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90% of false alarms are down to faulty apparatus

News Desk /

According to the latest Home Office report, released recently, false alarms make up 98% of automatic fire alarm confirmed incidents in 2020/21; 90% of this figure is due to faulty apparatus. The research from the Home Office, which was collated from Fire and Rescue services across the country from the last financial year, shows that just 2% of the incidents from automatic fire alarms were a result of an actual fire. Most of the false alarms could easily be avoided with proper maintenance and by ensuring the correct type of life safety product is installed for the environment in the first place. Commenting on this latest report from the home office, Mr Shinsuke Kubo, Commercial Director for Hochiki Europe, Middle East, Africa and India said “False alarms are a major problem across multiple industries, they have a significant impact on production and ultimately the economy. Building owners who choose to work with installers and manufacturers who understand that no two environments are the same will reap the benefits because the products recommended will be both fit for purpose and properly maintained” The London Fire Brigade advise that if you are responsible for managing a property, it is important to make sure the fire alarm system installed is carefully considered for the type of premises and of course the occupancy. Having said that, technology alone cannot eliminate false alarms. Other key factors must be considered to increase the overall “alarm reliability” of fire detection and fire alarm systems. These are design, commissioning, and maintenance. If these are overlooked, then the reliability of a device will drop. It’s also important to remember that over time, the use of a building may change or be adapted, any changes must be reflected in the design and maintenance of the fire detection apparatus installed. “Multi-sensors could be the answer” continues Mr Kubo, “For complex life safety installation projects which have multiple usage scenarios, or are adapted over time, using intelligent devices can really help reduce false alarms. Modern devices which detect heat, smoke and in some cases, CO, can learn from their environments from the moment of installation. Our ACD multi-sensor which uses the S.M.A.R.T. algorithm to continuously monitor its surroundings, is used by our customers across multiple sectors from university accommodation, housing associations, theatres, and schools – all of which have seen a reduction in false alarms”. 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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Sarasota County appoints new fire chief

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Sarasota County has chosen a veteran fire administrator from Orange County to run its fire department. David Rathbun, the former deputy fire chief of Orange County Fire Rescue, will take on the role of Sarasota County fire chief in November. Throughout his more than 30 years of service at Orange County Fire Rescue, Rathbun rose through the ranks, providing direction and leadership for nearly every division during the span of his career with the department. Sarasota County Administrator Jonathan Lewis commented: “Chief Rathbun brings valuable experience along with a deep knowledge of the fire service in the state of Florida to Sarasota County as the next fire chief. He has a strong understanding of leading a fire department that provides life-saving service to a community.” “We are grateful to Mike Hartley, whose dedicated service in the role of acting fire chief was instrumental during the search for Sarasota County Fire Department’s new chief,” added Lewis. Rathbun started with Orange County Fire Rescue as a firefighter/EMT in 1989 and has served as a lieutenant, battalion chief, assistant chief, division chief of logistics, division chief of operations and division chief of planning and technical services.  He retired as the department’s Deputy Fire Chief in January. Throughout his 32 years with OCFR, Rathbun managed fire operations, emergency medical services and special operations, fleet and equipment needs for the department with more than 1,500 personnel. He developed standard operating procedures, long-term station location and facility capital improvement plans, implemented a strategic planning process and new computer aided dispatch system, as well as managed the department’s re-accreditation. Commenting on his appointment Rathbun said: “The opportunity to work with the heroes of Sarasota County Fire Department is an extraordinary one. I look forwarding to getting to know them and deepen the ties we have with our residents and visitors.” Rathbun holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing. He also proudly served in the United States Navy from 1983 to 1987. He is expected to start his new role with SCFD on Nov. 7, 2022. 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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Bridger Aerospace appoints new Chief Financial Officer

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Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, LLC, an independent provider of aerial firefighting services, has appointed Eric Gerratt as Chief Financial Officer. The announcement comes as Bridger prepares for its planned merger with Jack Creek Investment Corp., a special purpose acquisition company, and subsequent listing on NASDAQ. “Bringing on a CFO with public company experience was important as Bridger makes this transition,” said Tim Sheehy, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. “Eric brings extensive financial reporting and management experience to our company, as well as acquisition and integration expertise, having helped grow his former company to nearly $1.0 billion in revenue. We look forward to him being a valued addition to the Bridger team as we expand throughout North America and globally to meet the rising demand for critical aerial firefighting services.” Eric Gerratt joins Bridger from US Ecology, a leader in environmental services, where he was Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Gerratt spent 15 years with US Ecology until its recent acquisition by Republic Services, during which time US Ecology’s revenue grew from $166 million to nearly $1.0 billion. Prior to joining US Ecology, he served as Vice President of Accounting for SuperValu, Inc., held various director level accounting and finance positions at Albertsons, Inc. and spent six years with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Gerratt is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Idaho. “I am excited to join Bridger, a company that has a strong track record of financial performance and significant opportunities for growth as it prepares to go public. As climate conditions evolve and wildfires grow in number and severity, the Company’s fully integrated aerial firefighting solution is critical to save property and minimize economic and environmental damage. With Bridger’s unique positioning, the potential for value creation is tremendous, and I look forward to working with its experienced management team to expand these critical services.” 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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NFPA teams with Dominos for Fire Prevention Week

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The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week! To commemorate, Domino’s Pizza Inc. and the NFPA are teaming up to deliver fire safety messages to homes across the country. During Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 9-15), participating Domino’s stores throughout the U.S. will highlight this year’s campaign theme, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape,” with flyers on top of pizza boxes. The flyers will include important fire safety tips to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires. Customers who order from participating Domino’s stores throughout the U.S. during Fire Prevention Week may also be surprised when their delivery arrives accompanied by a fire engine. If the smoke alarms in the home are working, the pizza is free. If the smoke alarms are not working, the firefighters will replace the batteries or install fully functioning alarms for free. “Every year, Domino’s stores look forward to partnering with their local fire departments and the NFPA to spread fire safety messages to their customers in an exciting and unexpected way,” said Jenny Fouracre, Domino’s spokeswoman. “This is the 15th year that Domino’s has brought the program to neighborhoods across the U.S.” “Today’s homes burn faster and hotter than they used to, minimizing the amount of time individuals have to escape safely,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of outreach and advocacy. “That is why it is critical for every household to develop a home escape plan and practice it regularly. In a typical home fire, you may have as little as two minutes to get out from the time the smoke alarm sounds. We hope to raise awareness about these potentially life-saving messages through our annual effort with Domino’s.” Fire Safety Tips from Domino’s and NFPA Making a home fire escape plan is essential. Follow these steps to make your own plan: Make sure your home escape plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities. Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound. Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily. Have an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet. Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests. Practice at least once during the day and at night. 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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SOCOTEC lauded for Theatre safety refurbishment

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SOCOTEC, a UK provider of testing, inspection and certification services, has been recognised for a series of refurbishment works recently carried out on the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London. SOCOTEC’s Fire Engineering team was highly commended in the AABC Conservation Award category as part of the Civic Trust Awards. These awards recognise projects that demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation, as well as those that have significantly contributed to the quality and appearance of the built environment. Located on Drury Lane, the building in question is a Grade I listed theatre and has an international reputation as one of the most desirable and prestigious theatres in the world. Conducted on behalf of LW Theatres (whom SOCOTEC has worked alongside on two other projects), the works comprised an extensive refurbishment of the Theatre Royal and changed the use of the ground floor, while part of the basement was converted to a restaurant. This took place over the course of five years (specifically, 2016 to 2021). During this refurbishment, the existing theatre and new restaurant were physically linked by enclosing the existing passage between them and adding new openings. The back-of-house remained largely unchanged by the works (with the exception of a new head office and assembly room, which contain listed elements such as a set paint frame). In addition to providing fire safety engineering advice, SOCOTEC Fire Engineering reviewed the existing fire safety strategy during RIBA stages two to six. The fire risk team also delivered updated fire safety strategy reports, held design team meetings with relevant stakeholders and conducted site visits, fire door surveys, compartmentation surveys, construction advice, reviews of site surveys and sprinkler assessments. “We are delighted to have contributed to the refurbishment works on this historic and iconic building, working on behalf of a client with whom we have already developed a strong professional rapport,” commented Thomas Carpentier, director of fire engineering, SOCOTEC UK. “Receiving a commendation in the Civic Trust Awards is a highly prestigious accolade and achievement for the business, and I would like to congratulate all of the team involved in this project for their hard work.” 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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Quelfire wins multiple London Construction Awards

Event News /

About two months ago, Quelfire shared the good news that they had been shortlisted in two categories of the London Construction Awards. On Friday 23 September, when the awards ceremony took place, they asked you to keep your fingers and toes crossed for them. Over 350 guests from all sectors in the industry came together including suppliers, contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, housebuilders, local authorities and more. The event was a celebration of the achievements, development and innovations of companies and individuals, and their contribution to moving the construction industry forward, over the course of the year. Winners from twenty categories were announced by award-winning comedian Simon Brodkin and it was said that “the range of companies that entered were incredibly diverse and reflected the strength of the London construction industry.” Quelfire are delighted to announce that they won in both of their categories: Supplier of the Year and Fire Safety Solution of the Year 2022! Supplier of the Year category: This award category was aimed at any supplier in the built environment that has demonstrated success, innovation, or notable achievement in the past 12 months. This is what the judges had to say about why they selected Quelfire as the winner: “We were impressed with this submission as they weren’t just shouting about good customer service (surely every supplier should be doing this?). They also spoke about putting profit back into research and development, the tech support they offer and how they educate the industry. The latter is significantly needed. “Quelfire is operating successfully in one of the most contentious ends of the industry. Where many have shied away from fire-related matters and insurers exclude many companies from operating in this sphere, Quelfire is providing a solution with not only their products but also with training, thereby raising the competency of the industry.” Fire Safety Solution of the Year category: This award category recognises excellence and innovation in solutions for fire safety. The judges notes for this category read: “Quelfire provided a great submission for their QuelStop Firestopping system. Their submission talked about their solution, what it does and what makes them different from their competitors. This is really important when submitting something like this as there were lots that didn’t stand out from the crowd. “The QuelStop System is different as it offers a wide range of tested details; it has value-added services; and an early engagement approach to help clients design and install the system in a compliant way.” Quelfire would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all the judges, who recognised how passionate they are about contributing to a positive cultural change and safer buildings by providing primary test data for real life scenarios; providing support for compliant design and installation of our firestopping solutions; educating the industry and, as they are known to say, ‘doing it right, the first time around!’ And, a huge well done to all other winners and deserving nominees. The whole team at Quelfire, from management to production, are equally passionate about what they do, which is Protecting People and Property. 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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Euralarm to hold battery safety webinar

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The Guidance Document on Integrated fire protection solutions for lithium-ion batteries is the topic of a webinar that will be organised on Thursday 20 October, starting at 15:00 CET. The Euralarm guideline on Integrated fire protection solutions for lithium-ion batteries was published earlier this year and provides information on the issues related to the use of lithium-ion batteries, how fires start in batteries and on how they may be detected, controlled, suppressed and extinguished. It also provides guidance on post fire management. Excluded from the scope are explosion and ventilation issues. The document is intended as guidance for all professionals dealing with fire safety, fire protection, extinguishing and fire suppression in connection with the use, storage or transport of lithium-ion batteries and their fire risks. Aspects of consumers products are not covered in this guidance. The webinar about the Guidance Document on Integrated fire protection solutions for lithium-ion batteries will be held on Thursday 20 October, starting at 15:00 CET. To find out more, as well as register to attend, please visit Euralarm’s website. 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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Deputy Commissioner Richard Mills retires

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On Monday, 3 October, London Fire Brigade’s Deputy Commissioner Richard Mills took part in his final roll call at Stratford Fire Station after 30 years’ service. During his service he has played a key role in many crucial changes to the Brigade’s operational policies and equipment, from overhauling the response to high rise firefighting, the introduction of the Fire Survival Guidance App and securing the Marauding Terrorist Agreement with the Fire Brigades Union. These changes have allowed the Brigade to better serve the communities of London and adapt to the changing built environment. Most importantly in recent times, Richard led the Brigade’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic through two exceptionally challenging years that required tough decisions to keep our service running for the people of London. Over his long career Richard has been involved in many significant incidents including the London riots, where he was the Borough Commander for Haringey, a large fire at the Mandarin Oriental hotel and the Grenfell Tower fire. Deputy Commissioner Richard Mills said: “Over the years the role of a firefighter has evolved, it has been shaped by moments in history which have led to change. “Historic moments such as the fire at Kings Cross Station, the 9/11 terror attacks, the 7/7 bombings and the Grenfell Tower fire have changed our direction of travel. We have learned and changed from these historic moments, and from every incident we attend. “We have recognised the need to adapt, and I have seen many changes throughout my career in the ways we fight fires. There have been so many developments to our response over the years and the equipment we use that has enabled us to acclimatise to the changing environment and I am proud to have played a role in that transformation.” Richard began his career in 1992 as a fresh faced 19-year-old at Leytonstone Fire Station. His youth was a novelty to the watch he joined as the other firefighters were all experienced and had been in the Brigade for a long time. When he first joined the Brigade, it was very different to now and Richard has seen many changes in firefighting. In his first locker there was a pair of yellow plastic leggings, which had been part of the uniform in the 80s. The equipment was more basic and his breathing apparatus was twice the weight of what it is now weighing around 19kg – now it weighs about 10kg. There were no computers at fire stations and crews had to fill in incident returns using a typewriter. Richard said: “One of the most important changes I have seen over the years is the improvement in the support firefighters now have access to. I have seen a wide variety of incidents during my 30 years. I have seen very harrowing sights that will stay with me – being a firefighter is not only physically challenging but mentally challenging too. “When I first joined there wasn’t anywhere to go to talk about what you’d seen or how you were feeling, the views on mental health were very different to what they are now. Now mental health is something that is discussed more openly. The Brigade has a counselling service, which is accessible to all staff, after a challenging incident the crews can talk freely about it and we check on them. “We aren’t machines, under the uniform we are human and can be affected by what we see – I think that can sometimes get forgotten. We are now in a position where we can openly discuss how we are feeling, which is a such a positive step forward.” 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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Streamlight launches Dualie 3AA Color-Rite

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Streamlight Inc., a provider of high-performance lighting tools, recently introduced the Dualie 3AA Color-Rite in September 2022. An intrinsically safe, high-performance LED flashlight that provides the option of bright, white light or high CRI light with Streamlight’s Color-Rite Technology for true colour recognition in industrial, automotive and other applications. The compact, hand-held light, which is powered by easily sourced AA batteries, is safety-rated for use in Division 1 environments faced by many professionals; it is also ATEX and IECEx-certified for use in Zone 0 locations and InMetro approved. The dual beam light includes a high-power white LED for bright area illumination and a High Colour Rendering Index (90 CRI) LED with Streamlight’s proprietary Color-Rite Technology to better see the colour spectrum. It offers three output modes: a spot beam for distance illumination, a soft, wide flood beam to illuminate work areas and to aid in true colour recognition, and a combined spot and flood beam. “The Dualie 3AA Color-Rite provides the option of bright white light for illuminating large areas, or a high CRI beam that is ideal for auto detailing and painting, differentiating coloured wires, spotting finish imperfections or other tasks that require exacting attention to detail,” said Streamlight Chief Revenue Officer Michael F. Dineen. “With the Dualie 3AA Color-Rite, users have two lights in one.” The new light’s spot beam provides 225 lumens and 8,000 candela over a 179-metre beam distance, while the flood beam delivers 175 lumens, 380 candela, and a 39-metre beam distance. The combined spot and flood beams offer 320 lumens, 7,000 candela and a 167-metre beam distance. The light includes separate dual head switches for easy user activation of either function. The two beams can be activated simultaneously by depressing both switches. Run times for the Dualie 3AA Color-Rite are 8 hours in spot mode, 8.5 hours in flood mode and 5 hours when the beams are combined. The light is powered by three AA size alkaline or lithium batteries. The lightweight Dualie 3AA Color-Rite is constructed from an engineered polymer resin that is impact- and chemical-resistant and features an unbreakable polycarbonate lens with a scratch-resistant coating. It offers a superior, slip-resistant grip texture that is both comfortable and easy to use with gloves. Its rugged, integrated, snag-free clip conforms to the body of the light and grabs easily onto shirts, pockets and other gear for hands-free use. The Dualie 3AA Color-Rite weighs 187.11 grams and measures 17.78 cm in length. The light is IP67-rated for dust-tight and waterproof operation to 1 metre for 30 minutes. It is available in high visibility yellow, while the ATEX/IECEx and InMetro models are available in international safety orange. 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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Supporting Modern Firefighters

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Roger Carr, managing director of British patent-holding manufacturer, Britannia Fire donated a £10,000 cheque to group manager, Emyr Gough of Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, on behalf of The Fire Fighters Charity     The Fire Fighters Charity provides specialist lifetime support to members of the UK fire services community, including the Fire Services Youth Scheme and volunteers as well as former fire personnel with five years’ service.    Emyr Gough says, “I can assure you, these funds will be well spent. The Fire Fighters Charity doesn’t get any government money, but it does much of the work you would associate with being publicly funded. It’s gratifying that this comes from the company that invented the P50, which is a game-changer of a fire extinguisher.”    The cheque was presented on 16th August at Diamond Jubilee Fire & Rescue Station, Carrow, Norfolk where Britannia is based.    Giving back to the UK fire services community   The Fire Fighters Charity helps all serving and retired members of the UK fire family to live happier and healthier. A range of services can be accessed through The Fire Fighters Charity including support for mental health, physical health, social wellbeing, retirement and family support.     P50  Britannia Fire’s P50 is a low maintenance fire extinguisher – it’s greener, lighter, safer, and stronger than traditional metal fire extinguishers.    The P50 can be used on different types of fires ie ordinary combustibles (such as cloth, wood, paper, rubber and many plastics), flammable liquids, and live electrical equipment. This removes the need for multiple fire extinguishers on-site, eliminating the risk of the wrong type of extinguisher being used for any given application. Each fire extinguisher has a ten-year guarantee. At the end of its 20-year life, every part of a P50 can be recycled or reused, excluding its foam contents. Additionally, the P50 doesn’t require a fire engineer to inspect it each year, which saves all the carbon footprint involved in that routine.   Since 1970, Britannia Fire has continuously used invention and innovation to deliver safer and more sustainable products for its customers, helping to save lives and the environment.   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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