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EU establishes initial firefighting fleet for next forest fire season

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EU establishes initial firefighting fleet for next forest fire season To prepare for the risk of forest fires during the upcoming summer, the European Commission launched, on 21 May, the first fleet of firefighting aircraft under the new rescEU system to tackle natural disasters. So far, seven firefighting airplanes and six helicopters will be part of the rescEU fleet during an initial transition period, and the Commission is working together with the participating countries to add extra assets in the coming weeks. European Commission President, Jean-Claude Juncker, said: “rescEU is a concrete response, a European response, to help our many citizens who face the threat of natural disasters. We were all shocked, as Europeans, when many people lost their lives in the last years due to forest fires from Portugal to Greece. European solidarity must be about protecting citizens and helping each other in difficult times. rescEU offers practical solutions and puts European solidarity firmly into action.” Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides added: “Forest fires do not wait. To save lives and protect citizens, the EU and its Member States joined forces and made rescEU a reality. With rescEU, we have an extra ‘safety net’ at times of crisis. I am very proud to see our European forest fire fighting fleet becoming a reality this summer. I would like to thank each and every Participating State that has contributed to this fleet – preparing us in the best way possible for this year’s fire season.” Already five EU Member States, which have been frequently affected by forest fires in recent years, have put their airplanes and helicopters at the disposal of the 2019 rescEU transition fleet. The initial assets are: two aircraft from Croatia, one aircraft from France, two aircraft from Italy, two aircraft from Spain and six helicopters from Sweden.

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Hochiki Europe to bring specialist products to FIREX 2019

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Hochiki Europe to bring specialist products to FIREX 2019 Hochiki Europe is returning to FIREX at ExCeL London to showcase its most recent technological advancements and discuss best practice when it comes to safety in specialist environments. A comprehensive array of Hochiki Europe’s fire safety technology will be on display at this year’s event including its CDX Conventional and ESP Intelligent ranges. The manufacturer’s SIL approved products will also be on show, designed meet the demands of various hazardous environments, making them ideal for marine, transport and petrochemical applications. A number of other Hochiki Europe innovations are also being showcased on stand:LEAKalarm, the company’s recently released moisture detection system is one solution making waves in the market. The product helps reduce the risk of costly downtime in organisations which rely heavily on electrical equipment using its extensive network of water detection probes and cables. FIREscape+,  a combined fire detection and emergency lighting system, which offers revolutionary ‘wayfinding technology’ to ensure the safety of building occupants. At the same time, the technology is designed to be cost effective and suitable for a range of large environments, such as hospitals, schools and retail spaces. L@titude, an analogue addressable life safety platform which is both easy to operate and install will be demonstrated at the event. Its modular system makes allocating, examining and solving any incidents easy with a combination of graphical images and intelligent system controls. New to the market, L@ti-view, takes this technology one step further with real time updates and analytics, sending emergency SMS messages and emails to engineers, helping them visualise their projects. The new system will be initially previewed at Hochiki Europe’s stand. Paul Adams, Marketing Manager, Hochiki Europe commented: ‘‘The importance of life safety has never been more prevalent than in the wake of the incident at Notre-Dame – one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. While, thankfully, fire safety isn’t a regular feature in national headlines, here, at Hochiki Europe, it is an everyday priority. For this reason, we have dedicated ourselves over the past century to staying ahead of the curve when it comes to improving product design, investing in innovation and boosting our manufacturing capabilities.” For more information about Hochiki Europe visit: http://www.hochikieurope.com

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Lenzing Innovation at Techtextil 2019: Plastic free for aquatic farming

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Lenzing Innovation at Techtextil 2019: Plastic free for aquatic farming The Lenzing Group, world market leader in specialty fibres based on the renewable material wood, today introduced the botanic solution for marine application, in particular for aquatic farming, to the public at the Techtextil Frankurt Fair. The wood-based LENZING branded lyocell fibres are used for the construction of ropes and nets in order to support the cultivation of marine cultures such as mollusks, mussels and edible seaweed to reduce plastic in the sea. Plastic a serious problem for our marine environment Annually, about 8 million metric tons of plastics end up in the ocean, resulting in an estimated 165 million tons of plastic debris, currently floating in the marine environment, threatening the health and safety of marine life. The loss of conventionally used synthetic fibres and plastics in the ocean accounts for 80 % of all marine pollution.1 This is not only dangerous for marine life but also for humans as we consume some of these micro plastics through our food. “The development of 100% wood based mussel nets with LENZING Lyocell fibres contribute to the reduction of the annual plastic quantity in marine environment”, says Marine Crnoja-Cosic, Head of Application Development New Business Areas. LENZING Lyocell innovation for the marine industry The Lenzing Group initiated a project in collaboration with two major partners, Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e.V. (STFI) and FIUM GmbH & Co. KG – Institut für Fisch & Umwelt (FIUM) in order to develop a sustainable solution for the marine industry, which does not compromise mechanical performance. There are many different methods of using textile structures as a support for the growth of marine organisms. The important feature of the present invention is that the textile structure is made of wood-based cellulosic fibres. This gives the advantage that any of the textile structure which is released into the environment due to accident, storm damage, negligence or any other cause will degrade in a reasonable time and not leave nondegradable residues. Up to now, nylon and polypropylene are most commonly used for rope and net materials. Although these materials are durable and have a sufficient strength, they do not have a natural origin and are not marine biodegradable. They stay in the oceans for years. Nets and ropes consisting out of LENZING Lyocell fibres proved that they have sufficient strength to carry the weight of the growing cultures without breakage and have the big advantage of biodegradability in the oceans. Proved by tests The cooperation partner Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e.V. constructed different prototypes and replicates out of LENZING Lyocell fibres in March 2018. Thereafter, an initial underwater material test was started in the Baltic Sea. The prototypes were installed in 6 to 10 meters depth at an artificial reef platform in Rostock Nienhagen. The objective of the trial was to proof that marine applications produced out of LENZING Lyocell fibres can fulfil the key properties of conventional marine supports, which are sufficient strength to carry the weights of the growing cultures without breakage. Moreover, the trial should investigate if LENZING Lyocell fibres represent a pleasant environment for particular marine organisms and also proof the marine biodegradability after usage. After four organized dives by our project partner FIUM, first test results were available. All LENZING Lyocell fibres represent an appealing growing material for marine organisms. Overall 14 different sea dwellers like blue mussels, crustaceans, echinoderms or snails adhered on the test material. First test results regarding performance and biodegradability were promising.2 Compostability and biodegradability are key Sustainability advantages in aquatic farming are particularly evident, given the fact that the material is being used directly in the oceanic eco system. LENZING Lyocell Standard fibres are certified as compostable and biodegradable under industrial, home, soil and also under marine conditions. If pieces of the nets break off, they will harmlessly decompose and have no influence on marine organisms. In order to close the sustainability loop, the nets can be composted after harvesting and processing. Further developments “This development brings sustainable solutions to aquatic farming encouraging LENZING to assess and establish further steps towards commercialization, together with innovative value chain partners”, says CrnojaCosic. “Furthermore, future development will focus on optimizing the nets construction for more durable products broadening the scope of 100% Lyocell based marine nets in marine environment,” concludes CrnojaCosic.”

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Zico improve compartment mounting process with new product

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Zico improve compartment mounting process with new product Ziamatic Corp (Zico) have released their EZ-Mount Tool Board System, which the company believe will revolutionise tool and equipment mounting due to it being a quicker and more comfortable way to outfit apparatus compartments. This new system from Zico combines the power and durability of EZ-MOUNT adhesive with all-new, pre-sized tool boards for a superior tool mounting experience This includes the studs now being affixed to each corner of the compartment wall and they are now lined up with the holes in the corners of the tool board. The specially-designed, no-sag adhesive provides 2,700 lb. of tensile strength in only 20-30 minutes. In addition, the lay out means that it’s possible to mount all of the tool and equipment brackets while sitting comfortably at a workbench. This means there is no twisting, turning, or reaching around the confines of a compartment over and over again. Finally, when ready, the completed tool board is simply placed over the studs and secured at each corner. Zico believe that the EZ-MOUNT Tool Board System “provides a neat, clean, strain-free mounting process with no drilling or tapping, eliminating risk of inadvertent drilling damage to walls and water tanks.” Their belief in this statement is due to the fact layouts can be changed or updated by removing the board from the compartment, re-arranging the tools and sliding it back into place, with no unsightly holes left behind. Tool boards are available in a range of common compartment sizes, with Aluminium Peg Boards being 1/4” thick with a 1” on the centre grid pattern, while Solid Poly Boards are 1/2” thick solid black polyethylene plastic. A video demonstration is available at ziamatic.com or youtube.com/ziamatic.

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Registration opens for Pierce Manufacturing 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

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Registration opens for Pierce Manufacturing 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Pierce Manufacturing have announced that registration is now open for the seventh annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, taking place at historic Lambeau Field on Saturday, September 7, 2019. Co-sponsored by the Green Bay Metro Fire Department, the event is not just for first responders – but all who want to take part in honouring the 343 fallen firefighters of September 11, 2001. Last year’s record attendance included 2,700 residents, firefighters, and local businesses, who together raised more than US $135,000 to directly benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). “Many watched in disbelief as we saw the events unfold on September 11, 2001, and in the months following our nation demonstrated fortitude and perseverance,” said Chief David W. Litton of the Green Bay Metro Fire Department. “The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb not only gives us the chance to honour the fallen heroes of that day, but also memorialises fallen heroes nationwide, and raises critical funds to establish benefits, programs, grief support, and more for the families of brave men and women who have devoted their lives to fire service.” The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is not a timed race, but a way for firefighters and the community to honour and remember the New York firefighters who selflessly gave their lives on that fateful day. All are welcome to participate regardless of age or fitness level. Participants are invited to ascend the equivalent of 110 stories – the height of the fallen World Trade Center Towers – on the steps of Lambeau Field. Each climber is given a badge with the name and photograph to symbolically complete the climb with one of the fallen firefighters of 9/11. At the equivalent of the 78th floor of the World Trade Center towers (the highest level reached), each climber will ring a fire bell in honour of the firefighter represented on their badge. “Once again, we are honoured to partner with the Green Bay Metro Fire Department to support the NFFF and the families of the fallen firefighters,” said Jim Johnson, president of Pierce Manufacturing. “Regardless if you are a firefighter or a community member – everyone has a reason to climb.” Event details include: Event registration is $30 per climber until June 2, 2019, $35 per climber until August 4, 2019, and $40 per person, thereafter. Pre-registrants will receive an event t-shirt and all climbers will receive an honour badge. Climbers can pre-register and check in the evening before the climb from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. near Lot 5 at Lambeau Field. An opening ceremony will take place at 9:00 a.m. featuring the Presentation of the Colors, National Anthem, and a prayer. Climbing safety guidelines and instructions will be announced prior to the bagpiper procession into the stadium. Start times will be organized into 10-minute waves of 343 climbers and will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. Entertainment will be provided on the stage near the Kwik Trip Gate for event supporters and participants waiting to climb. Climbers will be given a badge with the name and photograph of one of the fallen firefighters, to symbolically complete the climb with one of the fallen. All funds raised benefit the NFFF. Pre-registration, event details and FAQs are available on the Facebook event page or at piercemfg.com/climb. Since establishing a partnership with the NFFF, Pierce has helped raised more than US $635,000 to support the NFFF’s mission to develop and expand programs that honour and remember America’s fallen fire heroes and provide resources to assist their families in rebuilding their lives. Through the Fire Hero Family Network, support networks, conferences, workshops and scholarships, the NFFF has led a nationwide effort to develop and expand programming for the entire fire service community. For more information about Pierce Manufacturing, the NFFF, and the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, visit www.piercemfg.com/climb.

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INTERSCHUTZ 2020 – now with even wider coverage of fire prevention solutions

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INTERSCHUTZ 2020 – now with even wider coverage of fire prevention solutions Fiirefighting and fire prevention are two closely allied and steadily converging disciplines. Their convergence is driven by a growing focus on prevention – a trend that will be reflected at the upcoming INTERSCHUTZ. In 2020, the show’s long-standing Fire Fighting display area will be matched – in halls 12 and 13 – by a dedicated Fire Prevention display area that will feature a comprehensive range of fire protection technologies – everything from fire extinguishing technology and agents and building design to technical fire and building protection systems. The INTERSCHUTZ show’s other main display categories, alongside Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention, are Rescue Services, Civil Protection, Communication & Control Center Solutions, and Protective Equipment. “With its six overall display categories, INTERSCHUTZ provides a comprehensive offering that covers all the issues of importance to our visitors while at same time highlighting new ideas and ways of doing things,” commented Martin Folkerts, Global Director INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe. “We are delighted that we are able to further enlarge the show’s fire prevention lineup for the 2020 season. In the fire extinguishing technology and agents segment in particular, our exhibitor bookings have already exceeded the final levels achieved for INTERSCHUTZ 2015.” INTERSCHUTZ is leveraging one of its key strengths – the fact that it is a magnet for firefighting professionals and organizations – to raise awareness of fire protection systems. “Fire departments, being the organizations charged with protecting against fires once they break out, need to know what is happening on the prevention side of the equation,” said Dirk Aschenbrenner, President of the German Fire Protection Association (GFPA). “That is why INTERSCHUTZ needs to get the fire protection message out not just to advisers, building planners and architects – i.e. fire prevention experts – but to firefighting organizations as well. Having a sound working knowledge of fire protection and prevention systems and methods is vital to firefighters in their everyday work.” The GFPA is an INTERSCHUTZ partner exhibiting in Hall 13.   The Association of German Fire Protection Equipment Manufacturers (bvfa) is also a long-standing partner of INTERSHUTZ and will also be exhibiting in Hall 13. It will be there with a fresh, revamped version of its tried and proven large-scale group pavilion. The pavilion will host a total of nine fire protection equipment providers. “The fire prevention and firefighting specialists represented at INTERSCHUTZ are united by a common goal: technological advancement,” said bvfa Chairman Dr. Wolfram Krause. “At INTERSCHUTZ 2020, our members will be presenting state-of-the-art solutions in stationary and mobile fire extinguishing technology and passive fire protection.” Other industry organizations and associations which have already confirmed that they will be participating at INTERSCHUTZ 2020 include the German Fire Safety and Prevention Institute (DIvB), the German Federation of Chimney Sweeps (Bundesverband des Schornsteinfegerhandwerks), and the International Water Mist Association (IWMA). The exhibitor list includes the following providers: Aquasys, Bavaria, Brandschutztechnik Müller, Callies, Döka, FiWaRec, Gloria, JOB, Mariott, Minimax, MPA Dresden, Prymos, Rosenbauer, Tyco, VdS Schadenverhütung, Victaulic and Viking. The INTERSCHUTZ team is currently in the process of defining the topics for an accompanying fire prevention forum, also to be held in Hall 13. The INTERSCHUTZ show’s safety and security lineup has also been expanded. It has in fact been structured into two distinct display categories: Protective Equipment (Hall 14/15) and Communications & Control Center Solutions, including hardware, software and IT (Hall 16). This new arrangement makes for a more transparently signposted site layout. The six main display categories are separately color-coded on the official site map, making it even easier for visitors to find their way around.

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New series of Sirens & Strobes added to the Select-Alert range

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New series of Sirens & Strobes added to the Select-Alert range A new series of Sirens & Strobes have been introduced to the STI product portfolio complementing the existing Select-Alert range. Making their debut at tradeshows around the globe over the last 12 months the new round (STI-SA55000) and rectangle (STI-SA56000) models have proven extremely popular with fire and security professionals. Sirens & Strobes are a highly effective way to alert you to any unauthorised use, theft or vandalism of important devices, as well as unauthorised exits and entries. The combination of an alarm and bright flashing LEDs offer excellent protection for a variety of emergency scenarios, drawing immediate attention to the area. The Select-Alert Sirens & Strobes will work in conjunction with an array of STI products including; the ReSet Call Points, Push Buttons and protective covers range. Features include 32 selectable sounds with volume controls, the choice of 8 flash patters with a selection of speeds. Round models can be supplied with a backup battery, and both are supplied with a 12-24 VDC power supply. Lenses are available in amber, green, blue, red, white, or clear. Allowing for use in harsh environments the STI-SA5500 (round) is designed to meet the requirements of IP66, whilst the STI-SA5600 (rectangle) is IP54 rated with a tamperproof lens for additional protection. To learn more about the new series of Sirens & Strobes, visit: https://www.sti-emea.com/series/sirens-and-strobes/

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Euralarm announces keynote speaker on innovation and standardisation for Symposium 2019

Event News /

Euralarm announces keynote speaker on innovation and standardisation for Symposium 2019 The yearly Euralarm Symposium is the place to get insights about where the fire safety and security industry is heading in the near future. The annual event, this year organised on May 13th in Madrid, is all about innovation, legislation, regulation and standardisation, impacting one of the most successful Industries in Europe: electronic security and fire safety. This years’ keynote speaker is Alberto Garcia Mogollon, Head of Innovation Policy with BSI, the British Standards Institution. The symposium, organised by the industry’s main European representative body and trade association, focuses on significant market developments. The event will take place in the Melia Madrid Serrano Hotel in Madrid, Spain, on May 13th. Fire and security professionals, installers, manufacturers, end users, building managers and certifiers will gather in the Spanish capital to discuss the latest trends and developments in the fire safety and security Industry. The Euralarm Symposium’s broad and inclusive approach will allow the security and fire safety community to discuss a variety of up-and-coming topics impacting the industry. The focus this year will be on key trends affecting the fire and security industry, providing participants insight into the latest and upcoming developments, standardisation and regulations that will shape the future of the sector. Euralarm is thrilled to introduce the keynote speaker for the 2019 Symposium: Alberto Garcia Mogollon. Alberto is the Head of Innovation Policy with BSI, the British Standards Institution.  Alberto is BSI’s expert on the role of standards to support innovation.  Alberto was recently selected as one of the five experts on the CEN/CENELEC Innovation Steering Committee, which provides strategic direction to the CEN/CENELEC Innovation Plan actions. With his knowledge and expertise, Alberto will shed light on how standardization can drive innovation, and vice versa. This year’s Symposium will also be to moment that Euralarm unveils its new Euralarm Manifesto, outlining strategies and focus areas for 2019 – 2024. It will also address innovation and standardisation and the impact of these themes on our industry. The symposium’s Networking Lunch will start at 12:30. The programme will kick off at 14:00 until 18:00. A Networking Break during the afternoon and a President’s Dinner in the evening (optional) will allow participants to share insights and exchange views on the industry. Professionals who want to participate in the Euralarm Symposium can start their registration for this event at the Euralarm website. https://www.euralarm.org/overview-ga-2019

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The thermal ultra-compact and lightweight drone solution dedicated to all professionals

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The thermal ultra-compact and lightweight drone solution dedicated to all professionals Parrot, the leading European drone group, has announced ANAFI Thermal: the all-in-one, drone-based solution that provides easy to use, sophisticated and high-quality thermography (drone + sensor + software), with proven reliability and outstanding performance. Parrot has evolved its existing ANAFI platform to create this lightweight and easy-to-use solution specifically engineered to support a wide range of industries. As well as the built-in 4K HDR camera, ANAFI Thermal integrates a FLIR® thermal sensor – a benchmark product in this sector – capable of letting users see thermal imaging quickly and efficiently. With ANAFI Thermal, users can view live thermal and RGB images (4K HDR) of surfaces, structures or at-risk areas that the drone captures while in flight, creating the opportunity to better understand areas monitored and take immediate action. Users of ANAFI Thermal can collect previously inaccessible information and data at a fraction of the cost, while increasing efficiency and productivity in a secure way. With this unrivalled solution, Parrot is reinforcing its commitment to the professional drone market to revolutionise the way many industries and trades operate. The ANAFI Thermal offers a wide range of industries an all-in-one solution that can be adapted to different requirements and needs. ANAFI Thermal will provide a solution to: Building, construction, public works and real estate professionals Experts in civil security and rescue services Energy producers and transporters Environment and preservation organisations ANAFI Thermal Available from May 2019 via Parrot.com and from official Parrot resellers. Price excl. VAT: £1,700.00 ANAFI Thermal: two high-precision cameras – thermal and RGB 4K Parrot’s Paris-based engineers have evolved the existing ANAFI platform to create ANAFI Thermal. With exceptional features and performance, the drone embeds sophisticated software developed after thousands of hours of rigorous testing, research and development. ANAFI Thermal‘s gimbal embeds two built-in miniature cameras (thermal and RGB 4K) stabilised on three axes for sharp videos and clear pictures whatever the flight conditions: – A FLIR radiometric thermal-imaging camera (resolution 160×120 / temperature range -10° to +400°C). It reveals the invisible and takes live temperature readings. Directly from the FreeFlight 6 app, the pilot can instantly identify areas of heat loss, in both hot and cold spots, and isolate subjects from their surroundings. – A 4K HDR camera with 21MP Sony sensor, essential for the visual inspection of a surface or building. It provides precise photo and video footage, crucial when capturing images of search areas, for example. Extend the capabilities of ANAFI Thermal to build 3D images of building and carry out 3D inspections after the flight and take dimensions with the Pix4DModel app. Images of the visible and the invisible can be combined directly by the FreeFlight 6 app. Each element of the environment then appears in high precision with the representation of thermal leaks or temperature differences superimposed. A unique feature for drones of this category, ANAFI Thermal‘s gimbal vertically tilts to +/-90°. This makes it possible to inspect beneath structures in Zenith View or roofs and flat surfaces in Nadir View. Thanks to the x3 digital zoom, the pilot can examine results in 4K mode or with thermal imaging, hard-to-reach elements or the details of a scene, without taking any risks. ANAFI Thermal: Compact, lightweight, powerful and portable Lightweight (315g) and ultra-compact, with its unique folding design, ANAFI Thermal can accompany professionals in a wide range of industries. For professionals working in rescue services, civil security and inspection, speed of reaction is paramount. ANAFI Thermal unfolds and becomes operational in three seconds! Its huge power enables it to fly over a scene or reach an area to be inspected at a speed of 55km/h and it withstands winds of up to 50km/h, remaining operational even in complex conditions and environments. With more than 1.25 hours (78 minutes) of cumulative flight1 (three batteries lasting 26 min each), ANAFI Thermal’s flight-time capability is a unique feature on the commercial drone market. It covers vast areas and gives the professional the time required for the assignment, without unnecessary stress or pressure. Equipped with a USB-C connection, ANAFI Thermal‘s batteries can be recharged from any source (computer, power-bank, 12V vehicle system, etc.). Its Parrot Skycontroller 3 remote control ensures a powerful and reliable WiFi connection, up to 4km2, meaning teams can stay at a safe distance from at-risk or difficult to access areas. ANAFI Thermal: making thermal imaging accessible to everyone ANAFI Thermal flight parameters are available via the FreeFlight 6 app, ensuring they are accessible and can accompany the user on every assignment. Thanks to its ergonomic interface and intuitive operation, the pilot can easily switch from a thermal imaging to RGB view or merge the two, to enhance the readability of the image. The real-time analysis of what is captured by ANAFI Thermal is completed by the app’s built-in tools, which: Display the estimated temperature of an image element with a simple tap on the screen Freeze frame to stay on a specific element and remove any doubts The operator can observe the thermal differences on-screen by selecting one of the three groups of settings available: Relative: the scene is coloured with a gradient colour scale from the coldest temperature on the scene to the hottest. This group displays the extent of temperature differences. Absolute: the user manually chooses the temperature range used to set the colour gradient. The user simply needs to set a bracket for the temperature values. Spot: this mode is used to instantly identify thermal anomalies. Only the hottest or coldest spots are isolated. The images and videos captured (Thermal/RGB) are recorded on the drone’s 16GB microSD card. Content captured can be viewed immediately afterwards through the FreeFlight 6 app and shared in seconds, directly through the app or via a computer. The settings group can then be modified to isolate a particular element or analyse the temperatures of a scene. Compatible with the FLIR® Tools software solution, professionals can also quickly edit and analyse images, and very simply produce inspection

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Notre-Dame fire: Why the cathedral blaze was difficult to tackle

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Notre-Dame fire: Why the cathedral blaze was difficult to tackle The BBC news team released an article exploring the difficulties of extinguishing the Notre-Dame fire. The main structure of Notre-Dame cathedral – including the two bell towers – has been saved after firefighters worked through the night to tackle the huge blaze. Now that it has been extinguished, experts have been able to shed light on the difficulties fire crews faced as they fought to save such a large, historic building. A complex, flammable rood Guillermo Rein, professor of fire science at Imperial College London, told the BBC that “what the Paris firefighters did was close to a miracle”. “It’s completely different to most training because all the material burning is the roof,” he said. The cathedral’s roof is a complex piece of carpentry with very thin and very thick columns which are all flammable, he explained. The thin parts ignite first and then ignite thicker wood which burns for a long time. Paris surveys aftermath of cathedral blaze A history of Paris’s beloved cathedral Gregg Favre, former commander at St Louis Fire Department in the US, also pointed out how flammable the building is. He explained on Twitter: “Let’s pause to remember how fires actually burn. You need oxygen, fuel, heat and a chemical chain reaction. Removing the fuel is a no go. Churches have no shortage of things to burn. “The heat that a fire this size is putting off is tremendous. Little options for interrupting that. The chemical chain is off to the races. That horse left the stable in the first five minutes. “That leaves the oxygen. Unfortunately, even if the roof had not burnt off, churches are nearly impossible to control ventilation in. Their design is to be open and airy. Great for Sunday worship, terrible for managing fire spread.” Pompiers de Paris, the city’s fire brigade, posted a video showing how they tackled the fire. Bob Parkin, a former UK firefighter turned safety consultant, told the BBC that in this case, tackling the blaze from inside was the only option. “They would have to go inside the building or use aerial appliances, ladders and hydraulic platforms,” he said. “But you’re putting water on the outside of the building and the only way you sort it is if you attack it from the inside.” Dumping water from above As the fire burned, US President Donald Trump suggested that flying water tankers could be brought in to fight the flames from above. Professor Rein said he wasn’t the first person to come up with the suggestion, however it was “not a good idea because it would have damaged the structure of the cathedral, collapsing the walls”. The force of water coming from an air tanker is strong and no-one has been trained to use one in a city. He added that Monday’s fire was “not the time to test this”. How safe can they make Notre-Dame? Professor Rein says that “fire engineering” will need to be considered when reconstructing the cathedral. Fire engineering is now in place in modern landmarks such as the Shard in London. He said: “The roof was not protected whatsoever.” Mr Parkin told the BBC that in the future, Notre-Dame should install sprinklers. “We keep seeing these buildings go up in flames like this and it’s relatively easy to prevent,” he said. “In this building you’ve got invaluable artefacts and it’s so easy to prevent and that’s by installing sprinkler systems. People are still building without them and it keeps happening.” www.bbc.com

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