Fire Emergency Response

Johnson Controls, the global pioneer for smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, launches Simplex Incident Manager, a complete web-based fire alarm management workstation for campuses and large facilities. This next-generation workstation from Johnson Controls includes an advanced interface and feature set that enhances the fire alarm management experience, helping facility teams keep their buildings protected around the clock. Simplex Incident Manager Simplex Incident Manager gives facility teams the power to monitor and manage their fire alarm systems across multiple buildings from a central workstation. The web-based solution allows users to control and supervise up to 687 fire alarm control units and 250,000 devices from any HTML-5-capable device. The web-based solution allows users to control and supervise up to 687 fire alarm control units Its scalability and power make it an ideal fire alarm system monitoring and control solution for standalone buildings or multi-site, networked facilities such as universities, hospitals, airports, high-rises, sports arenas and data centers. fire alarm event “From budget crunches to labor gaps, building owners, facility managers and maintenance teams are increasingly challenged to do more with less. We built Simplex Incident Manager so teams have the confidence and resources to respond more efficiently to alarms and maintenance needs in campuses and large facilities,” said Martin Schulte-Frankenfeld, senior director of product management, Johnson Controls. “The system also aids in emergency response by pinpointing the exact location of a fire alarm event. Operators can share precise event locations with emergency personnel so they can lead a coordinated and effective response.” offering a centralized dashboard Simplex Incident Manager offers a centralized dashboard and an intuitive, color-coded building map designed to help teams act quickly and confidently when incidents occur. For example, a campus facility operator receives an alert on the Simplex Incident Manager dashboard saying there is an issue with a device in the data center. The operator then navigates the digital floor plan to the precise location of the alert and clicks on the corresponding device. The diagnostic information reveals the smoke detector is dirty, so the operator alerts the maintenance team to clean and test the detector. To streamline recordkeeping, Simplex Incident Manager then digitally stores the troubleshooting notes and operational, testing and diagnostic reports. modern authentication practices In addition to physical safety, Johnson Controls designed the Simplex Incident Manager with cybersecurity in mind. The software is developed in accordance with the ISA/IEC 62443 software development process, uses modern authentication practices and has advanced security profiles to help system administrators restrict access to only authorized users. Simplex Incident Manager helps maintenance teams of all sizes resolve fire alarm issues and events quickly so facility downtime can be reduced and operations can stay profitable.

Rosenbauer America, a pioneer in fire apparatus innovation and performance, announces the initial delivery of new state-of-the-art Tractor Drawn Aerials (TDAs) to the Los Angeles County Fire Department (L.A.Co. FD). In addition, the Los Angeles County Fire will also soon be receiving new Rosenbauer America Engines/Custom Pumpers. Rosenbauer COMMANDER™ cab In total, this order includes: Eleven (11) Tractor Drawn Aerial (TDA) Quints: Built on the Rosenbauer COMMANDER™ custom cab and chassis, these units feature Rosenbauer’s heavy-duty extruded aluminum EXT body, 2000 GPM Waterous pumps, 300-gallon water tanks, and the technologically advanced 100-foot Rosenbauer SMART aerial ladder. The SMART system offers enhanced safety features, operational efficiencies, and precise controls for aerial operations. Eight (8) Engines (aka Custom Pumpers): These rigs are built on the Rosenbauer WARRIOR™ custom cab and chassis with the rugged and durable Rosenbauer extruded aluminum EXT bodies. They are equipped with 1500 GPM Hale pumps, 350 GPM Darley HM350 auxiliary pumps, 500-gallon water tanks, and 30-gallon foam concentrate pumps. The auxiliary pumps enable wildland firefighting capabilities. fire protection and emergency medical services Fire protection and emergency medical favors across a vast and diverse region covering 2,300 square miles Established in 1923, the Los Angeles County Fire Department is one of the largest and busiest fire departments in the United States.  It provides vital fire protection and emergency medical services across a vast and diverse region covering over 2,300 square miles, encompassing 59 cities and all unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, plus the City of La Habra in Orange County.  With nearly 5,000 personnel operating out of 177 fire stations, the department protects the lives and property of over 4.1 million residents, responding to more than 400,000 calls for service annually. Integrated SMART aerial system Conducted March 10-13, 2025, at the L.A. County Fire Department Headquarters, the intensive familiarization program utilized the first two Rosenbauer America TDAs delivered under the department's contract. The training brought together over 100 L.A.Co. FD personnel, including approximately 75 firefighters and 30 mechanics. The training was specifically designed to build the department's proficiency in operating the Rosenbauer TDA, with a particular focus on the capabilities and safety features of the integrated SMART aerial system. SMART aerial technology Velocity Fire Equipment has worked closely with LA County and will provide on-going security, service, and parts "The delivery of these initial TDAs and the completion of this comprehensive familiarization training represent a significant milestone for this important project," said Ernie Young, Western Regional Sales Manager for Rosenbauer America. He adds, "Seeing the L.A. County Fire Department personnel quickly adapt to and gain confidence with our SMART aerial technology was incredibly rewarding." From the contract onset, Rosenbauer America’s authorized dealer, Velocity Fire Equipment, has worked closely with LA County and will provide on-going warranty, service, and parts support to Los Angeles County. Collaboration with the Los Angeles County Fire Department "Our partnership and ongoing collaboration with the Los Angeles County Fire Department are something we deeply value," said Tim Noeding, General Manager at Velocity Fire Equipment Sales. He adds, "Working together on this significant order, as well as previous apparatus procurements, allows us to help equip their dedicated personnel with the reliable, high-performance Rosenbauer apparatus they need to serve their vast community effectively."

Armstrong Fluid Technology has expanded its family of Vertical-In-Line Fire Pumps with the addition of the new 750gpm 5x4x10PF model. This new size is available with Design Envelope technology, featuring connected intelligence, performance tracking and automated alerts to support more cost-effective maintenance and better occupant safety. Due to the managed 'ramp-up' of output, there are no pressure spikes on startup, pipes are better protected, water delivery is ensured and the risk of water hammer is reduced. Features Other features include: Reduced on-site work for power cabling Reduction of PRVs and drain lines Elimination of safety issues related to supply pressure Reduced costs for design engineers, contractors and building owners New dimensions and size "This new size of Vertical In-Line fire pump offers excellent performance in a key range of flow and pressure output," said Michael DeMille, Global Offering Manager, Fire Pumps at Armstrong. He adds, "And with the addition of Design Envelope technology, customers can enjoy the security of performance tracking throughout the lifecycle of the pump."

Building safety has always been an ever-evolving landscape of legislation and regulatory frameworks. The industry strives for stronger construction safety practice and in doing so, the need for reliable, transparent and accessible product information is clear - especially when fire door safety compliance is on the line. It was in response to the Grenfell Tower fire and Dame Judith Hackitt’s review that the Building Safety Act 2022 was passed, which has since looked to introduce a number of ground-breaking reforms to improve fire safety standards and facilitate greater accountability across the board. Fire and structural safety information A key component of the regulation has been the need for duty holders to retain fire and structural safety information A key component of the regulation has been the requirement for duty holders to retain fire and structural safety information, making it necessary to manage an accessible digital record of decisions and updates throughout a building’s lifecycle. This "Golden Thread of Information," as it’s known, has placed a renewed focus on the presentation and management of construction product information and ensures the right people have the right information at the right time.  Driving standards and saving lives From a single source, building owners, developers, regulators, and residents are given a greater understanding of the materials and assets used during the construction process, as a way of driving standards and saving lives. With emphasis shifting from product performance claims to verified, traceable assurances, there has never been a better time to assure peace of mind when it comes to fire door safety. Fire door confidence The Building Safety Act recognizes the importance of fire safety systems and mandates that the Golden Thread of Information must include comprehensive data on all fire detection and prevention systems in high-risk buildings, including fire doors. As a vital element of passive fire protection, fire doors and their hardware are often the first line of defense As a vital element of passive fire protection, fire doors and their hardware are often the first line of defence against fire and smoke, and as such are a legal requirement in all non-domestic properties and houses in multiple occupation. To operate as intended, fire doors will call on their various hardware components, including hinges, latches, seals, door closers and opening mechanisms, meaning they are only as effective as the weakest link in their assembly. Maintenance of fire door hardware is key As such, the correct specification, installation, and maintenance of fire door hardware is considered crucial if a building is to meet both its functional and safety standards. With that, decision makers must be confident they can identify the necessary hardware for their building, and in doing so, must also ensure components are fit for purpose and comply with UK Construction Products Regulations. UKCA and CE certifications To assist duty holders in meeting these expectations, conscious manufacturers have stepped up, and as part of the Golden Thread regulatory framework are providing more detailed information in the form of product datasheets, installation guides, and training portals. From a compliance standpoint, decision makers can instantly check a product’s associated Declaration of Performance (DOPs) to show hardware conforms to the correct testing standards and UKCA and CE certifications, as well as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) when looking to conform to the latest environmental benchmarks.  With this information, those involved in product selection can assure their installed fire door hardware will perform when it is called upon. Transparent product information Transparent product information is also useful when it comes to maintenance periods Transparent product information is also useful when it comes to maintenance periods and conforming to Approved Document B, with amendments made as recently as March 2025 focusing on Regulation 38, which states that “the person carrying out the work shall give fire safety information to the responsible person no later than the date of the completion of the work, or the date of occupation”. By providing this material, manufacturers are offering improved traceability on products and their performance, empowering duty holders to comply with legal obligations and keeping occupants safe in the process. Transparency equals opportunity Data is a critical resource in decision making and with several schemes evolving such as the Golden Thread and the Code for Construction Product Information, a real strategy is forming. Where information is accessible and no longer ambiguous, the industry is fostering a proactive culture of collaboration, further transitioning from reactive compliance-driven tasks to a more effective method for tackling fire door safety and building design as a whole. Latest standards and hardware options Outside of duty holders being able to demonstrate compliance by showing how they are managing risks throughout their buildings, there is perhaps a greater opportunity presented with clear communication among stakeholders. Outside of duty holders being able to reveal compliance by showing how they are managing risks Where it’s imperative for industry professionals to remain informed on the latest standards and hardware options, a collaborative approach can lead to better and more informed design choices that continue to deliver post-project delivery and improve fire safety outcomes. Furthermore, with information readily available, there is an opportunity for early identification of potential hazards and vulnerabilities. For existing projects, decision makers can check what hardware product has been used and where, deciding if it has been suitable and further reducing the use of ineffective options and avoiding costly retrofits when the time has come to repair or replace products. Fire door safety products From an operational perspective, when reliable product information can be accessed and assessed instantaneously, duty holders are able to streamline their decisions-assuring any changes or issues with fire door safety products are rectified quickly and actioned efficiently. The Golden Thread is setting the standard and protecting all stakeholders in the process With this holistic approach to information sharing, building and fire safety management becomes a shared duty. The Golden Thread is setting the standard and protecting all stakeholders in the process - helping to build trust in an area it is most needed. The use of traceable and transparent product information means the approach to fire door safety and building management is changing and the industry is urged to continue building upon this culture while navigating the latest standards. Traceability is no longer a burden of best practice-it’s an industry expectation and equally, a golden opportunity that must not be missed. How Allegion UK Can Help Allegion UK is committed to supporting transparency and traceability in construction and has a wealth of product information resources to help professionals undertake product selection, installation, and maintenance checks on fire doors and hardware. For information on product selection and installation, please speak to experts or head to the download center for technical fitting instructions and product certifications.  Allegion UK also proactively participates in the EPD program, with full EPD documentation available for download on Briton products, based on ISO 14025 and EN 15804 environmental declarations, from the Allegion and Briton websites.

Fire doors are designed to save lives. When closed, they form a crucial barrier against smoke and fire and provide vital time for occupants to escape in an emergency situation. An open fire door on the other hand is rendered useless in the event of a fire, and for this reason, fire door closers are equally recognized for their life-saving capabilities. The relationship between fire doors and fire door closers is synergetic in fact, with both considered key elements of a building’s passive fire protection system. When a fire door must close to completion during a fire incident, it will always rely on its mechanical closing device to do so effectively. Door closers - essential operational component Door closers are an essential operational component and must be capable of closing the door leaf from any angle of opening and strong enough to overcome the resistance of any latch seal, ensuring the door is held firmly in place by its frame. Specifiers and decision makers alike must be confident in their door closer selection While all fire door closers serve this same function, decision makers are reminded that an incorrectly specified door closer can compromise the integrity of an entire fire door assembly. With different project requirements and hardware options available, specifiers and decision makers alike must be confident in their door closer selection. Where occupant safety is on the line, what should specification teams look out for? Fire door closers are key to fire door safety Kirk Smith of Allegion UK, explains: “Fire door closers are paramount to the success of fire door safety and specification should be a structured process to ensure appropriate closers are chosen at each touchpoint.” He adds, “There are various types of door closers available on the market, but whether concealed or surface-mounted, all controlled door closer models use spring hydraulics to close and engage fire doors onto their latch, allowing buildings to compartmentalize areas and provide occupants with vital escape routes. To perform this task, fire door closers call upon a number of elements including: the door closer mechanism, mounting hardware, arms and links.” Door closers tested to EN 1634, UKCA, CE standards Kirk Smith continues, “There are often a number of considerations to make when choosing between door closer products. In any instance, specifiers must first establish whether their door is a fire door or a non-fire door, for example. To ensure a closer is fit for purpose and meets fire safety compliance, all door closers installed on fire-rated doors must be tested to EN 1634 and UKCA and CE marked.” He further states, “Mechanical variants must also conform to EN 1154 and electromagnetic hold-open devices to EN 1155, which test and classify hardware over its category of use, number of test cycles, power size, fire behavior, safety and corrosion resistance. A Declaration of Performance (DoP) must also be reviewed to ensure a door closer is certified when fitted with backcheck or delayed action.” Kirk Smith adds, “From an operational viewpoint, it’s important that a chosen door closer meets the needs of a building and its users too. Buildings with high footfall will often benefit from an electromagnetic hold-open device, which keep certain fire doors open until a fire alarm is activated, in which the system will automatically release and close doors to completion.” Surface mounted closers are the most durable and common type of door closer Selecting the most appropriate door closer Kirk Smith continues, “The size of a door can sometimes be a key factor when selecting a door closer too. Unusually tall or heavy doors may often require a door closer with a higher power size, in accordance with EN 1154 - it’s key to remember that fire doors require a minimum Power Size EN 3 to conform to this standard.” He adds, “Should a specification team be unsure about the size of the door, it is often best practice to choose a door closer unit that can be adjusted during the installation stage.” Durable in application Regardless of where a fire door may be positioned, operation must always be controlled Regardless of where a fire door may be positioned, its size or how it may be used, operation must always be controlled, as this will prevent future damage to the door and its frame - which can be a crucial step towards retaining fire safety performance. Kirk Smith continues: “Surface mounted closers are the most durable and common type of door closer, with units mounted to the surface of the door or frame with a quick and simple installation process. Comparably, concealed door closers are fitted within the door leaf and frame and while providing the functionality of a surface mounted closer is hidden from view as a way of enhancing aesthetics.” Most common ways to fit a door closer Kirk Smith adds, “When reviewing the mounting requirements, it’s important to consider door closers can be installed in different ways, often depending on the application.” The four most common ways to fit a door closer are: Figure 1 door mount fixing: where the closer body is mounted on the pull face of the door Figure 61 transom mount push side: where the closer body is mounted on the transom, on the push side of the door Figure 66 parallel mount push side: where the closer body is mounted on the push side of the door Slide track fixing: where the closer with slide arm and track is door or transom mounted, on either the pull or push side of the door Door closers with adjustable backcheck Kirk Smith states, “Specifiers must also evaluate whether backcheck control is necessary. Door closers with adjustable backcheck can better control the speed of the door, slowing it down prior to making contact with a door stop or before reaching the fully open position. This function prevents or minimizes damage to the door, hardware and adjacent walls, which would otherwise be caused by the door being forcefully open or caught by a gust of wind.” He adds, “Equally, specifiers must consider whether a door closer requires delayed action. A delayed action closer offers a period of delay from when the door is opened to closed, which is usually set to be a maximum of 25 seconds (recommended for fire doors). This functionality makes delayed action closers ideal for environments that require easy passage, such as doors used by children, the elderly or wheelchair users, for example.”

It is no secret that electricity can have a significant impact on the fire industry, and this is not just something that is restricted to a single country. Daily, we see the devastation that improper electrical wiring and defective products can have on a global scale. Personal injury, property loss, and death can all wreak havoc on those working within the fire service and other first responders, not to mention the significant impact on the entire community where the events take place.  steps to minimize electrical incidents There are steps that can be taken to minimize the number of these horrific electrical incidents Research from NFPA® that highlights home electrical fire statistics shows that U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 46,700 home fires involving electrical failure or malfunction each year between 2015 and 2019. An additional 16,390 non-residential electrical fires required a response and were tracked between the years 2012 and 2016, indicating just how burdensome electrical fires are on the fire service.  However, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the number of these horrific electrical incidents. The implementation and utilization of current electrical codes and standards is a foundational piece in beginning to minimize these issues from arising. Triad of codes and standards NFPA has a triad of codes and standards that focus on mitigating risk and injury associated with electricity that have become known as the Electrical Cycle of Safety™ (ECoS™). When used collectively and properly, NFPA 70®, National Electrical Code® (NEC®), NFPA 70B, Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, and NFPA 70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®, provide an alliance for achieving holistic electrical safety. By utilizing the documents that make up the ECoS, businesses and communities can help to mitigate electrical fires and injuries that put significant strain on the limited resources available to the fire service. NFPA has a triad of codes and standards that focus on mitigating risk and injury Electrical Cycle of Safety The Electrical Cycle of Safety starts with an installation that is grounded in the requirements of the NEC The Electrical Cycle of Safety starts with a proper electrical installation that is grounded in the requirements of the NEC. This could be the initial installation for a brand-new building, an addition to an existing building, or new equipment being installed within a building. Regardless of what type of installation is taking place, it is important that, where applicable, proper electrical permits have been filed by the licensed contractor performing the work in the municipality where the building is established. This should then include having the appropriate inspections performed by a qualified electrical inspector throughout each stage of the installation. Having all electrical work done and inspected in accordance with the applicable NEC requirements is the appropriate first step in assuring electrical safety that protects both people and property. Electrical equipment and systems After any installation has been done, electrical equipment and systems must be maintained to ensure that they remain safe for those that service the equipment, as well as those that may be utilizing the equipment, such as production line workers or, in some cases, even the general public. An example of this might be keeping an electric vehicle charger in proper, safe working order so that citizens who need to use it are not exposed to any electrical safety risks, like shock hazards. NFPA 70B provides electrical equipment maintenance requirements and should be used in conjunction with any specific manufacturer maintenance requirements for electrical equipment. Safe working practices Maintaining equipment not only helps ensure electrical safety but it also helps to preserve its reliability Maintaining equipment not only helps ensure electrical safety, but it also helps to preserve its functionality and reliability. In the case of electric vehicle chargers, utilizing Chapter 33 of NFPA 70B can help to establish a maintenance plan for community-based public chargers that will keep them safe and functional for users, while minimizing the need for first responder actions. NFPA 70E is about establishing safe working practices to protect those who engage with electrical systems and equipment while on the job through either installing or servicing them or utilizing the equipment in performing their assigned work tasks. As is well established, there are many risks associated with electricity, such as electrical shock and arc flash incidents, that can put individuals at a significant risk of injury. Safe and healthy working conditions Not only is there a moral obligation as an employer to keep employees safe on the job, but there is often a legal one as well. For example, in the U.S., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was established with a mission to assure safe and healthy working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.  OSHA and NFPA 70E work in harmony to help ensure that employers are providing safe places of employment for their workers. OSHA establishes and enforces its own requirements around how employers must establish electrical safety in their place of business and, in most cases, NFPA 70E provides the means on how to accomplish those requirements. fire service and other first responders First and foremost, it means that the community as a whole becomes safer Together, the ECoS establishes a way in which electrical safety can be provided to communities that minimizes the number of responses that are required of the fire service and other first responders. First and foremost, it means that the community as a whole becomes safer. Furthermore, in a day and age where resources continually become more and more limited, alleviating the need to respond to a higher number of incidents also helps ensure that those valuable resources can be utilized where they are most needed. Knowledge to raise awareness of the ECoS So, how can the ECoS be utilized to help support the fire service and other first responders? As with many things, it begins with gathering knowledge to raise awareness of the ECoS and establish a starting point. Moving forward, this knowledge can be shared with others who have an impact on electrical safety across industries within communities.  Understanding the equal importance of safe electrical installations, maintenance, and worker safety in electrical applications will make it easier to have a dialogue with the specific groups or individuals that can impact those areas. Just as the ECoS works in unison to achieve overall electrical safety, it takes everyone working together collectively to do the same.

The Dingell Act, signed into law in 2019, has far-reaching implications, including effects on fire management and emergency services. Officially named the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, the law impacts fire professionals and their operations and fire prevention strategies. The Dingell Act is a comprehensive public lands bill that touches on various aspects of natural resource management, conservation, and recreation. Fire mitigation efforts One of the key provisions of the act deals with wildfire management, specifically addressing how federal agencies collaborate to prevent and respond to wildfires.  The act streamlines fire mitigation efforts, enhances interagency cooperation, and encourages fire prevention measures on public lands. For fire professionals, this means better coordination among federal and local fire services, access to more resources, and improved strategies to combat wildfires. How the Dingell Act Changes Fire Management The act benefits both large fire departments and smaller teams working near public lands The Dingell Act mandates that federal agencies must coordinate with local fire services to develop effective wildfire management plans. This ensures that fire professionals have a direct line to federal resources, which can drastically improve response times. Additionally, the law increases funding for fire prevention initiatives, such as clearing vegetation in high-risk areas. Fire professionals working near national parks and other public lands will find these changes beneficial, as they create more opportunities for proactive fire control. The Dingell Act strengthens fire prevention protocols by prioritizing wildfire risk mitigation in areas under federal jurisdiction. The act benefits both large fire departments and smaller teams working near public lands. Fire professionals should recognize the broad scope of the Dingell Act and understand how it enhances safety measures in their regions. Federal and Local Collaboration Interagency collaboration is one of the key components of the Dingell Act. Fire departments in areas near public lands can now work more closely with federal agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management. This collaboration is not limited to wildfire response but extends to training and resource-sharing, which can empower local teams to be better prepared for large-scale fires. By building stronger partnerships, fire professionals can develop more cohesive strategies for fire mitigation and management. The Dingell Act significantly increases the resources available to fire departments, especially in high-risk areas. Through grants and federal funding, fire professionals can access better equipment, training, and personnel to tackle fire hazards. This investment in fire prevention technology, including satellite-based fire detection systems and drones, ensures that teams have the tools they need to act quickly and effectively when fires threaten communities. Environmental Considerations Dingell Act highlights the extent of balancing fire suppression with environmental protection The Dingell Act highlights the importance of balancing fire suppression with environmental preservation. Fire professionals are encouraged to integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations, such as controlled burns that reduce vegetation buildup without damaging ecosystems. Understanding the environmental impact of fire prevention measures is essential for fire professionals who manage lands rich in biodiversity. By aligning fire prevention strategies with conservation goals, professionals can contribute to both safety and sustainability. Along with the increased collaboration between federal and local agencies come more training opportunities for fire professionals than ever before. The Dingell Act opens avenues for specialized training programs that focus on wildfire management and prevention. Firefighters can take advantage of workshops, courses, and simulation-based training to improve their skills in handling large-scale fires. This professional development is especially valuable for those looking to expand their capabilities in the face of growing wildfire risks. Future Considerations Looking ahead, fire professionals should be mindful of the evolving landscape of fire prevention. The Dingell Act represents just one piece of a broader legislative push to improve fire safety in the United States. Future regulations may build on this foundation, with more emphasis on climate change, land management, and fire technology. As professionals assess their current strategies, it is important to stay informed about upcoming changes and ensure that fire prevention efforts are aligned with national standards and policies. {##Poll1728377023 - What is the most critical resource for effective wildfire management?##}

The integration of technology into the fire service has significantly enhanced operations, but it has also introduced new vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity has become a concern for fire departments, possibly impacting their ability to respond effectively to emergencies and protect communities.   Potential problems emanating from cybersecurity concerns include a disruption of a community’s emergency response system. False alarms could result from malicious computer hackers manipulating fire alarm systems, thus wasting resources, and causing potential danger for firefighters. Fire Risks From A Cyber-Attack Medical devices are connected to the IoT and are therefore vulnerable to attack Communication is another vulnerability: A cyber-attack on communication systems could hinder coordination among firefighters and with other emergency services. Potential cybersecurity targets related to the fire service include 911 systems, public safety radios, computer-aided dispatch systems, mobile data computers, and phone systems. In the EMS arena, electronic patient reporting and records management systems are at risk. Medical devices are connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) and are therefore vulnerable to attack.   Many firefighter tools are operated by computers, so equipment malfunction is a real possibility. The digital world continues to infiltrate almost every aspect of firefighting. Critical equipment, such as fire trucks and rescue tools could be compromised, resulting in longer response times. Vulnerability to Ransomware Attacks Ransomware is a pernicious type of cyber-attack, involving the use of malicious software (malware) that encrypts files, rendering them inaccessible. The attackers then demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key to restore the data.  The city of Leeds, Ala., was hit by a ransomware attack in February 2018 that locked all city computers and data, including fire and police departments. A month later, Atlanta’s municipal systems were attacked, resulting in widespread outages, and disrupting city services. Impact on Data Loss and Privacy Fire units handle sensitive data, including the personal data of citizens and crisis responders In addition to operational concerns, there are also possible cybersecurity consequences relating to data loss and privacy. Fire departments handle sensitive data, including the personal information of citizens and emergency responders. A breach could lead to identity theft and reputational damage. On a more intangible level, a cyber-attack could erode public trust in the fire department's ability to protect the community. Negative publicity from a data breach can harm the fire department's image. Phishing schemes Among the cybersecurity threats are phishing schemes, which involve scammers attempting to obtain sensitive information from individuals, usually via email, by disguising themselves as trustworthy entities. Phishing can take the form of fake emails or websites that mimic legitimate businesses like banks, online retailers, or social media platforms. They lure victims by offering enticing deals, creating a sense of urgency, or claiming there's a problem with an account. Once the user clicks on a malicious link or provides personal information, the scammers can steal login credentials, credit card numbers, or other sensitive data. Top motivators of cyber-attacks Malicious files can be delivered as email attachments, which can contain viruses, ransomware, or other malware. Clicking a link in a suspicious email can redirect the user to a malicious website that can download malware or steal personal information.  One of the top motivators of cyber-attacks is to collect personally identifiable information (PII) One of the top motivators of cyber-attacks is to collect personally identifiable information (PII), which is any data that can be used to identify an individual.  This information includes name, address, phone number, social security or driver's license number, medical records, credit card or bank account numbers, and biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial images. The fire service handles a lot of PII, especially in emergency situations, including incident reports, property records, or patient information related to emergency medical services (EMS). Cyber-Criminals Have a Variety of Profiles Cyber-criminals come from a range of backgrounds and motivations. Individual hackers might be motivated by financial gain, ideology, or simply by the concept of a personal challenge. Organized crime groups might be motivated by profit, power, and/or influence. Other cyber-crime perpetrators include nation-state actors, who might be pursuing espionage, sabotage, or political influence. These threats have significant financial and technical capabilities. They include advanced persistent threats (APTs) from countries like China, Russia, and North Korea.  Cyber threats posed by 'hacktivists' So-called 'hacktivists' can be motivated by political or social causes to launch distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, website defacement and/or data leaks. There is also the possibility of cyber-terrorists seeking to cause mass disruption or to achieve political or ideological goals. They are capable of large-scale attacks on critical infrastructure.  Increased cyber-risks may lead to higher insurance premiums for fire departments There is a cost component of protecting against cybersecurity threats, a critical financial implication for cash-strapped fire departments. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures requires significant financial resources. At the other extreme, responding to a cyber-attack can be expensive, including legal fees, public relations, and system recovery. Increased cyber-risks may lead to higher insurance premiums for fire departments. Mitigation Strategies at a Glance Here are some mitigation strategies fire departments should consider:  Risk assessment: Identify vulnerabilities and prioritize mitigation efforts. Employee training: Educate firefighters about cybersecurity best practices. Network security: Implement strong network security measures, including firewalls and intrusion detection systems. Data protection: Regularly back up data and encrypt sensitive information. Data minimization: Collect only the personal data that is necessary, and then limit access. Incident response plan: Develop a comprehensive plan for responding to cyber-attacks. Contingency: Create a backup plan to mitigate risk and minimize loss of critical assets in the event of an attack. Compliance: Ensure adherence with relevant privacy laws such as HIPAA and GDPR. Collaboration: Work with other agencies and cybersecurity experts to share information and best practices.

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.” 

Hochiki Europe has brought the thrill of live football to the heart of the Gillingham community, awarding 35 coveted tickets to a Gillingham FC home game to the deserving Medway Soccer Academy. The academy, a grassroots initiative providing affordable football training to local children, emerged as the winners of Hochiki’s “Golden Ticket” competition.  Essential equipment and kit Medway Soccer Academy addresses the financial barriers that prevent many children Founded in 2019 by Matt Waters, Medway Soccer Academy addresses the financial barriers that prevent many children from participating in organized football.  Matt’s vision of a £4 “pay and play” model, run by nine dedicated volunteer coaches, ensures that football remains accessible to all. All funds are reinvested into the club, providing essential equipment and kit for its 64 regular attendees. Matt’s unwavering commitment The academy’s dedication to fostering a love for the game, promoting physical activity, and building confidence resonated deeply with Hochiki Europe. Kara Martin, Marketing Projects Specialist at Hochiki, who nominated the academy, highlighted Matt’s unwavering commitment to the community, noting that many children would otherwise miss out on the experience of a live football match. Academy’s training sessions The children were eager to learn about everything from the pre-game atmosphere to Coleman’s football idols Hochiki’s Marketing Manager, Craig Taylor, and Kara Martin, Marketing Project Specialist, visited one of the academy’s training sessions at a local community park, accompanied by Gillingham FC midfielder Ethan Coleman.  Coleman spent over an hour engaging with the children and coaches, sharing insights into his professional journey and answering enthusiastic questions. The children were eager to learn about everything from the pre-game atmosphere to Coleman’s football idols and even his car. Affordable and engaging activities Kara Martin also spoke with parents, who emphasized the academy's vital role in providing affordable and engaging activities for local children. The “pay and play” flexibility was particularly valued by families who couldn’t commit to weekly team schedules, while the supportive environment helped build confidence in the children. The smiles and palpable joy on the children’s faces attested to the academy’s positive impact. Gillingham FC training experience The day culminated in an exciting penalty shootout, with successful participants entered into a raffle The day culminated in an exciting penalty shootout, with successful participants entered into a raffle for a Gillingham FC training experience at a later date. To cap off the memorable visit, Ethan Coleman presented Matt Waters with a golden envelope containing the 35 tickets for the Gillingham FC vs. Swindon Town match, which took place last week on April 26th. “We are incredibly grateful to Hochiki Europe for this amazing opportunity,” said Matt Waters. “This means the world to our children, many of whom have never experienced a live football game. It’s a testament to the hard work of our volunteer coaches and the dedication of our young players.” Benefit from the academy’s inclusive Looking ahead, Matt is striving to establish an U11s team for the 2025/26 season and is actively seeking sponsorship to cover the associated grassroots fees. This expansion would enable even more children to benefit from the academy’s inclusive and supportive environment. Hochiki Europe is proud to support Medway Soccer Academy and its commitment to providing accessible football opportunities for the local community. The company believes in the power of sport to inspire and unite and is thrilled to have played a role in creating lasting memories for these young football enthusiasts. Hochiki Europe is the Gillingham Football Club Rainham End Sponsor.

Oshkosh Airport Products, an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced the delivery of two Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® 6x6 ARFF vehicles to MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport — formerly known as Montreal Saint-Hubert Airport. The new ARFF units will play a key role in supporting emergency operations as MET undergoes a significant transformation into a major domestic airport in Canada. MET’s new ARFF units were supplied through Oshkosh Airport Products’ Quebec-based dealer L’Arsenal. Fire protection solution “MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport is entering an exciting new chapter, and we are proud to support their expansion with world-class ARFF vehicles,” said Alexandre Séguin, Sales Manager for L’Arsenal. “Our team has built a long-standing relationship with MET, working closely with them to identify and deliver the best fire protection solution for their evolving needs. The Striker 6x6 is engineered to deliver exceptional performance and safety, backed by our dedicated service and support.” Transition of MET The transition of MET from a small airport to a hub capable of handling more than 1 million passengers The transition of MET from a small regional airport to a hub capable of handling more than one million passengers annually, necessitated an upgrade to its fire protection services. The acquisition of these Striker 6x6 ARFF vehicles ensures compliance with airport regulations and provides state-of-the-art emergency response capabilities. Latest airport regulations “The decision to purchase Oshkosh ARFF vehicles was based on the brand’s strong reputation, strong service network, and the positive experiences of other airports in the region,” said Pierre-Luc Clement, Fleet Maintenance Manager at MET– Montreal Metropolitan Airport. “We needed a solution that offered reliability, safety features, and compliance with the latest airport regulations. The Striker 6x6 met all of our criteria and will be instrumental in ensuring the highest level of emergency response at our airport.” Striker 6x6 Features and Capabilities The two new Striker 6x6 ARFF vehicles are designed to handle the demands of MET’s growing operations. Notable features include: Industry-pioneering modular cab design for exceptional visibility TAK-4® all-wheel independent suspension for world-class off-road performance Seating capacity for four firefighters Scania DC16 V8 670HP Tier 4 engine for optimal power and efficiency Water capacity: 12,500 L Foam capacity: 1,600 L Dry chemical capacity: 227 kg Eco-EFP™ Foam Measurement System to enhance firefighting efficiency Electronic Foam Proportioning System to manage environmental impact MET prioritized foam testing systems With a mix of high-reach extendable turrets and bumper turrets, these vehicles are equipped to handle a range of emergency scenarios.  Additionally, MET prioritized foam testing systems that minimize the environmental impact of training and maintenance, aligning with the airport’s broader sustainability goals. Sustainability initiatives The airport is committed to sustainability initiatives, including a GHG emissions reduction plan Slated to welcome its first passengers in 2025, MET is undergoing a significant transformation, with a 226,000 sq. ft. terminal, nine gates, and an anticipated capacity of four million travelers per year. The airport is committed to sustainability initiatives, including a GHG emissions reduction plan, Airport Carbon Accreditation, and new shuttle services to downtown Montreal. MET dedicated fire services unit As part of this expansion, MET established a dedicated fire services unit and invested in world-class emergency response equipment. The Striker 6x6 vehicles will provide essential fire protection for the airport’s evolving infrastructure and growing passenger base.

Fire protection solutions manufacturer, Advanced, has supplied an intelligent fire panel with wireless detection to iconic Scottish knitwear brand Eribé. An Advanced MxPro 5 analog addressable fire panel has been installed at Eribé Knitwear to provide industry-pioneering protection that is high-performance and fault-tolerant. The system was installed following a fire risk assessment, which required Category L2 coverage. Internal and external systems Founded in 1986, Eribé’s knitwear design house and manufacturing company is based in Melrose, in the Scottish Borders. The company prides itself in championing Made in Scotland and has a dedicated fan base worldwide. During 2024, the company took time to assess the whole business to strengthen its internal and external systems and processes for its staff and customers. As part of this process, Eribé reviewed its fire system to ensure full compliance and prioritize staff, premises, and customer safety by investing in Advanced fire protection. EMS Firecell wireless system MxPro 5 was retrofitted at Eribé; the Advanced panel was seamlessly integrated with an EMS Fire and security service providers, Safe Services, installed an Advanced MxPro 5 single-loop analog addressable fire panel to replace the existing fire system, as it was old and could not be brought up to standard. Since the MxPro 5 was being retrofitted at Eribé the Advanced panel was seamlessly integrated with an EMS Firecell wireless system, this simplified the installation since cabling was not required throughout the building. Advanced fire safety system “In 2024 we reviewed our business as a whole to strengthen our processes. The safety of our staff, premises, and customers was a priority and so we were fully behind investing in an Advanced fire safety system." "We are now really proud to say that with the help of Safe Services, our extended team, managers and directors feel far more knowledgeable regarding the risks and actions, and the whole team feels safer and more invested in it as a result,” said Tamsin Ansdell, Eribé Knitwear. Advanced panel with the wireless EMS Firecell Graeme Millar, Fire Technical Sales Engineer at Safe Services, said: “We were responsible for the installation, commissioning, verification and handover of the system at Eribé, and will also be conducting ongoing maintenance." "As we installed the Advanced panel with the wireless EMS Firecell it made it far more straightforward and meant less disruption for Eribé. We have several sites we have worked on with the same combination, and know the Advanced MxPro 5 works well with EMS equipment. The Advanced MxPro 5 is our panel of choice as it’s a trusted and reliable panel with our design and installation teams.” MxPro 5 panels Neil Parkin, Sales Manager at Advanced, said: “Choosing wireless equipment when installing a fire system is ideal for retrofitting, where cabling can be trickier to install and visually unappealing. Add to that the time and cost benefits they provide to installers, and it is a great choice in multiple scenarios both large and small." "Our MxPro 5 panels are designed to make life as easy as possible, delivering robust protection that offers real peace of mind, all backed up by our highly rated technical support.” FM Approvals to the EN 54 standard MxPro 5 is the fire industry’s pioneering multiprotocol fire panel and is certified by FM Approvals MxPro 5 is the fire industry’s pioneering multiprotocol fire panel and is certified by FM Approvals to the EN 54 standard. It offers customers a choice of four detector protocols and a completely open installer network, backed up by free training and support. MxPro 5 can be used in single-loop, single-panel format, or easily configured into high-speed networks of up to 200 panels covering huge areas. Ease of installation and configuration, as well as its wide range of peripheral options, make MxPro 5 customizable to almost any application. MxPro 5’s versatile wireless capabilities As well as compatibility with pioneering wired detector brands, MxPro 5’s versatile wireless capabilities make it easy to install robust fire alarm systems while saving crucial time, cost and disruption. Harnessing the power of proven technology, MxPro 5’s wireless solutions are scalable, adaptable, and reliable – for complete fire safety peace of mind. Battery replacement and fault reporting Wireless solutions not only mean lower visual and physical impact, but they are also faster Wireless solutions not only mean lower visual and physical impact, but they are also faster and cheaper to install, making them an increasingly popular alternative for sites where downtime is not an option, or re-wiring would prove disruptive.  Thanks to two-way communication with the panel, battery replacement and fault reporting can also be worked into the on-going maintenance schedule via the panel service tools. MxPro 5’s stand-out false alarm management capabilities The MxPro 5’s stand-out false alarm management capabilities are available as standard. AlarmCalm delivers unprecedented control of verification and investigation delays. By dividing sites up into virtual false alarm ‘building areas’ independent of fire zones, much more precise control of false alarm management and reduction strategies can be achieved that exactly fit the needs of each part of a building. Development of intelligent fire systems Advanced products are specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations An optional AlarmCalm button allows trained occupants to verify if they believe a local fire signal is a false alarm too – a highly effective way of eliminating unwanted alarms. As a world pioneer in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced products are specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced portfolio The Advanced portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and reduction systems. Advanced is owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC – a global group of life-saving technology companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day.

Fostering fire safety is a basic principle, but one that suggests many different approaches and technologies. Best practices and greater innovation can play a role to ensure various aspects of fire safety (and health), but the first step is awareness. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is a fire safety trend that isn't widely adopted but should be?

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?  

Wildfire season presents special challenges to firefighters, and environmental trends point to even more frequent wildfires in the future, due to factors such as global warming. Technology, in all its variety, provides new tools to aid departments tasked with fighting wildfires. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the emerging technologies in wildfire prevention and protection?