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UK fire brigades tackling lithium-ion fire every five hours. firebuyer.com

UK fire brigades tackling lithium-ion fires every five hours

UK fire brigades are now responding to a lithium-ion battery fire once every five hours, equivalent to 4.8 fires each day, according to new research. The number of incidents has risen by 147% since 2022, when brigades attended the equivalent of two lithium-ion battery fires per day. E bikes and EV fires increase significantly Research from insurer QBE revealed e bikes accounted for 520 fires during 2025, more than triple the number recorded in 2022 and representing around 30% of all lithium-ion battery fires. London Fire Brigade attended 230 of those incidents, accounting for 44% of all e-bike fires nationally. Fire services reported that converted or retrofitted e-bikes were involved more frequently than officially manufactured models. Fires involving electric vehicles (EVs) also increased, rising from 120 incidents in 2022 to 279 in 2025, although the number of EVs on UK roads tripled during the same period to almost two million vehicles. Homes remain the highest risk location Almost half of all lithium-ion battery fires occurred in residential properties, with 31% outdoors and 23% in commercial premises. Devices including mobile phones, tablets, laptops and power packs accounted for 45% of incidents. QBE warned that lithium-ion battery fires are often caused by thermal runaway, a chemical reaction triggered by overheating, overcharging or physical damage. These fires spread rapidly and are difficult to extinguish. London Fire Brigade recorded the highest number of incidents in 2025 with 522 fires, followed by West Yorkshire and Lancashire. Bedfordshire and Luton was the only service to report a year on year reduction following updated safety guidance introduced in 2023. Adrian Simmonds, Risk Manager at QBE Insurance, said: “Lithium-ion battery fires continue to increase. It’s vital that people and businesses take action to better manage this growing risk. Thermal runaway caused by these types of batteries burns differently, takes much longer to tackle and can require up to 10 times more water to contain. “Awareness of safe charging, storage and disposal is essential to keeping people and property safe. People should use only certified e-bikes and batteries, charge them away from escape routes and avoid charging items overnight. “The statistics suggest retrofitted bikes are more prone to these incidents, so we would encourage people to stick to reputable companies when purchasing and avoid unregulated devices.”

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Sam Malins, Reacton Fire Fire Suppression Ltd. Firebuyer.com

Reacton Fire Suppression receives King’s Award

Reacton Fire Suppression Ltd has received a King’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category, becoming one of only 52 organisations nationally to receive the honour this year. As part of the award, the company’s CEO Sam Malins will attend a ceremony at St James Palace to meet the King. Recognition for British made fire suppression technology The award recognises Reacton’s British made fire suppression systems, which protect billions of pounds worth of assets worldwide. The systems combine advanced detection and suppression technologies to automatically extinguish fires at source. Central to the design is a proprietary pneumatic detection tube filled with nitrogen which ruptures when exposed to heat or flame, triggering the release of extinguishing agents without requiring external power. This power independent capability is particularly suited to high risk environments where electrical systems may fail. The systems can also integrate electronic linear detection technology for applications including heavy machinery, bus engines, electrical control panels and CNC equipment. Dual agent suppression and global growth The King’s Awards also recognised Reacton’s dual agent suppression technology, which combines dry powder for rapid flame knockdown with wet chemical to cool surfaces and prevent reignition. Clean agent options using fluorinated ketones are also available for sensitive environments. Founded following Sam Malins’ acquisition of a start up business in 2010, and further expanded through the acquisition of Reacton Fire Suppression Ltd in 2016, the Essex based company now supports sectors including transport, mining, manufacturing, defence and IT infrastructure. Reacton operates across global markets including the USA, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Africa and Central Asia, with clients including JCB and DP World. Mr Malins said: “This recognition reflects the dedication and expertise of our entire team. We’ve always believed that even in the face of challenges, there is a solution—you just have to go and find it. This award is proof of that mindset in action.”

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OroraTech launches satellite for Greece. Firebuyer.com

First national wildfire satellite monitoring system launched

OroraTech has announced the successful launch and deployment of the Hellenic Fire System, a dedicated wildfire monitoring satellite network developed for Greece. The project marks the world’s first national satellite system designed exclusively for wildfire detection and tracking. The four satellites were launched aboard a SpaceX mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. Real time wildfire intelligence across Greece Developed for the Greek Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, the Hellenic Space Center and the European Space Agency (ESA) the system delivers continuous, real time wildfire intelligence covering the entirety of Greek territory. The platform is designed to support rapid wildfire detection and tracking nationwide. The system includes four satellites equipped with advanced thermal infrared cameras, a ground station in Greece, and OroraTech’s Wildfire Solution platform integrated into national emergency service programmes. Data is delivered directly to Greek fire services through the Ministry of Digital Governance, enabling near real time detection with latency measured in minutes and hotspot identification down to four by four metres. Addressing increasing wildfire risk in Europe The launch follows severe wildfire activity across Europe during 2025, described as the worst in more than 20 years. Greece and the wider Mediterranean region experienced significant fire activity linked to rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions. The Hellenic Fire System aims to address limitations in traditional monitoring methods, particularly during periods of rapid fire spread. ESA supported national space project The programme is being delivered under an ESA contract as part of the Greek National Satellite Space Project and forms part of the Greece 2.0 National Recovery and Resilience Plan funded through the European Union NextGenerationEU programme. Dimitris Papastergiou, Minister of Digital Governance & Artificial Intelligence, said: “Today marks a major step forward in strengthening Greece’s national resilience against wildfires. “By integrating space-based capabilities into our emergency response systems, we are equipping our fire services with the tools they need to respond faster, act more effectively, and protect lives, property and the environment.” Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at the ESA, said: “The deployment of this system demonstrates how European collaboration can deliver tangible impact for citizens. “By combining advanced space technologies with operational services on the ground, we are enabling faster, more informed responses to natural disasters and strengthening Europe’s leadership in Earth observation.” Martin Langer, CEO of OroraTech, said: “This is a defining moment not just for Greece, but also for how the world approaches wildfire management. “For the first time, an entire country is protected by a dedicated satellite constellation built to detect and track wildfires in real time. This is the blueprint for how nations can use space technology to safeguard their people, ecosystems, and economies.”

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Ross Ashley, NFPA. Firebuyer.com

NFPA appoints Ross Ashley as new President and CEO

The National Fire Protection Association‘s (NFPA) Board of Directors has unanimously appointed Ross Ashley as its next president and chief executive officer. Mr Ashley brings more than 30 years of experience across corporate leadership, public safety, intelligence and emergency management. Leadership experience across emergency management and public safety David R. Paulison, Chairman of the NFPA Board, said the appointment reflects Ashley’s ability to continue advancing the organisation’s long standing mission. He noted that NFPA standards, research, public education and training have formed the foundation of fire, life and electrical safety for 130 years. Ashley most recently served as Senior Director of Emergency Management at KPMG LLP, where he led programmes supporting state and local emergency management clients across preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation activities. During his career he has held leadership roles across government, non profit and private sector organisations. FEMA and military background Ashley also served as assistant administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) where he managed more than 10 billion dollars annually in financial assistance programmes for preparedness and disaster relief. He is recognised for his work in digital innovation, organisational growth, collaborative partnerships, public policy and regulatory affairs. In addition to his civilian leadership roles, Ashley completed 20 years of combined enlisted and officer service in the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserves before retiring from military service. He was the first Air National Guard member to attend the Joint Military Intelligence College in residence and earn a master’s degree in Strategic Intelligence. Mr Ashley said: “I am impressed with the trajectory of NFPA to reach new heights in order to meet the fire and life safety challenges of our times.” “The quest to better protect people and property from fire and other hazards should never be stagnant. I’m looking forward to building on the success that Jim and the team have built.” Ashley will take up his role on Wednesday, July 1 and will work alongside Jim Pauley who has served as NFPA president and CEO since 2014 and will retire at the end of July. Mr Pauley has more than 35 years of affiliation with NFPA as a member, technical committee member, standards council Chairman and President. Under Mr Pauley’s leadership, NFPA has been pursuing aggressive growth to expand its impact on fire safety. It is grounded in four strategic pillars: to be more digital, more global, more connected and more diversified. He said: “I’m proud of our many advancements over the last 12 years. Today’s world requires not only change but faster change. “Our information and knowledge today reaches more people, in more places, in more ways, which translates to greater safety against new and persistent threats. “Ross Ashley is an excellent choice to continue the momentum at NFPA, and I am sure he will find it as fulfilling as I have.”

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Mikko Vuojolainen, General Manager of Fogmaker USA Inc. Firebuyer.com

Fogmaker expands into North America with new US subsidiary

Fogmaker International AB has announced the launch of Fogmaker USA Inc, marking a significant step in strengthening its presence in the North American market. Previously operating through an established partner network, the new US subsidiary brings the company closer to customers while maintaining its existing partner relationships. Direct link to Swedish manufacturing and R&D Fogmaker USA creates a more direct link to the company’s head office in Sweden, including its manufacturing and research and development capabilities. The move reflects growing demand across the US for advanced, environmentally responsible fire suppression solutions, particularly in high risk machine and vehicle applications. Sustainability remains central to Fogmaker’s approach. Its fire suppression liquid, Eco 1, is 100% PFAS free and holds GreenScreen certification at the silver level. The company says its systems are also among the most certified globally and can be customised to meet the requirements of a wide range of sectors. Supporting diverse sectors across the US market Active across eight distinct business segments, Fogmaker’s flexible approach positions it to support the varied operational demands of the US market while maintaining its core focus on protecting lives and minimising damage. Lars Alrutz, CEO of Fogmaker International, said: “We are thrilled about this new subsidiary and the opportunities it represents. It will allow us to better serve our valued customers in the USA. It is a significant step towards achieving our vision of creating safer environments globally. Mikko Vuojolainen, General Manager of Fogmaker USA Inc, said: “I am very enthusiastic about this opportunity and look forward to building a strong presence for this world-class product in the American market, serving the market with short lead-times and improved customer service.”

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Home Fire Sprinkler Week. Firenbuyer.com

Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition announces 2026 campaign

Home Fire Sprinkler Week is due to take place from Sunday, May 10 to Saturday, May 16 2026. Fire departments and safety advocates across North America are set to promote awareness of how quickly modern home fires can become deadly and the role of fire sprinklers in reducing risk. Changing fire behaviour in modern homes The national campaign which is ran by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC) will highlight how changes in home construction and contents have significantly altered fire behaviour over recent decades. Modern furnishings, including synthetic materials, polyurethane foam and plastics burn faster and produce more toxic smoke than traditional materials. The increasing use of lithium-ion batteries and electronic devices has also contributed to faster developing fires. As a result, a house fire can become life threatening in as little as two minutes, reducing the time available for detection and safe evacuation. The role of fire sprinklers in preventing fire fatalities The HFSC says sprinklers are the only technology capable of automatically stopping a fire from becoming deadly. Individual sprinkler heads activate in response to heat, targeting the fire at its source, limiting its spread and reducing smoke production. They also use significantly less water than traditional firefighting methods and can help reduce environmental impact. Campaign activities and community engagement Throughout the week, fire departments will support the HFSC digital campaign, sharing daily themed messages and delivering community outreach activities, including live fire demonstrations. Resources available through the HFSC Studio will support campaign delivery, enabling departments to create materials and engage local audiences with consistent safety messaging. Lorraine Carli, NFPA Vice President of Outreach and Advocacy and President of the HFSC, said: “Home Fire Sprinkler Week is a great opportunity for us to bring together our digital voices and amplify the message of the tremendous benefits of fire sprinklers across our continent. “Today’s homebuyers are savvy about safety and when they learn about fire sprinklers, they want them. The virtual reality, digital and other resources underscore not just that we can do better, they underscore exactly how to do better.”

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MSA aquires Autronica. firebuyer.com

MSA Safety aquires Autronica Fire and Security

MSA Safety Incorporated has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Autronica Fire and Security in a $555 million deal. Founded in 1957 and headquartered in Trondheim, Norway, Autronica designs and supplies fire detection, gas detection, and alarm systems for critical infrastructure, energy, and maritime sectors. The company employs around 500 people globally and reported approximately 160 million dollars in sales in 2025, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of about 20%. The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, and will be funded through cash and existing credit facilities. BofA Securities and Sidley Austin LLP are advising MSA. Strengthening global fire and gas detection capabilities Steve Blanco, MSA Safety President and CEO, said: “We are excited to welcome Autronica to the MSA Safety family. This acquisition accelerates our fixed detection growth strategy by adding a highly complementary, scaled fire and gas systems business. “Autronica enhances our ability to participate earlier in project design and to deliver more integrated safety solutions across critical infrastructure, energy, and marine applications. “The acquisition marks another key pillar of our Accelerate strategy, reinforcing our focus on expanding our detection platform and advancing our portfolio through strategic acquisitions. “With Autronica’s strong technological expertise and leadership in fire and gas safety systems, we expect to leverage the combined portfolio to further enhance our ability to meet demanding customer safety requirements across high–hazard and regulated environments. Strategic growth and market expansion “The combination positions MSA to expand into a large, growing addressable market supported by regulatory drivers, technical complexity, and long renewal cycles for mission–critical assets. “In addition, Autronica’s complementary geographic footprint enables both organizations to leverage regional strengths, expand global reach, and deliver greater value to customers worldwide. “Autronica’s mission statement, ‘zero loss of lives’, is strategically aligned with MSA’s mission, vision and values.” Autronica CEO, Sindre Utne said, “Joining MSA Safety marks an exciting next step for Autronica. MSA’s leadership position in safety and detection technologies, its strong systems and solutions capabilities, and its long-standing customer relationships make it an ideal owner as we work to maximize our growth potential.” “By leveraging MSA’s global market reach, distribution channels, and deep detection expertise, we see a significant opportunity to expand and combine our solution offering, deepen engagement with customers earlier in the project lifecycle, and extend our reach well beyond the installed base and the markets we serve.”

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Paul Adams, new Cheif Executive of the Institution of Fire Engineers. Firebuyer.com

The Institution of Fire Engineers announces new Chief Executive

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive. Paul Adams will take up the role later this month. His career, spanning 30 years, has been spent leading chartered institutes, professional bodies and industry organisations. Leadership background and professional experience In his most recent role as Chief Executive of the Institute of Learning, Paul strengthened governance arrangements, rebuilt organisational confidence and embedded a strong culture of continuing professional development. Paul Stollard, Chair of the IFE Board of Trustee Directors, said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul as our new CEO. With a wealth of experience leading membership organisations and global professional bodies, Paul brings a deep understanding of how to support, represent and add value for members in an increasingly complex world. “Paul’s proven leadership, strategic insight and commitment to member engagement will be invaluable as we look to the future and continue to strengthen the IFE’s impact for members and the fire safety sector.” Vision for the future of fire safety Mr Adams said: “The IFE plays a uniquely important role in advancing professional standards and public confidence in a field where the consequences of failure are profound. I am honoured to be joining at such a pivotal time for fire safety globally. “During my military service, I saw first-hand the devastating impact fire can have on people, families and communities. That experience has stayed with me, and it underpins my commitment to the IFE’s mission. “My focus will be on strengthening the institution’s impact by supporting and amplifying the expertise of our members, ensuring the IFE continues to lead in setting standards, shaping policy and influencing the global fire safety agenda. Together, we will build on the IFE’s strong heritage to enable fire professionals to shape a safer world. “I would also like to thank Steve Hamm for his leadership in moving the organisation forward and for the strong platform he has created for the next phase of the IFE’s development.” Outgoing Chief Executive Steve Hamm will move into the role of Strategic Advisor on a part time basis, ensuring continuity by supporting Paul and assisting with a smooth leadership transition.

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Hytrans - firebuyer.com

Secure continuous water transport

Hytrans explores how scalable, rapidly deployable water transport systems are redefining emergency response efficiency, resilience and operational preparedness in high-risk environments. The future of emergency water supply rests on proven expertise, seamless deployment and large water capacity. Preparedness can no longer be regarded as a supporting function; it is now a strategic essential. Hytrans understands this and continues to innovate to meet market needs, as it will demonstrate at Interschutz.    Natural disasters are increasing in scale and complexity, industrial incidents demand faster response, and first responders are under constant pressure to act decisively in situations where it matters most. The effectiveness of an emergency response often depends on one essential factor: access to dependable water transport solutions that deploy effortlessly, scale efficiently and can be trusted without hesitation. This is precisely where Hytrans has built its reputation.   For over 35 years, Hytrans has been supporting emergency response organisations with advanced mobile water transport systems designed to prevent and minimise the impact of large-scale disasters and emergencies. Built on strong Dutch engineering principles and backed by decades of expertise in hydraulics, mechanics and electronics, Hytrans delivers solutions that combine speed, reliability and operational value in the moments that matter most.   Speed is crucial in emergency response   Large-scale incidents rarely allow time for complex preparations. Whether responding to a wildfire, industrial fire, flooding, or an emergency water-supply challenge, the first phase of deployment is often decisive. Delays in setup, excessive manpower requirements, or overly complex equipment can quickly reduce operational effectiveness at the very moment when every second matters most. In these situations, speed is not merely an advantage but a critical factor in limiting damage and facilitating a controlled, effective response.   A Hytrans system can be deployed within minutes with minimal effort, a capability that is increasingly important in today’s market. Emergency teams require practical solutions rather than complicated ones. They need equipment that enables rapid response, performs reliably under pressure and helps them establish capacity swiftly, even in challenging conditions. This allows first responders to focus fully on the incident itself, rather than losing valuable time to equipment limitations.  Complete solutions for emergency teams   For emergency teams, a product alone is rarely enough. What matters is a complete solution that fits seamlessly into broader operational strategies, strengthens preparedness and supports teams before, during and after deployment. This is where Hytrans makes a clear difference. The key strength of the system lies not only in its reliability, but also in its versatility.   Hytrans systems are designed to serve both firefighting and flood control with one investment. By replacing the standard submersible pump of the HydroSub with one or more lightweight FloodPumps, the system can be quickly adapted for flood response, delivering up to 20,000 litres per minute per FloodPump. That same flexibility is matched by remarkable performance: from 3,800 litres per minute at 10 bar with the HydroSub 150 to continuous water supply capacities of up to 45,000 litres per minute for large-scale incidents.   This is especially relevant for fire brigades, civil protection teams, industrial response units and government organisations planning for various emergencies. A complete solution offers certainty, supports better implementation and ensures that technology directly contributes to the mission at hand.      TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE READ THE LATEST ISSUE HERE.

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3FFF - firebuyer.com

Rethinking firefighting foam

3FFF Limited explains how firefighting foam innovation, environmental responsibility and evolving regulations are reshaping suppression strategies for complex modern industrial risk landscapes. Innovation, Responsibility, and the Future of Fire Suppression   In an era defined by rapid industrial growth, evolving risk landscapes and increasing environmental accountability, the firefighting industry finds itself at a critical crossroads. For manufacturers like 3FFF Limited, the challenge is no longer simply about extinguishing fires, it is about doing so smarter, safer and more sustainably than ever before.   Firefighting foam has long been one of the most effective tools in combating high-risk flammable liquid fires, particularly across sectors such as petrochemicals, aviation, marine operations and energy infrastructure. Yet, as global awareness grows around environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance, the expectations placed on foam manufacturers have fundamentally shifted.   At 3FFF Limited, we believe this moment represents not a constraint, but an opportunity.   Driving Innovation Through Responsibility   The demand for high-performance firefighting foam remains unchanged, but the definition of “performance” has expanded. Today, it must include not only rapid knockdown and burn-back resistance, but also environmental compatibility, fluorine-free formulations and long-term sustainability.   Our research and development efforts are firmly focused on this next generation of firefighting solutions. By investing in advanced fluorine-free foam (F3) technologies, we are working to ensure that fire services and industrial users can maintain operational effectiveness while aligning with tightening global regulations.   This is not a simple transition. It requires rigorous testing, collaboration with industry bodies and continuous feedback from frontline firefighters. However, it is a necessary evolution and one that ensures both public safety and environmental protection are upheld in equal measure.   Supporting a Changing Global Landscape   Fire risks are becoming more complex. The rise of alternative fuels, lithium-ion battery storage and renewable energy infrastructure presents new and unpredictable fire scenarios. Traditional approaches alone are no longer sufficient.   Manufacturers must therefore go beyond supplying products, they must become partners in risk management.   At 3FFF Limited, we are committed to supporting our customers with not only innovative foam solutions but also technical guidance, training and system compatibility expertise. Whether adapting to new fuel hazards or transitioning foam stocks, our role is to help organisations navigate these changes with confidence.   Collaboration as a Catalyst for Progress   No single organisation can address these challenges in isolation. Progress depends on collaboration across the entire fire protection ecosystem: manufacturers, regulators, insurers and end users.   Through active engagement with international standards bodies and industry forums, 3FFF Limited continues to contribute to the development of best practices and future standards. Open dialogue and shared knowledge are essential to ensuring that innovation translates into real-world impact.   Looking Ahead   The future of firefighting foam will be defined by balance: performance and sustainability, innovation and reliability, global standards and local application.   For 3FFF Limited, the path forward is clear. We will continue to invest in research, support our customers through change and uphold the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility.   Because ultimately, protecting lives, assets and the environment is not just our business, it is our duty.   3FFF Limited remains dedicated to advancing firefighting technology for a safer, more sustainable world.  

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