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Picture of Enforcer Volterra sign - Photo by Pierce Manufacturing Inc. - Fire Buyer

Frederick County Prepares for Delivery of Electric Fire Truck

News Desk, Product News, Technology /

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK) business, has announced that the Frederick County, Maryland Division of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) has placed an order for a Pierce Volterra electric fire truck, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and firefighter health and safety. The order, secured through Pierce dealer, Atlantic Emergency Solutions, includes six additional fire apparatus to enhance operational readiness and emergency response capabilities across the county’s 29 fire stations. The Pierce Volterra electric pumper is scheduled for delivery in late 2025, allowing Frederick County time to complete necessary infrastructure upgrades to support the new apparatus. The purchase was partially funded by a grant from the Maryland Energy Administration, which helps municipalities invest in clean energy solutions for public services. “Placing the Pierce Volterra EV into service reaffirms our commitment to environmental sustainability and, more critically, to the health and safety of our first responders,” said Frederick County Fire Chief Thomas E. Coe. “We feel strongly this new electric fire engine not only allows us to provide critical emergency services in a sustainable manner but also helps us achieve our goals of a healthy work environment for our fire/rescue responders. The reduced diesel emissions, when running on batteries, will help protect our firefighters from carcinogenic exhaust exposure and help contribute to clean air in our communities.” Frederick County responds to approximately 40,000 emergency calls annually, serving a population of nearly 300,000 residents. The department has maintained a 100 percent Pierce fleet, purchasing annually to ensure the highest level of operational readiness. “Atlantic Emergency Solutions has had a long-standing relationship with Frederick County, and we appreciate their continued trust in our team and in Pierce Manufacturing,” said Rodney Guessford, Regional Account Manager at Atlantic Emergency Solutions. “After visiting the Pierce facility and conducting a full demonstration of the Pierce Volterra EV, Frederick County was confident this new electric engine would provide the reliability, performance, and sustainability they were seeking.” The Pierce Volterra electric fire truck operates with significantly reduced noise levels in electric mode, enabling easy communications in route and on the fireground which helps address hearing problems – a prevalent issue among firefighters. The Pierce Volterra platform is designed to maintain all operational capabilities of a traditional fire engine, while managing diesel fuel consumption and addressing emissions when running on batteries. Frederick County’s latest apparatus investments align with its long-term sustainability and innovation initiatives. As the county continues positioning itself as a leader in environmentally conscious fire service solutions, its latest fire apparatus addition represents a crucial step forward in balancing environmental awareness while monitoring operational excellence. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920

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Picture of ship - Photo by Survitec - Fire Buyer

Maritime Protection Secures Record €22.7m Contract

News Desk /

Maritime Protection, a brand of Survitec, has been awarded a contract valued at €22.7 million to supply dry inert gas systems for 24 LNG carriers being constructed at a major shipyard in China as part of Qatar’s second LNG fleet expansion program. The contract represents the most significant single order in Maritime Protection’s history and includes the delivery of high-capacity dry inert gas generators, each rated at 21,000 Nm³/h. The systems will be delivered in phases from 2026 through to 2030, aligning with vessel completion schedules. The 24 vessels form part of an LNG carrier initiative aimed at meeting the increasing international demand for liquefied natural gas amid ongoing shifts in global energy supply. The series is being built for a consortium of five different shipowners. “This is a defining contract for Maritime Protection,” said Bernt Øhrn, Managing Director at Maritime Protection “It’s the largest single order in our history and reflects the growing demand for engineered safety systems in the LNG sector.” The contract was awarded following a competitive, multi-party evaluation process and underscores Maritime Protection’s ability to deliver complex safety solutions for some of the most advanced vessels in commercial shipbuilding. It also reinforces the strategic value of the company’s integrated delivery model combining engineering, manufacturing, and service to support customers throughout the vessel lifecycle. The contract was awarded following an extended negotiation period, during which system design maturity and long-term operational reliability were key factors in the decision-making process. Knut Kaupang, Director of Sales, Maritime Protection, added, “Throughout the quotation process, it became clear that the shipowners were focused on securing a technically mature solution from a supplier with a long-standing track record in the LNG sector. The vessels involved are among the largest and most advanced of their type, and the equipment requirements reflect that scale. “Our system design has been proven across a wide range of vessel types and operating conditions, which has helped build confidence among all stakeholders involved. When equipment is this integral to a ship’s infrastructure, owners need to have certainty in the design, the delivery capability, and the long-term support behind it.” Inert gas systems are essential and complex safety systems onboard a tanker. Vessels carrying liquefied gas need an inerting solution to ensure it is safe to take on board cargo; primarily, it is used before and after dry docking. Maintaining an oxygen level of approximately 1% in the cargo tanks is essential to prevent explosions and fires. Each system features a combustion chamber, chiller unit, cooler and dryer. The design follows a horizontal layout, which eliminates the risk of hydrocarbons in the SW drain. Additionally, the systems are built to meet the approval standards of all major classification societies, including DNV, BV, ABS and Lloyd’s Register, as required by the vessel operators. This contract represents a significant addition to the company’s overall order book, bringing the total number of gas tankers equipped by Maritime Protection Dry IGG (Inert Gas Generators) to over 400 since 2005, with more than half of those commissioned in the past five years. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920

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Mann McGowan Strengthen Sales Team With New Appointment

News Desk, People News /

Mann McGowan, manufacturer of high performance intumescent fire, smoke and acoustic seals, has announced the appointment of Paul Haynes as Business Development Manager. Paul, pictured with MD Jamie Scott, has a strong sales track record in architectural ironmongery, and will concentrate on business development in the fire door, passive fire protection and associated sectors in the North East, North West and Scotland. Jamie Scott commented, “As we continue our quest to become market leader both in the UK and worldwide, Paul is an excellent addition to our already strong sales team. He is a popular and experienced member of the industry and we all look forward to working with him.” Mann McGowan design, manufacture and supply a comprehensive range of fire, smoke and acoustic seals to meet industry requirements and customers’ needs and specifications. To ensure the safe compliance on all fire doors and to develop their product range, they work closely with door, glass and hardware manufacturers. Every product is subjected to rigorous quality control and most importantly independent third-party evaluation and testing to various national and international standards. Mann McGowan are part of the SAVERTO group of companies. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920

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Picture of Rescue Intellitech product - Photo by Rescue Intellitech - Fire Buyer

Rescue Intellitech Launches New Firefighting Equipment Solution

News Desk /

Rescue Intellitech has launched advanced, dual-drying cabinets for PPE which will help fire and rescue services in the UK improve firefighter safety and operational efficiency. Many UK fire and rescue services, including Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and Avon Fire and Rescue Service, already use Rescue Intellitech’s highly acclaimed Solo Rescue or DeconWasher Pro S machines, which make the important process of cleaning equipment such as boots, gloves, helmets and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), safe, easy and effective. The new fast and efficient drying cabinets, which will be showcased at the Blue Light Show in London Olympia on 18 and 19 June, will further enhance firefighter safety by drying this critical PPE quickly, thoroughly and safely after washing. The dryers have been tried and tested across Europe and the US and are manufactured in Sweden for superior quality. Fire and rescue services can choose between two different sizes, the larger DC20 and the smaller DC8, to suit their requirements and space. Gentle and energy-efficient drying technology operates without mechanical action to prevent damage and help prolong the life of the kit. Both the interior and exterior of the PPE is dried simultaneously, so kit is quickly ready for use. The dryers can be specifically configured to accommodate bulky kit and specialised equipment. They also have automatic and manual programs, plus a preset start-time feature. To ensure kit is ready to handle immediately after drying, programmes end with a ‘cool down’ mode. Martin Valfridsson, CEO of Rescue Intellitech, is excited to be expanding its offering in the UK and enhancing its range of PPE decontamination solutions for UK fire and rescue services: “Our mission is to help improve the health, safety and wellbeing of firefighters, by providing effective decontamination and drying equipment for SCBA, boots, gloves, helmets and masks. “With the introduction of drying cabinets to our product portfolio, we can now offer a suite of decontamination solutions for fire stations, demonstrating our commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. “The newly launched drying cabinets help minimise the health risks associated with damp kit. They are durable and efficient and make the PPE decontamination process quick and easy.” Contaminated PPE poses significant health risks due to lingering toxins, carcinogens, and pathogens. Rescue Intellitech’s range of PPE decontamination solutions help to clean equipment swiftly and effectively safeguarding firefighters from long-term health issues such as cancer and respiratory diseases. Nick Croad, Sales Manager for UK and Ireland, explains why Rescue Intellitech’s drying cabinets are a game changer for fire and rescue services. “Air drying PPE equipment is not efficient and often results in equipment being out of service for too long or firefighters having to use damp PPE, which isn’t good for their health. “The new drying cabinets are compact and very easy to install so can effortlessly be incorporated into existing fire and rescue services’ decontamination facilities. They dry PPE quickly and efficiently and are flexible to suit all drying needs – ideal for busy fire and rescue services striving to improve firefighter health and well-being.” To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920

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Ask the Expert – Richard Wharram – The Standards Maze

Exclusives, Technology /

Richard Wharram, Export Sales Manager at Hochiki Europe, explains how fire safety professionals can navigate Europe’s complex approval landscape. Navigating the intricate web of fire safety approvals across Europe presents a significant challenge for manufacturers, installers, and end-users alike. While the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) aims for harmonisation, individual nations often retain their own specific standards and certification requirements.   To demystify this complex landscape and offer practical guidance for those working on projects across the continent, Fire Buyer spoke with Richard Wharram, Export Sales Manager for Hochiki Europe, a leading provider of life safety solutions.   In this ‘Ask the Expert’ interview, Richard sheds light on the key complexities and details how Hochiki, with its extensive range of certified products and educational resources, helps customers achieve compliance and enhance fire safety across multiple European industries.   The landscape of fire safety approvals can seem quite complex. Could you shed some light on the key challenges and complexities involved in obtaining fire safety approvals across different European countries?  Thank you for having me. You’re absolutely right; navigating the European fire safety approval landscape can be a significant hurdle for manufacturers and installers alike. The primary complexity stems from the fact that while the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) aims to harmonise standards, individual European Union (EU) member states, and even some non-EU countries within Europe, often retain their own specific national standards, testing requirements, and certification bodies.  For example, a product might achieve EN 54 certification, which is a crucial European standard for fire detection and fire alarm systems. However, this doesn’t automatically guarantee acceptance in every country. Some nations have additional requirements or specific interpretations of the EN 54 standards. We see variations in areas like:  Language Requirements: Documentation, including installation manuals and product specifications, often needs to be provided in the local language of the country where the product is being installed. This adds a layer of complexity and cost for manufacturers.  Specific Product Performance Requirements: While EN 54 sets a baseline, some countries might have more stringent performance criteria for certain product types or applications. For instance, the requirements for smoke detectors in residential versus commercial buildings can differ, and these differences might be amplified at a national level.  Certification Body Acceptance: Not all certification bodies accredited under EN 54 are universally accepted across all European countries. Some countries may prefer or even mandate certification from specific national bodies.  Installation and Maintenance Standards: Beyond product approval, the standards and regulations governing the installation and maintenance of fire safety systems can also vary significantly between countries. This impacts system integrators and end-users.  Interpretation of Standards: Even when adhering to the same EN 54 standard, the interpretation and application of these standards by local authorities and approval bodies can sometimes differ, leading to unexpected challenges.  How does Hochiki approach this complex web of approvals to ensure your products can be installed and keep people safe across Europe?  At Hochiki, we recognise the importance of making our products accessible to our customers throughout Europe. Our approach involves a multi-faceted strategy:  Extensive Testing and Certification: We invest significantly in ensuring our products are tested and certified to the relevant EN 54 standards by multiple reputable European certification bodies. This proactive approach broadens the acceptance of our products across different countries. We are particularly proud of achieving BOSEC certification for our flagship ESP and Latitude ranges, demonstrating our commitment to meeting stringent Belgian and broader European standards.  National Standard Compliance: We actively monitor and adapt to specific national requirements beyond EN 54. This often involves additional testing or modifications to our products to meet the specific demands of certain markets. For example, we ensure compliance with specific German VdS requirements, BOSEC or DBI certifications where necessary.  Comprehensive Documentation: We provide comprehensive technical documentation, including datasheets, installation manuals, and certificates, in multiple European languages. This helps installers and end-users in different regions to understand and correctly implement our systems.  Strong Local Partnerships: We have established strong relationships with local distributors and partners across Europe. These partners possess in-depth knowledge of the specific regulations and approval processes in their respective countries and provide valuable support with vital local intelligence to. Us as manufacturers, to ensure that the way we are approaching approvals will work (i.e. be compliant) locally for them, their customers and of course the end users.  Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation: The regulatory landscape is constantly evolving. Our dedicated regulatory affairs team continuously monitors changes in European and national standards, ensuring our products and certifications remain up to date.  Investing in Education: We also firmly believe that a well-informed industry is a safer industry. The Hochiki Training Academy has the sole aim to educate and empower professionals working in the fire industry to continuously develop their knowledge and skills, ultimately contributing to improved fire safety across Europe.  Focusing specifically on the number of approvals Hochiki covers, can you give our readers an idea of the breadth of your certifications across Europe for your various product ranges?  While it’s challenging to provide an exact real-time figure due to the dynamic nature of certifications and the sheer number of products in our portfolio, I can confidently say that Hochiki holds a vast number of approvals across Europe.  For our fire detection product range, which includes detectors, call points, control panels, and interfaces, we aim for near-universal coverage of key European markets. This includes holding certifications from major national bodies in countries like the UK (LPCB, BSI), Germany (VdS), Italy (IMQ), Spain (AENOR), Denmark (DBI) and now, importantly, BOSEC for our ESP and Latitude ranges in Belgium, in addition to the core EN 54 certifications. We actively pursue these national approvals to ensure our customers can readily use our products in their local projects without facing significant approval barriers.  In the realm of emergency lighting, our products are designed and certified to meet the relevant European standards, primarily EN 1838 and EN 50172. We also hold specific national certifications where required, ensuring compliance with local regulations regarding emergency escape

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Firefighting foam being sprayed from fire hose - Fire Buyer

How Oklahoma City Fire Dept. Responded to Covid

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Battalion Chief Clint Greenwood, Oklahoma City Fire Department (ret.) discusses for International Fire Buyer the importance of prioritising decontamination  On January 20, 2020, my role with the City of Oklahoma Fire Department took an unexpected turn. After barely a year as Battalion Chief of Safety, we started hearing about COVID-19, a deadly virus spreading rapidly worldwide. It was hard to imagine it would make its way to Oklahoma, but it did. We had never faced anything like this.  The Centers for Disease Control reported the first confirmed U.S. case on January 18, 2020, and activated their Emergency Operations Center that same day. My background in hazardous materials response proved valuable as we worked to protect our responders and fire department employees throughout this pandemic. Like the rest of the world, our department wrestled with the best methods to prevent contamination effectively.   Prioritising Decontamination & Safety  Infection and cross-contamination were major concerns in the close quarters firefighters share–living and working together and sharing apparatus for 24-hour shifts. Whether at the scene, riding back to the station, or during the daily activities at the fire station, the possibility of contamination was and is still everywhere. Our top priority was on-scene and post-incident decontamination and disinfection to ensure the safety of our personnel at all worksites.   As with any significant challenge, extensive research went behind streamlining our approach to contamination reduction. This resulted in a comprehensive document developed through collaboration between emergency responders and occupational health clinics. These recommendations were then adopted by the Oklahoma City Fire Department, which outlined a repeatable, systemic process to effectively minimise exposure risks to harmful biological contaminants during EMS and other emergencies.  The main challenge was that this type of contamination was invisible, leading some personnel to underestimate the threat, particularly when the gear didn’t appear visibly soiled. I believe continued education and extensive training are truly the means to raise awareness and transform behaviors to improve risk management, especially considering that over 80% of emergency calls fire departments receive are EMS calls. I’m glad the awareness of these hidden risks increased significantly after the pandemic, as reflected in a recent survey on biological risk concerns and decontamination and practices conducted by Cres Cor Health & Safety.   In Oklahoma, we also expanded our Exposure Control Plan (ECP) to create a safer, healthier work environment by reducing occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, following OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.1030, “Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens.”   Additionally, our employees would be more vigilant for evidence of biological infestation, particularly those involving bugs or vectors that spread diseases known as vector-borne diseases (VBDs). Vectors are insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas that carry and transmit these diseases.  VBDs are caused by parasites, viruses, and bacteria spread by vectors, leading to symptoms such as headaches, pain, fatigue, and encephalitis while some can become serious, life-threatening illnesses. Some VBDs, like the plague, have been around for thousands of years, while others, like Heartland and Bourbon virus diseases, have been discovered recently. Bedbugs, lice, ticks, and fleas are common carriers of these diseases.  While removing and washing clothing is easy, it became clear that certain equipment is more difficult to clean, disinfect, and decontaminate. Cleaning structural turnout gear, dual certification gear, (rescue/wildland), helmets, EMS jump kits, SCBA masks, and all non-consumable, durable equipment to NFPA 1851 standards is no easy task.   It becomes increasingly frustrating and stressful as we strive to maintain operational readiness while balancing the need for proper decontamination, all without taking equipment out of service for extended periods.  Review the full document and implement it in your department – click here. (https://info.crescor-hs.com/clint-greenwood-describes-cres-guard-biological-decontamination-0)  The Solution: Cres Guard  Crafting a procedure to tackle the contamination threats was a start. However, the true challenge for us, like many first responders early in the pandemic, was to find ways to disinfect different types of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as N95 masks, which were in short supply.   I was introduced to the Cres Guard at the Fire Department Instructor Conference (FDIC) and was skeptical about its capabilities. After spending hours with Cres Cor Health and Safety and watching demonstrations, I realised I had found a device that would help combat any future biological emergencies. Its ease of use stood out, and we soon discovered a wide array of additional uses within our fire department. Today, Cres Guard is a key part of our broad Contamination Reduction Program in Oklahoma City… Read the full article in our October issue.

How Oklahoma City Fire Dept. Responded to Covid Read More »

Picture of WAGNER product - Photo by Wagner - Fire Buyer

WAGNER to Unveil Groundbreaking Fire Protection Solutions at FeuerTrutz 2025

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At the upcoming FeuerTrutz, the leading trade fair for preventive fire protection in Nuremberg, WAGNER will showcase its comprehensive fire protection solutions for various room sizes and applications. The focus will be on storage and logistics, as well as the rapidly growing IT and telecommunications sector, particularly on safeguarding data centres. The TITANUS RACK·SENS aspirating smoke detector by WAGNER has been specifically designed for use in 19-inch server and control cabinets. By analysing continuously drawn air samples, it can detect even the smallest traces of smoke. This enables early detection and immediate action in the event of a fire, preventing major consequential damage. WAGNER’s patented LOGIC·SENS fire pattern recognition reliably distinguishes between real smoke and harmless disturbances, minimising false alarms and avoiding costly downtime – especially critical in safety-sensitive environments. The multi-level alarm concept of the TITANUS RACK·SENS offers a graduated response, from internal alerts to automatic fire suppression activation. An optional integrated suppression system introduces a non-conductive, residue-free gas directly into the control cabinet in the event of a fire. This ensures reliable fire suppression, protects electronic systems, and prevents smoke contamination. The suppression gas cylinder can be installed inside or outside the server cabinet. The system is also suitable for retrofitting and safeguards hardware, software, data, and network integrity. The OxyReduct oxygen reduction system can prevent the outbreak of open fires in large protected areas, such as logistics facilities, under defined conditions. By introducing nitrogen, the oxygen concentration is reduced below the specific ignition threshold of the materials present. OxyReduct is FM Approved, making it the top choice for companies that require FM quality. The latest OxyReduct F-Line nitrogen generator uses hydrogen-based fuel cell technology. The nitrogen-rich exhaust generated during emissions-free, autonomous energy production is used to create the necessary protective atmosphere in the protected area. Thanks to its high efficiency, the fuel cell generates the required nitrogen from small amounts of hydrogen and additionally produces electricity and heat to power other systems – a step towards greater sustainability and CO₂ neutrality in fire protection. WAGNER’s WinGuard hazard management system provides a holistic security concept. It is highly adaptable, integrates all building and hazard management components, and centralises the visualisation of events from different safety and information systems on a unified, user-friendly interface. This ensures maximum transparency and efficient action in the event of an incident. At FeuerTrutz, WAGNER will demonstrate its extensive expertise as a manufacturer and installer of fire protection systems – from research and development to planning, project design, installation, and maintenance for a wide range of applications, all from a single source. FeuerTrutz takes place from June 25–26, 2025. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920

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Dräger Launches New Water Rescue Helmet

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Dräger has launched the HPS AquaRescue, a new lightweight helmet for use by emergency services personnel who need to balance comfort with protection in water rescue missions. Designed as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ helmet to help support the needs of a diverse workforce, and weighing only 635grams, the HPS AquaRescue can be easily adjusted to suit different head shapes and sizes to make it safer and more comfortable to wear for all users. In addition to marine rescue, the helmet is suitable for a range of technical rescue operations, including working at height. With a shell manufactured from a thermoplastic polymer, the helmet has high levels of impact resistance complemented by a shock absorption system made from a closed-cell foam. The interior of the helmet comprises a three-point chin strap and buckle, carrier ring, a comfort pad, and a wheel to adjust the head width. The textiles used are all kind to the skin, sweat repellent and breathable. They can also be easily washed. Wearer comfort is increased by the use of three ventilation holes on the upper part of the helmet which can be covered to prevent the ingress of dust and dirt. The holes also allow any water to drain from the helmet shell and help ensure a constant temperature. The polyurethane helmet peak protects the face from running water and sunlight and also provides sufficient distance between a hard surface (e.g. a rock) and the nose in the event of impact and shocks. A full range of optional accessories is available including waterproof front lamps, visors, ear and hearing protection. The helmets are available in various fluorescent and highly visible colours, and visibility can be further enhanced with the addition of prismatic reflective stripes. Liz Millward, Marketing Manager, Emergency and Rescue Services at Dräger Safety UK, says the new helmet brings a higher level of safety and protection: “The helmet is designed for the rigours of every kind of water rescue that the emergency services may encounter, with exceptional levels of impact resistance and wearer comfort. “A key feature of its design is also to make it suitable for both men and women, and recognise a more diverse workforce, with straps and external adjustment wheel to suit all shapes and size of head.” To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920

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IWMA Announces Winner of 2025 Ragnar Wighus Award

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The Ragnar Wighus Award, a prize bestowed by the International Water Mist Association (IWMA), has this year been won by Azad Hamzehpour Created to honour young scientists who have dedicated their thesis to water mist, this year’s prize winner has finished his Ph.D. thesis at the Polytechnic University of Turin, Italy under the supervision of Prof. Vittorio Verda and Prof. Romano Borchiellini. As it is tradition, Azad has been invited to the upcoming International Water Mist Conference which in 2025 will take place in Manchester, UK on 24th and 25th September. There he will get the opportunity to introduce his Ph.D. thesis entitled “Experimental and Simulation Analysis of Water Mist Systems for shielded Fire Applications” to an audience of experts. On being informed about having been chosen as the winner, Azad said: “I’m deeply honoured to receive this award for my PhD thesis. It’s incredibly rewarding to have my work recognised in this way, and I’m grateful to my supervisors and colleagues for their support throughout the journey. “This recognition inspires me to continue pursuing research that contributes to meaningful advances in the field.” To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920  

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HAIX Launches New Firefighting Boot with EXTRAGUARD Upper

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HAIX has unveiled the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG, a firefighting boot incorporating a newly developed upper material aimed at increasing durability, safety, and wearability in harsh conditions. The FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is the first fire boot globally to integrate GORE-TEX CROSSTECH EXTRAGUARD—a textile engineered to provide enhanced resistance against moisture and chemical penetration. According to HAIX, this three-layer composite material is significantly lighter than traditional leather alternatives and retains less water, helping the boot stay dry during extended operations. The manufacturer also noted that the EXTRAGUARD upper dries more rapidly after use, which supports hygiene and safety, particularly in flood response scenarios or prolonged suppression events where boots are often exposed to wet conditions for extended periods. The boot features a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX CROSSTECH lining, offering additional protection against liquids, pathogens, and hazardous substances. It meets the DIN EN15090:2012 standard and falls under the F2A category for protective footwear. HAIX confirmed the inclusion of fibre-reinforced toe caps, an anti-perforation layer, and a heat- and slip-resistant sole as part of the design. The boot can be cleaned under running water without the need for specialist leather care products, addressing one of the maintenance challenges associated with traditional footwear. Other functional elements include a pocket designed to hold an RFID chip for equipment tracking, a yellow instep protector to shield laces and simplify cleaning, and reflective detailing for improved visibility in smoke or low-light environments. Simon Ash, a company representative, commented: “We’re proud to introduce the world’s first fire boot made with the groundbreaking Extraguard material. “Not only is it lighter than anything currently on the market, but its fully waterproof construction enhances performance in the toughest conditions. “Building on the success of our popular FIRE EAGLE range, this new boot is designed to give firefighters the confidence, comfort, and protection they need to carry out their work safely and effectively.” The FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is now available for purchase through specialist retailers and HAIX’s online store. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920

HAIX Launches New Firefighting Boot with EXTRAGUARD Upper Read More »

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