire doors require more proactive methods. As part of their ongoing maintenance duties, responsible persons should perform quarterly checks on fire doors, assessing the certification, gaps, seals, hinges and closing elements. Even durable door hardware can become worn and tired in high-footfall environments and may need repairing or replacing over time. An incorrectly installed or damaged self-closing device, for example, can limit the closing action of a fire door and prevent it from fully closing into the frame. Upon inspection, if a fire door isn’t operating as intended, it’s imperative to seek out professional advice and ensure maintenance or replacement is carried out quickly and professionally. Whilst many of us use them day to day without thought, the true purpose of fire doors must remain clear at all times. Collectively, we must continue to change the perceptions associated with passive fire protection methods and fire door safety, and only when we improve collaboration and communication will we truly limit the devastation of fire. Simply put, there is a chain of responsible parties, and everyone must recognize what their role is - we all must do better. Fire doors require more proactive methods. How Allegion UK can help Allegion UK has a wealth of resources designed to help responsible persons, duty holders and professionals undertake product selection, installation and maintenance checks on fire doors and hardware. For accessible fire door hardware support, Allegion’s new ‘Fire Door Hardware Fundamentals’ guide is available for download and combines expert guidance with helpful terminology and useful fire door safety checklists.

The Dingell Act, signed into law in 2019, has far-reaching implications, including effects on fire management and emergency services. Officially named the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, the law impacts fire professionals and their operations and fire prevention strategies. The Dingell Act is a comprehensive public lands bill that touches on various aspects of natural resource management, conservation, and recreation. Fire mitigation efforts One of the key provisions of the act deals with wildfire management, specifically addressing how federal agencies collaborate to prevent and respond to wildfires.  The act streamlines fire mitigation efforts, enhances interagency cooperation, and encourages fire prevention measures on public lands. For fire professionals, this means better coordination among federal and local fire services, access to more resources, and improved strategies to combat wildfires. How the Dingell Act Changes Fire Management The act benefits both large fire departments and smaller teams working near public lands The Dingell Act mandates that federal agencies must coordinate with local fire services to develop effective wildfire management plans. This ensures that fire professionals have a direct line to federal resources, which can drastically improve response times. Additionally, the law increases funding for fire prevention initiatives, such as clearing vegetation in high-risk areas. Fire professionals working near national parks and other public lands will find these changes beneficial, as they create more opportunities for proactive fire control. The Dingell Act strengthens fire prevention protocols by prioritizing wildfire risk mitigation in areas under federal jurisdiction. The act benefits both large fire departments and smaller teams working near public lands. Fire professionals should recognize the broad scope of the Dingell Act and understand how it enhances safety measures in their regions. Federal and Local Collaboration Interagency collaboration is one of the key components of the Dingell Act. Fire departments in areas near public lands can now work more closely with federal agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management. This collaboration is not limited to wildfire response but extends to training and resource-sharing, which can empower local teams to be better prepared for large-scale fires. By building stronger partnerships, fire professionals can develop more cohesive strategies for fire mitigation and management. The Dingell Act significantly increases the resources available to fire departments, especially in high-risk areas. Through grants and federal funding, fire professionals can access better equipment, training, and personnel to tackle fire hazards. This investment in fire prevention technology, including satellite-based fire detection systems and drones, ensures that teams have the tools they need to act quickly and effectively when fires threaten communities. Environmental Considerations Dingell Act highlights the extent of balancing fire suppression with environmental protection The Dingell Act highlights the importance of balancing fire suppression with environmental preservation. Fire professionals are encouraged to integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations, such as controlled burns that reduce vegetation buildup without damaging ecosystems. Understanding the environmental impact of fire prevention measures is essential for fire professionals who manage lands rich in biodiversity. By aligning fire prevention strategies with conservation goals, professionals can contribute to both safety and sustainability. Along with the increased collaboration between federal and local agencies come more training opportunities for fire professionals than ever before. The Dingell Act opens avenues for specialized training programs that focus on wildfire management and prevention. Firefighters can take advantage of workshops, courses, and simulation-based training to improve their skills in handling large-scale fires. This professional development is especially valuable for those looking to expand their capabilities in the face of growing wildfire risks. Future Considerations Looking ahead, fire professionals should be mindful of the evolving landscape of fire prevention. The Dingell Act represents just one piece of a broader legislative push to improve fire safety in the United States. Future regulations may build on this foundation, with more emphasis on climate change, land management, and fire technology. As professionals assess their current strategies, it is important to stay informed about upcoming changes and ensure that fire prevention efforts are aligned with national standards and policies. {##Poll1728377023 - What is the most critical resource for effective wildfire management?##}

The integration of technology into the fire service has significantly enhanced operations, but it has also introduced new vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity has become a concern for fire departments, possibly impacting their ability to respond effectively to emergencies and protect communities.   Potential problems emanating from cybersecurity concerns include a disruption of a community’s emergency response system. False alarms could result from malicious computer hackers manipulating fire alarm systems, thus wasting resources, and causing potential danger for firefighters. Fire Risks From A Cyber-Attack Medical devices are connected to the IoT and are therefore vulnerable to attack Communication is another vulnerability: A cyber-attack on communication systems could hinder coordination among firefighters and with other emergency services. Potential cybersecurity targets related to the fire service include 911 systems, public safety radios, computer-aided dispatch systems, mobile data computers, and phone systems. In the EMS arena, electronic patient reporting and records management systems are at risk. Medical devices are connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) and are therefore vulnerable to attack.   Many firefighter tools are operated by computers, so equipment malfunction is a real possibility. The digital world continues to infiltrate almost every aspect of firefighting. Critical equipment, such as fire trucks and rescue tools could be compromised, resulting in longer response times. Vulnerability to Ransomware Attacks Ransomware is a pernicious type of cyber-attack, involving the use of malicious software (malware) that encrypts files, rendering them inaccessible. The attackers then demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key to restore the data.  The city of Leeds, Ala., was hit by a ransomware attack in February 2018 that locked all city computers and data, including fire and police departments. A month later, Atlanta’s municipal systems were attacked, resulting in widespread outages, and disrupting city services. Impact on Data Loss and Privacy Fire units handle sensitive data, including the personal data of citizens and crisis responders In addition to operational concerns, there are also possible cybersecurity consequences relating to data loss and privacy. Fire departments handle sensitive data, including the personal information of citizens and emergency responders. A breach could lead to identity theft and reputational damage. On a more intangible level, a cyber-attack could erode public trust in the fire department's ability to protect the community. Negative publicity from a data breach can harm the fire department's image. Phishing schemes Among the cybersecurity threats are phishing schemes, which involve scammers attempting to obtain sensitive information from individuals, usually via email, by disguising themselves as trustworthy entities. Phishing can take the form of fake emails or websites that mimic legitimate businesses like banks, online retailers, or social media platforms. They lure victims by offering enticing deals, creating a sense of urgency, or claiming there's a problem with an account. Once the user clicks on a malicious link or provides personal information, the scammers can steal login credentials, credit card numbers, or other sensitive data. Top motivators of cyber-attacks Malicious files can be delivered as email attachments, which can contain viruses, ransomware, or other malware. Clicking a link in a suspicious email can redirect the user to a malicious website that can download malware or steal personal information.  One of the top motivators of cyber-attacks is to collect personally identifiable information (PII) One of the top motivators of cyber-attacks is to collect personally identifiable information (PII), which is any data that can be used to identify an individual.  This information includes name, address, phone number, social security or driver's license number, medical records, credit card or bank account numbers, and biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial images. The fire service handles a lot of PII, especially in emergency situations, including incident reports, property records, or patient information related to emergency medical services (EMS). Cyber-Criminals Have a Variety of Profiles Cyber-criminals come from a range of backgrounds and motivations. Individual hackers might be motivated by financial gain, ideology, or simply by the concept of a personal challenge. Organized crime groups might be motivated by profit, power, and/or influence. Other cyber-crime perpetrators include nation-state actors, who might be pursuing espionage, sabotage, or political influence. These threats have significant financial and technical capabilities. They include advanced persistent threats (APTs) from countries like China, Russia, and North Korea.  Cyber threats posed by 'hacktivists' So-called 'hacktivists' can be motivated by political or social causes to launch distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, website defacement and/or data leaks. There is also the possibility of cyber-terrorists seeking to cause mass disruption or to achieve political or ideological goals. They are capable of large-scale attacks on critical infrastructure.  Increased cyber-risks may lead to higher insurance premiums for fire departments There is a cost component of protecting against cybersecurity threats, a critical financial implication for cash-strapped fire departments. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures requires significant financial resources. At the other extreme, responding to a cyber-attack can be expensive, including legal fees, public relations, and system recovery. Increased cyber-risks may lead to higher insurance premiums for fire departments. Mitigation Strategies at a Glance Here are some mitigation strategies fire departments should consider:  Risk assessment: Identify vulnerabilities and prioritize mitigation efforts. Employee training: Educate firefighters about cybersecurity best practices. Network security: Implement strong network security measures, including firewalls and intrusion detection systems. Data protection: Regularly back up data and encrypt sensitive information. Data minimization: Collect only the personal data that is necessary, and then limit access. Incident response plan: Develop a comprehensive plan for responding to cyber-attacks. Contingency: Create a backup plan to mitigate risk and minimize loss of critical assets in the event of an attack. Compliance: Ensure adherence with relevant privacy laws such as HIPAA and GDPR. Collaboration: Work with other agencies and cybersecurity experts to share information and best practices.

Thousands of industry professionals gathered at the 2024 NFPA Conference and Expo in Orlando in June. The event brought together educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibitor showcase. NFPA is the National Fire Protection Association. The NFPA annual meeting allowed members and the public to discuss and vote on proposed changes to fire codes and standards. “It’s a gathering place for people in the industry,” says Dr. Rodger Reiswig, Vice President of Industry Relations at Johnson Controls. “You can walk around the floor and observe the trends, see what people are talking about, and view industry trends through a clear set of eyes.” New Foundation Series  As vice president of industry relations, Reiswig acts as Johnson Controls’ liaison with the NFPA, works with NFPA technology committees, and serves on the Standards Council that oversees more than 300 NFPA codes and standards documents.  Foundation Series is a complete family of fire alarm control units and peripheral devices At the NFPA Conference and Expo in Orlando, Johnson Controls provided “spotlight” seminars at their exhibit booth and highlighted products and services including interactive tools, inspections, remote services, restaurant systems, and the new Foundation Series Fire Safety Solution for the protection of small to mid-size buildings. The Foundation Series is a complete family of fire alarm control units and peripheral devices. NFPA’s codes and standards In addition, Reiswig attended seminars and Standards Council sessions. Technical sessions covered codes and standards that are currently “in cycle” (i.e., in the process of being updated). In a technical session on the last day of NFPA, anyone could attend to suggest changes and garner support from others on various changes. Consensus is a core principle of NFPA’s codes and standards. “This is a chance for everyone to participate, whether your interest is in roofing materials, how buildings are built, or life safety systems,” Reiswig adds. “Codes tell us when to do something, but standards tell us how to do it. If the occupancy standard says put in a fire alarm, the NFPA standard tells you how to do that.” Anyone at any level in any role or discipline can participate. new NFPA 915 Standard  Fire alarm and life safety have yet lagged industry sectors when it comes to remote connectivity “Technology is changing rapidly, and the type of construction is different than 20 or 30 years ago. Use of new tools and materials in buildings is changing how much time I have to escape smoke or fire,” Reiswig says. “New construction materials allow fires to happen quickly, spread faster, and give off toxic chemicals. Tighter buildings ensure energy efficiency, but they allow less ventilation, so carbon monoxide can accumulate faster.” A common theme at the show was remote connectivity, highlighting the new NFPA 915 Standard for Remote Inspections, which guides new technologies to enable remote access and testing of life safety systems. Fire alarm and life safety have previously lagged other industry sectors when it comes to remote connectivity, but the new NFPA 915 standard opens new possibilities, and vendors at the show were promoting remote capabilities and inspections. develop safeguards and capabilities NFPA 915 Standard sets need for performing remote inspections safely and effectively The NFPA 915 Standard establishes requirements for performing remote inspections safely and effectively. It addresses various types of remote inspections. The standard also defines the responsibilities of various parties involved in a remote inspection, such as the inspector, property owner, and authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). The standard covers data collection procedures, data security, and data ownership. Overall, the standard helps to ensure that remote inspections can be conducted in a way that meets safety requirements.  In effect, NFPA 915 gives the green light to manufacturers and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to develop safeguards and capabilities to log into life safety systems remotely. The approach can help to simplify inspections, which can be performed remotely or with only one technician required on-site rather than two. Requirements include how systems communicate, the cybersecurity and credentials required, and the prevention of outside connections. Beyond fire alarms, the standard also allows other remote inspections, such as using a drone in a large warehouse to inspect sprinkler heads.  Real-time information and instructions Inspectors are not allowed into buildings such as nursing homes and clinics to check their safety systems NFPA 915 was being considered before the COVID pandemic, but the business shutdowns and social distancing requirements during the worst of the pandemic increased awareness of the needs and benefits of remote inspections. During COVID, inspectors were not allowed into buildings such as nursing homes and hospitals to inspect their life safety systems. Remote access and inspections became critical, thus raising awareness of the feasibility of remote inspections that continue to drive their adoption. Another area of interest in NFPA was mass notification systems, which have matured a lot since they were introduced into the NFPA code in 2007. It’s easier than ever to provide real-time information and instructions to people in an area. Connectivity among fire alarm systems inside buildings, digital signage, and other life safety systems are promoting better notification. Area of refuge systems A new area of discussion and product development is “area of refuge” systems that complement Americans with Disabilities (ADA) requirements in buildings. In a high-rise building, for example, if the elevators are disabled, it may be impossible for a person using a wheelchair to evacuate. Instead, there are designated “areas of refuge,” which are rated to provide two hours of protection from fire. New notification systems can communicate with first responders about occupants in these areas.  The NFPA conference increasingly incorporates a global presence, encouraging more collaboration among entities, countries, and associations about needs around the world. Manufacturers can work together through various associations including the Automatic Fire Alarm Association, Euralarm in Europe, and others.  “Life safety is worldwide, and fires may be the same or different in various areas,” says Reiswig. “We need to remember that standards are not just for the United States because people are active from other countries.”

Oshkosh Airport Products, an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced the delivery of two Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® 6x6 Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicles to the Directorate General of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) of Chile. The new vehicles will enhance emergency response capabilities at the Chacalluta de Arica Airport and Araucanía de Temuco Airport, maintaining the customer’s full Oshkosh ARFF fleet at both locations. reliability, trust, and security “We identify with Oshkosh Airport Products because, like our department, their team provides reliability, trust, and security,” said Manuel E. Retamales Lolas, S.S.E.I Director, DGAC. “The excellence that identifies us as a team, we also find in the Oshkosh Striker ARFF vehicles.” DGAC Chile has a long-standing relationship with Oshkosh Airport Products, dating back to 1978. For decades, DGAC has relied on Oshkosh’s robust and reliable vehicles to support its firefighters, who consistently praise the fleet’s performance and longevity. ARFF vehicles “This delivery is a testament to the trust and confidence DGAC places in Oshkosh’s high-quality, innovative ARFF vehicles,” said Robert Colon, associate manager of international sales – Latin America for Oshkosh Airport Products. “DGAC is a forward-thinking team, and we are honored to continue supporting their modernization efforts with our latest technologies.” fleet upgrade New Striker will enhance response efficiency through its innovative TAK-4® Independent Suspension system DGAC’s acquisition of two Oshkosh Airport Products Striker 6x6 ARFF vehicles is part of an ongoing initiative to upgrade its fleet with state-of-the-art equipment that meets the complex demands of unique operating environments. The Chacalluta de Arica Airport, located in one of the driest cities in South America, benefits greatly from the Striker’s high water capacity and advanced fire suppression systems, which are designed to meet these unique challenges. Similarly, Araucanía de Temuco Airport’s new Striker will enhance response efficiency through its innovative TAK-4® Independent Suspension system and firefighter-friendly cab design. Striker model "DGAC has chosen Oshkosh’s latest generation Striker model because of its unmatched performance, reliability, and operator ease-of-use," said Colon. “The vehicles are equipped with technology that will help streamline firefighting operations and deliver exceptional performance in the field. Our team looks forward to being a key partner in supporting Chile’s aviation emergency response teams for many years to come.” vehicle features The newly delivered Striker 6x6 vehicles feature: Scania DC16, 16.0 L V8 four-cycle turbocharged diesel Tier 4F engine. TAK-4 Independent Suspension. Rear steer capabilities for enhanced maneuverability. Primary roof turret with a high flow rate of 4,732 LPM (1,250 GPM) and a low flow rate of 2,365 LPM (625 GPM). Bumper turret with a flow rate of 1,135 LPM (300 GPM). Water capacity: 12,500 L. Foam capacity: 1,600 L. Dry chemical capacity: 227 kg. Training program A robust training program is being conducted for DGAC operators and technicians to ensure a smooth transition to their new Striker ARFF vehicles. Regional Oshkosh Airport Products dealer IMPOMAK S.A. has provided strong support in Chile since 2006. Based in Santiago, Chile, Impomak also provides extensive service support to all  Oshkosh ARFF trucks across the nation of Chile.

CED Fire Protection was engaged to carry out the dry fire protection at the Doncaster 5-level apartment building designed by Clare Hopkins Clarke. As part of the work, they installed an Ampac fire indicator panel FIP with BOWS building occupancy system, smoke and heat detection was installed, as well as integrating control to security and mechanical services.

CED Fire Protection was engaged to carry out the dry fire protection to this 16-level social housing apartment building, consisting of 151 one and two-bedroom apartments, ground floor and communal space, and basement carpark at a build cost of 61 million. As part of the work, they installed an Ampac FIP fire indicator panel with an emergency warning intercommunication system EWIS, WIP phones, smoke, and heat detection, as well as integrating control to sprinklers, security, and mechanical services.

CED Fire Protection was engaged to carry out the dry fire protection for the Total Tools Factory Complex, a large retail establishment located in Warrnambool. As part of their works, they installed a fire indicator panel FIP with BOWS building occupancy system, smoke and heat detection was installed, as well as integrating control to security and mechanical services.

CED Fire Protection had been engaged to carry out the dry fire protection to the existing Fawkner based bingo hall, due to an extension plan. Part of CED Fire Protection’s work included installing an Ampac fire indicator panel FIP with BOWS building occupancy system, smoke and heat detection, as well as integrating control to security and mechanical services.

CED Fire Protection was engaged to upgrade the existing fire indicator panel and field devices due to continual false alarms, which was interrupting guests and staff. As part of their works carried out, they installed a new fire indicator panel FIP with BOWS building occupancy system, smoke and heat detection, as well as integrating control to security and mechanical services.

Fostering fire safety is a basic principle, but one that suggests many different approaches and technologies. Best practices and greater innovation can play a role to ensure various aspects of fire safety (and health), but the first step is awareness. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is a fire safety trend that isn't widely adopted but should be?

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?  

Wildfire season presents special challenges to firefighters, and environmental trends point to even more frequent wildfires in the future, due to factors such as global warming. Technology, in all its variety, provides new tools to aid departments tasked with fighting wildfires. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the emerging technologies in wildfire prevention and protection?