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Scotland Fire pushes Ops recruitment

News Desk /

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has launched a national recruitment drive for Operations Control staff to help protect Scotland’s communities. Firefighter Control is the first point of contact for members of the public when dialling 999 to report an emergency. Based across three sites in Dundee, Edinburgh and Johnstone, Firefighter Control staff will ensure that emergency incidents across Scotland are dealt with effectively and efficiently. Applicants for the role of Firefighter Control must be aged 18 or over, with the ability to work rotating shifts. Successful applicants will join fellow Operations Control staff during a 14 week training period – learning how to co-ordinate emergency fire and rescue response. Trainees will also learn how to give potentially life-saving advice, providing fire survival guidance to people who are trapped by smoke or fire. Group Commander Marie Clare Coyle, said: “Our nationwide team of Firefighter Control staff provide a vital and rewarding service to Scotland’s communities. “We deal with a range of calls from house fires and road traffic collisions to major incidents and severe weather-related flooding, keeping people calm in times of distress and concentrating resources where they’re most required. “It is undoubtedly a challenging but hugely rewarding career and our committed instructors will work to ensure everyone is fully supported and guided through their training. “Upon completion of their training, all Firefighter Control staff will be prepared and capable of handling emergencies of any scale. “I would encourage anyone who is able to demonstrate valuable skills such as teamwork, communication and problem solving in pressurised situations to apply.” Group Commander Coyle, who has worked for the service for 23 years and now leads OC Personnel Support, added: “We’re looking for people who have a willingness to learn, a strong team ethic and a real ability to motivate others and form relationships to take up these roles on Scotland’s unseen frontline.” To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Perimeter Solutions Intros Newest 3×3 Fluorine-Free Foam

News Desk, Technology /

Perimeter Solutions, a global manufacturer of high-quality firefighting products and lubricant additives, announced today the launch of SOLBERG RE-HEALING 3×3 SP-100 Fluorine-Free Foam Concentrate. With the UL-162 listing granted, the newest addition to Perimeter Solutions’ catalog of fluorine-free firefighting foam concentrates is the industry’s first UL-listed fluorine-free 3×3 foam concentrate with the full complement of hardware and sprinkler listings, including non-aspirated, standard sprinkler heads “This is an exciting breakthrough for the fire safety industry,” says Craig McDonnell, General Manager of Fire Suppression for the Americas at Perimeter Solutions. “SOLBERG RE-HEALING 3×3 SP-100 contains cutting-edge technology and is designed for sprinkler applications to extinguish and secure both Class B [hydrocarbon fuel and polar solvent fuel] and deep-seated Class A fires. It has been tested and meets the requirements of UL-162, the industry’s highest fire safety standard for Class B foam.” In addition to its UL-162 listing, SOLBERG RE-HEALING 3×3 SP-100 is currently going through the Factory Mutual (FM) testing process and is expected to be added to the FM Approval Guide during the first half of 2023. SOLBERG RE-HEALING 3×3 SP-100 is a biodegradable and non-persistent foam concentrate that contains no silicone/siloxane chemistries or intentionally added per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This fluorine-free foam concentrate is a combination of proprietary hydrocarbon surfactants and additives that delivers excellent foaming, vapor sealing and stability properties for attacking and securing both shallow and fuel in-depth fires. This new foam can be used successfully through both standard and air-aspirated sprinkler heads. It can also be used with low-expansion discharge devices, including a variety of nozzles and monitors. SOLBERG RE-HEALING 3×3 SP-100 is fully compatible and easily proportioned with standard firefighting equipment, including in-line inductors, self-inducting nozzles, fire truck pumps, bladder tanks, pump skids, water driven foam proportioners, balanced pressure systems and other equipment. It is compatible with fresh, salt and brackish water, provides fast knockdown and extinguishing performance, and delivers excellent burnback performance. To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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MSA Safety opens Bristol manufacturing facility

News Desk /

MSA Safety Incorporated, experts in firefighter safety equipment and technology, opened a newly expanded, state-of-the-art facility for producing firefighter protective apparel in Yate, near Bristol, UK.  The modernised facility provides new and enhanced work areas for MSA associates, as well as much needed space for future growth and international expansion. Celebrated this morning with a ribbon-cutting event, the building establishes MSA Bristol’s Yate campus as a global centre of excellence for fire protective clothing design, production and service. “We are incredibly excited to be opening this expanded and improved facility in Bristol,” said Jason Traynor, General Manager of MSA’s Global Fire Service Products.  “It marks a significant investment in the business that supports our growth aspirations and our desire to enhance the overall work environment for our staff and visitors.” MSA Bristol’s new Yate Campus brings together its central offices, Cutting Unit, Western Service Centre, and International Distribution Centre. The modern campus offers the company’s 153 highly skilled staff an improved workplace environment and excellent transport links, and will serve as a hub for all MSA Bristol activity. MSA Safety acquired Bristol Uniforms in January 2021.  The company has ambitious growth plans and is making significant investments in the business to enhance the company’s facilities and firefighting clothing portfolio. “MSA Bristol’s central offices and Western Service Centre were previously based at our premises in Staple Hill, Bristol, but we’ve outgrown that site and need space to expand,” Mr. Traynor said.  “The Yate campus includes improved office spaces and meeting rooms, modern and more comfortable break-out areas and expanded parking areas for staff. It also showcases MSA’s cutting-edge products for all that visit the facility. MSA Bristol’s PPE is world renowned, and we are investing in the future.” Among those attending the official opening today was Bob Leenen, President of MSA’s International Business Segment.  Mr. Leenen commented: “The opening of this expanded facility represents a new chapter for MSA Bristol and demonstrates our commitment to the Bristol brand, our people and the region.  The new facility, combined with our three regional service centres across the UK, represent a platform for overall growth in fire service, both within the UK and across other parts of the world.” Simon Shilton, Avon Fire and Rescue’s Chief Fire Officer, was honoured to take part in the opening ceremony and saw first-hand the improved and expanded facilities during a tour of the site. He said: “I am delighted to have been invited to attend the grand opening of MSA Bristol’s new facility in Yate. MSA Bristol, formerly Bristol Uniforms as we’ve known them over the years, have and continue to be a key local employer, providing us with uniform and other safety and protective clothing.  As an organisation we’re committed to supporting local businesses and in turn the local economy. MSA Bristol plays an integral part in keeping our staff safe and working together in partnership supports our organizational objectives of Making our Service Stronger and Making our Communities Safer.” To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Balcony fires up 46% in the last year

News Desk /

Aluminium decking and balcony manufacturer AliDeck have published their 2021-2022 Balcony Fires Report. In light of the ongoing building safety crisis, the data collected from Fire Services across the UK using the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is extremely concerning. A total of 310 Balcony Fires occurred between August 1st 2021 and July 31st 2022, up from 213 the year prior for a 46% year-on-year increase. The most troubling statistic within the report is that, of the 310 fires on balconies, 182 were related to smoking for 59% of the total. London alone accounted for 163 fires on balconies, an increase on the previous year’s tally of 150. Smoking accounted for two thirds of London balcony fires (107) which means that on average London Fire Brigade responded to two or more smoking-related incidents on balconies per week with arson, candles, and electrical faults making up the bulk of the rest. There is a high risk that a major fire could take hold in external wall systems and attachments where combustible materials are present. Traditionally, balconies have been constructed with timber or composite decking and there are countless such balconies across the UK. The amended Building Regulations should go a long way to prevent new-build construction introducing further combustible wall systems and balconies to the built environment. Designers and architects, though, should carefully consider all specified materials in the context of this clear evidence of reckless behaviour by residents. Richard Izzard, AliDeck’s managing director, said “With over three quarters (76%) of the recorded fires caused by human action, urgent intervention is required. We saw in our previous Balcony Fires Reports a similar story, that most fires on balconies are completely avoidable. A carelessly discarded cigarette can easily ignite flammable materials, and there have been fires where cigarette butts have landed onto balconies below and caused major fires. This has to stop.” Changing human behaviour will be difficult but removing combustible materials from the equation and designing in fire-safety is eminently achievable. Aluminium is rapidly becoming the de facto standard for architectural metalwork and its increasing use will help to prevent fire spread across the external envelope and balconies. “We had hoped to see the number of fires caused by smoking fall across the last 12 months, due to the increased awareness around fire safety as well as the progress made in remediating combustible balconies,” continued Izzard. “Clearly, stopping residents from smoking on their balconies will prevent many fires occurring. The surest route to minimise the risk, though, is to carefully specify non-combustible materials in new-build and to fully remediate combustible balconies on existing buildings.” To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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East Sussex Fire deploys FireWatch

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Infographics are delighted to announce that East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has successfully launched the latest phase of its FireWatch deployment. As part of a collaborative project, the Service has worked closely with Infographics over the last year to roll out the FireWatch Mobilisation Interface with SSS Public Safety (previously Capita) Vision, as well as launching On-Call Payment Calculations and Self-Service. The latest phase of the IT programme builds on the foundations of integrated FireWatch modules already in place for Human Resource Management, Wholetime Availability, On-Call Availability, Support Staff Flexitime, and Training and Development. Mark Matthews, Assistant Chief Fire Officer at East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The deployment of the FireWatch Mobilisation Interface ensures an accurate view of real-time resource availability and competence across the Service, as FireWatch is now directly integrated with emergency dispatch operations within Joint Fire Control. “Plus, the rollout of On-Call Payment Calculations automates the generation of on-call payments for turnouts, attendances, and other working time – significantly reducing previous, inefficient manual form submission processes. “The launch of Self-Service will improve the completeness of personal and diversity information.  This will assist us in understanding the diversity of our workforce and how we can best support our colleagues, with greater awareness when performing Equality Impact Analysis. “The path has not been without challenges, but we have been particularly impressed with the commitment, response, and overall excellent service that Infographics have continued to provide to ESFRS, assisting us in delivering IT solutions to improve processes and increase efficiency.” Russell Wood, Commercial Manager at Infographics, said: ”It has been great to work with East Sussex Fire and Rescue on the latest phase of their FireWatch programme, which delivers live integrated resource information within control, speeds up payment processes and provides a ‘complete picture’ of availability across the FRS. These latest rollouts advance the efficiency and visibility of operational and management processes.” To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Registration for Fire Buyer Live is now OPEN!

Event News /

Registration is now open for Fire Buyer Live, taking place 8-9 March 2022. You can register for free from our dedicated event website.  Fire Buyer Live will provide a new dedicated online experience for the active and passive sectors of the fire industry to source the latest technological innovations, develop important business relationships and generate new business opportunities.  From the comfort and safety of your own home or office, Fire Buyer Live will bring you a diverse and insightful international speaker list that will deliver topical sessions and panels on various fields, from both the active and passive sides of the industry: firefighting vehicles, suppression, PPE, legislation, detection and much more. Current and developing trends concerning sustainability, reform, evolution and digitisation will be among the angles of approach that we tackle these topics. With the event being free to attend, as well as covering every corner of fire, Fire Buyer Live promises to have something for everyone. Join over 1000+ attendees from 50 different countries around the globe at the leading and must-attend online event for the international fire sector in 2023. With the rapid evolution of technologies, and the constant shift of policy and challenging requirements of users, it is now more important than ever to stay abreast of the issues that affect you. By registering, you will gain access to our award-winning virtual platform in the lead up to the event. You can plan your calendar with the important sessions that you want to watch, set up your profile with contact and bio descriptions and connect with other attendees, exhibitors and sponsors. The platform also allows you to book meetings and network for potential new business and learn all about the latest innovations in the fire sector.  Don’t miss your chance to register for free now. To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Comment from Amy Speer on using lighting to divert drivers

Exclusives /

In the latest issue of Fire Buyer, we discuss the biological engineering that goes into emergency lighting and how it ensures that emergency services remain seen by everyone in all situations. Amy Speer, Director of Marketing, Command Light explores further this notion in an exclusive comment to Fire Buyer. “In an era of distracted drivers, many departments are adopting new emergency lighting and vehicle conspicuity practices to better alert drivers and divert oncoming traffic away from the scene. Ongoing annual reports from the Emergency Responder Safety Institute (ERSI) show an alarming uptick in struck-by-fatality deaths of roadway responders. “Additionally, the ERSI report documented an increase in departments adopting traffic advisors, such as LED arrow sticks and digital message boards, to improve visibility and provide clear direction to approaching motorists. The report also recommended departments use multi-level or high-rise light systems that can elevate warning lights above obstructing views to create visibility farther away from the scene.   “While some advisors utilized directional pulsing light bars, the study found that large arrow boards were especially effective at diverting motorists away from the scene. Command Light, a leader in scene lighting, manufactures a series of Traffic Advisors that can rotate up to 360 degrees, giving crews the ability to better position the advisor when the apparatus is blocking a scene.  “The ERSI also noted the use of traffic advisors on smaller vehicles, like patrol units and command vehicles, especially noting the NYPD Highway Patrol Unit’s use of elevated LED traffic light bars over the last several decades. For these small units, the Command Light Z-Lift elevates the emergency traffic advisor above the roofline 40” in 10 seconds and offers 90-degree left and right rotation to position the lights toward oncoming traffic.  To read the rest of this feature, please click here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Comment from Bettina McDowell on the current state of building regulations

Exclusives /

In the latest issue of Fire Buyer, we look closer at modern-day building regulations, and how not enough is being done to ensure the longevity of these buildings in the event of a fire. Bettina McDowell, General Manager, IWMA offers her own thoughts on the current legislation landscape in an exclusive comment to Fire Buyer: “I can imagine that safety precautions are one of the most underestimated or even ignored topics worldwide. And especially when it comes to fire safety, I often get the feeling that people think that fires only ever happen very rarely and if then only to others. However, real life draws quite a different picture with fires breaking out in all sorts of buildings all the time. Luckily, many are only small, can easily be kept under control, at the end nobody is injured, and the damage is manageable. But what if a fire is detected late, is fed on a highly combustible material, blocks the escapes routes and there is no firefighting system installed to fight it? Would it not be better to have – especially in schools – water-based fire protection systems (without a fear factor like e.g. gaseous systems) that can keep fires under control or even extinguish them installed and be safe rather than sorry? “Everybody – but especially children and youngsters – deserves a certain level of safety in their lives no matter where they are. And fires can be so devastating. We have to learn what the past is trying to teach us. We have to leave the vicious cycle of fires, deaths, discussions and oblivion behind us. Especially, when I look at the UK, I see a maimed country when it comes to fires and deaths caused by fires. When will the people who are responsible for making the installation of fire protection systems mandatory finally take that step? I hope it will not be too long!” To read the rest of this feature, please click here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Distribution first for Siemens

News Desk /

Siemens has announced Videcon as a new strategic partner for its Cerberus FIT range of fire detection and alarm products, marking Siemens first ever distribution partner for fire in the UK and Ireland. Cerberus FIT has been designed specifically to provide a cost-effective option for moving from conventional to addressable systems for small to medium sized applications. Videcon will now be adding Cerberus FIT to its existing portfolio of fire and security products and services, through its dedicated Fire Safety Division which is headed up by Sales Director Alan Fowlie. Commenting on the new partenership, Alan said – “our customers were increasingly looking for the advantages offered by an addressable system but at an affordable price. I knew Siemens from the work I did before my business became part of Videcon in 2020 and Cerberus FIT offers the ideal solution. It gives us a completely open protocol, engineer-friendly system with the brand values, quality and product quality that you expect from Siemens but at a price-point which is extremely competitive.” Videcon was formed in 1995 and is currently one of the fastest growing security and fire distributors in the UK. In addition to its range of products, the company also offers training and after-care service, the latter being one of the prime reasons cited for its extensive growth. Alan continues – “We operate out of a head office in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, and as a business have always recognised the vital role that reliable service plays in working with our customers. That is another reason why we looked to Siemens as a partner, given their reputation not only for quality in their products but also their commitment to support.” Rob Yates is Head of Fire Products, Siemens UK&I. He said – “we are delighted to be working with Videcon, having chosen them as a partner because of their clear commitment to training and support. The company’s client base is particulartly suited to Cerberus FIT which is an EN54-13 approved system designed with ease of installation and ease of use as its core guiding principles. That ensures it is an ideal option for a range of applications, including retail, leisure centres, warehouses and restaurants – in essence those facilities who would be considerng a conventional or stand-alone addressable system. This is the start of what we see as an exciting co-operation between the two businesses and look forward to taking the offering to the fire safety market in the UK and Ireland.” Cerberus FIT offers automatic device programming through a programming tool embeded within the panel, with a simple user-interface which requires only basic fire system knowledge. It has been designed to be exceptionally easy and intuitive, both in engineering and in use. It can accommodate up to 252 devices on a one or two loop system, with Siemens providing freely avaiable online training and self learning videos covering a range of common topics. To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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WFCA rolls out phase 2 of their Fire Map

News Desk, Technology /

The Western Fire Chiefs Association (WFCA) has announced the introduction of Phase 2 of its Fire Map, which launched in July this year. Phase 2 now includes 3D map views, reporting of active fire-fighting aircraft in real-time, and Fire Integrated Real-Time Intelligence System (FIRIS) specific to the state of California, providing a higher level of detail to keep lives, land, and property safe. The WFCA Fire Map is the first of its kind to integrate real-time flight mapping of fire-fighting aircraft. The Forest Service uses aircraft to track, manage, and fight wildland fires. This includes aerial supervision aircraft that communicate with firefighters on the ground, air attack aircraft coordinating aerial firefighting, air tankers with the capability to deliver up to 8,000 gallons of fire retardant, water scoopers, and smoke-jumper aircrafts. Fire Suppression Aircraft are depicted on the WFCA Fire Map, with aircraft type, speed, and altitude. Said Brent VanKeulen, Deputy Director, WFCA, said: “Wildland fires are often at their most dangerous when they first start. This information will significantly impact the speed in which we can get information out to the public and will also provide a more detailed and richer level of visual communications to communities at risk.” Clicking on an individual aircraft will reveal the aircraft’s recent flight path indicating where current fire-fighting activity is taking place. The WFCA Fire Map is also the first to depict Wildland Fire activity in 3D, where the viewer can rotate their vantage point around the fire map and view the fire from 360 degrees. Specific to California, the WFCA Fire Map will integrate fire-perimeter data provided by FIRIS (Fire Integrated Real-time Intelligence System) and will be the first to do so. FIRIS is a public-private partnership that provides real-time intelligence data on emerging incidents in California. Funded by the California Office of Emergency Services, the funding supports aircraft, a common operating picture, and near-real-time fire modelling that is available at the onset of emerging incidents. Brian Fennessey, founder of FIRIS, California Fire Chiefs Fire Chief of the Year, and Orange County Fire Authority Chief, said: “FIRIS provides real-time situational awareness for firefighters on the ground, helping them make critical decisions. I believe that the same information helps the public, too. That is why we have partnered with the WFCA. To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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