Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service share tips to deal with UK storms The forecast for the next couple of days is for strong winds and heavy rain which may cause flooding in some areas. If you do encounter standing water, please follow this advice from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. Don’t drive through deep water. If you are unsure of the water depth just don’t do it, you are putting yourself and others at unnecessary risk. Don’t enter flood water that is moving or more than 4in deep – turn around rather than put yourself and your vehicle at risk. Did you know? Just one foot or 30cm of moving water can float your car. An eggcup-full of water going into your engine is enough to wreck it. Three-quarters of cars that get stuck in flood water are written off. Community Safety Manager, Alan Gilson, of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, said: “In periods of heavy rain, roads can become very slippery and, if the rain persists, flooded. Flood water can be deceptively powerful, it can literally rip up the road surface dislodging manhole covers and kerbstones. Its depth and flow rate can quickly change with the weather.” Top tips to help stay safe include: Plan your route; consider that some roads are likely to be more vulnerable to flooding and high winds than others. Consider potential alternative routes, should your first choice be blocked. Try to stick to main routes; allow plenty of time for your journey, and allow for possible hold-ups. Check your tyres. Tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across 75% of the width of the tyre for its entire circumference. Ensure that tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure. Check lights and wipers to ensure that they are working properly. Clean windscreens, windows and mirrors. Check weather forecasts, your route may be blocked. Test your brakes to ensure that they are working properly. Check your emergency kit – ensure you are prepared. You should have an ice scraper, de-icer, clothes, warning triangle, a torch, blanket, warm clothes, food and drink, a first-aid kit and a map. Make sure someone else knows where you are going and which route you intend to take. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged, so that you are able to quickly raise the alarm if you need to. Driving in high winds Watch out for crosswinds. Drivers should take care when driving on exposed routes such as bridges or high open roads, and are advised to find alternative routes where possible. Slow down and be aware of side-winds. Be alert for any debris which may have been blown onto the road. Be prepared for sudden gusts at any time, as these can catch out even the most experienced driver. Be alert for sudden gusts when passing bridges, gaps in hedges or when overtaking high-sided vehicles.

New strategic alliance struck between LHD Group and Vimpex An exciting new strategic partnership between LHD Group and Vimpex is announced, bringing together European PPE personal protective apparel manufacturers and a specialist UK supplier of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Rescue Equipment to form a new powerful alliance that will deliver the highest levels of quality, service and protection to the UK’s fire fighting services. Vimpex Managing Director James Jones says, ‘LHD’s enviable brand reputation for high quality PPE and product expertise across the UK, combined with Vimpex’s established infrastructure capabilities, plus our expertise in sales, service and support, will bring new standards in product performance, delivery and support to the UK market.’ James continues, ‘This partnership agreement is a real step forward for Vimpex as it will complete our “head-to-toe” PPE solution for the UK’s emergency service teams across the public and private sector.’ LHD Group Chief Operating Officer Daniel von Chamier says, ‘This strategic alliance between our two companies is a result of our enhanced commitment to the UK market, building on recent successes to further develop a robust UK infrastructure in support of our high quality, market-leading personal protective apparel to ensure the health, safety and performance of the UK’s fire fighting communities.’ Spearheading the product offering will be LHD’s innovative Kinetic Structural Firefighting Suit and Particulate Blocking Flash Hood, evidencing a critical element of quality and performance differentiation to challenge competitive markets. Weight-saving design, functional tailoring and state-of-the-art materials, deliver a new level of protection and ergonomics in fire-fighting protective clothing.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service called after house fire in Bolton Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were called out after a family of seven escaped a house fire that is believed to have started after cooking was left unattended. At 9.08pm on February 2, three fire engines from Bolton North and Bolton Central attended a house fire in Deane Road, Bolton. The four adults and three children had evacuated the property prior to the firefighters’ arrival. Thankfully nobody was injured. Firefighters wearing two breathing apparatus used a hose reel and a fan to extinguish the fire involving a pan of food on a cooker. People are being urged to be careful in the kitchen after firefighters tackled two fires believed to have started when cooking was left unattended. Residents are now being reminded to always remain in the kitchen when cooking and never take risks. Crews were called to an earlier incident at 8.22pm last night and three fire engines from Wythenshawe and Altrincham attended an incident involving a kitchen fire in a flat in Marden Road, Manchester. Neighbours called 999 after they heard the smoke alarm and could also smell smoke. Crews attended and gained entry to the property, finding a frying pan on the cooker, which was still on and unattended. Firefighters wearing two breathing apparatus used a hose reel to extinguish the fire and helped a 76-year-old man, who was asleep, from the property. The man did not require hospital treatment. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service Head of Prevention, Area Manager Paul Fearnhead said: “Luckily no one was harmed at either of these incidents but these incidents could have been much worse. “I’d like to remind members of the public to follow a few simple steps when it comes to cooking safety and most importantly to never leave cooking unattended. A range of safety advice can be found on our website. “A working smoke alarm gives you vital time to escape if a fire did ever occur in your home, test yours every week to help reduce the risks of danger to you and your family. If you don’t have a working smoke alarm GMFRS can provide one for free as part of our Safe and Well visits.”

New London Fire Brigade firefighter rescues kitten on her birthday London Fire Brigade firefighter Jessica New celebrated her 21st birthday by rescuing a kitten from a house fire in Wembley. Jessica has been a firefighter for just two months and the blaze on Page Avenue was the first house fire she has attended and only the second time she’s worn breathing apparatus at a live incident. She said: “Alongside Firefighter Liam Cronin, we went in to tackle the fire on the second floor. We were told everyone was outside so our priority was to get the fire under control as quickly as possible, but when we came out we were told there was a kitten inside so we went back to find him.” When they went back in, they found the kitten in a bedroom hiding underneath the bed. Dog owner Jessica wasn’t sure how easy it would be to get the kitten out. She added: “I knelt down and called out to him and to my surprise he walked over. We took him outside and he was perfectly fine although understandably very scared. I’ve never seen anyone as delighted as the owners were when we handed him over.” Jessica said she became interested in joining the fire service around two years ago and joined Wembley Red Watch on Boxing Day last year. “I’m loving every minute of it and this job doesn’t feel like work,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to work in the services in a role that looks after people. “I’d say to any young women thinking about a job in the fire service to just go for it. It is the ideal job for anyone who likes to work in a team.” The fire happened on February 8. Two women left the property before the London Fire Brigade arrived. Around half of the second floor was damaged by the fire.

Hochiki Europe to host new CPD webinar to raise awareness on benefits Hochiki Europe is set to host a CPD-accredited webinar at 2pm on 5 March 2020 focusing on the benefits of multi-sensors and the importance of understanding the most appropriate accreditation for this technology. The free-to-attend session will provide unmissable insights and guidance for specifiers, installers, facilities managers and insurance consultants looking to reduce risk and ensure safety, security and compliance. Traditional multi-sensors are most commonly used to detect heat and smoke simultaneously, however the webinar will outline the capabilities of an advanced multi-sensor and how they can result in better efficiency and safety for commercial properties. The session will also explain current difficulties surrounding multi-sensor accreditation, as well as outlining the importance of appropriate accreditation. Paul Adams, Marketing Manager at Hochiki Europe, said: “The all-round protection offered by multi-sensors makes them one of the most advanced forms of life safety detection technology. However, to ensure that the right product is specified, installers and specifiers need to be aware of the differences between traditional and more advanced multi-sensors and issues surrounding accreditation. This hour-long session costs nothing but time, while the knowledge provided could prove to be invaluable for attendees. There will also be a Q&A at the end for attendees to have their questions answered by our experts. Our last seminar, which focused on best practice in water leak detection, was hugely popular. Places are limited, so if you’re looking for support and expertise that will help you make more informed decisions, sign up as soon as possible”. To reserve your place on the multi-sensor webinar, register here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/8682719484556417037  

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service devise fun costume for London marathon fundraiser A group of Hampshire Fire and Rescue firefighters who are going to run the Virgin London Marathon has come up with an engine-ous costume. The On The Run team will be taking on the gruelling route, stretching more than 26 miles, in aid of The Fire Fighters Charity, Parkinsons UK and type one diabetes charity JDRF. The team, from St Mary’s Fire Station in Southampton, is made up of crew managers Pete Larcombe and Rich Green and firefighters Keith Burton and Matt Hooper. The group, from white watch, hope to raise £10,000 through the event on April 26. Crew Manager Larcombe said: “I had run the marathon before and I always said if I did it again I would do it in a silly costume, not worry about my time and just enjoy the day and the crowd. “I started to talk to friends in the service and we had seen people running in single file as a fire engine and we were like: ‘That is not a fire engine!’ “It has taken three months from concept to finished product. Our jaws all hit the floor after we had the fabric put on.” He went on to say that they had all picked charities close to their hearts and would be going on runs across the county and beyond to raise money as well as laying on other events. Firefighter Hooper did most of the building work because he is an experienced plumber but all members of the team helped. They were supported by local firms including Zillwoods Sign Makers, Stalwart Products, Wellington Signs & Designs and First Aid Southampton. Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has a long history of taking part in the marathon and of incredible fundraising efforts. To donate money for these good causes click here.

Vimpex announces smart acquisition of Sigma Fire and Security As of 31 January 2020, Vimpex Limited has acquired the legal rights and ownership of Sigma Fire and Security and its brands Smart+Guard and Smart+Cage from Evac+Chair International. Vimpex Managing Director James Jones says that “This important acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Vimpex, and an exciting point in our growth as a UK manufacturer. “Evac+Chair International has been a highly-trusted and valued partner for some time, and we believe that through our specialist sector expertise, wide reach and established brand presence in the marketplace, Vimpex is in a strong position to drive forward the future growth of Sigma Fire and Security. “The addition of the Smart+Guard range is yet another important strategic step in the Vimpex mission to become the world’s leading independent manufacturer and distributor of fire alarm sounders and associated evacuation and alarm system equipment and accessories, and is firmly aligned with company aspirations for new market penetration and protection of our supply chain, and to further shape alarm technology.” Vimpex will now be distributing all products previously distributed by Sigma including GFS security products and Resettable Call Points. Any existing contracts will not be affected and will be transferred to the company, who are continuing to sell and develop Sigma Fire and Security’s product portfolio.

London Fire Brigade firefighters prevent disruption at Victoria Station The hard work of London Fire Brigade firefighters in the early hours of Feb 10 prevented major disruption at Victoria Station in the capital. Strong winds caused by Storm Ciara damaged the gantry above the platforms and left it in a precarious position. The result meant it could have fallen onto the platforms below or cause damage to the glass roof above. Fire Rescue Unit crews worked at height using ropes to access the gantry and secured it greatly reducing the risk of it collapsing. Their work unable the platforms to be used during the morning’s rush hour and preventing disruption to the public. This incident was one of hundreds of call outs London firefighters faced due to Storm Ciara. The London Fire Brigade first started taking storm related 999 calls around 3am on Feb 9 and early indications showed that firefighters attended around 160 weather incidents in the following 12 hours. The vast majority of the call outs were to trees, roof tiles, windows and satellite dishes in precarious positions. Calls came from across the capital with Ilford, Croydon, Enfield and Sidcup being amongst the worst hit. The Brigade’s 999 control was exceptionally busy taking around 800 emergency calls on Feb 9 nearly double the number staff receive on average. Other significant Storm Ciara incidents involved a roof that had blown off of a block of flats on Bermondsey Street, a collapsed crane in Stanmore, a bundalow’s roof falling off onto an adjoining house in Wood Green and a dolls house blown into a tree in Wembley.

Rosenbauer make a connection with aspiring young firefighters as young as three In partnership with established toy manufacturer Dickie Toys, fire vehicle expert Rosenbauer have unveiled a new line of fire toys. PANTHER, AT and aerial ladders in 1/43rd and 1/87th scales have already been available to model collectors. German toy manufacturer Dickie Toys, a company of the Simba Dickie Group, presented fire engines in toy format at the Nuremberg Toy Fair at the end of January, making the hearts of the smallest firefighting fans beat faster. The aerial ladder and PANTHER are true to Rosenbauer design. In addition to the familiar look, the detailed design of the toy vehicles is also impressive: the cabin of the PANTHER shows the real interior, while the small-format airport fire engine also has a movable boom with water spray function. The aerial ladder has a fire hose, also with water spray function, and the extendable and swivelling aerial ladder with basket allows the water to be placed exactly where it is needed. As with the full-size version, extendable support legs stabilize the vehicle in use. Side panels that open, pylons, a rescue stretcher and light and sound effects typical of the vehicle improve play and round off the details. These toy vehicles are suitable for children ages three and up. They will be available in stores and the Rosenbauer fan shop starting in spring of 2020. For more information please visit: www.rosenbauer.com

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service firefighters urge extra care in the kitchen With over 40% of all accidental house fires starting in the kitchen, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service firefighters are asking people to take extra care and take some simple precautions to prevent a kitchen fire in the home. Throughout February, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service will be raising awareness of distractions and other risks that can increase the chance of a fire starting in the kitchen. Prevention Station Manager Nathan Stevens said: “A fire in the home is a devastating event that can have far reaching and catastrophic consequences, yet many people still believe it could never happen to them and they aren’t aware of how quickly a fire can start in the kitchen. “Between 2018 and 2019, Firefighters attended 400 accidental house fires, with 43% of these starting in the kitchen. With so many distractions in our homes, an unattended hob, a build-up of fat and grease, or simply a discarded tea towel can quickly lead to a fire if you take your eyeoff what’s happening. “I would encourage everyone to take a minute to follow our top tips for preventing a kitchenfire and to ensure everyone in your home is safe.” Top tips for preventing a fire in your kitchen: Take pans of the heat, or turn the hob off if leaving the room. Avoid leaving children alone in the kitchen when cooking is on the hob. Keep tea towels, cloths and other flammable materials away from the cooker hob. Double check the hob is off when you’ve finished cooking. Keep the oven, hob and grill clean and in good working order. A build-up of fat and grease can ignite a fire. Use a thermostat controlled electric deep fat fryer. They can’t overheat. Never cook after enjoying a drink or two – it’s easy to fall asleep while the cooker or hob is left on. Ensure you test your smoke alarms weekly. Ensure you have a pre-planned and practiced escape plan in case fire breaks out in your home. . What to do if a pan catches fire: Don’t take any risks. If it is safe to do so, turn the heat off – never throw water over it. Don’t tackle the fire yourself – Get Out, Stay Out and Call 999. For more information about keeping safe in the home visit www.derbys-fire.gov.uk