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Recruitment and retention are vital elements for the success of any volunteer fire or emergency medical services (EMS) department. Volunteer departments play a critical role in safeguarding communities, but without enough dedicated volunteers, these departments struggle to fulfill their mission. Volunteer fire and EMS departments across the country are struggling to attract and retain qualified members. Recognizing this challenge, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), in partnership with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), has taken a proactive step by releasing a comprehensive manual titled ‘Retention and Recruitment for the Volunteer Emergency Services.’ U.S. Fire Administration releases new manual This manual will equip volunteer departments with the necessary tools, strategies and insights This manual will equip volunteer departments with the necessary tools, strategies and insights to overcome recruitment obstacles and retain their valuable volunteers. “By addressing critical challenges, collaborating with local governments, implementing effective recruitment and retention strategies, and providing guidance on marketing, data utilization and funding, this manual offers a comprehensive resource for volunteer departments to overcome obstacles and ensure the continued safety and protection of their communities.” said Chief Richard Patrick, Director, National Fire and EMS Division, U.S. Fire Administration. The manual is organized into 4 primary sections: Critical recruitment and retention challenges Recruitment and retention are significant challenges for the U.S. fire and emergency services. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the number of volunteer firefighters has decreased from 897,750 in 1984 to 676,900 in 2020. Understanding the factors contributing to the decline is crucial in finding solutions. Time demands, increased training requirements and poor leadership are among the challenges faced by volunteer fire departments. Part I of the manual takes a holistic approach to address these recruitment and retention challenges within the community. Collaborating with the local government Local governments have a responsibility to provide fire protection services, but volunteer fire and EMS departments often struggle with funding. Part II of the manual offers case studies and insight on fostering and maintaining an effective relationship between volunteer fire and emergency services and local government to get the support needed. Recruitment strategies Recruitment strategies for volunteer fire and emergency services must be informed by obstacles that may hinder recruitment efforts. Part III of the manual provides guidance on locating potential volunteers and outlines effective onboarding processes for successful applicants. Additionally, this section emphasizes the impact of department culture and image on recruitment and offers strategies to ensure diversity and inclusivity within the department to better serve the community. Retention strategies Retention requires a multipronged approach that showcases department support and addresses volunteer preferences. Conducting an annual retention assessment helps leaders stay current on volunteer needs and potential issues. Retention topics covered include: Effective leadership Realistic expectations Health and safety considerations Building camaraderie Meeting training requirements Volunteer benefits and recognition Non-operational volunteers Mentor programs Family support Managing departures Manual includes sections on marketing and funding The manual also includes sections on marketing, using data to drive recruitment and retention efforts, and funding. Through the implementation of the strategies and practices outlined in this manual, volunteer departments can strengthen their ranks, enhance their operations and ultimately fulfill their vital mission of safeguarding the well-being of their communities.

Residents and business owners are being encouraged to give their views to help shape Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service’s plan for the next five years. The Service is looking ahead and starting to draft its plan, known as the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP), which covers its key focus areas until 2029. The plan will identify the fire and rescue related risks in the county and how the Service will mitigate them, as well as the opportunities that exist to continue improving its services to local communities. Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) A key part of this planning is to involve our communities at the very start of the process" Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Jon Anderson, said: “Our CRMP sets out what we think are the priority areas for us to concentrate on to manage the key risks we have identified and improve the service we deliver. A key part of this planning is to involve our communities at the very start of the process, which is why we are seeking the public’s views now." Jon Anderson adds, “We have put together a set of questions that will provide valuable information to us about what residents and business owners in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough expect of their local fire service, their views on how we deliver our service and their support in helping us target our resources in the most effective way.” CRMP linked to the Service’s vision The CRMP is linked to the Service’s vision for no preventable deaths or injuries from fires and other emergencies, and its strategic aims to achieve operational and community safety excellence, putting people at the heart of what it does and providing excellent value for money. Jon concluded: “We are really keen for everyone living and working across the county to tell us what they think by completing our survey. The survey takes around 10/15 minutes to complete and will allow us to shape what we deliver and how over the coming years. Take the time to complete the questions, and you could be in with a chance to win one of three £50 shopping vouchers.”

Coopers Fire is proud to announce that they have achieved FIA approval for CPD material for active curtain barriers. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) plays a vital role within the fire safety industry, keeping industry professionals updated with the latest knowledge and advancements. Coopers Fire recently received approval from the Fire Industry Association (FIA) for their CPD material. This achievement reinforces Coopers Fire’s commitment to educating fire safety professionals across the industry. FIA and their Approval FIA plays a crucial role in promoting and shaping the fire safety landscape through its wide-ranging activities The Fire Industry Association (FIA) is the largest trade association within the fire protection sector in the United Kingdom (UK). It is a non-profit organization that represents the interests of companies involved in fire safety, including manufacturers, suppliers, installers, and consultants. With over 1,000 members, the FIA plays a crucial role in promoting and shaping the fire safety landscape through its wide-ranging activities, including training courses, technical support, and certifications. Receiving FIA approval – key milestone for Coopers Fire Receiving FIA approval for their CPD material is a significant milestone for Coopers Fire, demonstrating their dedication to providing high-quality educational resources to fire safety professionals. This approval demonstrates that Coopers Fire’s educational CPD material meets the following criteria: Quality Assurance: The FIA approval acts as an endorsement of the educational content provided by Coopers Fire. Professionals can trust that the CPD material meets rigorous industry standards and provides accurate and reliable information. Industry Recognition: FIA approval adds a mark of distinction to Coopers Fire’s CPD material demonstrating its industry recognition. Professionals who complete the certified CPD programs are awarded a certificate demonstrating their commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Enhanced Knowledge Base: Coopers Fire’s CPD material, approved by the FIA, ensures that fire safety professionals, architects and building control officers stay up-to-date with the latest developments and advancements in fire safety. Key learning topics include regulations for passive fire protection, performance classifications, applications, standards & compliance and fire curtains as a solution. Coopers Fire dedicated to excellence in fire safety education Coopers Fire’s achievement of receiving FIA approval for their CPD material is a testament to their dedication to excellence in fire safety education. This endorsement not only solidifies Coopers Fire’s reputation as a major player in the industry, but also provides professionals with an assurance of the quality and relevance of their CPD programs. The FIA’s CPD Certification Centre further contributes to elevating the standards of professional development within the fire industry, ensuring that knowledge and expertise continue to evolve, ultimately enhancing fire safety practices and saving lives.

Streamlight®, Inc., a globally renowned provider of high-performance lighting for first responders, announced that it donated $21,000 to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), which included $11,000 in proceeds from sales of the company's specially marked NFFF Red Nano Light®, Red Vantage® helmet light, and Red Siege® AA lantern. Supporting NFFF via donations Streamlight earmarks $1.00, $3.00, and $2.00, respectively, from the sale of each light for the NFFF. The donation also included a $10,000 contribution for the continued Bronze level corporate sponsorship to NFFF. Streamlight has been supporting NFFF through donations and sponsorships for more than 16 years. Contributions have continually assisted NFFF in commemorating the lives of firefighters who have died in the line of duty and supporting their families and colleagues. Assistance  We hope our contributions have helped the families and surviving colleagues of the heroic firefighters" “We hope our contributions have helped the families and surviving colleagues of the heroic fallen firefighters over the years,” said Streamlight's President and Chief Executive Officer - Ray Sharrah. Ray Sharrah adds, “Their valor and selflessness no doubt saved the lives and property of others. We hope our donations will in some way assist those they left behind.” Funding initiatives Streamlight's sponsorship helps fund various initiatives, including the organization's annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend to fallen heroes held on May 6-7 at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park in Emmitsburg, MD.  The donations provide lodging and meals for the immediate families of firefighters being honored and assist with travel expenses. A plaque with the names of the firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2022 will be added to the National Firefighters Memorial during the tribute. funding scholarships Streamlight's sponsorship also helps fund scholarships awarded to spouses and children of fallen firefighters and counseling programs for agencies that have lost colleagues in the line of duty. Congress created the NFFF to lead a nationwide effort to honor America's fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the non-profit Foundation has developed and expanded programs that fulfill that mandate.

On May 11, 2023, the House of Representatives Committee on Science, Space, and Technology’s Subcommittee on Research and Technology held a hearing regarding ‘Reauthorizing the U.S. Fire Administration and Fire Grant Programs: Evaluating Effectiveness and Preparedness for Modern Challenges’. The National Volunteer Fire Council’s (NVFC) Georgia Director, David Bullard, testified at the hearing on the behalf of the NVFC. The hearing provided a great opportunity for the NVFC to express the importance of reauthorizing Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA). NVFC on reauthorizing of AFG and SAFER programs He also explained how these issues are experienced most frequently by small volunteer departments As a fire lieutenant in the congressional district adjacent to Subcommittee Chairman Mike Collins’ district, David Bullard described both local and national needs for AFG and SAFER funding. David Bullard described how fire service national needs assessments consistently show how a majority of fire departments nationwide have issues equipping their personnel with basic equipment like turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatus. He also explained how these issues are experienced most frequently by small volunteer departments. Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program David Bullard testified that the AFG program gives such departments a fighting chance at equipping their firefighters. Due to these significant resource challenges, AFG has been a lifeline for thousands of volunteer and small combination agencies across the country. However, the demand for AFG grants far exceeds the amount of available funding. David Bullard also described the significant staffing challenges facing volunteer fire departments. He explained that some of the largest factors impacting recruitment and retention are lack of opportunities for young people in rural America and the increased mental and physical demands of the job, whether it be increased call volume, the COVID-19 pandemic, or increased training demands. Demand for SAFER grants Like AFG, the demand for SAFER grants to support recruitment and retention is far greater than available funding. One success David Bullard highlighted was the SAFER grants the NVFC received to establish and expand the ‘Make Me A Firefighter’ campaign. To date there are more than 16,250 users who have signed up with the campaign This web-based tool provides departments with information and resource to implement recruitment programs, and offers an online searchable database of volunteer position listings. To date there are more than 16,250 users who have signed up with the campaign, representing more than 9,000 fire departments. More than 5,350 volunteer opportunities are listed and nearly 34,000 applications have been submitted through the campaign web site. Access to training a major challenge David Bullard also expressed to the committee how access to training is a significant challenge for many rural volunteer fire departments and how the USFA through the National Fire Academy makes their training accessible by delivering training directly to individuals on campus, remotely through online course offerings, or through state fire training academies. Bullard said the number of in-state delivery courses in Georgia is remarkable and meets a critical need. At the conclusion of his testimony, David Bullard asked the US House of Representatives to pass a bill reauthorizing AFG, SAFER, and USFA, before these authorizations expire at the end of the fiscal year. He also requested that the House pass a bill that keeps the authorizations for AFG and SAFER the same and increases the authorization of USFA by approximately US$ 20 million. The NVFC looks forward to continuing to work with the House of Representatives to ensure that AFG, SAFER, and USFA are reauthorized as quickly as possible.

Firefighters pledged to never forget the football fans who died 38 years ago in a devastating fire at Valley Parade.  West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) laid a wreath this morning at Bradford City Football Club to remember the 54 Bradford City supporters and two traveling Lincoln fans who died in the fire on May 11, 1985. Firefighters then joined dignitaries and the families of those who had lost their lives to lay wreaths at a service in Bradford’s Centenary Square. memorial event Dave Cookson, Assistant District Commander Bradford, was at the memorial event and said the incident will never be forgotten by the service. “A crew from Bradford Fire Station and I were at the ground this morning to lay the first wreath on behalf of those firefighters who attended on the day, as well as those who are responsible for present-day attendances at the club,” he said. Remembering the day There was also a party from Lincoln, who attend every year, as when they talk about the 56 who lost their lives" “None of them will ever forget that day and it is important to take this time to remember those who lost their lives." “At Centenary Square we came together with others to not only honor those who died but also the people that are still affected by the tragic events of that day. There was also a party from Lincoln, who attend every year, as when they talk about the 56 who lost their lives that includes two Lincoln fans - it is just as important that they are never forgotten.” League champions On the day of the fire, Bradford City were celebrating their promotion as league champions, at the final game of the season. Just before half time a small fire broke out in the main stand but very quickly spread at roof level, with the heat radiating down into the spectator areas. The fire spread so quickly that many people could not make it out of the stand in time. As a result of the fire, all stadiums are subject to legal changes regarding construction that would have a different outcome from the effect of the fire. opportunity and honor ADC Cookson said, “This was the last time I am going to lay the wreath on behalf of the fire service, as I retire in July, and I am just glad I had the opportunity and honor at what is always an emotional event." "Even though it is 38 years since the fire, the memories and feelings for many are still raw, and it is just as important as it ever has been to remember what happened on that tragic day.” memorial service Attendees included relatives and friends of the 56 people who lost their lives and were affected The memorial service marks the 38th anniversary of the Valley Parade fire disaster and was jointly run by Bradford City AFC and Bradford Metropolitan District Council.  It took place at 11 am in Centenary Square, Bradford, by the Bradford City Fire Memorial - the second such physical service since the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees included relatives and friends of the 56 people who lost their lives and were affected, as well as club and council officials and members of the public. Act of Commemoration The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Cllr Martin Love, hosted a Civic Party from Lincoln. They attended the service together, alongside Bradford City manager Mark Hughes and City’s first-team players and staff. Representatives from Lincoln City, the club playing against Bradford City that fateful day, also attended, as did the family of the late Professor David Sharpe OBE, founder of the Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit, following his death last month. The Act of Commemoration began with 'Abide with Me' and 'You'll Never Walk Alone', as the City Hall clock bells tolled, with the service conducted by the Dean of Bradford, The Very Reverend Andy Bowerman. wreath He was assisted by Bradford City AFC club chaplain, Pastor Oliver Evans, while a blessing was given by the Right Reverend Toby Howarth, Bishop of Bradford. The Lord-Lieutenant laid a wreath on behalf of His Majesty, The King, followed by Cllr Martin Love on behalf of the City and district, and chief executive officer Ryan Sparks on behalf of Bradford City AFC. floral tributes Wreaths were also laid by the High Sheriff, the Mayor of Lincoln, representatives of Lincoln City FC Wreaths were also laid by the High Sheriff, the Mayor of Lincoln, representatives of Lincoln City FC, Professor Ajay Mahajan on behalf of Bradford's Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit, bereaved families, and representatives of the emergency services. Once these wreaths were laid, others who wished to lay their own wreaths or floral tributes were encouraged to do so. Bradford City was playing Lincoln City in their last home match of the season when the disaster claimed the lives of 54 Bradford City supporters and two traveling Lincoln supporters, injuring hundreds more, in one of the world’s most devastating sporting tragedies. physical memorial service The club’s chief executive officer, Ryan Sparks, said, “After the return of a physical memorial service for the first time since before the pandemic last year, we once again came together to remember the 56 lives lost on 11th May 1985 in person." “As with every year, it is hugely important for us to be able to pay our respects to those who sadly lost their lives and the families who remain affected by the Valley Parade fire disaster to this day, in the most fitting way possible. This year, of course, the service was made even more poignant following the sad passing of two hugely significant figures linked to the tragedy recently, who all of us at Bradford City hold so very dear." visit and observe “It is important that this year, while we honor all those affected by the disaster on the 38th anniversary, we also pay tribute to Professor David Sharpe OBE, founder of Bradford’s Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit, and Jockel Reisner, who sculpted the Bradford City Fire Memorial which stands in Centenary Square.” Lord Mayor of Bradford Cllr Martin Love said, “It is important to the City and district that we take time to remember those who were affected and those who continue to be affected by the tragic events on 11th May 1985. This service will be particularly poignant for me as I was one of the 11,000 at Valley Parade on that day.” The Morrisons Family Stand (West) at the University of Bradford Stadium was also open to allow supporters to visit and observe personal reflection time.

When public safety agencies, including police, fire, and ambulance, work together to meet the needs of a region, citizens are better protected, and a better quality of life for all is promoted. However, today’s public expectation demands agencies embrace digital transformation, for those partnerships to be effective and efficient and vitally, connected with the public they serve. This can involve the integration of operational systems, such as computer-aided dispatch (CAD) in a public safety answering point (PSAP) and those used by other organizations, or the implementation of one system across multiple agencies. Public safety systems under pressure Public safety systems are under a lot of pressure, and digital transformation provides the foundation to handle the scale, complexity, and unpredictability that comes with rapidly changing, multi-dimensional incidents and legislative demands. This is especially true for those regions that rely on multiple-agency partnerships. For example, remote areas where agencies such as mountain rescue will be required to work seamlessly with the air ambulance. This is where cloud-based systems come in. Scalability and resilience are especially important, when you look at the responsibilities that fall under the remit of emergency services organisations. Whether it is, for example, police or fire, response calls can range from small day-to-day incidents to massive events, such as natural disasters or crowd disorder. Cloud-based systems can address this range, intuitively aiding the responders no matter the bespoke nature of the call. Complex emergency service structures In the United Kingdom, while the government has sought to improve emergency services integration and collaboration, the situation is complicated due to the many different authorities that control emergency response and because few of their boundaries are coterminous. However, in major cities, such as London, jurisdiction is more focused, led by a single Fire Authority or Commissioner For example, in non-metropolitan areas, fire and rescue falls under the jurisdiction of combined fire authorities involving many different local councils and other authorities in the region. However, in major cities, such as London, jurisdiction is more focused, led by a single Fire Authority or Commissioner, with the local Mayor accountable for setting the annual budget. Then, there are the, often county-based, police forces and regional ambulance services, who fall into different hierarchal structures, all with different boundaries. All of this complexity creates barriers, which can develop into rigid siloes. This is the landscape that these organisations hope to improve by using cloud-based systems. Ensuring citizen data privacy Across all these structures run competing political priorities, as well as distinct legacy IT systems that must be surpassed to achieve seamless integration. Lastly, the services must ensure the public that there will be no unnecessary government personal intrusion through the technology. Citizen data privacy must be a leading consideration, especially in light of the recent increase in cyber-attacks directed at the public sector. For example, the WannaCry ransomware attack on the National Health Service in 2017. Cloud-based systems There are multiple advantages to moving emergency services systems, such as CAD, to the cloud – greater access, flexible connectivity, and communication through a government accredited secure platform. Moving to the Cloud enables more informed and timely decisions from emergency services personnel, more effective use of resources, and increased understanding and engagement, the overall impact of this is greater resiliency and safety for the emergency services, and the public they serve. Vitally, when the Cloud is used effectively and services are subsequently improved, public trust in emergency service institutions is reinforced. Benefits of the Cloud The benefits of the Cloud are most evident in public safety, when it comes to cross agency collaboration The benefits of the Cloud are most evident in public safety, when it comes to cross agency collaboration. Cloud platforms create a shared point of access to data that is currently split between multiple siloed organisations. This means that every agency, responding to an incident, will have the same information in real-time, greatly improving their coordination. This allows personnel to react to events on the ground, as they happen with no delays or confusion arising from misrelated communication. In a potentially chaotic emergency environment, the value of immediately sharing information in secure, trusted partner relationships cannot be overstated, when it comes to saving lives or ensuring staff safety. Attributes of an efficient public safety cloud platform There are several consistent considerations for public safety agencies looking to choose a cloud solution, as the foundation for the digital transformation process. The leading factor is collaboration and working together to form a checklist that can be used to identify an effective next-generation public safety solution. First, public safety agencies need a cohesive user experience for advanced communications and insight. This a basic element of any unified system. It ensures interoperability across all solutions and platforms, and unites capabilities beyond dispatch, and call-taking to include analytics, planning, and reporting features. The benefits of systems integrations When systems are integrated across public safety agencies, any organization can ensure effective communications for smarter, faster decision-making, which is essential to public safety work. Another leading consideration is that of public trust. When public safety professionals can harness operational data, they have more tools to make better-informed and more-timely decisions, allowing them to demonstrate increased public understanding and engagement. This results in more transparency and better evidence-based communication to demonstrate to the community that these services are acting for the public good. Return on Investment (ROI) An option here is to use a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform, as these are often implemented on a subscription-basis Return on Investment (ROI) must also be factored into every decision. Public safety agencies have finite budgets and therefore, it is crucial to pick a cloud-based service that is cost effective. An option here is to use a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform, as these are often implemented on a subscription-basis. Therefore, there is a predetermined cost and billing process which makes it much easier to track expenses and only pay for additional capacity when it’s needed. Lastly, any solution chosen must be easily adaptable and future-proof. The UK Government has oversight over emergency service policy legislation and there is always the potential for updates or amendments, for example the temporary changes brought in during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the selected platform must have the capacity to evolve in line with legislation through easily configurable workflows and customer business rules. It is vital that the cloud platform does not become just another legacy system that agencies must navigate when improving their services. A clear need for cloud transformation The benefits of cloud systems to public safety services are myriad. Ultimately, they improve the pace and quality of the emergency services’ response, which can in turn lead to the saving of citizens’ lives. A fundamental element is that they allow multiple agencies to focus on what they do best, unencumbered by managing the technology, responding to incidents together, with all services acting as a unified force in confronting any crisis. However, for the full benefits of cloud to be realized, certain attributes must be embraced when selecting a system, such as user experience, public trust, ROI, and adaptability. Once these attributes are secured, the improvements cloud-based systems can bring are limitless.

Workplace emergencies come in all shapes and sizes, including fires, explosions, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, toxic material releases, radiological and biological accidents, civil disturbances, workplace violence, etc. All of which, according to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), require an emergency action plan. Willfully violating that requirement and not having an emergency action plan that is current, well understood and accessible, could result in a fine of US$ 134,937 per violation. Emergency Action Plan Checklist by OSHA Considering that the Emergency Action Plan Checklist by OSHA consists of 21 items or categories, to be considered based on each potential emergency, that’s a lot of opportunities for something to get missed, a lot of ways someone could get hurt and for a violation to be considered willful! In this article, we will explore the emergency action plans required by OSHA, the challenges with today’s methodologies and how they are exposing operations to increased safety and security risks. The goal is to provide you with the information necessary, to improve your emergency response plans and ultimately, help you save lives, money and time. Emergency Action Plans As OSHA says, the best way to prepare to respond to an emergency is before it happens As OSHA says, the best way to prepare to respond to an emergency is before it happens. Few people can think clearly and logically in a crisis, so it is important to do so in advance, when you have the time to be thorough. This is a discussion that is applicable to almost every business. According to OSHA, all workplaces with more than 10 employees are required to develop a written Emergency Action Plan (EAP), to identify and coordinate the necessary employer, and employee actions, during an emergency. Key elements of an emergency action plan An emergency action plan must be in writing, kept in the workplace and available to employees for review. At the time of publication of this article, at a minimum, the EAP must include these elements: Procedures for reporting a fire or other emergency. Procedures for emergency evacuation, including type of evacuation and exit route assignments. Procedures to be followed by employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they evacuate. Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation. Procedures to be followed by employees performing rescue or medical duties. The name or job title of every employee who may be contacted by employees who need more information about the plan or an explanation of their duties under the plan. An employer must have and maintain an employee alarm system. An employer must designate and train employees to assist in a safe and orderly evacuation of other employees. The employer must review the emergency action plan with each employee covered by the plan, including: When the plan is developed or the employee is assigned initially to a job, When the employee's responsibilities under the plan change, and When the plan is changed. Emergency action plans should consider all emergencies Emergency action planning is complicated, as it must consider the impact of all kinds of emergencies, all of which will have different implications on operations and the safety, and security team. They are detailed, as there are lots of moving parts and lots of things that will need to be completed in parallel, in order to minimize the impact on operations. With the right team putting their heads together, doing the right research and considering all the possibilities, creating a document that outlines the job to be done, the order of operations, the list of contacts and steps to be taken, is not out of reach for anyone. What might be out of reach for many is thinking clearly and logically in a crisis, and making sure the action plan gets done right the first time, when it is actually needed. The format, fundamental issue in emergency action plans The fundamental issue with today’s emergency action plan is not the content, but the format We believe the real issue or challenge is that for many, the emergency action plan is still just a document, often created and stored in a ‘red binder’ on someone’s desk. Therefore, the fundamental issue with today’s emergency action plan is not the content, but the format.  A great emergency action plan not only details the requirements, but also ensures that the right team members are executing the right plan, at the right time. It ensures important steps are not missed and that precious time is not lost searching for information. It also ensures that the emergency coordinator has access to current data, so they can accurately determine how best to proceed.  Need for data visibility Limiting the emergency response team to a document, outlining procedures, is exposing operations and those on site to increased risk. While the data might be there, we have no visibility, no information. While the training might have been completed, there also might be a revolving door on the emergency response team, making it difficult to confirm who was trained on what procedures, and when? In the event of an actual emergency, the action plan needs to be accessed by the coordinator and actions/responsibilities need to be verbally communicated, costing precious time, when seconds matter the most. When the emergency responders arrive on-site, there is limited, if any visibility, on the status of executing the action plans, where team members are and their current status. Continuing to rely on these manual, paper-based and antiquated methods, is exposing operations to increased risk of injury and damages. Digitally Transforming Emergency Action Plans! It is our belief that it is time to digitally transform how we manage the emergency response team and action plans It is our belief that it is time to digitally transform how we manage the emergency response team and action plans. Relying on the ways of yesterday, are no longer going to cut it and are actually exposing operations to more risk and cost than is necessary. Technology has evolved in ways that enable operations to cost effectively eliminate the fear, uncertainty and doubt in emergency response. Today, we can automate all the EAPs, ensuring staff merely needs to start the plan and follow the work items identified in the plan. High risk work items can be prioritized, so as to help further reduce risk.  Real-time visibility of operations Execution can automatically be captured and monitored giving ‘Command and Control’ real-time visibility of the teams’ actions. Data can be captured in a single system of record, so management can easily evaluate performance and identify areas for improvement. It is time to take what was paper and digitally transform it, for a safer tomorrow!

Both our homes and public building environments can have a huge impact on our wellbeing, and over the past few years, the importance of health and hygiene standards has only been exemplified. It’s said that eighty percent of common infections are spread by touch. What’s more, every 30 minutes the average person is said to touch surfaces that expose them to 840,000 germs. These germs are prevalent in public buildings too, where touchpoints are areas or items that are used by several individuals. Of those touchpoints, door handles are the most touched surface in working environments for example, and can be associated with cross-contamination and health risks. Rising infection rates Right now, the need to improve hygiene within our building environments, understandably, carries a greater significance than it maybe once did. But when it comes to building design, the process of protecting occupants and visitors against infection - especially those most vulnerable - can never be ignored. Research has shown that the coronavirus can survive on surfaces for hours Over what has been a challenging biennial, building environments have closed, reopened and the process repeated. With the coronavirus, the idea of reducing footfall in facilities was instrumental in faltering rising infection rates. But now, as normality has somewhat returned, that footfall is back. Once again, touchpoints such as door handles are harboring germs. In fact, research has shown that the coronavirus can survive on surfaces for hours, and even days on metal door handles - and the same can be said for the common flu. Promoting hand washing Government campaigns have promoted hand washing, sanitizing and distance-making in response to a return to public facilities. Undoubtedly, infection control methods such as hand washing and systematic cleaning are the most guaranteed way of controlling cross-contamination. However, these methods can still fall redundant as a result of human error or relaxed conventions. Building design can play an important role here. Daniel May, Director at Consort explains: “We’re at a point where decision makers are under pressure to keep building hygiene standards as high as ever before. And outside of the clear-cut hygiene measures, it’s understood that more can be done throughout the building design process, with architectural hardware selection at the core of decisions.” Anti-Microbial hardware Door hardware is the first touchpoint when entering, exiting or navigating a building" “Door hardware is the first touchpoint when entering, exiting or navigating a building, and can be one of the most bacteria-ridden. Yet, the latest in hardware advancements could give facility managers an edge in the fight against infection, especially in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals for example, where footfall is high and the need to maintain strict sterile environments already exists.” “For added protection against bacteria, facilities can implement tailored anti-microbial hardware and finishes. Anti-microbial coatings applied to door handles are precisely formulated to prevent bacteria build-up upon the surface by interrupting cell multiplication. Some door seal solutions also make use of modern anti-bacterial technology, embedding it within the aluminum and silicone of the door seal during production, further reducing the spread of bacteria in high traffic areas.” Effective infection control For care and hospital locations specifically, The Care Quality Commission (CQC) sets a regulation that cleanliness and effective infection control is a necessity for those environments. Healthcare environments are encouraged to introduce innovative infection control methods where possible, supporting the best practice methods already in place. Healthcare environments are encouraged to introduce innovative infection control methods Equally, under The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, decision makers have an active duty to keep inhabitants safe and their environments clean. And aside from the use of antimicrobial solutions, many are challenged to provide hygienically maintained environments without sacrificing fire or safety standards. Efficient building management Daniel adds: “Facilities with high footfall must also consider ventilation and ease of movement. Whether in healthcare, commercial or public environments, both are key elements of efficient building management and when done effectively, can further help inhibit the spread of infection by ensuring fresh air is consistently making its way through halls and rooms.” “The most effective way to improve ventilation throughout a building is by opening its windows and doors. This creates an inlet for fresh air and an outlet for the old air, and with access points open, minimizes the need to touch door handles. Yet, when focusing on airflow, it’s inopportune to disregard fire safety. Too many times, we’ve seen facilities fall foul of leaving fire doors propped open in favor of improving ventilation and ease of access - but simply put, it’s illegal to do so and leaves fire doors wholly ineffective in a fire situation.” Automatic door controls Modern exit systems are purpose built to ensure fire doors can be left open safely and securely" “Modern exit systems are purpose built to ensure fire doors can be left open safely and securely. Automatic door controls make use of sensors which activate the operator devices connected to the main access doors.” “In turn, this aids access and egress when required and closes the doors shut when necessary. In the event of a fire, the alarm is sounded, and the doors close automatically - ensuring safety is never compromised. What’s more, these systems can be integrated with the external building security, reducing risk on all fronts. Regular cleaning practices “Ultimately, when paired with regular cleaning practices, these modern solutions can play an assist role in the fight against infection, helping to maintain building hygiene as well as the obligatory standards associated with building and fire safety.” Consort’s bespoke specification services extend to hygienic solutions, offering users tailored products to suit the needs of any building infrastructure. Antimicrobial finishes can be applied to any touch products and door seals, of which are already supplied to large complex hospitals around the world including Pamela Youde in Hong Kong and the Metropolitan Hospital in Birmingham.

FIREX International 2022 was bustling with visitors, glad to be back networking, demonstrating new technologies, and sharing ideas. Education was high on the agenda across the three days at London’s Excel, with various live seminars and panel discussion sessions held throughout the show. Fire Education Seminars covered topics ranging from social sustainability to safety leadership, while the Fire Protection Association (FPA) InfoZone hosted sessions on sprinklers in schools, the safety implications of electronic vehicle fires, and the insurability of timber buildings. With lots of new and established products on display at the event, it was clear that the biggest changes in this sector are being driven by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and, inevitably, the continued fall-out from the tragic Grenfell fire of 2017 in London. IP-based public alarm and voice address Coronavirus safety measures and concerns have driven advances in remote monitoring of fire detection systems. IP-based public alarm and voice address (PA/VA) technology is enabling improved remote communication channels. Ian Bridgewater, Director, Technical Sales Manager at TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, explained to TheBigRedGuide.com how developments in this area can be utilized, “The use of IP in PA/VA is changing the way installers and maintenance engineers can communicate with systems.” Remote monitoring and maintenance He continued, “Connecting via industrial standard network protocols allows for remote communication.” “Working with specialist software developers has expanded this giving greater flexibility to monitor and maintain systems remotely from a central hub. IP allows for integration with network audio communication systems such as SIP and VMS (Video Management Systems).” Grenfell disaster The fire of the Grenfell building in London has brought changes to testing and regulation in the fire prevention The horrific fire that took hold of the Grenfell building in London in 2017, leading to 71 deaths, has brought about dramatic changes to testing and regulation in the fire prevention and suppression industries, as well as to the construction and building design. Indeed, these lessons learned at a high cost are being shared outside the UK and having an effect around the world. Impact of fire “It was the sixth major building fire since 1973, yet it's the only one that's created any change, and now those ripple effects are starting to be felt outside the UK, too,” Ed Peltor, Managing Director at Tenmat Ltd, said. “The recladding of the UK building stock (now extended to buildings over 11m, not just over 18m) that does not comply will take at least ten years. Despite Government funding and the Building Safety Bill, only a fraction has been rectified, costly waking watches remain in place.” A resilient industry It is encouraging that terrible events like the Grenfell fire and the COVID-19 pandemic are at least having a positive impact on innovation in fire prevention and resulting in more efficient systems and improved fire safety for many. Alongside these technological advances, FIREX 2022 also featured the Engineers of Tomorrow competition and live installer dedicated training, emphasizing the event’s focus on continued learning and a positive future for the active and passive fire sectors.

New technologies for the fire service were a predominant topic at TheBigRedGuide.com in 2021, based on the most-visited articles at the site during the past year. Looking back at the top articles of the year -- as measured by those that received the most "clicks" -- provides a decent summary of emerging technologies in the fire service. The list of articles also highlights some of the biggest challenges in the fire service, including wildfires and emerging fire risks. Timely and important issues in the fire marketplace dominated TheBigRedGuide.com’s list of most clicked-on articles in 2021. Let’s look back at the Top 10 articles posted at thebigredguide.com in 2021 that generated the most page views. They are listed in order here with a brief excerpt. What Impact Has COVID-19 Had on the Fire Industry? Firefighters have coped admirably against a backdrop of expanded roles and considerable staff absences As a front-line, critical service, the fire service felt a considerable impact from COVID-19. Firefighters have coped admirably against a backdrop of expanded roles and considerable staff absences. Some brigades have seen absence levels of up to 40%, forcing them to re-train some staff from non-operational roles as emergency responders. It has meant a broader range of service offerings, with brigades offering wider community support, from vaccinations to vital support elements such as delivering food and medicine and driving ambulances. What Fire Technologies Will Have the Greatest Impact In 2021? Exciting developments in firefighting equipment, media, and Information Technology (IT), centered on improving safety and protecting people and the environment, will be highlighted in 2021. Increasing use of electric and hybrid technologies in cars and trucks will continue to challenge Fire and Rescue Services, as they seek safer ways to effectively control fires in these vehicles. The refinement of ultra-high pressure (UHP) firefighting equipment will interest municipal and aviation fire services, as it allows effective firefighting to occur from outside a burning structure, protecting firefighters while using significantly less water volume, extinguishing the fire but minimizing water and environmental damage. A Look at Emerging Technologies in The Fire Protection Industry The ability to innovate in the fire industry can quite literally be a matter of life and death. Smart Connected Things (SCoT) within fire protection systems offer more accurate, efficient inspections and testing, which on its own can save lives. The systems are now being used by both building owners and service providers to determine fire protection system conditions as well as helping to perform some critical testing functions remotely. Fire protection brands have made huge leaps forward in their quest to develop smoke detectors that meet with the UL 268 Safety Standards for 2020. “TruSense Technology” is designed to differentiate between fast and smoldering flames and common false alarms. Water mist suppression systems can fight fires using significantly less water than a traditional system. How Drone Technology Helps London Fire Brigade with Incident Command Drones act as a loudspeaker to give instructions or reassurance and shine a bright spotlight in dark conditions The drones are permitted to fly up to 400 ft above ground level or higher in an emergency and can fly as fast as 50 mph. They also can act as a loudspeaker to give instructions or reassurance and shine a bright spotlight in dark or low-light conditions. The Brigade has eight pilots trained and operates a 24/7 service. The team is working closely with its blue light partners, including the Metropolitan Police Service, several search and rescue teams, and a host of fire services surrounding the capital, as well as advising other upcoming drone teams around the United Kingdom. Charging Of E-Bikes And E-Scooters Represents Residential Fire Hazard The fire hazards of e-bikes and e-scooters stem from their use of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that can erupt into flames. Complicating the problem is the use of unauthorized or third-party batteries that may not be safe. E-bike conversion kits are available to convert standard bikes into e-bikes, but they include only the motors and control gears. Batteries must be sourced separately, often over the internet and by cost-conscious buyers, who may not consider safety issues. Cheaper batteries may be faulty. Fire Protection for Paper and Pulp Plants Production of paper increased by more than 450% in the last decades and the demand for paperboard in the world is expected to grow significantly, driven by e-commerce and big retailers increasing their presence in the online sales universe. This sustained growth in production capacity and paper consumption presents several fire risks to companies and exposes communities that develop around paper mills to the impact of disasters caused by these fire risks. Cloud-based and communication force firefighter teams to have access to high-performing wireless connectivity What Are Emerging Technologies in Wildfire Prevention and Protection? Internet connectivity is not an obvious emerging technology in the wildfire prevention and protection industry; however, today’s cloud-based databases, applications, and communication infrastructure force firefighter teams to have access to fault-tolerant and high-performing wireless connectivity options. Broadband Bonding is the technology that combines 2 or more off-the-shelf cellular sim cards to create fast and reliable Internet connectivity on the go. Teledyne’s Handheld Laser Detects Explosive Methane From 100 Feet Away For firefighters, the tool provides situational awareness, saves time, and ensures safety from a distance. Knowing the presence of methane gas enables a firefighter to deal with an emergency gas leak and to avoid a deadly explosion. The Gas Laser from Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection can shoot a laser beam through a window, a gap in a door, or another common venting point to provide an instant reading of the amount of methane in an area up to 100 feet away. Thermal imaging cameras allow to locate and remove casualties faster and significantly improve survivability How Does Thermal Imaging Serve the Needs of Firefighters? For firefighters on the frontline, thermal imaging cameras allow them to locate and remove casualties faster and thus, significantly improve their survivability. The knock-on effect of this also removes firefighters from hazardous areas quicker. Finally, being able to “see” in dark smoke-filled environments allows firefighters to see hazards that they might previously discover only once in physical contact with the hazard. Modern Firefighting Calls for Modern Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) According to research at Underwriter Laboratories (UL), modern homes contain larger quantities of petroleum-based products and plastics that burn faster and hotter versus traditional and more natural materials. The result is more rapid and hotter fire growth with exponential increases in heat generation, smoke production, and toxicity. When a call comes in, firefighters rely on their turnout gear (TOG) for protection, but serious burn injury can occur right through the TOG. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) conducted a study that concluded station wear contributes to overall thermal protection. However, depending upon the station wear’s fiber content and material fabrication, it may also contribute to possible burn injuries.

Trends, such as social distancing and breakdowns in group interactions are changing the emergency response needs in Suffolk County, New York, and other communities around the world. In the new normal, there are also fewer opportunities to identify someone, who might need mental health services or be in crisis. Residents are more likely to push aside signs of anxiety and depression, until they become more severe. Suffolk County affected by COVID-19 Suffolk County was an epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic and before that, of the opioid epidemic, both of which impact mental health and consequently, the emergency response needs of a community. In the case of COVID-19, isolation from family and children required better response, availability of services, and training for first responders. “We are seeing people at some of their worst times,” said Joel Vetter, the Chief of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services in Suffolk County, N.Y., adding “Who responds to help the public, during times of crisis, whether suicide, overdose or crisis intervention? We must provide first responders with awareness training.” awareness training for first responders Joel Vetter helms the ‘umbrella’ fire and emergency agency that covers Suffolk County Joel Vetter further said, “How can we be supportive to family, patients, and bystanders, and how do we take care of our own? We want to interact and keep people with mental illness safe, to have a positive outcome and to provide support.” Joel Vetter helms the ‘umbrella’ fire and emergency agency that covers Suffolk County on Long Island, New York, where 1.5 million residents are served by 109 fire departments and 27 emergency medical services agencies. Suffolk County handles the 911 dispatch center for the various departments, which include volunteer, paid and hybrid departments providing fire service and EMS. Joel Vetter, emergency services veteran With 33 years of experience in emergency services, Vetter began as a volunteer, later worked as a paramedic and then transitioned into emergency management and to providing education for first responders. He has held his current position for four years.  To address various mental health issues, Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services networks with other agencies, including schools and faith-based organizations, to coordinate response and promote messaging of more than 100 available recovery and education resources. Sharing vital information globally “We are able to share information about programming aspects more globally, rather than in little pockets,” said Joel Vetter. Mental health issues nationally have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, with some 41% of adults reporting an anxiety and/or depressive order, in January 2021, in comparison to just 11% in 2019, according to a National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Early Release Program and U.S. Census Bureau Survey. However, many people are distrustful of calling for public safety services, during a mental health crisis, as 86% of respondents in one survey say improvements are needed in how public safety services respond to a mental health crisis. Suffolk County’s 911 call center relies on technology In Suffolk County, the 911 call center relies on technology to help, some of it purchased with anti-terrorism funding In Suffolk County, the 911 call center relies on technology to help, some of it purchased with anti-terrorism funding, after the anthrax scare in 2001. They log calls using national emergency dispatch codes, which provides data reflecting the impact on the communities of the opioid epidemic, for example, and more recently, by the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, between 2019 and 2020, the overall 911 calls volume jumped 213%, including a 5% increase in calls related to mental health, and a 13% increase in overdoses. Emergency responders are required to train eight hours a year on mental health issues and additional voluntary sessions are offered. A crisis intervention team is made up of volunteers and mental health professionals. For first responders, facing their own mental health issues, there are peer-to-peer support programs. Rave Smart911 app for effective communications Suffolk County’s technology solution includes a critical communication and collaboration platform, provided by Rave Mobile Safety, enabling those tasked with protecting communities the ability to address holistically the challenges of critical communications, incident collaboration, safety and protection, and 911. In Suffolk County, there are almost a million landlines loaded and maintained in the system. The Rave Smart911 app is integrated to provide emergency messaging for a wide variety of situations. Secure encrypted profile and mass notification capabilities Residents can opt-in to the system and build a securely encrypted profile Residents can opt-in to the system and build a securely encrypted profile, providing details of a residence, images and information on the inhabitants, and any other information that would be useful in case of an emergency. If a resident calls 911, the information becomes instantly available to an operator answering the call. Rave also provides mass notification capabilities, including seasonal, targeted messages, prevention missives, safety tips, and emergency response information. Templates built into the system help to guide response and action plans. A resident might receive a targeted text message when snow starts to fall, for example. If it snows more than 6 inches, additional emergency response and messaging are deployed. ‘Sirens at Seven’ program “We help the general public to empower themselves by seeing what services are available in their towns, villages, counties and states,” said Joel Vetter. To demonstrate unity, Suffolk County instituted a ‘Sirens at Seven’ program that sounded sirens throughout the entire county for three minutes to unify the community and recognize the work of first responders and healthcare professionals.

An outpatient diagnostic and rehabilitation unit at an Isle of Wight hospital has been deemed unfit for purpose due to fire safety failings. The Laidlaw unit at St Mary’s Hospital, Newport was found to have disconnected alarms in the roof space of the ward and ‘inadequately sized and positioned’ fire exits, as detailed in a report produced for the Isle of Wight NHS Trust. Fire safety failings This will mean that safe evacuation will be compromised, as there will be minimal warning" The report said: "A fire developing in the roof space will not alert the relevant persons using the department, as the fire alarm system is disconnected due to the presence of asbestos in the area and the inability to safely maintain the system. This will mean that safe evacuation will be compromised, as there will be minimal warning of the fire, before it affects the areas occupied by patients and staff." The report added that patients on their beds in some side rooms would be unable to be safely moved from the building in the event of a fire as ‘the doors are not wide enough’. Another issue highlighted in the report was the risk posed to fire safety by inadequate night-time staffing levels that would mean there were not enough people to safely carry out the evacuation plan. Fire alarm system Responding to the report, the Isle of Wight NHS Trust has told patients and staff that they are taking steps to improve fire safety, and that the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service was happy for the ward to remain in use, while these remediation steps were put in place. These steps include new storage facilities, the widening of access doors, permanent access to wheelchairs to assist in evacuating the building, and the training of additional fire wardens. A spokesperson said the safety of patients is of top priority and that the ward is safe to use, with comprehensive plans in place to ensure they are able to move patients safely in the event of a fire or other emergency. They continued that the Trust have now prioritized plans to make further changes to improve the safety of the Laidlaw ward.

MSA Safety Incorporated (MSA) has announced that it has been awarded a US$ 9 million contract from the London Fire Brigade to supply firefighters with MSA’s new M1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and telemetry technology. The contract was formally awarded in early July, 2022, with the equipment deliveries expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2022. Multi-phase SCBA training and deployment process The announcement also represents the beginning of a multi-phase SCBA training and deployment process, involving the London Fire Brigade’s more than 4,500 firefighters. The decision to upgrade London’s SCBA technology was made after an extensive and comprehensive evaluation process. Nish Vartanian, the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at MSA Safety Incorporated, said “The M1 SCBA represents the most advanced, ergonomic and modular SCBA that MSA has ever introduced to the European and International markets.” Breathing apparatus contract from London Fire Brigade We are incredibly proud to establish this new partnership with one of the oldest and most respected fire brigades in the world" Nish Vartanian adds, “We are incredibly proud to establish this new partnership with one of the oldest and most respected fire brigades in the world. Most importantly, we’re honored that the London Fire Brigade has entrusted MSA with the responsibility of protecting the men and women who keep the residents of London safe each day.” London Fire Brigade’s Deputy Commissioner, Richard Mills, said “Following a competitive tender process, we’re really looking forward to developing our exciting partnership with MSA. The new state-of-the-art breathing apparatus equipment will be lighter and easier to carry and provide enhanced safety for our firefighters. The improved equipment shows how we are transforming as a fire service and investing in the latest technology to help protect London and Londoners.” M1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus The ground-breaking design of the MSA M1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus was a key factor in London Fire Brigade’s selection of the new SCBA platform. The breathing apparatus includes several patented and customizable features that help to enhance ergonomics and improve firefighter comfort and hygiene. These features include the industry’s lightest-weight back-plate with a unique one-handed height adjustment, an advanced hip belt that evenly distributes the weight of the SCBA, and a padded harness that is fully water-repellent, making the entire SCBA system machine washable without disassembly. Other key features of M1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus  Other features of the M1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus that factored into the London Fire Brigade’s selection include a high pressure cylinder connection for fast cylinder exchanges, compatibility with MSA’s industry-renowned G1 face piece, and integration with FireGrid, which gives incident commanders the ability to evaluate and manage multiple situations, in real time and from any location. MSA Safety Incorporated’s Entry Control Board (ECB), designed specifically to meet the unique needs of the UK fire service, also played a key part in the Brigade’s decision to choose the MSA brand. MSA’s Entry Control Board (ECB) MSA’s ECB is also capable of providing post-incident reporting and automated documentation Serving as a cloud-connected fire-ground management tool that provides Incident Commanders with air and alarm status of all telemetry-enabled breathing apparatus on scene, MSA’s ECB is also capable of providing post-incident reporting and automated documentation. As part of the contract, MSA Safety Incorporated will also provide the London Fire Brigade with a new communications system that provides enhanced voice communications. Called the C1 Headset, the device attaches easily to the outside of the SCBA face piece. MSA Safety Incorporated - London Fire Brigade partnership Nish Vartanian commented that the SCBA contract with the London Fire Brigade represents the beginning of a new and exciting partnership. He said, “As a company whose only mission is worker safety, we are incredibly proud to be associated with a brigade that is regarded as a genuine industry leader and advocate for firefighter safety. London is one of the most progressive and respected fire brigades in the world and, as part of our Voice of the Customer process, we will certainly be seeking their input on future product development initiatives.”

On Wednesday, May 4th, 2022, the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD) announces partnership with RightSite Health for a new pilot program, in order to decrease transport calls for non-life-threatening emergency medical services (EMS), at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. New pilot program for ATL The program will help provide patients with medical guidance and transport in urgent-but-non-emergency situations, in order to navigate away from the emergency room to more appropriate and lower-cost in-network providers. Fire Chief at the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD), Roderick M. Smith, said “This innovation benefits all who travel through Hartsfield-Jackson. The goal is to provide patients with appropriate medical care without depleting the resources required for life-threating incidents.” AFRD - RightSite Health partnership Roderick M. Smith adds, “We are confident that the partnership with RiteSite will ensure our local healthcare system will work more effectively and enhance the delivery of care provided in the future.” AFRD established the program's implementation, after Atlanta Medical Center South announced the closing of the emergency department and hospital beds. RiteSite Health RiteSite option will be provided to patients with a non-emergent status the option of telemedicine For the pilot program, the RiteSite option will be provided to patients with a non-emergent status the option of telemedicine and local urgent care appointments. This will be directed at the approximately 25% of all EMS not requiring an Emergency Department visit, allowing the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department to return to service in nearly 30 minutes, thereby ensuring all five EMS Transport Units & crews staffed at ATL are available when needed. RiteSite Health offers: An improved care quality by increasing in-network access outside of the Emergency Room Ensures patients and plans achieve the highest quality, lowest cost care Help patients use in-network providers to avoid surprise bills Telehealth emergency physician triage and non-ER appointment and transportation service Safe environment for passengers and employees “The Hartsfield-Jackson team prides itself on providing a safe environment for our passengers and employees,” said Balram Bheodari, General Manager at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Balram Bheodari adds, “This program will allow us to ensure their safety, while securing resources for more serious emergency calls. Our collaboration with AFRD is aligned with our strategic pillar - People - with a focus on safety. We look forward to RightSite’s implementation.”   Under the current model, of the approximately 1,000 911 calls that ATL generates each month, 51% of all current transports are taken to AMC South. The average out-of-service time for transport exceeds more than two hours.

Masimo announced that University Hospitals (UH) of Cleveland is using Masimo Patient SafetyNet™, remote monitoring, and supplemental alarm system, to combat nurse burnout by improving workflows and reducing workloads. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to strain healthcare infrastructure around the world, hospitals are dealing with higher than usual rates of nurse turnover. Patient SafetyNet offers a technological approach to supporting nursing workflows, as both UH’s experience and clinical evidence have shown. Survey on nurse staffing absences During the pandemic, more than 80% of hospitals have reported an increase in nurse turnover. In a survey of more than 20,000 nurses conducted in 2020, 18% intended to resign, 50% responded that work was negatively impacting their health, and 47% reported that insufficient staffing contributed to their desire to leave the profession. Nurse staffing shortages have been associated with both increased costs and, crucially, decreased patient safety: A survey of 138 facilities covering more than 120,000 nurses found that the average cost of turnover ranged from $37,400 to $58,400 per nurse. And an observational, retrospective study of almost 200,000 patients across 43 hospital units found a significant association between increased patient mortality and nurse staffing below target levels. Patient SafetyNet UH shows how their experience using Patient SafetyNet is positively impacting nursing practices In a newly released testimonial, UH – one of the largest health systems in Ohio – shows how their experience with continuous remote monitoring using Patient SafetyNet is positively impacting their nursing practices and the quality-of-care nurses are able to provide while improving efficiency and staff satisfaction. Within three weeks of implementing Patient SafetyNet, for example, UH found that the average time between obtaining a patient's vital signs at the point of care and documenting them in the electronic medical record (EMR) had decreased from more than 60 minutes to less than 5 minutes, resulting in a time savings of one FTE per shift. Implementation of Patient SafetyNet UH first implemented Patient SafetyNet in 2016 following an incident in which an unnoticed, rapid deterioration in a patient's condition resulted in emergency resuscitation and ICU transfer. Jenna Zarack, a nurse at UH's Geauga Medical Center, said that Patient SafetyNet is "a great way to protect patients; it's a great way to protect nurses, and for nurses to be able to help their patients in a fast, immediate response, so we don’t get to a code, we don’t get to a rapid response situation." Sara Knowles, MSN, Clinical Nurse Specialist at UH, added, "The technology allows us to have eyes on our patients 24/7, which has proven especially valuable during our nursing shortage and the global pandemic." expand use of the alarm system When asked why UH is now planning to expand the use of Patient SafetyNet – which is already in use in med-surg units across 5 UH hospitals – Michelle Hereford, UH’s Chief Nursing Executive, explained, "We've found that Patient SafetyNet's continuous surveillance monitoring and automation capabilities help lower the burden on nurses and support them in providing quality care for every patient and catching potential patient deterioration before it's too late. Coupled with the improvements we've seen inefficiency, staff confidence, and staff satisfaction since installing the system, expanding use of Patient SafetyNet is frankly a no-brainer." Clinical evidence In addition to the experiences of Patient SafetyNet users like UH, there is significant clinical evidence for the efficiency and workflow benefits the centralized surveillance monitoring system offers, such as: In a recent study published in the Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing researchers evaluated the utility and impact of Patient SafetyNet by surveying nurses before and after implementation and found that use of the system decreased the number of physical assessments, resulting in a reduction in nursing workload, and also recommended the use of continuous respiratory rate and oxygen saturation monitoring (which was implemented as part of the system) after general anesthesia, for patients’ safety. In a study conducted at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, researchers investigated the impact of Patient SafetyNet on clinical workflow and found a significant decrease in the time required to obtain and record vital signs (with mean assessment time dropping from 179 seconds to 129 seconds, saving an average of 3 hours a day in a 36-bed unit). They also found a significantly higher rate of patient data being accurately filled out in electronic medical records (EMRs), and an overall "very high" staff satisfaction rate with the system. The researchers concluded, "The enhanced monitoring system received high staff satisfaction ratings and significantly improved key clinical elements related to early recognition of changes in patient state, including reducing average vital signs data collection time by 28%, increasing patient monitoring time (rate ratio 1.22), and availability and accuracy of patient information." Features and Functions Patient SafetyNet displays real-time information from connected Masimo and third-party devices  Patient SafetyNet, powered by the Masimo Hospital Automation™ platform, displays real-time information from connected Masimo and third-party devices at central stations and on remote smart devices using Replica™, helping clinicians keep track of up to 200 patients per view station at a time. In addition, the system allows actionable alarms and alerts to be sent directly to clinicians, regardless of their location. Automatic escalation is provided for unattended alarms, helping to facilitate better awareness when patients need assistance. In addition to the workflow and workload reductions it offers, the use of Patient SafetyNet for continuous remote supplemental monitoring with Masimo SET® pulse oximetry has been shown to have a significant impact on patient outcomes. For example, in multiple studies conducted over ten years at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, researchers found dramatic reductions in rapid response rescue events, ICU transfers, and zero deaths or preventable brain damage due to opioids in monitored patients. Design and operations In addition to its powerful connectivity and automation features, which drive improvements for patients and nurses alike, Patient SafetyNet also offers powerful, integrated data aggregation and reporting software, Iris® Analytics. Designed to transform patient data into actionable information on hospital performance, floor protocol, and individual patient progress, Iris Analytics allows users to analyze past alarm events, notifications, and much more, to gain insight into their institution's performance – and model improvements to support the reduction of nuisance alarms and thus improve workflows. Based on analysis of even just one to two weeks of past alarm event data, the Limit Analysis Report helps clinicians simulate alarm scenarios using theoretical alarm thresholds and delays, providing key data to help them evaluate and refine their alarm strategies to better meet their needs. Feedback Masimo Patient SafetyNet has been a valuable component in advancing Zero Harm initiative UH Chief Clinical Transformation Officer, Peter Pronovost, MD, commented, "Masimo Patient SafetyNet has been a valuable component in advancing our Zero Harm initiative within the University Hospitals system. It's allowed us to increase the efficiency of our caregivers, reduce clinical errors, and help us focus on the timely delivery of compassionate care to our patients. It has also been a critical monitoring partner during the pandemic when the condition of our COVID patients can dramatically change." Helping overcome the challenges Joe Kiani, Founder and CEO of Masimo, said, "As the pandemic continues, hospitals and other healthcare facilities are coming up against resource limitations across the board – from equipment, supplies, and beds to doctors and administrative staff – but the shortage of qualified nurses, due to burnout, maybe the most significant challenge of all.” “Masimo has spent more than 25 years improving monitoring and automation technologies designed not only to improve patient outcomes and reduce the cost of care but to make it easier for nurses to do their jobs effectively and efficiently. We hope that more and more institutions, like University Hospitals, will have the opportunity to experience the benefits that Patient SafetyNet can provide for patients and staff alike."

Fitting a new life safety system to any public space can be a complex job, but when undertaking this task in a hospital, during a pandemic, the complexity increases tenfold. When Pyrotec Fire and Security were chosen as the contractors to update an existing fire detection system at Wycombe General Hospital, there was only one life safety device manufacturer that would fit the job – Hochiki. Based in High Wycombe in the heart of Buckinghamshire, Wycombe Hospital provides urgent treatment and planned (elective) surgery, specialist treatment for patients with heart conditions and strokes, cancer, and urological conditions along with the midwifery-led unit. The project, commissioned by Buckinghamshire Health NHS Foundation Trust, was to replace an existing network of obsolete control panels and devices. Pyrotec, with over 40 years of experience in the industry, looked to Hochiki fire detection devices to help support the project. Addressable equipment The hospital was fitted with a network of 26 control panels, pre-programmed off-site. Loop by loop, each fire zone had old devices switched out and replaced with Hochiki’s ESP Intelligent range of addressable fire detection and alarm equipment. The range has been designed and manufactured to the highest international standards, offering a sensor solution that can be adjusted for sensitivity reducing false alarms – vital for a hospital environment. Compatibility Hochiki life safety devices were chosen because the devices are incredibly simple to fit and flexible and compatible" What made Hochiki products the standout choice for this project, however, is the ease of compatibility with other brand control panels. It is for this reason that so many life safety engineers and contractors choose to fit Hochiki, including Pyrotec Fire and Security. Justyn Soames, lead Project Manager for this job explains, “when you are working in a hospital the job must be carefully managed to ensure there is no loss of old or new fire alarm system coverage. Therefore, you must work with systems and devices that are simple to fit and test.” “Hochiki life safety devices were chosen because, despite the innovative technology at play, the devices are incredibly simple to fit, and most importantly for this project at Wycombe Hospital, Hochiki technology is highly flexible and compatible with other systems.” He continues “The NHS trust we work with use Hochiki across several of their sites, so it was important for them to have consistency and familiarity, it makes the training of the system and evacuation procedures much easier for example. The client's management teams trust the reliability of Hochiki technology - for us, that is the best form of testimony.” Making a transition The main challenge of this job was undertaking the changeover during the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Pyrotec engineers worked closely with the client managers and hospital departments to manage the working areas in respect to staffing and patient levels, with each fire zone given its timescale as part of the project. “It was important to manage the needs of the client to continue the operational requirements of the hospital against the requirement to change over the system. This needed to be done promptly as we were changing over large fire detection loops to ensure round-the-clock detection.” “It was an exceptionally smooth transition from the old set up to the new with minimal disruption to the site and project program. All project targets were met at each stage, the use of Hochiki devices played a key part in this.”

Chubb recently installed a hybrid fire solution, comprised of a combination of hardwire and wireless fire systems, in Glenapp Castle, a 21-bedroom, luxury five-star hotel in Ayrshire, Scotland. The solution meets the historic Scotland preservation agency’s stringent requirements. Chubb is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, the foremost global provider of healthy, safe, sustainable, and intelligent building and cold chain solutions. Challenge The owners sought to convert the castle’s entire top floor into a luxury apartment but due to the historic nature of the building, it required a robust fire system in place. Normally if a void in a loft space is under a certain size, it does not need to be covered, but Historic Scotland requires all voids to be completely covered, so close attention to detail was required.  Chubb’s initial site visit involved a thorough eight-hour examination, exploring every nook and cranny of the loft space, which revealed many voids, including the eaves spaces and the turrets at the top of the tower.  Solution Chubb’s proposed solution comprised of a combination of hardwire and wireless fire systems The project required Chubb to devise a hybrid fire solution – one that would protect both the existing building and the renovation project. Chubb’s proposed solution comprised of a combination of hardwire and wireless fire systems; cabling for the renovation of the top floor; and wireless modules such as smoke detectors and sounders, to the existing cabling in the finished building.  During the project, the scope of the renovation changed considerably, which required Chubb to be flexible in adjusting the original fire solution specified. Working closely alongside other contractors, Chubb also worked to interface the fire solution with various other systems including the BMS system, sprinkler system, dynamic emergency lighting system, and pressurization system to keep the fire exit stairways clear.  One unusual challenge Chubb encountered was the discovery of bats in the loft space, which required the team to seek a bat license and involve the Bat Conservation Trust.  Delayed work due to COVID-19 When the renovation started in January 2020, the proprietor intended to have the luxury apartment open for late summer, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed work until Spring 2021. Glenapp Castle reopened in May 2021 showcasing its new 4,500 square foot luxury penthouse apartment – The Endeavour – which was recently recognized in The Week’s “World’s Top 10 Best Luxury Hotel Penthouses.”  Results Chubb team has been extremely thorough in recognizing fire protection required and delivering a bespoke solution Since completing the project, Chubb has enhanced the existing fire maintenance contract in place to cover the full scope of works completed and with the addition of remote monitoring. Due to the castle’s remote location, the owners wanted to ensure that the fire systems would be monitored by Chubb’s alarm receiving center 24/7.  Authority Comment “This has been a challenging project for all our contractors, in respect of Historic Scotland’s requirements and the unforeseeable delays caused by COVID-19." "The team at Chubb has been extremely thorough and attentive throughout, both in recognizing the level of fire protection required and delivering a bespoke solution to very high standards,” said Paul Szkiler of Truestone, the owners of Glenapp Castle.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had ramifications for almost every industry, some more than others. With the pandemic stretching well into a second year, the non-medical consequences continue, and many are wondering about which of the required changes might become permanent. As regards the fire sector, we asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What impact has COVID-19 had on the fire industry?

Equipment is an important element in fighting fires, and in keeping firefighters safe. But what new needs are driving the development of equipment? How can equipment expand its role in fighting fires, or in managing building occupancy and traffic flow for that matter? We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the new trends and opportunities in firefighting equipment?