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Canadian Wildfire Smoke Crosses Atlantic, Reaches Europe

News Desk, Technology /

As Canadian wildfire crews continue to confront intense blazes across multiple provinces, smoke generated by these fires is now making its presence felt far beyond North America. In recent days, smoke from the fires has travelled an extraordinary distance of nearly 7,000 kilometres – crossing the Atlantic Ocean and reaching parts of Europe. The plume, driven by persistent strong winds, is expected to continue its eastward trajectory. The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) reported that the first high-altitude smoke plume entered the Mediterranean region around May 18–19, with sightings in Greece and surrounding areas. A second, more substantial plume followed in the final days of May, making landfall in northwestern Europe on Sunday, June 1. Back in Canada, the wildfire situation remains critical. Fire behaviour has recently intensified in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with conditions expected to continue pushing smoke eastward—potentially leading to further impacts across the Atlantic in the coming week. Wildfires are currently burning in several regions, including Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and northern British Columbia. Both Manitoba and Saskatchewan have declared provincial states of emergency, with evacuation orders in effect for multiple communities as firefighting efforts continue. 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 firefighting foam - Photo by Survitec - Fire Buyer

Survitec Completes Testing of New Firefighting Foams

News Desk, Product News, Project News, Technology, Uncategorized /

Survitec has successfully completed extensive performance testing of new alcohol-resistant fluorine-free firefighting foam concentrates. The results validate the compatibility of the new foam concentrates with marine foam mixing systems and demonstrate that a safe transition away from PFAS (Per- and PolyFluoroAlkyl Substances) based products is not only feasible and ready for operational deployment across a range of vessel types, but also technically proven. The latest performance tests are a continuation of extensive due diligence work by Survitec on the new fluorine-free formulae. Last year, Survitec’s fire safety specialists conducted laboratory fire tests to assess performance in accordance with maritime rules and regulations using various types of foam sprinkler nozzles on different burning media across different setups.  The results confirmed that the foam remained stable and performed well, even against challenging fuels such as methanol. However, in the case of alcohol-resistant, fluorine-free foam concentrates, there was an additional challenge to address: viscosity. These new formulations rely on different active ingredients to maintain firefighting effectiveness without using fluorinated compounds. The result is a denser, more viscous fluid that behaves differently under varying flow conditions, posing new challenges for marine dosing systems originally designed for lower-viscosity foams. “Standard proportioners are not typically designed to handle this kind of fluid, so it was essential that we rigorously test the system to ensure compatibility and dosing accuracy,” explained Maciej Niescioruk, Product Manager, Foam Systems, at Survitec. Rather than replacing existing proportioning systems, Survitec focused on engineering modifications to internal components and orifices. The outcome of the tests was clear; the extent of system modifications varied depending on the type and size of the system, with certain configurations requiring more substantial redesign than others to maintain accurate dosing within the required range. As Niescioruk explains, “An incorrect dosing ratio can result in a foam that is ineffective in suppressing a fire. Foam proportioning systems must comply with a strict dosing accuracy range of    -0% to +30% to ensure that underdosing does not occur – a critical requirement to avoid system failure. “This is particularly important when using high-viscosity foam concentrates, which typically generate higher flow resistance. If a standard, unchanged, proportioner is used, the increased resistance can cause the actual mixing ratio to fall below the nominal value, violating regulatory requirements and compromising foam performance. By implementing our findings from these tests, we can ensure that our customers won’t face that risk.” In addition to proportioner compatibility, appropriate pump selection is essential. A standard centrifugal pump designed for low-viscosity, Newtonian fluids, such as the fluoroprotein alcohol-resistant foam concentrates, will most likely fail with the new, fluorine-free formulae, which exhibit non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic behaviour. The worst case scenario is a total system malfunction, where no foam is produced. The tests come at a crucial time for the industry. From January 1, 2026, the IMO’s MSC.532(107) regulation will prohibit the use and storage of foams containing PerFluoroOctane Sulfonate (PFOS). This chemical is part of the wider PFAS family now being phased out globally due to growing concerns over its impact on human health and the environment. However, some manufacturers have already discontinued production of PFAS foam concentrates in anticipation of further restrictions. Consequently, for shipowners and operators, managing the transition to fluorine-free alternatives is not only a compliance issue but a safety-critical one. “Fluorine-free, alcohol-resistant foams are particularly suited for chemical tankers, Norwegian double-ended ferries, and methanol-fuelled vessels, where environmental performance and fire safety are paramount. The successful completion of these performance tests allows Survitec to offer a tested and validated solution that mitigates technical risk and supports a smooth, compliant transition to fluorine-free technology. The findings are already being implemented in current projects, including a system commissioning in Turkey,” added Niescioruk. As additional PFAS restrictions loom and more countries advocate for a total ban on fluorinated foam concentrates, the results of Survitec’s testing offer reassurance that regulatory compliance does not need to come at the expense of safety or operational readiness. However, planning and the support of an OEM are essential to avoid costly mistakes. “These are safety-critical systems,” warns Niescioruk. Any significant changes to these systems must be handled carefully, allowing time to assess the engineering requirements and obtain the proper approvals. Our message to the market is clear: plan now, test early, and work with an OEM partner who understands the technical and regulatory landscape.” Survitec’s S Word podcast explores the complexities of transitioning to fluorine-free firefighting foams. From unpacking new regulations, comparing foam performance and safety, and outlining key considerations for retrofitting. 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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Product Spotlight: Actuator Assurance

Exclusives, Product News /

TLX Fire & Security’s actuators meet EN 15004-1 with integrated supervision, ensuring safe installation and discharge in both standard and hazardous fixed gas suppression systems. One of the most crucial components of a fixed gas fire suppression system is the discharge valve actuator. An improperly installed actuator could prevent the system from discharging, endangering people and property.   The recent revision to EN 15004-1, the standard followed by countries across Europe and beyond, deals with this very scenario. It now requires an audible and visual alarm at the fire control panel if an electric actuator is removed from a cylinder’s discharge valve. These dual alarms are intended to reduce the likelihood that improper actuator installation can go unnoticed.   The danger of a fire suppression system being unable to discharge due to improper actuator installation isn’t a new concern for the industry. In 2016, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) implemented a revision to the NFPA 2001 standard with the same requirements for systems in the United States. The alarms are triggered using a supervisory circuit that can detect whether or not the actuator is properly installed, usually in the form of an add-on component.   TLX Fire & Security responded to the revision to NFPA 2001 by developing a line of patented linear electric actuators with an integrated supervisory feature. This eliminated the need for a secondary component to provide the necessary supervision. If the actuator is removed from the discharge valve, the audible and visual alarms are triggered and will be cancelled only when the actuator is correctly installed. TLX calls this feature “fully engaged installation detection,” and it’s found on all of TLX’s actuators and valves for fire suppression systems.    These UL-864 Recognized Components are designed for systems in non-hazardous environments and come in three sizes to accommodate the operating pressure of any system up to 300 bar.    These solutions soon proved themselves in the market, and TLX began receiving inquiries about an actuator for hazardous locations. Because there may be flammable substances in the atmosphere, the actuator is typically enclosed in a protective enclosure. This prevents a spark, which might be caused by an electrical input to the actuator, from igniting these substances.  TLX’s engineers decided to design an actuator that acted as its own enclosure. The result was the Explosion Proof Actuator with Supervision, which earned UL HazLoc, ATEX, and IECEx certifications.  Uniquely designed as a top-mounted linear electric actuator, it does not act as a pressure vessel on the discharge valve, which helps to reduce the number of potential leak points in the system. All potential flame paths are designed to prevent flame egress, and the enclosure components and flame paths are made from passivated 304 stainless steel, with no brass, bronze, or copper used for any exterior components.  The actuator’s internal components can also be configured during production to accommodate any fire suppression system’s operating pressure up to 300 bar, and it features TLX’s integrated fully engaged installation detection.  All of TLX’s electric actuators for fire suppression satisfy both NFPA and EN standards for supervision, offering system manufacturers proven solutions that are immediately available for EN 15004-1 compliance.  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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Ensuring UL268 7th Edition Compliance Across the Middle East

Exclusives, Product News, Project News /

Hochiki identifies compliance driven smoke detectors and multi sensors for the Middle Eastern market that ensures precision in fire detection. Unparalleled generation of UL listed smoke detectors now available for installation projects across any region that requires UL approval. While primarily a North American standard, UL standards are increasingly recognised and adopted by regulatory authorities worldwide, including in the Middle East. Specifically designed to achieve compliance with the rigorous UL268 7th Edition standards, Hochiki’s range of innovative 7th edition products fill a crucial gap for conventional applications to meet the UL standard.  Hochiki conventional products are already renowned for their reliability in reducing false alarms, and their new range of 7th edition conventional detectors continues to evidence these benefits, with the range including the company’s first conventional multi-sensor detector. This unique conventional multi-sensor optical smoke and heat detector (SOE-24H), along with a conventional optical smoke detector (SOE-24V), are already being specified in a host of projects across the Middle East.  Conventional fire detection systems are particularly suited to projects such as small retail units, simple structures like workshops and storage units as well as health clinics and small educational facilities for example.    Key Features of Hochiki Europe’s 7th Edition Conventional Smoke and Multi-Sensors:  Dual LED Technology  Introducing a revolutionary dual LED technology, incorporating red and blue internal emitters mounted at different angles. Hochiki’s innovative approach enables the detectors to distinguish between smoke particle types more effectively, ensuring precision in fire detection.  Advanced Algorithms  Equipped with state-of-the-art algorithms, Hochiki’s detectors can intelligently react to genuine fires while significantly reducing false alarms caused by common sources such as steam and cooking. This ensures a reliable and efficient detection process in diverse environments.  Automatic drift compensation and maintenance indication  Utilises a green/red LED for indication of status. In normal standby conditions, the LED flashes green. When the detector automatically senses that its sensitivity has drifted outside the UL listed sensitivity window the LED will flash Red. When in alarm the LED will latch on Red.  Redesigned Smoke Chamber  Cutting-edge detectors feature a newly designed smoke chamber, optimising airflow, and smoke intake. The incorporation of multi-spectrum smoke categorisation technology ensures an enhanced response to both flaming and smouldering fires fuelled by traditional materials and polyurethane, ensuring that Hochiki technology meets the stringent requirements of UL268 7th Edition standards.  About Hochiki  Established in 1918, Hochiki is a global leader in the design and manufacture of life safety solutions. With a heritage spanning over a century, the company is recognised for its commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation. Hochiki’s extensive product portfolio covers fire detection, emergency lighting, and life safety systems, meeting the highest international standards and serving diverse sectors including commercial, industrial, and public infrastructures. Operating through a network of regional offices, manufacturing facilities, and distribution partners, Hochiki provides tailored solutions that protect people and property worldwide, while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and technical excellence.  To learn more visit the Hochiki website  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 Email: editor@firebuyer.com  

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Picture of factory - Photo by ModuLaser - FireBuyer.com

Aspirating Smoke Detection: Modularly Unique. Infinitely Flexible

Exclusives, Product News /

Early smoke detection is vital in harsh environments—ModuLaser’s aspirating system ensures precision, reliability, and scalability where others fail. In challenging environments such as dusty warehouses, cold spaces, or areas with high ceilings, traditional point detectors often fail to detect the early signs of fire. Aspirating smoke detectors (ASD) actively draw in air, detecting smoke in the slow combustion stage, long before it reaches a point detector. Ideal for environments with stratification, humidity, or vandalism risks, aspirating smoke detection systems ensure early and reliable fire detection when you need it most.  How Does the System Work?  The Aspirating Smoke Detector (ASD) continuously samples air through a network of pipes, using a laser chamber for rapid detection. This proactive approach allows for fire prevention and maintenance before alarm escalation, providing a crucial advantage in fire safety.  Meet ModuLaser, the high-end laser smoke detection system designed to offer advanced technology and modular flexibility. Perfect for critical environments where early and reliable smoke detection is paramount. ModuLaser uses ultra-sensitive smoke detection with a multi-channel laser, making it ideal for environments that require precise and early detection. This advanced technology ensures that smoke is detected in the early stages, even during the slow combustion phase, giving you vital time to act before the fire spreads.  One of ModuLaser’s standout features is its modular flexibility. The system easily adapts to various spaces and configurations, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you need to protect a small room or a large facility, ModuLaser can be customised to meet your specific needs.  ModuLaser is compatible with three display modules: Minimum (8 detectors), Standard (8 detectors), and Command (up to 127 detectors). This scalability allows you to expand the system as needed, ensuring complete coverage and protection.  Advanced Detection  ModuLaser’s laser-based forward light scattering technology ensures reliable early warning by differentiating smoke from dust, reducing false alarms. This is achieved through several key features:  Peak Elimination Algorithms: These algorithms help reduce false alarms by filtering transient peaks in the detection signal.  High Sensitivity with Reliability: The system maintains high sensitivity to smoke while ensuring reliable detection.  Dust Immunity: ModuLaser is designed to be dust-immune, providing accurate detection even in dusty environments.  Smart Artificial Intelligence  ModuLaser incorporates ClassiFire and ClassiFire Perceptive AI systems, which reduce false alarms by dynamically adapting to environmental changes. These systems maintain optimal performance without manual adjustments, ensuring:  Sensitivity Adjustments: The system adjusts sensitivity according to background environmental changes.  Relative Alarm Thresholds: Alarm thresholds remain relative to the area, ensuring consistent performance.  Consistent Performance: Despite dust or contamination, the system continues to function reliably.  Longer System Life  ModuLaser’s unique waste gate technology optimises airflow, reducing maintenance and extending filter life. This technology offers several benefits:  Extended Particle Filter Life: The system design helps extend the life of particle filters.  Efficient Unused Air Diversion: Unused air is efficiently diverted, ensuring accurate detection from smaller samples.  Longer Service Intervals: The system design allows for longer service intervals and greater capacity.  Customisable Solutions  ModuLaser’s modular solutions are perfect for any space, from small rooms to large facilities. The system’s flexibility and adaptability make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.  Ideal Environment Applications  ModuLaser is suitable for various environments, including:  Data Centers and Computer Rooms  Airports  Storage and Processing Areas  Elevator Shafts  Auditoriums  Warehouses  Textile Areas  Engine Rooms  Contaminated Areas  Paper Factories  Recycling Plants  For more information, follow us on social media or visit our website: https://firesecurityproducts.com/en/page/airsense-modulaser   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 Email: editor@firebuyer.com  

Aspirating Smoke Detection: Modularly Unique. Infinitely Flexible Read More »

Picture of residential housing - Photo by Fireco - FireBuyer.com

Case study: Upgrading Fire Safety

Exclusives, Project News, Technology /

Fireco demonstrates fire door safety compliance, safety and installation with 80 new fire doors case study at Lord’s View One, St. John’s Wood  Situated in the heart of London’s prestigious St. John’s Wood, just a stone’s throw from Regent’s Park and with sweeping views of Lord’s Cricket Ground, Lord’s View One is a purpose-built residential block that offers modern living in a prime location. As part of a recent full refurbishment of the building, the Residents’ Board took the opportunity to enhance fire safety by upgrading 80 internal flat entrance fire doors. With compliance, safety, and aesthetics in mind, Fireco was chosen to deliver the project – and the results have been met with glowing praise.  Identifying the problem: the need for fire door upgrades  Fire doors are a crucial component of any building’s fire safety strategy, particularly in residential blocks where they play a key role in protecting lives by slowing the spread of fire and smoke. Unfortunately, at Lord’s View One, many of the existing fire doors had fallen short of current regulatory standards.  “We replaced the doors because over half of them weren’t compliant with current regulations, and the other half needed substantial remedial work,” explains Sima Elli, resident and coordinator of the fire door project. “Bearing in mind that the building was being fully refurbished, we felt it would be prudent to move ahead with a full replacement.”  However, finding the right company to supply and install the doors proved to be more difficult than anticipated.  “We contacted around a dozen companies that supply and install fire doors,” continues Sima. “But either they were too slow to respond, didn’t respond at all, didn’t supply the full specification we were looking for, or didn’t fill us with confidence.”  The solution: a seamless installation by Fireco  After a challenging search, the Residents’ Board finally found the right fit in Fireco, a trusted provider of certified fire door solutions. From the very first interaction, the team at Fireco made it clear that they were dedicated to delivering not only a compliant solution but also an exceptional customer experience.  “I then spoke to Alex Babbage of Fireco,” says Sima. “He is extremely knowledgeable and attentive and took the time to explain everything meticulously, with so much patience, attending to our priorities and concerns every step of the way.”  The attention to detail continued with an on-site visit, where Alex brought samples of the veneer options and closers, helping the Residents’ Board to make informed decisions. “We felt safe in his hands to commit to moving forward with our order of 80 FD30S walnut veneer doors with concealed closers,” Sima adds.  A team effort: ensuring a smooth process  The successful installation of the fire doors was a result of careful planning and collaboration. Fireco’s team worked closely with the Residents’ Board throughout every stage of the project.  “Jake Trowell attended a site visit to carry out the survey, and Cherri Wheeler worked closely with me to put a schedule of works together,” explains Sima. “Martin Pearce managed the entire project and accommodated our requests efficiently and without a fuss, communicating with me at every juncture.”  The project was completed smoothly and on schedule, leaving the residents of Lord’s View One with fire doors that not only meet the highest safety standards but also enhance the building’s overall look and feel.  The benefits: enhanced safety and comfort  Fireco’s FD30S walnut veneer doors were chosen for their compliance with fire safety regulations, but they offer much more than just peace of mind. The residents have also noticed significant improvements in acoustic and draught insulation.  “The veneer doors themselves are beautiful, and best of all are their incredible acoustic and draught insulation qualities,” says Sima. “We pushed forward with concealed closers, and I think they’re definitely worth forking out the extra for.”  Beyond the practical benefits, the residents were also impressed by the professionalism and friendliness of the Fireco team.  “Such a genuinely lovely, friendly, and hard-working team…a rarity these days,” Sima adds.  A testimonial that says it all  The success of the project is perhaps best summed up in Sima Elli’s testimonial:  “Fireco have been absolutely incredible from start to finish. I am genuinely blown away by the level of service that we have received. Don’t hesitate to give them a call; I’m very glad we did!”  Why choose Fireco?  Fireco is known for its commitment to quality, safety and customer satisfaction. The company offers fully certified, primary-tested doorsets that combine the highest level of quality with the best professional requirements. All door installations are carried out by a network of professionals with third-party BMTRADA accreditation, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.  In addition to installation, Fireco also offers a measure-up and quote service, making it easy for customers to assess their fire door needs.  Safety, compliance and style  The fire door upgrade at Lord’s View One is a great example of how a well-executed fire safety project can enhance not just the safety but also the comfort and aesthetic appeal of a residential building. Thanks to Fireco’s expertise, the residents can now enjoy greater peace of mind, knowing that their home is protected by top-quality, compliant fire doors – all delivered with exceptional service and care.  A proven track record across multiple sectors  Fireco has successfully delivered fire door installation projects across a wide range of environments, demonstrating their versatility and expertise. From large-scale residential developments and housing associations to hospices, care homes, offices and educational buildings, Fireco adapts its service to suit each setting’s unique requirements. This breadth of experience enables Fireco to tackle projects of all sizes and complexities while maintaining consistent safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.  To learn more about Fireco’s fire door installation services and how they can support your fire safety needs, visit www.fireco.uk or speak to an expert: (+44) 01273 320650. 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

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Product spotlight: Fire Suppression for Electric Vehicles and Machines

Exclusives /

As increased environmental concerns move vehicles and machines away from traditional diesel engines, battery electric solutions change the reality of fire suppression Many worry about fires in the battery packs and it is true that extinguishing a battery fire is very difficult. The chemical reactions happen quickly, and the battery casing makes it very difficult to reach the blaze.  The good news is, it’s rare that a fire starts inside a battery and research presented at the 2023 FIVE conference shows 50-60% of electric vehicle fires never involve the battery at all. Batteries may catch fire because of thermal runaway, but this is rare. There are mainly two reasons for a battery to start burning: collision or an external fire.   No fire suppression system can protect against collisions, but it can protect against external fires reaching the battery pack. A good fire suppression system should target fire initiators to prevent or delay an external fire from affecting the battery, and can reduce flames from the battery in the unlikely event of it being on fire.  Myths, truths, and knowledge-gaps  Recommendations for fire suppression for electrical vehicles and machines used to focus on dry or gaseous agents. This has changed over the last ten years and water is now considered the best option. Water-mist has a better cooling effect than other suppressants.  But, electricity and water is a no-no, right? We’ve all seen the movie where someone is electrocuted by a radio or blow dryer falling into a tub.   Electric vehicles and machines are built to withstand humidity, rain, and road splash. They have a high ingress protection for any high voltage parts. A water-mist system like Fogmaker’s will not penetrate components with an IP-classification of IP66 or higher.   Many still worry about water in an electric compartment leading to people being electrocuted. Fortunately, this is very unlikely. Even besides being constructed to withstand water, the components being protected aren’t in the same compartment as people. You need to be part of the circuit to get current through your body, and that means you need to make physical contact with both the negative and positive terminals. As an example, birds can sit on power lines because they’re not part of the closed circuit.  Last but not least, the Battery Management System has many safety features to protect from dangerous currents.   The Fogmaker System  Fogmaker’s fire suppression system works with a water-based mist where each single drop of water is split into thousands of tiny droplets. Practically, that means that Fogmaker has a great cooling effect, which is imperative when dealing with fires in electric vehicles. The system is tailored to each type, make, model, and energy source since they all have different risk areas.   The Fogmaker system deploys when the compartment reaches a certain temperature. At this point, the water-based mist fills the compartment, displaces oxygen, and chokes the fire. Fogmaker’s pressurized cylinders ensure the system will work regardless of position – even if the vehicle has toppled upside down – and the systems are designed to keep cooling somewhere between 35 and 90 seconds.  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 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Magirus Expands Network in Asia

News Desk, Project News /

Magirus will enter into a partnership with Katakura Industries Co., Ltd. in June 2025 to expand its presence in Japan. Sales and service activities will be managed through Katakura’s established subsidiary Nihon Kikai Kogyo Co., Ltd., leveraging its century-long expertise in the Japanese firefighting sector. This collaboration will significantly enhance the availability of Magirus solutions in the Japanese market, with a strong focus on local service, maintenance and customer support. “Katakura brings extensive experience and a powerful network in the Japanese firefighting industry,” says Thomas Hilse, CEO of Magirus. “Together, we aim to provide not only our innovative vehicles and components, but also the trusted, long-term service that fire departments around the world associate with the Magirus name.” “Our partnership with Magirus marks a significant milestone for the Katakura Industries Group,” said Ryosuke Joko, President & CEO of Katakura Industries Co., Ltd. “By combining Magirus’ advanced firefighting technology with the decades of experience and technological expertise of our group company, Nihon Kikai Kogyo, we aim to bring new value to Japan’s disaster prevention in firefighting sectors, contributing to a safer and more sustainable society.” The partnership further expands Magirus’ global service and sales network. Alongside vehicles and technology, customer service is one of the company’s most important pillars. “With reliable local partners, we ensure that everyone using Magirus technology can rely on their equipment for a long time to come,” explains Marc Kuntz, Director Sales and Customer Service. With over 100 years of experience in the Japanese firefighting market and numerous special developments, Nihon Kikai Kogyo is a strong partner for maintenance and repair at the highest level. The company is part of Katakura Industries Co., Ltd. and offers aerial rescue vehicles and special vehicles such as smoke removal vehicles, seawater pumps and large tankers. This expertise provides reliable support for Magirus customers in Japan and significantly expands market opportunities. Japan faces a unique set of civil protection challenges – from earthquakes and tsunamis to the increasing threat of large-scale forest fires. At the same time, complex urban structures require highly specialised firefighting solutions. “We are seeing a clear trend worldwide: the need for efficient high-rise rescue solutions is growing rapidly,” says Hilse. “With our proven turntable ladders and specialised equipment, we are ideally positioned to support the fire departments in Japan – now and in the future”. 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 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Survitec Urges Action on Upcoming Fire Safety Regulations

News Desk /

Survitec is calling on shipowners, ship managers, and shipyards to prepare for a significant change to international fire protection regulations. From 1st January 2026, fixed water monitors will be required on the weather decks of RORO and ROPAX ships under amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the FSS Code, approved by the IMO’s 107th MSC session. The decision follows an increasing number of serious fire incidents involving vehicle cargo, including several high-profile incidents involving electric vehicles (EVs), that have exposed the limitations of existing fire protection measures. As Rafał Kołodziejski, Head of Product Support and Development – Fire Systems at Survitec, explains, “The open and expansive nature of vehicle decks means that a fire can escalate very quickly, potentially spreading across the entire length of the ship. “This incoming regulatory requirement puts a renewed focus on practical fire suppression systems that can be deployed quickly and effectively to extinguish or control a fire in these large, open deck spaces.” Water is often the preferred choice of medium due to its efficient cooling properties; however, traditional sprinkler or deluge systems may not be sufficient. Fixed water monitors provide a rapid-response solution that can deliver additional, targeted, high-performance firefighting coverage. They are also a cost-effective, practical solution for smaller ships, where traditional deluge systems may be difficult to retrofit or maintain. Remote-controlled options can be installed when access is limited and prevents manual operation. These allow crew to operate the water monitor from a safe location, providing additional firefighting capacity at reduced risk to crew. The new rules specify that two fixed water monitors are required on ships with a breadth of less than 30 metres, and four monitors on wider ships. They must also deliver a minimum of 2.0 litres per minute per square metre, with a total flow of at least 1,250 litres per minute. Michał Sadzyński, Product Manager at Survitec, stated, “Understanding how to interpret and apply the new rules is as important as the technical specification of the equipment itself. We can advise customers on the various monitor types that can be implemented to meet the new requirements, including manually operated, self-oscillating, hydraulic, and electrically controlled systems. Each type brings different advantages depending on the ship’s configuration, operating conditions, and available firefighting infrastructure. “Selecting the appropriate solution requires carefully assessing deck layout, coverage requirements, water supply capacity, and operational needs. Key considerations for equipment selection include operational reliability, ease of maintenance, installation flexibility, and environmental durability. Our water monitors also benefit from features such as corrosion-resistant construction and integrated cold-weather protection to ensure long-term effectiveness, essential for ships operating in varied or harsh conditions.” As a maritime fire safety specialist, Survitec offers a wide range of water monitors as part of its fire safety portfolio and is well-placed to support its customers with technical consultancy and advice on implementation as part of a complete safety management solution. “Prevention is always better than cure, especially where EV fires are concerned. Early monitoring and detection of fire remain key safety factors, but fixed water monitors can play a vital role in supporting a rapid, targeted response to contain and suppress fire,” adds Kołodziejski. “Many in the industry are still unaware of the upcoming 2026 deadline. As the Team Trusted to Protect Lives, we welcome the opportunity to support our customers with this important development. While the regulation change represents a technical requirement, it is also a vital step forward in protecting lives and assets at sea.” 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 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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East Bay Park District Launches $10.9m Wildfire Mitigation Project

News Desk, Technology /

The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) has announced the start of a three-year, $10.9 million wildfire prevention initiative aimed at reducing fire risk by removing dead and dying trees across hundreds of acres of parkland. According to district officials, the project will focus on 600 acres within the East Bay, targeting overgrown and hazardous vegetation to help prevent the spread of catastrophic wildfires. The effort will be supported by $8.3 million in external funding, including $6.1 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), $2.1 million from the California State Coastal Conservancy, and $100,000 from the U.S. Forest Service. Fuel reduction work will be concentrated in five key areas: Anthony Chabot, Tilden, and Wildcat Canyon regional parks, as well as Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve and the Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline. A notable element of the project is the use of a high-temperature “carbonizer”—a machine that burns vegetation at 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit in low-oxygen conditions. This method results in lower emissions compared to open burning or transporting debris with diesel-powered trucks. The initiative represents a major investment in long-term wildfire resilience for the East Bay, pairing federal and local funding with innovative land management techniques to protect ecosystems and communities. 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 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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