Artificial Intelligence

Secutech Vietnam 2025 came to a close on 16 August at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC), after bringing together key stakeholders and buyers from across Vietnam’s security and fire safety sectors. With a strong focus on promoting smart city advancements, the 18th edition spanned 13,000 sqm and featured 480 exhibiting brands from 17 countries and regions, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Singapore, Slovenia, Switzerland, Taiwan, the UAE, the UK, the US, and Vietnam. Industry innovation and strategic alliances The event reinforced its standing as an vital platform for industry innovation and strategic alliances Welcoming 16,899 trade visitors and enjoying strong backing from the Ministry of Public Security and the Vietnam Fire and Rescue Police Department, the event reinforced its standing as an indispensable platform for industry innovation and strategic alliances in the pursuit of a digitally-backed economy. “Secutech Vietnam serves as a key platform where visionary innovators, pioneering suppliers, and influential decision makers come together to shape the future of Vietnam’s dynamic security technology sector,” said Ms Regina Tsai, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd – Taiwan Branch. Safety and security products Tsai added: “With the government’s Industry 4.0 initiative and Digital Infrastructure Strategy in mind, this year’s exhibition highlighted safety and security products that utilised ICT, IoT, and AI, throughout the booths and expert-led fringe events." "The cutting-edge products and solutions on display, and the high volume of business exchange, underscored the show’s vital role in promoting innovation and economic growth while furthering Vietnam’s smart city goals.” Vietnam’s government initiatives Strategically aligned with Vietnam’s government initiatives, the exhibition organized three specialized zones Strategically aligned with Vietnam’s government initiatives, the exhibition organized three specialized zones – Urban Safety, Occupational Safety/PPE, and Disaster Prevention – designed to effectively facilitate business opportunities between pioneering buyers and exhibitors. The Urban Safety zone featured smart biometric security, access control, and integrated management systems that enhance safety and connectivity within rapidly modernising urban areas. Emergency preparedness and hazard detection The Occupational Safety/PPE zone highlighted personal protective gear and modular fire safety systems crucial for safer, more efficient industrial operations.  Meanwhile, the Disaster Prevention zone presented cutting-edge equipment like unmanned aerial vehicles and explosion-proof robots, advancing emergency preparedness and hazard detection in the evolving smart city landscape. Practical strategies for integrating automation Adjacent to the exhibition space, this year’s fringe program served as a central hub for knowledge exchange Adjacent to the exhibition space, this year’s fringe program served as a central hub for knowledge exchange, featuring seminars on ICT, smart buildings, and factory automation that aligned closely with Vietnam’s key economic initiatives. The Smart Factory & Automation Seminar focused on boosting industrial efficiency as part of the Industry 4.0 initiative, bringing experts together to share practical strategies for integrating automation, security, and fire safety technologies into smart manufacturing. Overall ecosystem of innovation and business development Meanwhile, the ICT & Smart Building Infrastructure Forum 2025 showcased how smart building, security, automation, and ICT technologies converge to support Vietnam’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy and its goal to grow the digital economy to 30% of GDP by 2030. Various key players at this year’s show reflected on the links they formed and highlighted the technologies Additionally, concurrent events such as Fire & Safety Vietnam and SMABuilding broadened the platform’s scope, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and enhancing the overall ecosystem of innovation and business development. Various key participants at this year’s show reflected on the connections they formed and highlighted the technologies that generated the most interest. Increasing number of projects “We hold Secutech Vietnam in high regard. We first participated in Hanoi in 2023, followed by Ho Chi Minh City in 2024, making this our third consecutive year in the Vietnamese market. It is a highly promising market, and the name Secutech truly reflects the focus on security and technology – precisely what we offer." "Secutech provides an excellent platform to connect with numerous potential clients, and we are optimistic about securing an increasing number of projects in Vietnam,” Ms Tran Huu Duyen, Country Representative, ASIS Technologies PTE LTD. “This marks my 15th year participating at Secutech Vietnam, having been involved since the beginning. In the earlier years, analog technology dominated the market, but over the last four or five years, we see a growing number of companies, manufacturing facilities, and even government bodies using AI." Best safety innovations "This is why I keep returning to Secutech Vietnam. Each year, I can see the latest technologies showcased at the exhibition, making it an excellent opportunity to stay informed about the best safety innovations that can be applied to the Vietnamese market,” Mr Mai Xuan Cuong, Sales Director, Silversea JSC. “We are a software developer, and this year, we showcased our AI-driven video surveillance and security products on Secutech Vietnam’s Tech Stage, receiving an excellent response. As Vietnam is a rapidly growing market, particularly within the Southeast Asia region, it is clear that AI solutions are increasingly in demand." "Participating in the fair enables us to expand our market share, strengthen our reputation, and enhance brand awareness in Vietnam,” Mr Ryan Ong, Regional Sales Lead, Axxonsoft Asia PTE LTD. Firefighting safety systems “Kidde Global Solutions is a world pioneer in firefighting safety systems, and Secutech Vietnam is one of the premier events for safety and security product buyers. The show attracts buyers from Vietnam and across Southeast Asia, providing an excellent opportunity to build networks and grow our brand." "Vietnam is rapidly expanding its infrastructure, including factories and commercial buildings, making fire safety a critical priority. As the economy grows, the demand for safeguarding people and property increases, and events like Secutech play a vital role in educating developers and buyers on essential safety standards and products,” Mr Suttha Suriyabhivadh, Sales Director, Kidde Global Solutions. Visitors “My company provides construction materials for modern buildings, schools, churches, villas, and condominiums in Cambodia. Attending Secutech Vietnam has been a valuable experience, with its wide range of advanced products from Taiwan, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, and more." "I am particularly interested in security cameras and fire detectors to enhance safety in our buildings. Vietnam’s rapid development in smart buildings over the past decade is inspiring and I plan on bringing the latest safety technologies back to Cambodia to support the development of safer, smarter construction,” Mr Ouch Vuthoeun, Business Manager, VIP Construction. “Our company manufactures and supplies passive fire protection systems, and we have attended Secutech Vietnam to stay informed about market developments. We see AI and IoT as vital to fire safety, enabling faster, more accurate alarm detection and precise detection of fires." "From the fair, I was able to notice new trends, for example, how hardware like fire suppression systems and pumps can be paired with intelligent systems incorporating cameras and IoT, creating a comprehensive approach to fire prevention and protection.” Mr Jing Lee, Territory Manager, Fischer. Fringe speaker “With Vietnam’s growth in smart infrastructure, such as newly developed smart ports and smart factories, Secutech Vietnam showcases vital innovations that are transforming production and industrial operations. The specialized seminars held during the show are especially valuable, allowing industry players to share insights, exchange ideas, and demonstrate how AI technologies can be effectively integrated into practical solutions." "This collaborative environment accelerates the adoption of intelligent systems that are increasingly critical to Vietnam’s evolving technological landscape.” Mr Vu Anh Tuan, General Secretary, Ho Chi Minh City Computer Association (HCA).

Fire detection and life safety specialist, Hispec, has partnered with Vericon Systems, a pioneering manufacturer of remote technologies for essential building services, to enable social housing providers to proactively monitor and manage fire safety across their entire property portfolio. The strategic new partnership enables the integration of Hispec’s pioneering portfolio of fire and carbon monoxide (CO) detection solutions with Vericon’s intelligent monitoring platform, providing landlords with a proactive approach to managing fire safety across their housing stock while supporting compliance and regulatory requirements. Vericon’s intuitive and user-friendly platform The platform provides landlords with instant notices and actionable insights, meaning any potential issues Through Vericon’s intuitive and user-friendly online platform, which is equipped with AI analytics and machine learning, landlords can access real-time, live data on property conditions. The platform also provides landlords with instant notifications and actionable insights, meaning any potential issues can be addressed as soon as they arise, which in turn means emergencies can be prevented before they happen.   For social housing providers, automated reporting through the dashboard makes oversight of property conditions effortless, streamlining processes and eliminating the need for manual checks and time-consuming paperwork. For residents, proactive 24/7 monitoring means enhanced fire safety protection. Managing fire and carbon monoxide safety Bernard Cook, Managing Director at Vericon Systems, says the partnership represents a new era in proactive fire safety for social housing: “Until now, managing fire and carbon monoxide safety within social housing has often relied on scheduled inspections, and hoping nothing goes wrong in between. But as the risks have grown, so has the need for a smarter, more proactive solutions." “By integrating Hispec’s pioneering detection technology with our intelligent, data-driven monitoring platform, together we’re empowering housing providers to move beyond basic, box-ticking safety compliance. With real-time visibility and insights of property conditions, as well as instant alerts to any potential fire risks, landlords can help deliver greater peace of mind for their residents.” Innovation and enhancing fire safety Chris Loughlin, Managing Director at Hispec, added: “We’re passionate about innovation and enhancing fire safety across the UK. This partnership with Vericon will allow us to bring our reliable detection technology into a smart, connected and truly integrated ecosystem that’s built for the future of property management." "Exception alerts, compliance visibility, and actionable insights are now unified in a single dashboard – giving users confidence that every fire and CO detection device is monitored, functional and fully compliant.”

Fire-Dex, a pioneer in PPE for first responders, is gearing up for its next chapter, announcing a leadership succession as CEO Steve Allison looks toward retirement in early 2027. Effective at the start of 2026, Lauren Burke DeVere, Fire-Dex’s current President, will move into the CEO position, sharing duties with Allison for 15 months as part of a phased transition. In a parallel move, John Karban, current VP of Operations, will assume the title of President. Leaning into its core values True to its roots, Fire-Dex is once again leaning into its core values by keeping its family-first culture front and center. “It’s been the honor of my career to lead this incredible team,” said Steve Allison, who has been with Fire-Dex since 2014. “We’ve built something really special here that’s driven by innovation, fueled by passion and always anchored by a deep respect for the fire service. Lauren and John are not only exceptional pioneers but also deeply understand what makes Fire-Dex ... Fire-Dex. I have full confidence they’ll take us to new heights while staying true to what sets us apart.” Climbing the Ladder Lauren brings a unique mix of fresh vision and deep personal investment in the company’s legacy Lauren’s rise through Fire-Dex has been both dynamic and personal. Joining the company in 2019 as a Metro Sales Manager, she quickly made her mark by earning the promotion to President in 2021.  Since that time, she has guided the company through transformative growth, the complexities of COVID, and major strides in innovation that include gear that caters to all body types—helping a new generation of female firefighters find their fit. As the daughter of Fire-Dex chairman and owner Bill Burke, Lauren brings a unique mix of fresh vision and deep personal investment in the company’s legacy. Steve’s footsteps “Fire-Dex is part of who I am,” Lauren said. “It’s humbling and exciting to step into the CEO role, especially following in Steve’s footsteps. We have an incredible team." "I care for our people more than anything, and I’m laser-focused on keeping our culture strong, our people supported and our mission front and center—delivering the best protective gear to the world’s bravest. We’re growing again, and I won’t stop until Fire-Dex is number one.” One Unified Vision Stepping into the President’s seat is John Karban who has been at the heart of the company’s efforts Stepping into the President’s seat is John Karban who has been at the heart of the company’s efforts for over 20 years, advancing from Plant Manager to tackling a wide scope of operational, engineering and logistics challenges as VP of Operations. Whether ramping up output, pioneering supply chain efforts or driving lean transformations, he has been a key player throughout. “I’ve worn a lot of hats here,” said John. “From running machines to running meetings, and all the tasks in between. What’s never changed is the heart of this company: our people and our purpose. I’m excited to take on the role of President and work alongside Lauren and our team to keep building on what makes Fire-Dex special. Protecting our culture is job one; pushing the company forward is job two.” Looking Ahead Fire-Dex’s succession plan reflects its deep bench of homegrown leadership and ongoing dedication to its people-first, customer-centric ethos. More than 500 associates, multiple facilities—and Fire-Dex isn’t slowing down. From AeroFlex® turnouts that are a breakthrough in breathability, to the first AI tool to size firefighters, to expanded Gear Wash clean and repair services, to new manufacturing capabilities, the mission stays clear: serving those who serve. “This is an exciting time,” Steve added. “We’re not slowing down. And I’m thrilled to support Lauren and John through this transition as they shape the future of Fire-Dex together.”

Darley is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2025 US Best Managed Company. Sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies. The 2025 designees are U.S. private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people, as well as maintaining financial performance and governance. Quality of products and experiences Designees drove their businesses forward, while remaining dedicated to their people Designees drove their businesses forward, while remaining dedicated to their people and focusing on their customers. Advanced technology, including AI took a center role for most of these companies, to create efficiencies and enhance the quality of products and experiences. Team Darley members   “W.S. Darley & Co. is extremely honored and humbled to be recognized as one of the Best Managed Companies. This award is particularly meaningful because it is reflective of the dedication, professionalism, and hard work of our entire management team and the dedication of all our Team Darley members over the past 117 years,” said Paul C. Darley, CEO & President. Hallmarks of excellence in four key areas Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of external judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture and governance/financial performance. They join a global ecosystem of honorees from more than 44 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program. About the Best Managed Companies Program The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees have revenues of at least $250 million. Hundreds of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices — strategy, execution, culture, and governance/financials. U.S. program sponsors are Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. 

SMARTSHOOTER, a world pioneer in fire control systems, will showcase its handheld and remotely controlled SMASH solutions at the DEFEA 2025 defense exhibition in Athens, Greece. The company will present its combat-proven SMASH 3000 Fire Control System and the SMASH Hopper Light Remotely Controlled Weapon Station (LRCWS), demonstrating advanced capabilities for counter-UAS (CUAS), maritime security, border defense, and perimeter protection. SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH technology Combat-proven and in operational use by defense, homeland security and border protection forces across Israel, the UK, Europe, the USA, India, and more, SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH technology dramatically increases operational effectiveness by ensuring each round finds its target. The SMASH 3000 is a lightweight, day/night capable fire control system that enables precise target engagement in complex operational environments—on land, at sea, and in the air. Designed for integration with C4I systems, battle management software, and external sensors, the SMASH 3000 supports tactical, multi-layer defense operations and can function as both a standalone solution and a component of a networked CUAS or perimeter protection architecture. SMASH Hopper securing maritime borders The SMASH Hopper is ideal for securing maritime borders, protecting critical infrastructure The SMASH Hopper, a modular, rapidly deployable LRCWS, is designed to address evolving threats from a safe distance. Easily integrated onto manned or unmanned platforms—such as vehicles, naval vessels, UGVs, and fixed observation points—it combines precise fire control with multi-mission flexibility. Controlled remotely, the SMASH Hopper is ideal for securing maritime borders, protecting critical infrastructure, and delivering short-range CUAS defense when paired with radar and command-and-control units. How SMASH systems support mission success  Michal Mor, SMARTSHOOTER CEO, commented: “At DEFEA, we’re focusing on how our SMASH systems support mission success in maritime, border, and tactical environments. From handheld rifles to remotely controlled weapon stations, our technology transforms standard weapons into smart, precise, and effective defense systems." "Whether defending forces on the ground or securing national borders, SMASH delivers the accuracy needed to counter modern-day threats—including drones.”

As Taiwan's security industry continues to evolve with technological advancements and increased diversification, various vertical markets are poised for significant growth. Secutech, scheduled for 7–9 May 2025 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, aims to capitalize on this burgeoning demand. Around 400 international and local exhibitors are set to showcase the latest technologies and solutions across six zones and pavilions at the fair, which serves as a vital platform to connect security and fire safety suppliers with key industry players in Taiwan. Demand for upgrading equipment and systems AIoT landscape is reshaping mixed industries and driving an increasing demand for upgrading kit Recent reports indicate that Taiwan's security market is projected to compound at an annual rate of 6.6%, reaching an estimated USD 119.9 million by 2029.  At the same time, the artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) landscape is reshaping various industries and driving an increasing demand for upgrading equipment and systems aimed at improving fire and safety efficiency. Affected settings include hospitals, industrial sites, parking facilities, old buildings, factories, shopping malls, and energy storage facilities. Security and fire safety equipment Exhibitors at Secutech 2025 will be integral to this wave of advanced technology, showcasing the integration of 5G, AI, and IoT in security and fire safety equipment for real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and automated responses, ensuring higher efficiency and safety across multiple industries. The 26th edition will welcome prominent international brands in the global security landscape, including NetworkOptix, Panasonic, Blazecut Group, and Mabu Valley Outdoor Ltd. Key local exhibitors With Taiwan's longstanding reputation as one of Asia-Pacific’s technological hubs and its expanding influence in high-tech industries, major Taiwanese manufacturers are pivotal players in the global security manufacturing space. At the show, key local exhibitors will feature their advanced technology, including: TDV - Triple Domain Vision Co Ltd will showcase advanced front-end intelligent video analytics to enhance surveillance effectiveness and operational efficiencies. Avadesign Technology Co Ltd will display a comprehensive suite of security monitoring and management services, focusing on IP video intercom and house automation solutions. Formosa Plastics Corporation is set to modernize information chains and applications with smart workplace safety management platforms, facial recognition access controls, electronic fence detection technologies, and security monitoring dashboards. Himax Technologies Ltd will exhibit cutting-edge image processing technologies tailored for security applications, including CMOS sensors, wafer-level optics for AR devices, 3D sensing technologies, and ultralow-power AI image sensing technologies. Vivotek will showcase a range of IP surveillance products and solutions driven by advanced AI algorithms, supported by a one-stop monitoring cloud platform. Marson Technology will present high-quality barcode scanning equipment along with complete OEM/ODM services. Exploring key industry trends for diverse applications  This year’s show will feature six zones and pavilions, where key manufacturers will showcase their innovative solutions, aiming to capture critical trends across various vertical industries. These areas create a comprehensive environment for exploring cross-sector sourcing and collaboration opportunities: AI Innovation Application Zone (Transportation / Logistics / Retail) SmartHome and Building Pavilion Security and AIoT Smart Security Pavilion Smart Factory, Industrial Safety and Sanitation Application Pavilion Innovative Fire Prevention and Protection Technology Application Pavilion ESG Total Solution Pavilion Adoption of AIoT drives information security innovations Taiwan’s emphasis on data security grows increasingly critical, evidenced by rule calls to enrich digital security As AIoT evolves alongside the security market, Taiwan’s emphasis on information security grows increasingly critical, evidenced by government calls to enhance digital security and recent information security sector growth forecasts. The upcoming show will also showcase innovative information security technologies from renowned exhibitors, including InfoKeyVault Technology and Infineon Technologies Taiwan, aiming to advance solutions that address emerging threats and enhance data protection across smart manufacturing, smart home technology, and healthcare industries. Secutech sharing insights for fairgoers In this landscape, Secutech serves as an essential platform, facilitating business connections and sharing insights for fairgoers to stay ahead in a dynamic market. Secutech is organized by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd – Taiwan Branch and is part of a global network of Safety, Security, and Fire trade fairs. 

Nearly a decade has passed since the devastating Grenfell Fire, and still the UK construction industry finds itself grappling with the imperative of ensuring fire safety standards in residential buildings. A key issue is the gathering, administration and distribution of up-to-the-minute, whole-life building data; vital information, for safeguarding residents during emergencies. Despite the urgent need, information voids and data deserts continue to plague the built environment. Notably in older properties. These lapses enable the presence of ongoing hazards, endangering occupants, also potentially jeopardizing the careers of anyone involved in the design, construction, and management of the affected buildings. Integrity of building information There has been substantial progress achieved to enhance the integrity of building information In recent years, there has been substantial progress achieved to enhance the integrity of building information. However, the pursuit of Dame Judith Hackitt’s ‘Golden Thread’ remains a marathon, not a sprint. The phrase ‘room for improvement’ seems apt, as a safety-first ethos has yet to filter through to every level of the industry. In fact, the industry needs to get a move on, as the government has made ambitious housebuilding plans the cornerstone for economic growth. Any data deficiencies in new or refurbished projects will be seen as critical setbacks as occupancy must be delayed until all building information is collected. This underlines the urgent need for agreeing standardized, industry-wide data protocols. Enter the indispensable Regulation 38 Introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, Regulation 38 serves as a critical mechanism to bridge fire safety information gaps at every project phase – from initial planning and design to construction, handover, operation, and maintenance. It meticulously addresses essential elements such as fire suppression systems, evacuation routes, and construction materials. Crucially, it guarantees vital fire safety data is accessible to those responsible for building safety throughout its lifespan. This is more than mere form filling, it’s a vital backstop ensuring critical fire safety information is available for final inspection, before a building’s suitability for occupancy is determined. However, the take-up of Regulation 38 processes is not as widespread as it should be. Despite its significance, many contractors and subcontractors struggle to grasp its importance or incorporate it into their daily operations. Implementation challenges The difficulty in getting developers, contractors and builders to conform to fire safety documentation ideals The difficulty in getting developers, contractors, and builders to conform to fire safety documentation standards essentially boils down to inadequate, inconsistent, and outdated data management processes. Despite the abundance of best practice guidelines, project teams continue to wrestle with disorganized and incomplete records; even these are often scattered and isolated. The continued reliance on paper-based and offline documents further complicates things. You’ve also got to factor in the sheer volume of data that today’s project teams must handle. The data generated from Building Information Modeling (BIM) alone is staggering, leading to potential overload, increased human error, and diminished accuracy. Digital systems and data management processes Outdated technological infrastructures add another layer of complexity, particularly for SMEs lacking the resources to update their digital systems and data management processes. Incompatibility between legacy and contemporary software breeds inefficiencies and increases the likelihood of errors. These interlinked issues inevitably lead to compliance failures, resulting in costly delays and potential financial, legal, and reputational repercussions. However, the good news is that a readily accessible, mainstream solution already exists to ensure seamless compliance with Regulation 38 and beyond. Embracing digital data solutions Fire safety compliance can now be streamlined, with digital solutions applied across the entire building lifecycle In the last decade, digital information management tools have undergone a remarkable evolution. Modern platforms have revolutionized the identification, collection, storage, recovery, and sharing of critical fire safety information. Better still, these digital tools standardize processes through set templates and workflows, enabling instant communication and seamless integration with existing systems.  These tools are potential game-changers. Fire safety compliance can now be streamlined, with digital solutions applied across the entire building lifecycle. For instance, contractors can now capture and organize data in real-time during construction, using mobile devices to photograph work, document it, and store it in a centralized cloud-based bank. This once-cumbersome process is now much more user-friendly, and accessible to individuals with varying levels of IT proficiency. As AI and Augmented Reality technologies progress, their likely future integration into these platforms holds the potential to further empower project teams in achieving Regulation 38 compliance with ease. Driving change Turnkey, software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions, such as PlanRadar, are at the forefront of delivering affordable, regulatory-compliant solutions. What this means, is that now even smaller businesses can access comprehensive solutions without undue financial strain. The impact of all this should stimulate a genuine cultural shift in the construction sector. The objective is to transform industry perceptions of Regulation 38, from a burdensome compliance task to a straightforward safeguard for protecting building occupants. This requires real commitment to sticking to the regulations. The tools are there to help industry comply with the process. It’s now time to pick them up and put them to work.

As a company officer, the day will come where you and your crew are first to arrive at what looks like the beginning of a major incident. Your Battalion Chief (BC) is delayed or diverted to other incidents, so YOU are the Incident Commander (IC). How you set the table for this incident with regard to quickly setting up the Incident Command System (ICS) is critical. And how you use your channels of communication, including the ways you communicate, will be crucial to your success. Before we jump into the ‘how-to’, let’s examine something that looms over everything we do during emergencies, especially fires - ‘The NIOSH 5’. I first became aware of the NIOSH 5, when listening to one of Anthony Kastros’ lectures on incident command and the need for an organization on the fire ground. ‘The NIOSH 5’ Firefighters and emergency workers typically get lost, hurt, or killed at incidents, when any one of five causal factors identified by The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are present: Improper risk assessment Lack of incident command Lack of accountability Inadequate communications Lack of SOPs (or failure to follow established SOPs) Statistically, 50 percent of these line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) and injury events occur in the first 15 minutes of an incident. Half of those occur in the first three minutes! If you’re the initial IC, it’s statistically likely this could happen while you’re in charge. Need for training and practice in handling emergencies Keeping ‘The NIOSH 5’ at the forefront of your mind should trigger the need for training and practice in handling emergencies. Although there are factors you simply can’t control during an emergency, you can control communications, incident command, accountability, repetitive training, and standardization. The following are some things to keep in mind while managing an incident: Arrival on Scene In incident management, setup is everything and oftentimes, determines the outcome of the incident. To use a sports analogy, you definitely want your first pitch to be a strike. So how do you do that? Provide a Solid Size-up Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications The first step is taking a deep breath and giving a good size-up. Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications, and a command tone. Your tone and tempo in your size-up will help focus everyone and create a tactics-driven incident, rather than an emotions-driven one. But, if we’re being honest, being cool takes practice and repetition. Your agency should have a standardized way for how and when this size-up is delivered. In many cases, it’s a fill-in-the-blank script that includes the following four things: What you see (smoke and flames/or nothing showing) The area you see it affecting (the second story, the alpha/bravo corner) What’s happening/what’s on fire or causing the hazard (a two-story home or a sedan next to a building) Establishing command (a must-take command or pass, if you’re going to rescue a citizen) By practicing within your agency’s standards, it enables you to project a cool tone over the radio like you’ve ‘been there before. Order resources early and often Tunnel vision is a death sentence for any IC. In most cases, this is not the time to get sucked into task-level problems. The exceptions to this are structure fires and other emergencies where there is an immediate and known rescue. Otherwise, it’s time to step back, take in the big picture, and make decisions as an IC. Ask yourself: ‘What will this incident do in five minutes? 10? 20? One hour?’ If the answer is ‘get bigger’, then you need more resources. Order them early and often, because they can always be turned around. Don’t try to do too much with too little. Trusted Incident Command System equals early accountability As the initial IC, you’ll be sending crews into the hazard zone. It’s a red flag if, during the initial portion of the incident, you don’t have solid accountability. It’s during this initial ‘fog of war’ that we lose track of crews, and it’s when personnel gets hurt or killed. NFPA 1561, along with other best practices, requires that you know where everyone is and what they’re doing. If you don’t have that knowledge, stop and figure that out, or assign someone to figure it out and report back to you as soon as possible. Benefits of an all-in-one digital platform - Tablet Command Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crew Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crews – a notepad, whiteboard, tactical worksheet, or better yet, a digital command board. The huge advantage of an all-in-one digital platform like Tablet Command is that it’s CAD-integrated and will populate resources for you in real-time. There’s no writing and scribbling while listening to garbled radio traffic, and no trying to ‘catch up’ with resource orders that change on the fly. Accountability integrated into command processes With a platform, such as Tablet Command, all you’re doing is dragging and dropping resources into their assignments, which automatically time-stamps their activities. Maintaining accountability becomes seamlessly integrated into your command processes. These digital platforms also tend to be highly recognizable and easy for others to assume command. It’s paramount that you train extensively on whatever system your agency uses, and that everyone in your region or agency is squared away on how to maintain accountability in a standardized fashion. It’s a problem if you have several chiefs and company officers, and too many (or not enough) ways of maintaining accountability. Many agencies need the first-arriving officer to implement an ICS to track crews Segment and subdivide How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Use your knowledge of your ICS to break up the incident into manageable bites. When the Fire Chief arrives, they’ll have simple questions: Where is everybody? What are they doing? How are they doing? How do I talk to them? Knowing where your people need to deploy and what channel they’re on are critical to accountability. Using the command board is a great way to have all of those questions answered. Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly. This is true because it ensures you’re talking to the supervisors of each segment of the emergency, especially when assessing conditions, actions and needs. Setting up an incident this way should also be an expectation that is agency-wide and practiced in scenario-based training. The terminology should be standardized so that your agency and neighboring agencies aren’t interpreting what you’re trying to accomplish in the heat of battle. Summary A clear communications plan, solid scene size-up, and early establishment of the ICS by company officers are critical to incident success. Combine this with accurate and solid accountability systems, either through analog methods or with a modern digital solution in real-time, and you guarantee safer outcomes for your crews. The best way to be prepared is through long hours of dedicated practice in the command role and, more importantly, an agency-wide understanding of what’s in the play book: Standardization! A standard approach to managing incidents will help you remedy the chaos and enable you to hand over a well-organized incident to the first-arriving Chief.

There’s no doubt the Building Safety Act and Fire Safety Act are driving major improvements in the construction industry’s quality and approval processes. Although the initial focus of the legislation is on high-rise residential buildings, it’s predicted to be rolled out across the entire sector soon, tightening fire safety regulations in hospitals, hotels, and commercial offices and we await the rafts of secondary legislation that will really redefine the regulatory landscape. Many fear that commercial real estate professionals will be unprepared for the higher levels of compliance required, by the incoming regulations. New requirements for competency, collaboration, and digitally presenting joined-up information will inevitably be imposed on architects, building inspectors, owners, and construction product manufacturers. Fire regulations for commercial buildings However, currently, fire regulations for commercial buildings remain lax and there’s ambiguity about what constitutes appropriate fire safety system management, as well as how to prepare for revised building and fire safety requirements, as they become available. It’s all too easy to take a laissez-faire attitude, but adopting an ‘it will never happen to me’ approach is likely to lead to problems down the road, so contractors, asset owners and FMs alike need to get with the legislative program and fast. Understanding of fire safety ratings for things to increase If specifiers are cutting corners and installing inadequately rated products today, there will be very costly consequences later It is certain that office interior specification, coupled with ongoing checks and a robust understanding of fire safety ratings for things, such as interior doors, panels and partitions is likely to be increasingly challenging going forward. Importantly, if specifiers are cutting corners and installing inadequately rated products today, there will be very costly consequences later. As a result, it is advisable to go above and beyond current construction regulations, when specifying materials for commercial office interiors, in order to future-proof and keep occupants safe. The Grenfell turning point Grenfell was a wake-up call for the construction sector, particularly for construction product manufacturers and those involved in fire protection and fire testing. Before the tragedy, many believed their products were safe and their methods were flawless and tested according to official guidelines. However, this terrible event compelled the industry to examine its manufacturing procedures, the efficacy, adequacy and relevance of testing and certification, as well as product performance claims made in marketing collateral. This re-evaluation, which found many parts of the specification process not fit-for-purpose, has, thankfully, culminated in a total cultural overhaul. Asking important questions regarding building fire safety Fundamentally, there was not enough questioning before Grenfell. Now, we’re re-thinking everything, asking ourselves: Are we doing things correctly? What’s the risk? How can we mitigate that risk? Five years on, the interpretation of evidence, whether direct fire test evidence or third-party assessment, has become much more refined, and rightfully so. Designers and contractors are paying more attention to the evidence used to support proposed items and applications, while manufacturers are re-thinking their use of evidence, in line with post-Grenfell thinking. Adequacy of test evidence The adequacy of test evidence for a given application is now being scrutinized much more closely The adequacy of test evidence for a given application is now being scrutinized much more closely, as are the testing methodologies. It now raises the important question: ‘Does this test accurately represent the effect in a real-world scenario?’ Unfortunately, the capacity to deliver on these questions is not matching good intentions. The rising need for test evidence of fire resistance rather than merely accepting an assessment has caused testing facilities to become overloaded, resulting in much longer wait times. Assessments are now heavily connected to appropriate fire test findings, which necessitate the gathering of evidence and a higher level of analysis, in order to provide assessments. The entire process has become necessarily more complicated, but this has affected efficiency, something which will need to be addressed as construction output inevitably increases. R&D cultivates innovation Fortunately, there are solutions within reach, thanks to significant advancements in the development of fire-safe products and materials across the industry. There’s been an increase in project-specific developments, as suppliers collaborate with designers and fire regulatory organizations to share their expertise. As a result, rather than merely installing the best fit, projects are now specified with fully customized fire-rated systems. Meanwhile, continuing R&D has led to many organizations looking ahead and anticipating shifting demands and trends in the built environment. It’s leading to additional testing and product development for applications that aren't already covered by existing technologies, and a commitment to the highest-quality fire solutions, meaning safer and higher-performance products. Expertise and training are key It’s important to note that choosing fire-rated products does not make the area fire-safe by default. Once the facility is in operation, a systems approach is needed to ensure that the installation and risk assessment of fire-rated products are periodically monitored. Extensive training and CPD must be taken into account for specifiers Even the slightest modification to a fire-rated product, such as changing a glass door’s opening system, might compromise its integrity. It’s critical to completely understand the ins and outs of the product being defined, in order to ensure that it's used correctly. As a result, extensive training and CPD must be taken into account for specifiers and office building managers alike. Increased training and CPD Increased training and CPD will keep the industry on track to deal with the level of comprehensive knowledge necessary Increased training and CPD will keep the industry on track to deal with the level of comprehensive knowledge necessary, specifying according to need and meeting the high standards of the near future. Continued development of fire knowledge is crucial, as the latest high-performance glass doors in offices today are specialized pieces of technology and fire-rated systems behave very differently from other glass partitions or doors. The design dilemma Another significant challenge is incorporating fire safe components into a space without losing its aesthetic appeal, but remaining compliant. Designers are increasingly aiming to open up space to bring in natural light and encourage a sense of well-being for the occupants, meaning walls that would previously have been solid are being specified as glazed. This means that large panels of glass, beyond the capacity of fire test facilities, must be handled sensitively and installed within a bespoke system. This necessitates close liaison with certification authorities to identify what can be assessed from the test evidence provided. Of course, workplaces must be fire safe, look good, and feel pleasant to work in. The sheer complexity of the day-to-day office functionality is a difficult issue. Aesthetics are often a requirement that is added to the fire resistance of fire doors. But it’s often the case that suitably certified hardware simply doesn’t exist. Glass office partition systems Can fire safety and great design coexist in the office space? Yes, definitely. Can fire safety and great design coexist in the office space? Yes, definitely. This is because, the latest glazed and sliding doors, adjustable ‘office pods’, and acoustically-optimized walls are all made with fire safety, sustainability, and elegant design in mind. Many glass office partition systems allow natural light and air circulation to flow through the room, which helps to improve employee well-being and boosts performance. Fire safety is of the utmost importance Fire safety and design can harmoniously co-exist in an office space, but it comes down to managing expectations. Fire safety is of the utmost importance, and as the requirements tighten, the commercial office industry will catch up with fire safety standards, testing and reporting regimes, and ongoing compliance. Fortunately, fantastic fire-resistant workplace solutions are entering the market, built for safety, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal.

Information can transform and guide emergency response. For example, in a structure fire, real-time sensor feeds throughout a building can help 911 and first responders understand how the fire is progressing. In fires and other emergencies, more information provides a better understanding and empowers potentially life-saving decision-making. Emergency response teams depend on information to guide their efforts and to deliver targeted assistance. On the front lines of emergency response are 911 and field responder agencies, which must direct reaction to life-or-death situations rapidly and efficiently. Historically, 911 operators had to respond based on very little information, perhaps just a voice on the phone or a location on their screen. Providing critical information Today, there are literally millions of information sources available, ranging from connected buildings to vehicle telematics to live video streams to health information from wearable devices. In fact, there are 540 million connected devices, any one of which could provide critical information in an emergency. But how can those information sources be leveraged to improve emergency response? That’s the mission and value proposition of RapidSOS, an ‘intelligent safety platform’ company that connects 911 operators with the vast universe of information available to promote better and faster emergency response. Highly sophisticated operation The platform is integrated into every major public safety software system and first responder agency “RapidSOS fuses human and artificial intelligence to put critical information from any connected device directly into the existing systems and operating procedures of first responders across the United States,” says Michael Martin, CEO of RapidSOS. RapidSOS is widely used by first responders. The platform is integrated into every major public safety software system and first responder agency. There are more than 4,600 software integrations that serve more than 21,000 first responders and 911 agencies. In 2023, RapidSOS supported the lifesaving work of public safety across 171 million emergencies with 3.3 billion data payloads. The system is adaptable and configurable to support any agency, from a highly sophisticated operation in New York City to a local sheriff running their own 911 center. Intelligent analytics and reporting RapidSOS Unite is the latest evolution of the product, a single solution that includes AI automation, rich content pathways, redundant connection to caller phones, and access to millions of connected devices. In an emergency, Unite intelligently fuses data from among millions of sensor feeds into a unified picture of an incident, allowing public safety officials to view real-time location, health profile, telematics, alarm data, and more. RapidSOS Unite is the latest evolution of the product, a single solution that includes AI automation RapidSOS offers core modules that handle call, text, video, sensor, mapping, and administration tools, and that provide partner data from connected devices. Additional modules provide enhanced geographic information system (GIS) data, and automated translation and transcription. There is also a single sign-on (SSO) upgrade, intelligent analytics and reporting, and seamless integration into field responder applications. Field responder applications Consider how an emergency might unfold and how RapidSOS can help. In a car accident, data from a modern automobile telematics system can alert a 911 operator of the accident as it happens. Data from a passenger’s wearable device might provide information about their health and condition. A nearby video or traffic camera could fill in details of how the accident occurred. Useful information in an emergency might come from any one of thousands of sources, including public safety data, sensor feeds, enterprise security systems, smartphones, etc. In a train derailment, electronic access to the cargo manifest can identify which train cars contain hazardous materials and how to manage the specific type of hazmat. This information could save valuable time when responding to incidents like the Feb. 3, 2023, Norfolk Southern train derailment involving 38 cars in East Palestine, Ohio. Consider how an emergency might unfold and how RapidSOS can help Institutional security partners Norfolk Southern is one of the companies that provides information to first responders using RapidSOS; in effect, the company provides a direct digital link from their rail security operations to any first responder in the United States. Amazon’s global operations centers also interface with RapidSOS to provide critical information to first responders. Partnering with corporate security helps to better support the flow of data from institutional security partners and their solutions. Real-time security camera footage Having access to live feeds can save lives as 911 provides pre-arrival instructions such as CPR Leading the way to providing video feeds from private camera systems to 911 operators is an agreement between Eagle Eye Networks and RapidSOS, which was announced in April 2024. The agreement allows an enterprise to opt-in to share real-time security camera footage from an Eagle Eye video stream during a live 911 call. Having access to live feeds can save lives as 911 provides pre-arrival instructions such as CPR.  “Security cameras are crucial in many locations, including schools, but previously those cameras could not be accessed by 911 during an emergency but were only used for investigation after an incident,” says Martin. Improving fire and life safety systems RapidSOS is also integrated with Honeywell’s Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS) system, a cloud platform that combines software and hardware to improve fire and life safety systems. Technology integrations between the two companies further modernize and digitize the public safety communications process to provide faster, more accurate communications with emergency centers (i.e., 911 agencies). RapidSOS technology securely transmits detailed data about an emergency CLSS provides real-time visibility and connectivity to help systems integrators and facilities managers make informed decisions and manage fire systems more efficiently. When combined with Honeywell's solutions, RapidSOS technology securely transmits detailed data about an emergency, such as the type of hazard, severity, and location within the impacted building, to emergency response centers. Video object detection Rapid SOS’s emerging Harmony artificial intelligence (AI) product serves as a ‘co-pilot’ for 911 operators, helping them manage the high volume of emergencies by making their response more efficient. Harmony pulls all the sensor feeds in an emergency and works to make only the most important information available in the hands of 911 and first responders. Harmony can take key insights from text and video data, use ‘sentiment analysis’ to determine the emotion tone of a message, and help 911 professionals using language translation, keyword alerts, and video object detection. Harmony can help local agencies as they address a 25% average staffing shortage by providing additional support to 911 professionals while lessening the workload. Harmony is also working to help RapidSOS expand the ecosystem, stitching more data together and quickly making it more actionable than ever. Emergency response system RapidSOS also interfaces with Iamresponding, a comprehensive end-to-end emergency response system for first responders in the fire and other emergency sectors. Iamresponding’s field responder application is used by RapidSOS to get information out to first responders in the field. More than 650,000 first responders use RapidSOS’s field application RapidSOS’s recent acquisition of Iamresponding helps the company improve the connection with the last mile “in-the-field” piece of the puzzle, ensuring partners across computer-aided dispatch (CAD), integrated applications, mobile data terminals, body cameras, and other responders have access to critical data. More than 650,000 first responders use RapidSOS’s field application. Enhancing emergency response RapidSOS’s Safety Pioneer Program formalizes the important partnership between RapidSOS and public safety agencies. Participants in the program receive early access to new platform features, contribute to the platform roadmap, and drive feedback to enhance emergency response. “911 and first responders do incredible lifesaving work,” says Martin. “Everything we have done and built at RapidSOS is a direct result of the engagement, partnerships, inside advice and insight we have gotten from public safety. We have learned from them, developed new technologies and tested them.” Martin adds: “Companies have data and we now know how to make that data actionable into the hands of 911 and first responders to save lives. This is an exciting moment for us continuing our mission in partnership with public safety, and for technology and security companies to have a major hand in that.” {##Poll1720595927 - What is the most valuable benefit of artificial intelligence (AI) in an emergency call center?##}

To be a smart city, modern urban areas leverage technology to improve operations and services, in effect deploying a network of sensors and devices to collect data on city operations such as traffic flow, energy use, and waste management. Analyzing the data points enables cities to identify areas for improvement and additional solutions to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life. But what are the opportunities for the fire service in today’s smart cities? Smart cities enable the creation of a more dynamic and data-driven approach to fire response. Technology enables quicker fire detection, faster routing of first responders through traffic management, and proactive fire prevention strategies, among other advantages. Analyzing Risks and Planning Prevention The fire service plays a crucial role in keeping citizens safe in smart cities, and with the integration of technologies, their capabilities are expanding. For example, smart cities utilize sensor networks and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to constantly monitor buildings for temperature fluctuations or other signs of potential fire hazards. This allows fire departments to identify risks early and take preventative measures. Real-time traffic data can be used to optimize ways for fire trucks, ensuring they reach the set faster Smart technologies can improve response times by automatically alerting fire services the moment a fire breaks out. Additionally, real-time traffic data can be used to optimize routes for fire trucks, ensuring they reach the scene quicker. Firefighters in smart cities can benefit from wearable technology and sensor data to gain better awareness of the fire environment. This can include data on temperature, air quality, and even the location of fellow firefighters, all of which improve decision-making and firefighter safety. Addressing Obstacles of Traffic Congestion Traffic congestion is a major obstacle for emergency vehicles. Smart cities use sensors and data analytics to monitor traffic flow in real time. This data can be used to dynamically adjust traffic lights, prioritizing emergency vehicles, and clearing a path to the fire. Fire stations can be equipped with software that analyzes real-time traffic data and chooses the fastest route to the fire scene. This can take into account accidents, road closures, and even weather conditions to optimize the route for emergency vehicles. Lessons Learned from Historical Data Smart city data assigns fire units to analyze historical fire incidents and recall high-risk areas Smart city data empowers fire departments to analyze historical fire incidents and identify high-risk areas. This helps them deploy resources strategically and plan fire prevention efforts more effectively. Smart city data can be used to identify areas with a higher risk of fire based on factors like building age, occupancy, and historical fire incidents. This allows fire services to pre-position resources in high-risk areas or implement preventative measures in those locations, potentially leading to fewer fires overall and faster response times when they do occur. Predicting fires in a smart city is not about pinpointing the exact time and location. Rather, it is about using data and machine learning to identify areas with a high risk of fires. A key aspect of smart city fire prediction involves collecting data from various sources. This includes historical fire incident records, building codes and inspection reports, weather data, and even sensor data from cameras and Internet of Things (IoT) devices in buildings. Closer attention or preventative measures The collected data is fed into machine learning algorithms that can identify patterns and relationships between various factors that contribute to fire risk. Based on the analysis, algorithms can assign a fire risk score to different buildings or even city blocks. This allows fire services to create fire risk maps, highlighting areas that require closer attention or preventative measures. Based on the analysis, algorithms can assign a fire risk score to different buildings or even city blocks Knowing high-risk areas allows fire departments to take proactive steps. This could involve increased fire inspections in those areas, educating residents on fire safety, or even pre-positioning fire trucks or resources closer to high-risk zones during periods of high fire danger. In essence, fire services in smart cities are transforming from reactive forces to proactive guardians, leveraging technology to prevent fires, respond faster, and protect both citizens and firefighters. Smarter Systems for Earlier Detection Traditional smoke detectors are helpful in fire prevention and response, but smarter systems with Internet-of-things (IoT) sensors can detect fires earlier and with more precision. These sensors identify both smoke and factors like temperature and air quality changes, thus providing valuable details to firefighters. Additionally, these systems can automatically notify fire services the moment a fire breaks out, eliminating any delay in reporting. Here are some examples of the impact of technology on the fire service. Dryad Networks, a Berlin-based company, builds large-scale sensor networks using the Internet of Things (IoT) specifically designed for forests. Their sensors can be attached to trees and detect gases like carbon monoxide in the early stages of a fire, giving firefighters a crucial head start. Pano is a company that analyzes data from emergency calls to pinpoint the exact location of a fire Another company, OroraTech, leverages satellite technology to meticulously map large areas, identifying zones susceptible to wildfires. This information helps forest managers and firefighters focus their preventative efforts on high-risk zones. Providing a unique approach to fire detection, Pano is a company that analyzes data from emergency calls to pinpoint the exact location of a fire and sends firefighters a text message with a video feed. This helps distinguish real emergencies from false alarms and allows for a faster response. Rain, based in Alameda, Calif., is developing firefighting drones that can be automatically dispatched upon detecting a fire. These drones can reach remote areas quickly and potentially suppress the fire before it spreads, offering a faster response in hard-to-reach locations. Smart Cities: Technologies Continue to Advance It's important to remember that fire prediction is still a developing field, and new technology models are not perfect. However, by leveraging data and machine learning, smart cities can significantly improve their ability to identify areas with a higher likelihood of fires, allowing them to take preventative actions and ultimately improve public safety.

Wildfires swept through the Panhandle region of Texas earlier in 2024. The Smokehouse Creek Fire and the Windy Deuce Fire, both starting on Feb. 26, were the most significant outbreaks. The Smokehouse Creek Fire went on to become the second largest in U.S. history, burning over a million acres across Texas and Oklahoma before it was contained in mid-March. worst-ever wildfire As Texas battled its worst-ever wildfire, firefighters worked to mitigate fire and smoke damage. Among the challenges were staffing shortages. The United States is facing a serious firefighter shortage that makes fighting wildfires, including the Smokehouse Creek fire, even more difficult. Not unrelatedly, over half of all firefighters in the U.S. are volunteers.  training in structural fires Vector Solutions helps agencies train, prepare, and retain their employees to have a safer, better team “We just know how demanding the wildfire season is and how fast these fires can grow,” says Robbi King, Solutions Engineer at Vector Solutions. “We want our people to be current on the expectations of what we are training, preventing our chance of getting hurt,” he says. As fires increasingly occur at the wildland-urban interface (WUI), departments with training in structural fires should expand their training knowledge to prepare. Vector Solutions helps agencies train, prepare, and retain their employees to have a safer, better team. online firefighting training In addition to the availability of more than 450 hours of online firefighting training, the company also provides software platforms to ensure requisite knowledge and the ability to perform various skills.  Ensuring preparation for wildfire season, Vector Solutions has courses that meet the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) requirements to renew certification. shortage of volunteer firefighters The shortage of volunteer firefighters is in part a reflection of the need for volunteers to hold full-time jobs to support their families, which limits their time for volunteering. Coverage of wildfire events, for example, is difficult during the day when more volunteers are at their paid jobs and unavailable.  “It takes the sacrifice of vacation and other things you earn to be a volunteer,” says King. Firefighter staffing is short throughout the U.S., and agencies facing fire emergencies often call on the larger surrounding area for help. Lack of resources in emergencies Local volunteers can perform some of the duties, but outside aid generally comes in the form of paid firefighters Resources are needed to perform search-and-rescue duties after the fire. “The problem is, when you call on all your assets, are there enough people to take care of medical needs and other emergencies?” says King. Local volunteers can perform some of the duties, but outside aid generally comes in the form of paid firefighters. Volunteers cannot commit two weeks of unpaid time even in a fire emergency.  Artificial intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) can help to identify areas to search, but it takes human intervention to perform rescues and to facilitate recovery. A decayed power pole sparking dry grass was determined as the cause of the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Texas, and several other fires were also traced back to faulty power equipment. The fires caused significant damage, including hundreds of homes destroyed, livestock deaths, and widespread destruction of crops and ranch infrastructure.  Wildfire impact and concerns  A huge concern during wildfire season is that individuals heed evacuation orders when they come in. “We don’t want people to be left behind,” says King. “There’s nothing there that is worth your life. Minding the evacuation orders gets you out of harm’s way.” Residents in areas impacted by wildfire should also do their part to protect their homes; sometimes it’s as simple as mowing the grass. role of the weather Additional moisture can contribute to the rapid thickening of undergrowth, which contributes eventually The weather plays a significant role in determining the course of the wildfire season. Additional moisture can contribute to the rapid thickening of undergrowth, which contributes eventually to a cycle of drying out and opening the door to wildfires.  The location of residences near areas prone to wildfires can contribute to risks, especially along the wildland-urban interface. “Communities want to live near nature, so they work with builders, who are trying to appease what they want,” says King. Vector Solutions Cloud “We need to look at where we are placing these homes to make sure we are pushing the vegetation back far enough to prevent the spread of fires.” Keeping firefighter skills current also makes a big difference. The Vector Solutions Cloud stores video of first responders performing skills and the video can be observed and critiqued later for better training.  Scheduling and Check It Vector also provides Vector Scheduling, a time-and-attendance tool. Vector Check It streamlines routine truck and equipment tracking and centralizes asset and inventory management. Vector’s Guardian Tracking is a performance management and early intervention solution that equips first responders with a process for consistent feedback and positive recognition while identifying those in need of intervention before an adverse event takes place.  Guardian Tracking Software The system can also identify when people are performing below expectations or fail to meet standards Vector Solutions can contribute to firefighter retention. The Guardian Tracking software can identify career milestone events and trace the negative impacts of a major fire event, including emotional stress. The system can also identify when people are performing below expectations or fail to meet standards. “Most agencies have de-brief sessions after milestone events, but sometimes we need additional care,” says King. impact due to COVID  “We want to take care of people, but sometimes we need a reminder.” If departments can retain people, it becomes less of a recruitment effort. Four years after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact on the fire service is still being felt. “We are still identifying the long-lasting COVID effects, and there are small segments of communities that have not fully recovered,” says King. ”When you expose them to wildland fire and smoke, it compounds the issues.”  risk assessment It will be some time before the full impact of COVID is understood, including the need for first responders to go inside residences at the height of the pandemic.  “My work with the fire service and the military prepared me to always think about possibilities,” says King. “We do a risk assessment, which has allowed me to understand what the fire service needs and how we can apply our solutions to streamline and improve agencies’ processes. Having that knowledge has helped me find the right solution for firefighter needs.” 

The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with OroraTech USA, the global pioneer in space-based wildfire intelligence, marking a significant step in enhancing wildfire preparedness and emergency response across one of Colorado’s most fire-prone counties. Under a 2025 pilot program, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services Division has integrated OroraTech’s Wildfire Solution platform into its operational workflow. The service delivers near-instant wildfire alerts, AI-powered fire spread modeling, and critical insights tailored to Larimer’s mountainous terrain and diverse population zones. OroraTech’s Satellite Wildfire Detection Platform The platform supports early identification of wildfire outbreaks, faster situational assessments The platform supports early identification of wildfire outbreaks, faster situational assessments, and the ability to predict fire spread during the first 24 hours of an incident. “Larimer County continues to face rising wildfire frequency and severity. OroraTech provides us with a new layer of intelligence to act faster and smarter,” said Justin Whitesell, Chief of Emergency Services for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office. Larimer County adopts OroraTech’s Platform Justin Whitesell adds, “Their platform helps us to verify ignition points, model fire spread, and make better decisions with our firefighting resources. It’s quickly becoming a vital addition to our toolkit.” Larimer County is consistently ranked among the most wildfire-prone regions in Colorado, with more than 15% of its land area burned in recent decades.  Between 1984 and 2021, the county experienced at least 16 major wildfires, including the 208,000-acre Cameron Peak Fire in 2020 - the largest in Colorado history - and the 87,000-acre High Park Fire in 2012. High frequency of wildfires in Larimer County The county's mix of rugged terrain, dense forests makes it one of the hardest-hit jurisdictions The county's mix of rugged terrain, dense forests, and expanding population centers makes it one of the hardest-hit and highest-risk jurisdictions in the state. “Wildfires are the most frequent natural hazard in Larimer County, and our goal is to ensure agencies have the best possible intelligence at their fingertips,” said Thomas Grübler, CEO of OroraTech USA.  He adds, “We are proud to support Chief Whitesell, Sheriff John Feyen, and the LCSO team in safeguarding lives, infrastructure, and ecosystems.” Satellite imagery with AI-enhanced fire spread modeling OroraTech’s Wildfire Solution combines satellite imagery with AI-enhanced fire spread modeling, offering emergency teams the ability to detect new ignitions, track fire movement, and prioritize response in minutes, not hours. The system delivers actionable data even in rugged terrain and low-visibility conditions, ensuring situational awareness when it matters most. As wildfire risk intensifies across the American West, Larimer County’s early adoption of satellite-based wildfire intelligence underscores the critical role that advanced space technology plays in local emergency management.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) released findings from its third annual industry survey conducted at the NFPA 2025 Conference & Expo, the premier conference for fire, electrical, and life safety professionals. The survey highlights how people across the skilled trades are viewing industry changes and where their fields are headed, against the backdrop of persistent labor shortages and growing demands fueled by infrastructure investment and technological advancement. Rapid technology adoption “The skilled trades are at a turning point: rising safety hazards, rapid technology adoption, and an unprecedented demand for training are reshaping how work gets done,” said Jim Pauley, President and CEO at NFPA. “Leaders must understand how these forces are affecting skilled professionals. Meeting workers where they are and responding to their needs with targeted technology, robust training, and strong professional support will be critical to sustaining the industry’s growth and resilience.” Key Findings Key findings from the survey include: AI and Digital Tools Gain Momentum in the Skilled Trades An overwhelming majority (95%) of respondents believe that AI has a purpose in at least some day-to-day job functions in the skilled trades. Thirty-one percent (31%) of respondents see AI as a tool to help skilled trade workers streamline tasks amid ongoing labor shortages. Thirty-nine percent (39%) are hopeful that AI will spur industry growth and make the trades more appealing to the younger, tech-savvy workers. Twenty-five percent (25%) of respondents remain skeptical of AI’s purpose in the skilled trades, though many have seen a variety of benefits from the adoption of advanced technologies. Over half, 64% of respondents, have noticed an improvement in workflows and collaboration among their teams since implementing digital tools. In addition, 57% of respondents use NFPA LiNK® individually or within the organization, a 6% increase from 2024 findings. Training and Certifications The survey revealed that training remains top of mind for industry professionals. Seventy-eight percent (78%) of skilled workers participate in at least one NFPA training and development program a year; of this group, 43% participate once a quarter, and 17% participate twice a year. Despite the appetite for training, barriers remain. These include: Lack of time for participation (35%) High costs (30%) Lack of access to a qualified instructor (24%) Challenges determining the right training opportunities (23%) Notably, the prevalence of these challenges has decreased by an average of 26% year-over-year, indicating that more organizations are prioritizing training and development. Certification programs tell a different story: Sixty percent (60%) of respondents held a certification from a professional organization, down from 74% in the 2024 survey. Yet, sixty-two percent (62%) said that certifications or professional credentials are a requirement in their organizations for hiring, promotion, or staff development purposes. This potential disconnect suggests a need for stronger alignment between workforce goals and organizational expectations, particularly as certifications grow in importance for career advancement. As more organizations look at professional certifications as an indicator of employee performance, it's critical for workers to consider pursuing certifications to ensure career growth and development. Professional Memberships Professional memberships can be an important part of any skilled trades career. Fifty-two (52%) percent of surveyed workers leverage NFPA Membership offerings, citing numerous benefits of membership programs from NFPA or other organizations, including: Networking and collaboration with other industry professionals (66%) Continued education opportunities (61%) Access to technical support for questions on codes and standards (44%) Career growth opportunities (34%) The survey results suggest that the skilled trades are undergoing a quiet but important transformation – one that blends tradition with innovation for a tech-driven future. Pioneers across the skilled trades have an opportunity to use new technologies, leverage training and development opportunities, and participate in professional memberships to modernize and address ongoing labor shortages. As a result, digital transformation is no longer optional for organizations committed to the industry's development. Survey Methodology NFPA collected responses from 325 U.S. and international-based workers, 18 years and older, in the electrical, manufacturing, construction, engineering, architect/design, facility maintenance, compliance, fire service, and insurance/risk management fields to determine the findings of this industry research. The survey was conducted in-person between June 16 and June 18, 2025, at the 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo.

A man has suffered burns to his arm and leg after a fire involving an e-bike at a property in North St Marys, in Sydney's west. Fire and Rescue NSW crews were called just after 4.00am this morning following a Triple Zero call reporting a fire and explosions at a property in Glossop Street. Firefighter Response On arrival, firefighters found an e-bike alight, with a man nearby suffering burn. Crews quickly extinguished the fire before removing the bike's lithium-ion battery and submerging it in water to prevent reignition. The man was initially treated by firefighters at the scene prior to the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics. He was later transported to hospital. Investigations are underway into the cause of the fire, including whether the e-bike had been modified. Battery Safety Tips FRNSW urges the community to make sure they shop, charge and recycle lithium-ion battery products safely: Never charge in exits or anywhere that would prevent you from escaping in the event of a fire Install active smoke alarms in your home/garage Always buy reputable lithium-ion battery brands and never ‘mix and match’ components Don’t leave devices charging in bedrooms or on beds, sofas or around highly flammable materials Try to charge devices outside if possible Beware of cheap, substandard lithium-ion battery-powered devices Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing battery cells If lithium-ion batteries are damaged or compromised, dispose of them properly Don’t throw them out in the rubbish, they can start garbage truck or rubbish tip fires when compacted Contact your local, approved recycling centre for disposal advice Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials Ensure you have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire.

Providing innovative fire safety technology, global wireless solutions provider - Ramtech has revealed its role in protecting the prestigious F1 Hungarian Grand Prix 2024, with its WES system utilized across several temporary buildings for optimum site protection. Working closely with Hungarian partner, High-Security Kft, Ramtech supplied its EN54-25 compliant wireless fire and evacuation system (WES) for various structures including media spaces, bathrooms, dressing rooms, and conference areas. These facilities were purpose-built for the race and lacked permanent fire alarm systems, so the system helped to deliver enhanced safety for personnel and equipment throughout the event. WES fire points and smoke detectors Adam Kovics, Export Sales Manager at Ramtech, said: "It’s a privilege to get to work on such a renowned event as the F1 Grand Prix, which gives us the opportunity to showcase how robust and reliable our systems are on the world stage. WES provided an ideal fire safety solution for the temporary structures, offering ease of installation and removal post-event and ensuring safety and compliance with event regulations." He adds, "It is certainly a proud moment for the team in supporting the safety and 24/7 monitoring of this iconic race. WES fire points and smoke detectors were installed across four container groups at the Hungaroring racetrack in Mogyoród, Pest County. The WES interface was used to connect the system to the permanent fire alarm system, ensuring continuous monitoring and immediate response capabilities." Building reconstructions  In the event of an evacuation, an alarm would sound to alert all workers The system’s robust radio mesh network also ensured seamless communication between devices without interfering with existing systems. In the event of an evacuation, an alarm would sound to alert all workers, prioritizing their well-being as well as helping to prevent potential disasters.  Hungarian Grand Prix The famed Hungarian Grand Prix was held across the weekend of 19–21 July with 20 initial drivers competing in the 70-lap race. The event was the thirteenth round of the 2024 Formula One World Championship and the 39th running in the Hungaroring circuit’s history as part of the Formula One World Championship. The containers and the temporary system were necessary due to ongoing permanent building reconstructions that will only be completed for the 2025 Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix.

Cygnus’ world-first 100% wireless and EN 54 certified SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm solution has been installed at the Contractor’s Village at Heysham Power Station 1 in Lancashire, providing reliable life-saving fire protection equipment in a challenging industrial location. Manchester-based installer - Marlowe Fire & Security worked together with its client, Equans, a provider of technical services, FM, regeneration and energy services, on the project. Marlowe Fire & Security selected Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro solution having successfully worked with the Cygnus team on several projects previously. Challenging Setting Contractor’s Village consists of twenty cabins, each equipped with a Detector and Manual Call Point The Contractor’s Village consists of twenty cabins, each equipped with a Detector and Manual Call Point, connected to a SmartNet-Pro Control Panel in one of the nearest cabins to the main site, alongside an interface for the signal to the main site. Simon Hilton, Systems Account Manager, Marlowe Fire & Security, said "We chose SmartNet-Pro thanks to its proven reliability, robustness, and impressive installation speed. This project presented quite a challenge due to the amount of metal in the cabin construction, which would cause issues if installing a wired system, and means we needed a product with robust signal strength." He adds, "Thanks to SmartNet’s 100% wireless capabilities, it ensured minimal disruption to the site and was quickly deployable. We’ve used Cygnus products before in similar settings and we’ve always been impressed with the outcome and this project was no exception." SmartNet fire detection and alarm system Heysham Power Station 1 experiences intermittent outages for maintenance purposes. SmartNet runs on wireless radio devices as part of a robust, self-forming and self-healing mesh network technology, in which the infrastructure nodes connect dynamically to provide highly efficient and robust network performance. This ensures that the SmartNet fire detection and alarm system can keep operating through these outages for the continuous on-site safety of workers. Being 100% wireless, SmartNet not only reduces cabling complexities that would arise trying to install through metal, but also provides a scalable solution for future needs. Successful Results Simon Hilton commended the fast responsiveness of the Cygnus team, stating, "The support from the Cygnus team was exceptional. They were always on hand to assist us, ensuring a smooth and successful installation." Simon also highlighted the value of the Cygnus Academy one-day training session and becoming a Cygnus Certified Installer, commenting "The team found this hugely beneficial as it combined both theoretical and hands-on practical training to enable them to complete a successful installation."  The Cygnus Academy The Cygnus Academy presents a high-specification, in-person training program, that can be carried out in two bespoke locations. Installers gain understanding and attain certification for installing SmartNet. Geoff Copsey, EDF Energy, expressed satisfaction with the installation, stating, "The implementation of Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro system at Heysham Power Station 1 has provided us with a reliable and robust fire detection solution. We are impressed with the system’s performance and appreciate the peace of mind it brings to our operations."

Since the end of 2023, Bosch's artificial intelligence has been safeguarding the world-renowned Aachen Cathedral, which is more than 1,200 years old. Germany's first UNESCO World Heritage site has been equipped by Bosch Building Technologies and the engineering firm planning with an intelligent video solution that protects it against a multitude of potential threats. Intelligent video solution Fires, in particular, can be devastating for such a historic building of inestimable intangible value and this is precisely why Aachen Cathedral has opted for the new system, which can detect a potential danger particularly quickly: Over 50 Aviotec cameras from Bosch in 16 rooms use intelligent video analytics to visually detect smoke and flames directly at their source. Due to AI algorithms, video cameras can also differentiate, for example, candlelight from a developing fire. This substantially reduces the likelihood of false alarms. Thus, the cameras respond much earlier than conventional ceiling-mounted fire detectors, which require smoke to rise to them. Fire detection "We are proud of this globally unique project at Aachen Cathedral," says Dr. Marcus Nadenau, Head of the European system integrator business Energy and Building Solutions at Bosch Building Technologies. "Aviotec offers an invaluable speed advantage in fire detection, especially in buildings with complex layouts and high ceilings," adds Dr. Nadenau. Video surveillance Cathedral master builder Dr. Jan Richarz, who took over the project from his predecessor Helmut Maintz, emphasizes the significance of this technology for the protection of Aachen Cathedral, supported by the Karlsverein / Cathedral Construction Association and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, "With this video surveillance solution, Aachen is a global leader." "It protects our World Heritage site as reliably and innovatively as befits its historical, religious, and cultural significance. I am very satisfied with the result and the collaborative partnership," says Dr. Richarz. AI protects treasures of immeasurable value Aviotec raises the alarm if someone enters the virtual exclusion zones around individual exhibits Aviotec primarily secures the cathedral's interior with its valuable relics and unique artworks, admired by over a million visitors annually. The video solution ensures that visitors can get as close as possible to the many treasures without endangering them: Aviotec raises the alarm if someone enters the virtual exclusion zones around individual exhibits.  Day-night surveillance During the day, it protects the cathedral from vandalism and theft, and at night from break-ins. Thanks to Aviotec, visitor flows can now be managed much more efficiently, as only a limited number of people are allowed in the cathedral at any one time: The previously laborious manual counting of visitors is now undertaken by the video solution. Protecting an important building together Bosch Building Technologies, in collaboration with the engineering firm, planned, developed, and implemented the comprehensive video solution for the cathedral. Every step was closely coordinated with the Cathedral Construction Lodge, whose challenging task is to preserve the cathedral and its treasures for the future.  "Aviotec from Bosch offers early fire detection and video security functions in one system, perfectly meeting the special protection needs of this sacred building," says Ralf Wolters from the engineering firm planning. "Cutting-edge technology meets centuries-old treasures. This combination has excited me," says the Engineer. Integrated fire alarm system A monitor shows arriving firefighters live images from the cathedral and informs them about the exact location An advantage of the Aachen solution is its close integration with the local fire department: As soon as one of the Aviotec cameras detects a developing fire, the Aachen professional fire department is informed via the normatively integrated fire alarm system. A monitor shows arriving firefighters live images from the cathedral and informs them about the exact location where the danger was detected. This saves valuable time. Due to the high Aviotec standard, the fire department allowed the solution to be connected to its systems as a special detector. As the world's first system for video-based fire detection, Aviotec was certified by VdS in 2017. Close coordination with heritage conservation To determine the ideal position for each camera within the building, digital floor plans were initially created, followed by an elaborate 3D simulation. Heritage conservation was involved early on, allowing the video system to blend almost invisibly into the existing ensemble. During the installation phase, more than 30 craftsmen worked in the cathedral at times, implementing electricity, lighting, and the new video solution in coordination. For the entire team, it was a special experience to work on a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Thermal imaging is an advantageous tool for firefighters on the frontline. As thermal cameras have become more compact and affordable, their availability has expanded, along with their usefulness. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How does thermal imaging serve the needs of firefighters and how is it changing?  

New tools and technologies are emerging that augment the efforts of the fire market to prevent and fight fires. Modern firefighting is benefiting from an ongoing sea change in technological capabilities, spanning equipment, electronic components, greater connectivity and firefighter monitoring, to name just a few. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What technologies will have the greatest impact on the fire industry in 2021?