Fire Protection

FoxFury Lighting Solutions is partnering with the NPS-DDP (National Public Safety Drone Donation Program) in an effort to bring UAV/UAS technology to public safety agencies in need across the country. For the month of May, FoxFury pledges a percentage of its drone lighting sales to NPS-DDP with the goal of donating drones to agencies that have applied for program consideration. Dozens of fire departments, search and rescue teams, local police, border security, and more apply to NPS-DDP in the hopes of receiving drone technology that they cannot otherwise acquire on their own to help their communities. Public Safety Agencies NPS-DDP accepts donations from private citizens, drone manufacturers, or corporate donors like FoxFury. The program then matches applicants with donors to provide as many drones as possible to departments in need. FoxFury Lighting Solutions is the creator of the Rugo Drone & Camera Light FoxFury Lighting Solutions is the creator of the Rugo Drone & Camera Light. The Rugo is a rugged go-anywhere light that can mount to a variety of drones, providing public safety agencies with needed lighting during search, inspection, and photo/video applications. The light is rechargeable and has three different beam options, allowing users to choose between area, spot, and flood lighting, depending on their need. Keep Communities Safe The Rugo is also waterproof, rugged, and impact resistant, which makes it an ideal tool for these agencies. Users can purchase the Rugo individually or as a bundle that includes (2) Rugo lights, (1) extra Quick Swap Power Pack with Strobe, and (1) set of drone mounts. Drone mounts are available for the following drones: DJI Phantom 4, DJI Inspire, DJI Matrice, Yuneec, Typhoon H, and Yuneec H520. For the month of May, FoxFury will donate a portion of Rugo and Rugo Drone Bundle sales to NPS-DDP with the goal of donating drones to applying agencies. “Our lights exist to keep people safe,” said Antonio Cugini, Director of Marketing at FoxFury Lighting Solutions. “So we are thrilled to be working with NPS-DDP in the hopes of bringing new technology to departments that can use it to keep their communities safe.”

Firefighters, EMS providers, and rescue personnel routinely face situations that can impact their behavioral health. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and now is a great opportunity to evaluate your own risk factors as well as implement behavioral health training and awareness in your department so that all personnel have access to immediate help. Mental Health Awareness Program Firefighters and emergency personnel are at risk for many behavioral health issues including PTSD, stress, anxiety, addiction, suicidal thoughts, depression, burnout, and more. A key step in preventing tragic outcomes is for personnel to be able to talk openly about behavioral health issues. Work to create a culture in your department where behavioral health is recognized as being just as important as physical health and safety. Train members on why behavioral health is important, what risk factors they face, how to recognize signs and symptoms, and what to do if they or a fellow firefighter or EMT needs help. Fire/EMS Helpline The NVFC offers resources to assist through the Share the Load program. This includes the Fire/EMS Helpline, a free, confidential helpline available 24/7 to provide support to firefighters, EMS providers, and their families struggling with behavioral health issues. Run by American Addiction Centers, the Helpline was created by firefighters and is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of fire service personnel and their families. Additional resources available through 'Share the Load' include behavioral health and suicide prevention training, outreach materials, guides and reports, videos, and more.

Anheuser-Busch announced the company is expanding its emergency drinking water program in partnership with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to deliver critical hydration to volunteer firefighters across the country. The new partnership will kick off with a donation of one million cans of clean drinking water in support of volunteer fire departments in 2019, beginning this spring in advance of wildfire season. Critical Hydration For Firefighters As the country faces more natural disasters, like wildfires, it’s important to have more such programs" “As the country faces more natural disasters, like wildfires, it’s important to have more programs in place to help our emergency responders,” said Adam Warrington, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility at Anheuser-Busch. “With the evolution of our emergency drinking water program, we’re able to offer tangible support and necessary resources to those who are protecting our communities when they need it most.” Every year, Anheuser-Busch periodically pauses beer production to can emergency drinking water, to be ready to lend a helping hand during natural disasters and other crises. Building on this commitment, the brewer has teamed up with NVFC, the national association serving volunteer fire departments, to deploy its brewery resources and production expertise to deliver canned water to the nation’s volunteer firefighters. Safety Of Emergency Responders “Volunteer fire departments across the country are in need of our support,” said Heather Schafer, CEO of the NVFC. “Many Americans don’t realize that 65 percent of our nation’s firefighters are actually volunteers, with nearly 85 percent of fire departments being all or mostly volunteer. There’s plenty of support they need – but maintaining hydration during long incidents or disasters such as wildfires is a major concern for departments with limited budgets and resources. It’s been so powerful for us to team up with Anheuser-Busch in the evolution of this program to offer clean, safe drinking water to volunteer responders across the country.” The cans of emergency drinking water will be distributed by Anheuser-Busch’s wholesaler partners in 25 markets at the start of June to help volunteer departments prepare for the upcoming wildfire season. In partnership with Anheuser-Busch, the NVFC has identified and selected the most vulnerable markets across the nation to receive the initial water donation. The program will also leverage a rapid-response approach to support volunteer departments nationwide actively fighting wildfires throughout the year. Anheuser-Busch-NVFC-CFSI Partnership Together, Anheuser-Busch, the NVFC and CFSI will be raising awareness on the needs of local first responders Joining forces with Anheuser-Busch and the NVFC is the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), whose mission it is to educate members of Congress about the needs and challenges of our nation’s fire and emergency services. Together, Anheuser-Busch, the NVFC and CFSI will be raising awareness on the needs of local first responders – especially around hydration. “Hydration is critical for firefighter performance,” said Bill Webb, President of CFSI. “Dehydration can result in decreased physical and mental performance, as well as serious health consequences – a serious concern when lives are on the line. This program is addressing a huge issue that volunteer firefighters face. Without the right resources, hydration can be a matter of life or death.” Emergency Drinking Water  Anheuser-Busch has a longstanding tradition of providing emergency drinking water and supplies for disaster relief efforts in partnership with the American Red Cross. Since 1988, Anheuser-Busch and their wholesaler partners have provided more than 80 million cans of water to U.S. communities affected by natural disasters nationwide.

New technology and strategies are urgently required if rescue services are to meet the enormous challenges they encounter in the modern world. Demographic change, the need for well-trained specialist personnel and responding to major incidents and disasters are just some of the keynote themes that demand answers. At INTERSCHUTZ 2020 manufacturers, suppliers, rescue services and training institutes will present their solutions and ideas for future-fit rescue services. At the same time, INTERSCHUTZ also serves as a platform for a professional exchange of know-how within this sector. Consequently, the visiting public includes emergency physicians, emergency paramedics, paramedics, medical technicians and first responders from every kind of rescue/emergency service, as well as decision-makers in local government, medical insurance companies and providers of funds and services. INTERSCHUTZ 2020 INTERSCHUTZ is a hub which addresses all the topical issues affecting the entire spectrum of rescue services" "INTERSCHUTZ is a hub which addresses all the topical issues affecting the entire spectrum of rescue services, both for domestic deployment and internationally", declares Martin Folkerts, Project Director of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe. "One of the big bonus points of INTERSCHUTZ is that every sector in the field of security, safety and rescue services is represented at one convenient time and place. It is impossible to overstate just how important networking and communication between fire and civil protection services are to the development of rescue services that are future-proof and fit for purpose. In the final analysis, the players responding in day-to-day operations and those responding to major incidents and disasters all have to work closely together." Hall 26 will provide a central hub for the presentation of the rescue services at INTERSCHUTZ 2020. Offering a display space of more than 21,000 square meters, this venue provides visitors with a clear overview of manufacturers, suppliers and special themes. The hall is a magnet for any professional seeking information on rescue aids, transport, data management, equipment, disinfection equipment, medical equipment, tools/equipment for rescuing accident victims or information on training courses for the rescue services. The key topics of water rescue and high-angle and high rescue operations form the focus of displays in halls 17 and 16. Connectivity And Digitization Connectivity and digitization are issues that have long occupied emergency and rescue services" "Connectivity and digitization are issues that have long occupied emergency and rescue services", says Andreas Ploeger, director of the ambulance and rescue vehicle manufacturer Wietmarscher Ambulanz- und Sonderfahrzeug GmbH (WAS). "Although many countries are ahead of Germany in this respect, INTERSCHUTZ should get things moving. As far as WAS is concerned, this trade fair is something of an international benchmark." This is a view shared by Binz Ambulance- und Umwelttechnik GmbH, whose spokesperson, Matthias Quickert, deputy head of distribution and head of the special vehicles and series production segment of Binz operations, reported: "INTERSCHUTZ 2020 is an important national and international showcase, where our company presents its key products. One focal point is weight optimization in vehicle interiors for ambulances and rescue vehicles, as well as in other BOS emergency vehicles for which weight is a key factor, but naturally we also focus on the intelligent networking of voltage and power supply systems in vehicle modifications and data acquisition and presentation for diverse vehicles and vehicle modifications." C.Miesen, Gruau And GSF Ltd Among Exhibitors In addition to WAS and Binz, several other exhibitors have already announced their intention to exhibit in 2020, including C. Miesen, GSF Sonderfahrzeugbau, Groupe Gruau, Ferno-Washington, Weinmann Emergency, X-Cen-Tek, Holmatro, Lukas, Weber Hydraulik, Dönges and Andreas Stihl Ltd. While exhibitors from industry are clearly important to INTERSCHUTZ, great value is also placed on the participation of professional service providers, i.e. those organizations whose teams of professionals and volunteers deliver the emergency and rescue services. Their ranks include the German Red Cross (DRK), the national branch of the International Red Cross which operates in Germany and in voluntary operations assisting the German authorities in humanitarian missions. "For us it is self-evident that we should take part in INTERSCHUTZ as an exhibitor in 2020, but it is also very exciting," explains Dr. Ralf Selbach, chairman of the board of the DRK Association in Lower Saxony. Communication In Disaster Response The lead theme of connectivity and digitization is a very topical aspect of the work of the Red Cross" In the federal state of Lower Saxony, alone, the DRK employs around 3,500 in the rescue services, with a further 7,000 or more volunteers on standby. "The lead theme of connectivity and digitization is a very topical aspect of the work of the Red Cross – for instance, it is vital in communication in disasters and major incidents, or in the training of rescue service personnel," says Dr. Selbach. "This is something that we want to convey to the visitors to our trade fair stand in a tangible and practical fashion. We also want to inform them about the opportunities for working on a professional or voluntary basis in health-related services such as rescue and emergency, civil protection and disaster protection and relief." Likewise, INTERSCHUTZ is an important event in the calendar of the Johanniter Unfall Hilfe (German Order of St John) as Hannes Wendler, the Director of the organization in Lower Saxony and Bremen, is keen to explain: "INTERSCHUTZ not only affords an excellent overview of this sector, including all the latest developments – as a nationwide provider of rescue services and an established partner in general public services it also provides us with an opportunity to demonstrate our consistent efforts to upgrade and improve our services in line with current trends and standards." Johanniter Unfall Hilfe The Johanniter Unfall Hilfe at INTERSCHUTZ will not only place the focus on connectivity between teams and technology – it also aims to reach younger visitors and address personnel recruitment. The Akkon University in Berlin and the Johanniter Academy are two training facilities at which the Johanniter staff educate and train highly qualified personnel for the rescue and emergency services. Our training measures hinge on modern technology and innovative methods in order to prepare the participants" "Our training measures hinge on modern technology and innovative methods in order to prepare the participants as well as possible for the kind of challenges that rescue teams meet today," adds Wendler. "At INTERSCHUTZ we want to show visitors, especially young visitors, that we are a competent, modern and progressive employer – whether as a provider of terrestrial rescue services or in air rescue services and offshore rescue operations." Holmatro Extrication Challenge The exhibits and information offered at the individual stands at INTERSCHUTZ are complemented by an impressive supporting program rich in opportunities for discussion, knowledge transfer, learning and for making valuable new contacts. Demonstrations, activities and examples of practical applications are staged throughout the whole trade fair on the open-air site. Another daily highlight will be the Holmatro Extrication Challenge with rescue teams from all over the world competing against one another in exciting simulated scenarios in which they demonstrate their skills in extricating road-traffic accident victims from vehicles. No doubt, the scene will be less intense, but equally interesting, at the meeting of the rescue services, which is being organized mainly by the German Fire Protection Association (vfdb). This event will feature talks and panel discussions on current issues and challenges. One of many interesting topics will be the comparison of European emergency and rescue services. Directly adjacent to this event various rescue services' training schools will stage diverse activities simulating the kind of operations that rescue teams have to face today and showing ways of tackling future scenarios and challenges. 22nd Hannover Emergency Medicine Symposium Another key element of the supporting program is the 22nd Hannover Emergency Medicine Symposium from 19-20 June Another key element of the supporting program is the 22nd Hannover Emergency Medicine Symposium from 19-20 June, organized by the Johanniter Academy of Lower Saxony/Bremen in collaboration with the Medical University of Hannover. The symposium is held over two days, thus giving participants the opportunity to benefit from both the high-caliber theoretical content of this event and the experience of the leading world fair INTERSCHUTZ. The Johanniter Unfall Hilfe also organizes the Hans-Dietrich Genscher Prize and the Johanniter Junior Prize. Both awards are traditionally presented in Hannover to mark the achievements of courageous helpers. In 2020, the award ceremony will take place on the Wednesday of INTERSCHUTZ. The Hans-Dietrich Genscher Prize is awarded to adults – for example, an emergency physician or some other rescue or emergency worker – for their exceptional achievements in a rescue situation. The winner could be a professional or a volunteer layperson. The Johanniter Juniors' Prize is awarded to young people up to the age of 18 who have shown an exceptional level of commitment by providing first aid and/or other services in emergency situations. Hannover is, of course, also the place where German politicians and administrators responsible for the rescue services meet. Thus, on 16 and 17 June the German Federal States' Committee for the Emergency and Rescue Services will convene at INTERSCHUTZ. The participants will include the representatives responsible for the emergency and rescue services in the various German states, as well as representatives from the German Federal Ministries of Internal Affairs, Health and Defense, representatives of the German police air units, the German Federal Highway Research Institute (BAST) and the major local authority associations from across Germany.

Manufacturer and supplier of specialist passive fire protection products, Quelfire, will bring its expertise to stand FX239 at FIREX International 2019, taking place on 18-20 June at the ExCeL, London. Quelfire has built its name on a long-standing commitment to high-quality certified products, including fire containment systems for pipe, duct and electrical service penetrations, as well as linear joints and cavity barriers. With over 40 years’ experience in the industry, the company provides a range of valuable products and services to firestopping contractors, specifiers, architects, engineers and main contractors, about which visitors to the stand can learn more about at FIREX International 2019. QuelStop Firestopping System The company’s core QuelStop Firestopping System will be on display at the exhibitionThe company’s core QuelStop Firestopping System, a ‘one-stop-shop’ aimed at specialist firestopping contractors, will be on display at the exhibition. The Firestopping System comprises QuelStop Fire Batt, QuelStop CE-marked Intumescent Acrylic Sealant, QF2 Fire Protection Compound, QuelStop HPE Intumescent Graphite Sealant and QuelCoil Continuous Intuwrap, an ideal overall solution for firestopping mechanical and electrical service penetrations. The Firestopping System is also compatible with other Quelfire products such as fire collars and sleeves. Recent trends show that there is an increased need to use cast in fire collars, and visitors to the stand will be able to learn more about the Quelcast Cast in Fire Collar, including the benefits of the concept and how to correctly install it. The Quelcast Cast in Fire Collars prevent the spread of fire through plastic pipes and cables where they penetrate concrete floors and offer up to four hours fire rating. Tested to BS EN 136603:2009 and carrying CE marked certification, the fire collars are suitable with a wide range of pipe types and sizes, as well as cables. Tested To The Latest BS And EN Standards All of Quelfire’s high-quality products are manufactured in the UK and have undergone rigorous testing to the latest BS and EN standards. With a commitment to not only testing and developing new products and systems that push the benchmark for passive fire safety, the company also prides itself on providing full technical back-up and support to all parties involved from design through to installation, to ensure the compliance of the design and performance of the installation. We look to continue to educate the market about the importance of, and the latest trends in passive fire protection" Keith Wells, Managing Director and Fire Containment Specialist at Quelfire, said: “We have a wealth of experience in serving architects, specifiers, main contractors, engineers and firestopping contractors with a great understanding of the requirements and challenges at the stage of the construction projects each of them are involved in. “By visiting our stand at FIREX, not only can visitors learn more about the technical details of our wide range of innovative solutions, but also about the wide range of expertise we use to support different parties involved in the passive fire protection of buildings at all stages of construction projects. Educating Visitors About Passive Fire Protection “It has been an exciting couple of years for us with the launch of a number of new products and systems. We are very much looking forward to attending and welcoming visitors to our stand at FIREX, as we look to continue to educate the market about the importance of, and the latest trends in passive fire protection.” FIREX International is a dedicated global fire safety event, bringing together 18,000 fire prevention and protection professionals annually, as exhibitors showcase the latest advances in safety products and guidance. The three-day trade show is free to enter, with several seminars, workshops, networking and masterclass sessions taking place.

TOA Corporation UK, the global manufacturer of cutting-edge commercial audio and voice alarm equipment, is getting ready to exhibit its latest innovations at FIREX International 2019, which takes place on 18th-20th June at ExCeL, London. The company’s presence at this event will give over 18,000 international fire safety professionals an excellent opportunity to find out more about its comprehensive range of products and systems. A focal point on Stand FX915 will be the VX-3000, which combines all the important functions for public address and voice alarm (PA/VA) in one unit. Cost effective, robust, reliable and energy efficient, its limited number of components makes design and installation easier, saves space, reduces cable complexity, and enables rapid system configuration. TOA's SIP and ONVIS enabled 20W IP horn speaker is suitable for a variety of indoor and outdoor applicationsAlso, on display will be the wall-mounted version of this system – the VX-3308WM. As well as being ideal as a standalone unit in reception and building entrance areas, its compact size means that it takes up less space than a standard 19-inch equipment rack, making it perfect for decentralized installations where equipment is located in electrical risers. ONVIS Enabled 20W IP Horn Speaker TOA will demonstrate how it continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with audio technology. Its SIP and ONVIS enabled 20W IP horn speaker is suitable for a variety of indoor and outdoor applications and can fully integrate with video management software. This product will be shown alongside the SC-P620 powered horn and HA-1010-EB long range slim array speaker, which together comprise options for applications as diverse as educational establishments, car parks, building sites, hospitals, airports, factories, industrial estates, warehouses, utilities, shopping centres, sports stadia and even music festivals. Visitors will also have the chance to get hands-on with the IP-1100 audio management system. Consisting of microphone, speakers, and interface units, with all equipment connectable to an ordinary IP network, its management and operation software allows users to make instant and scheduled broadcasts through a single PC. Furthermore, its built-in flexibility allows easy system expansion beyond conventional system coverage. N-8000 Series IP Network Intercom Now augmented by the N-SP80 SIP video intercom system, the N-8000 can integrate with external SIP compatible systemsOne of TOA’s most popular systems will also be on display – the N-8000 Series IP network intercom system. Now augmented by the N-SP80 SIP video intercom system, which offers flexible audio and video communications using SIP and ONVIF, it can integrate with external SIP compatible systems through a SIP server, while a peer-to-peer mode is also available for standalone system operations without a SIP server environment. TOA is also pleased to announce that integration of all TOA IP products is now implemented under the new software upgrades. “It has been a tremendously exciting 12 months and we are looking forward to sharing the results of our activities with visitors to FIREX International 2019,” commented Ian Bridgewater, director at TOA Corporation UK. “With more solutions for more markets than any other company, it will provide an excellent platform for us to further highlight our credentials as the leader in our field. I am therefore looking forward to welcoming visitors to Stand FX915, where our team of experts will be available to talk through the features and benefits of our solutions.”

Across the country, law enforcement officers are finding it increasingly difficult to respond to the near overwhelming number of calls coming from security alarms. Police departments commonly define a false alarm as a call, which upon investigation, shows no evidence of criminal activity, such as broken windows, forced doors, items missing, or people injured. While false alarms bog down police, they can also negatively impact customers and integrators. End users can expect hefty fines for false alarm responses, and when these customers receive large bills from the city, many turn to installers, dealers, and even manufacturers expecting them to accept the responsibility and pay the check. What First Brought The Issue Of Alarm Verification To Your Attention? It is crucial to both see a situation and concurrently listen to any corresponding sounds to gain full insight I’ve been aware of the problem of false alarms for about 5 years. I believed audio capture, through microphone deployment, could be an active part of the solution when used as a second source for indicating ‘out of the norm’ activity and as an equal component with the video surveillance technology. In 2015, I found similarly minded security professionals when introduced to the Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response. After reading PPVAR’s paper on ‘Audio Verified Alarms Best Practices; [April 2015],’ I knew that the Partnership was on to something important. In our lives, two of the five senses we count on day-in and day-out are sight and sound. It is crucial to both see a situation and concurrently listen to any corresponding sounds to gain full insight. What Is The False Alarm Rate? In 2016, the International Association of Chiefs of Police reported that over 98 percent of all alarm calls in the United States were false. This number is obviously staggering, and something we need to work towards correcting. Why Did This Issue Resonate So Strongly With You? When I first investigated this issue, I was sure that the security industry would have already recognized this and was acting to ensure improved alarm verification, preferably through a combination of audio and video technologies. However, I quickly saw that this was not the case, or even close to the norm. I have questioned the rationale behind the lack of adoption and found the deployment of audio is often hindered by the concern of privacy. I’ve spearheaded many initiatives to explain the monitoring policies surrounding audio As CEO of Louroe Electronics, I’ve spearheaded many initiatives to explain the monitoring policies surrounding audio. I’ve had to reassure many security personnel and customers how the law supports the use of audio in public places as long as there is no expectation of privacy. By dispelling fears with facts around deploying and implementing audio sensors, customers can confidently include audio in their surveillance systems and gain a more effective security solution. Who Is Affected By This? Truth be told, everyone from the end user to the manufacturer is affected by this issue. Not to mention the strain this puts on law enforcement who are tired of ‘wasting time’ and effort out in the field on these nuisance alerts. When an end user receives a check for their false alarm, many of them will immediately blame the integrator and or the monitoring center for a faulty set up and management and expect the integrator to remedy the situation, including carry the burden of paying the fines. The integrator, on the other hand, will turn to the manufacturer, assuming faulty equipment and installation instructions; therefore, looking for reimbursement for the cost. What Is The Average False Alarm Fee? It depends on many factors, and especially your first responder assigned location for responseIt depends on many factors, and especially your first responder assigned location for response. According to the Urban Institute, fees generally range from $25-$100 for the first offense, rising as high as a few thousand dollars per false alarm if a location has a large number in a single year. What’s worse, in extreme cases, alarm systems may even be blacklisted by the police dispatch center if they have raised too many false alarms in the past. Why Do You Believe Audio Is The Ideal Technology For Secondary Source Verification? Video surveillance has been the main option for security monitoring and alarm validation for decades, however industry professionals are realising that video alone is not enough. Video only tells half of the story, by adding audio capture, the responsible party gains a turnkey solution with the ability to gather additional evidence to verify alerts and expand overall awareness. In reality, audio’s range is greater than the field of view for a camera. Sound pickup is 360 degrees, capturing voices, gunshots, breaking glass, sirens, or other important details that a fixed camera many not see. How Would A Secondary Source Verification System Work With Audio? Using a video monitoring solution equipped with audio, the microphone will pick up the sounds at the time a visual alert or alarm is triggered. If embedded with classification analytics, the microphone will send alerts for specific detected sounds. The captured audio, and any notifications are immediately sent to the monitoring station, where trained personnel can listen to the sound clip, along with live audio and video from their station. When law enforcement receives a validated alarm, they can better prioritise the response From here, an informed decision can then be made about the validity of the alarm, along with what the current threat is at the location. If the alarm is in fact valid, the information is then passed along to the law enforcement within minutes. When law enforcement receives a validated alarm, they can better prioritise the response. It also provides more information in a forensic evaluation. Are There Any Additional Resources You Would Suggest Looking Into? Yes, we would suggest looking into the following to see a few different perspectives on the matter: NSA Support For 2018 Model Ordinance For Alarm Management and False Alarm Reduction Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response Support for the Term “Verified Alarm” and Prioritising Verified Alarm Responses Urban Institute Opportunities for Police Cost Savings without Sacrificing Service Quality: Reducing False Alarms

Did you know an estimated 30% of smoke alarms in the UK are inoperable due to missing, flat or disconnected batteries? For a property to comply with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it is vitally important that all fire safety equipment is kept in perfect working order at all times. This involves checking that the fire safety equipment is accessible, well maintained and hasn’t been tampered with. There are many ways you can take care of your fire safety equipment, to ensure your property is prepared, should there ever be a fire. Equipment Assessment Checks There are two types of equipment assessment checks that should be carried out, including monthly and annually If you’re the ‘responsible person’ for commercial property, you need to ensure your building meets fire safety standards. Here are 5 tips on how to properly maintain your fire safety equipment. Both passive and active fire safety equipment must be check regularly for any signs of wear or damage. There are two types of equipment assessment checks that should be carried out, including monthly and annually. There is a range of equipment checks you must carry out, including fire doors, fire alarm test, emergency lighting and fire extinguishers. Emergency lighting should be checked monthly, with all issues kept in a logbook. Fire doors should also be checked to ensure their seals and frames are in good condition.   Fire Alarm Tests All fire protection has to be checked annually including alarms, detectors, lighting, sprinklers, extinguishers and fire doors. They should be carefully inspected. Fire alarms are a legal requirement for commercial premises. To check that your Fire alarms still function correctly, it is important to get them serviced. All fire alarms should be tested, maintained and inspected by a competent person who is able to carry out any remedial work. Fire alarms are a legal requirement for commercial premises Fire extinguishers must be ready to work straight away in the event of a fire, so it is vital they are regularly checked and serviced. You should ensure they are maintained and kept in a functional condition. Every month, the pressure gauge should be tested on all fire extinguishers. Fire Risk Assessments Every year, it is required that a qualified technician carries out a thorough check on all your extinguishers for them to be fully serviced and certified. In addition to regular maintenance checks on your fire safety equipment, it is vital your commercial property has a fire risk assessment carried out every 4 years, with a renewal every 2 years. Fully trained and qualified assessors should undertake this to make sure it is done professionally Fully trained and qualified assessors should undertake this to make sure it is done professionally. By having a fire risk assessment review, it determines whether any changes could impact the ability for your equipment to properly protect your building. Fire Safety Logbook During a risk assessment, all fire doors must be checked to ensure they are in good condition and close efficiently with secure hinges. The fire seals must be fixed in position, with signs on the door present and legible. To keep an overview of all findings and actions, there should be a fire safety logbook and maintenance record that remains at your premises at all times. The logbook is used to record and review any significant findings when carrying out the fire risk assessment. This helps to keep all fire safety equipment functioning effectively and available to respond to emergency fires.

I gave a lot of thought to identifying the biggest challenge facing the American fire service in 2019. Many things came to mind: funding; fire prevention - if every building was sprinklered and all had working smoke alarms, it would solve a lot of other problems; political influences; initial, regular and ongoing training, and a bunch more. But the one constant that kept popping up is the people issue. Staffing. This obviously isn’t the first time you’ve heard that. Normally, when we talk about staffing, we talk about the number of firefighters on the apparatus. That is not exactly what I'm talking about. What I mean is, in 2019, we better figure out where our next group of recruits is coming from. Measurable Drop In Applicants If one fire department is paying more than another, members jump ship On the career side, numerous areas are reporting a measurable drop in applicants—in other words, they need people who want to be firefighters and medics. In some areas, it’s a bidding war. If one fire department is paying more than another, members jump ship. And who can blame them? They have families to take care of. But when the dust clears, there are still far fewer people interested in this job than we need. Some theories are that the new generation: Doesn’t like helping people Are self-focused Aren’t into doing physical things Are lazy Can make the same money without shift work Can make the same money without risk None of these theories gets us far in addressing the problem. The goal of any fire department is to deliver staffed, trained interior firefighters just a few minutes after someone dials 9-1-1 Big Picture Focus On the volunteer side, all you have to do is listen to a fire radio nearly anywhere in the U.S. (and Canada) and you will hear volunteer fire departments toning out... toning out... and toning out—with little response when members are responding from home or work. It, too, is a measurable problem. There are volunteer departments with little funding and others with plenty of funding. Regardless, there seems to be little “big picture” focus on solving the problem based upon what’s best for the people having the fire. Some say to simply hire career firefighters. Is it that simple? What are the pros? And are there any cons? There certainly are. Trained Interior Firefighters Some departments solve the problem by having their volunteers on duty, in quarters, ready to roll The old model of volunteers responding from home or work doesn’t work very well when you consider the proven fire spread in 2019 vs. fire spread even just 20 years ago. Some departments solve the problem by having their volunteers on duty, in quarters, ready to roll. That may be the least expensive option depending upon the local model. Some hire part-time firefighters. Some unfairly and regularly rely on mutual aid. Some have a fair and balanced mutual aid system. Some have their heads in the sand. The goal of any fire department is to deliver staffed, trained interior firefighters just a few minutes after someone dials 9-1-1. If we don’t have people knocking on the fire station doors to become career firefighters or to volunteer, that goal is in jeopardy. I simply can’t see a bigger, more immediate challenge for 2019 than the “people” issue.

The Rabun County Fire Services, located in the northeast corner of Georgia, has placed a Lake Assault Boats fireboat into service on Lake Rabun, an 835-acre reservoir with 25 miles of shoreline. The new craft provides fire suppression and emergency response services for homeowners, visitors, and Georgia Power facilities located on the lake. “The combination of hydroelectric plants and a growing number of high-end waterfront single family homes in a region susceptible to wildfires make our on-the-water emergency response capabilities a critical part of our department’s mission,” said Captain John Murray of the Rabun County Fire Services. “The new fireboat has greatly improved our emergency response performance and significantly reduced our ISO rating.” Lake Water For Firefighting Operations The 26-foot craft can quickly transport water into a network of standpipes located along the shoreline – that were furnished by neighborhood homeowners’ associations – to supply lake water for ground-based firefighting operations. Moreover, its deck-mounted monitor enables the craft to conduct direct fire attack. The fireboat is powered via twin 175 hp Mercury outboard engines and features a 1,250-gpm fire pump The fireboat is powered via twin 175 hp Mercury outboard engines and features a 1,250-gpm fire pump driven by a marinized V-6 engine. The TFT Hurricane monitor is rated at 1,250 gpm and there are four discharge ports including one that feeds a 5-inch large diameter hose (LDH). Other features include a 63-inch hydraulically operated bow door capable of transporting ATVs, a swing-out side dive door, and a Davit crane with two access points. Easy To Operate Fireboat The T-top pilothouse is seven-feet long and has an interior clearance height of 76 inches. Its componentry includes a helm station with fire pump and monitor controls, and a 12-inch touchscreen commands a full suite of advanced electronics, including: forward looking infrared (FLIR), sonar with side structure scan, chartplotter, and GPS.  “We’ve been blown away by our new fireboat’s performance – it is smooth, agile, quick to plane, and very easy to operate,” added Murray. “Plus, once on the scene, we can be flowing water in a matter of seconds.” Located in a mountainous region in the far northeast corner of Georgia, Rabun County Fire Services protects 361 square miles with a department that includes 200 volunteer firefighters, six paid personnel, 12 volunteer fire stations, 17 engines, 11 tankers, 11 mini pumpers and three fireboats. Each year the department responds to approximately 2,000 calls.

A fire system with integrated fire telephone and voice evacuation system from Advanced has been installed at an exclusive 30-storey residential high-rise in Dubai. Boasting state-of-the-art amenities, luxury interiors, a fully equipped gym and rooftop swimming pool, the Siraj Tower has become one of the most sought-after residential projects in the ambitious $64billion entertainment complex, Dubailand. As Advanced’s exclusive distributor in Dubai, Cignetix were responsible for integrating this crucial part of the building’s active fire protection. Four Advanced Axis EN panels, which were recently certified by FM Approvals to the EN54 standard, and 2000 devices have been installed alongside its high-performance fire telephone solution. Designed for clear, easy-to-use control, the system benefits from LED status indications showing its operational stateSunil Gopalkrishnan, Managing Director at Cignetix, said: “Thanks to their reputation for performance, quality and ease-of-use, Advanced are our preferred choice of fire alarm, fire telephone and voice evacuation systems – capable of handling large networks of up to 200 panels and complex cause and effect programming.” Fire Telephone Solution Advanced’s fire telephone solution is ideal for high and low-rise apartment buildings, hotels, universities, government and military sites where local fire departments and emergency personnel need access to fire/emergency communications. Designed for clear, easy-to-use control, the conventional system benefits from LED status indications showing its operational state – whether the system has a call-in, is connected or is in fault condition. The fire telephone system is compliant with EN54 parts 2 and 4 and can be configured as either a standalone, independent system or completely integrated into the Axis EN fire system. Steve Carroll, Advanced’s General Manager for the Middle East, said: “The Siraj Tower is another fantastic example of the successful partnership between Cignetix and Advanced. In order to take full advantage of what our products offer, it takes companies like Cignetix, who have the skills and experience required, to apply Advanced to sites such as this prestigious high-rise.” Axis EN Fire Panel Range Axis EN, which is part of Advanced’s Axis range of systems, holds global approvals, including EN54, UL864 and AS1670Available for European, Middle East and South East Asian markets, Axis EN is Advanced’s highest performance analogue panel range, combining 1-8 loop, fire panels configurable up to 200 panel networks with a complete range of wired and wireless loop devices and powerful peripherals. Axis EN, which is part of Advanced’s Axis range of systems, holds global approvals, including EN54, UL864 and AS1670. It is designed to go anywhere where high quality, reliable and easy to use fire detection and control is required. Advanced, owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC, have a long history of protecting some of the most prestigious high-rise residential developments in the world, including the Gold Coast’s Soul Building and Miami’s Sands Pointe. Advanced is a pioneer in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems. The legendary performance, quality and ease of use of its products sees Advanced specified in locations all over the world, from single panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, multi-protocol fire panels, extinguishing control, fire paging and false alarm management systems.

The client is a prestigious purpose-built skin, laser and cosmetic surgery clinic based in central Birmingham. In 2018, they relocated to a Georgian building following an expansion of the practice to welcome new professional associates and provide a greater range of patient services. Their upgraded and refurbished building includes a larger operating room with dedicated recovery areas, treatments rooms, consultation rooms and waiting areas. At this clinic, plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic experts carry out surgical and non-surgical procedures for the face and body as well as cosmetic dentistry, IV nutritional therapy and advanced spa treatments. As well as a team of renowned doctors and practitioners and their administration team, the new premise is also accessed by numerous patients and their families visiting the clinic for pre-treatment and post-treatment consultations, as well as for the procedures themselves. Access Control And Intruder Detection System In their new premises, the practice required an access control and intruder detection system that delivered: Hassle-free access for staff with various levels of authority, from surgeons to administrators, for e.g. restricted access to consultation/treatment rooms and post-procedure recovery areas Limited access to patient information, drugs, high value surgical equipment and other high-risk assets Simple and reliable off-site management by permitted personnel, at any time and via their own computer, tablet or smartphone A secure yet serene and private experience for patients and visitors, for e.g. easy entry and exit for visitors to/from the main reception area Safety Of Staff And Visitors IGNIS Fire Protection Services installed Inception for this popular cosmetic surgery practice in Birmingham. With nearly 100 years of combined experience installing security systems, the IGNIS team delivers on its reputation for quality of service, knowledge, reliability and honesty. Inner Range's Inception access control and intruder detection system was used by IGNIS Fire Protection Services on this siteIGNIS works with integrated access control and intruder detection manufacturer Inner Range to deliver a cost effective, reliable service every time, with safety of staff, customers and visitors of paramount importance. Inner Range provided Inception, the core access control and intruder detection system used by IGNIS Fire Protection Services on this site. Inception was the perfect choice for this customer because it hangs off the same infrastructure with a single user interface. An integrated system gives the client reassurance, simplicity and ease of use. Offers Smart Building Management A pioneer of integrated access control and intruder detection systems, Inner Range has been a pioneer in the design and manufacture of intelligent security solutions since it was established in 1988. More than 150,000 Inner Range systems have been installed in over 30 countries. Inner Range’s award-winning integrated security systems offer smart building management at local, national and global levels. Inception is Inner Range’s powerful yet affordable access control and intruder detection system, now featuring a range of extra reporting functions, anti-pass back protocols and interlocking doors. The system provides this dynamic clinic with the integrated access control they need to run their business with the utmost efficiency, safety and security. Key Features Available With Inception: A web-based interface that can be controlled by authorized staff using existing smartphones, tablets or computers Various entry points starting at 2 or 4 doors and 16 users and can be expanded if required up to 32 doors and 512 users Universal inputs and outputs that can be used independently of each other, to directly control door locks and powered sirens modules Secured alarm communication is using 128Bit AES encryption to ensure data privacy Interactive Commissioning Checklist IGNIS installed the Inception system using its interactive Commissioning Checklist that ensures no steps are missedIGNIS installed the Inception system using its industry-first interactive Commissioning Checklist that ensures no steps are missed. That process includes core programming, custom automation, changing default credentials, backing up the database and downloading commissioning reports. Inception’s wireless adaptability not only gives users flexibility, it means technicians don’t need to find an IP address or connect to the user’s local network. They can also use an adaptor as a service tool to perform maintenance on site. Benefits For The Client: Peace of mind – 24/7/365 access and intruder detection solutions to keep patients, staff, visitors and assets safe and secure Convenience – the system can be controlled at all times via any mobile device No forgotten codes to interrupt the sensitive day to day running of the business or cause issues out of hours Value for money - no costly additional hardware and no need for a set on-site administrator or security guard Easy access and security means reception and support staff can focus on other responsibilities such as patient care

Chubb Sicli completes the installation of a full suite of fire safety and security equipment and services at Webster University Geneva. The new equipment will better protect students, staff and facilities with essential fire and security systems across the entire campus. Chubb Sicli is a part of Chubb Fire & Security Group, which is a part of Carrier, a provider of innovative heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies. Providing Fire Safety After many years of providing fire safety support to Webster University Geneva, Chubb Sicli conducted a complete fire and security audit, the first of its kind at the university. The audit resulted in a number of areas for improvement and the team provided a complete, tailor-made fire and security solution to meet the university’s needs. Chubb Sicli carried out fire safety improvements across all buildings Chubb Sicli carried out fire safety improvements across all buildings, paired with full scale intrusion alarms, access control for all entrances, CCTV system upgrades using the latest video surveillance technology, and also automatic fire extinguishing in kitchen areas. The project drew on many areas of Chubb Sicli expertise, from fire extinguishers and fire detection to security audit, emergency light installation and maintenance, as well as intruder detection, access control and video surveillance. Key Fire Detection Michel Pollak, Human Resources Director from Webster University Geneva, said: “Across our campus, it was a priority to provide effective and interconnected fire and security solutions that were as comprehensive as possible. Chubb Sicli is our long-standing fire safety provider and the audit was a great step forward in protecting our people and property, and responding to our evolving needs. The university campus is set across acres of park, which brings distinct challenges.” “Chubb Sicli’s excellent management of the project, their responsiveness and attention to detail meant that we now have key fire detection and suppression and intrusion and security capabilities at all key points. This work has enhanced the security of our student and faculty population. Chubb Sicli also demonstrated an understanding of our position as a local University but with international roots and needs,” Pollak added.

Horbury Property Services, part of the Horbury Group, has been selected to provide fire safety services for over 55s accommodation managed by Sheffield-based Arches Housing. The contract involves Horbury Property Services providing fire door replacement and fire compartmentation upgrades, which will be completed within a four-week schedule, as part of enhancing fire safety for residents. Offering Optimal Fire Protection Richard Sutton, General Manager at Horbury Property Services, said: “This is our second major contract with Arches Housing and we are very pleased to be working with them again to enhance fire safety in one of their sheltered housing schemes. Fire safety is an essential requirement in all buildings, and we aim to ensure that the residents of Arches Housing are offered the best possible fire protection.” Luigi Iantorno, asset compliance & reinvestment officer at Arches Housing, said: “Horbury Property Services secured this contract as a result of a rigorous competitive tender. The upgrade to fire doors and fire compartmentation is an important part of our planned maintenance works as we aim to ensure our homes are as fire safe as possible.” Other Services Offered By Horbury Horbury Property Services provides a full range of works, which includes installation, repair and maintenance of fire doors As well as fire door and fire compartmentation services, Horbury Property Services provides a full range of works, which can form part of planned maintenance programs. This includes ceiling and dry wall partitioning inspection, installation, repair and maintenance of fire doors, joinery works, fire stopping, sealing, fire compartmentation, fire alarm and emergency light testing, portable appliance testing, electrical testing and installation work, building fabric repairs as well as external cladding and render repairs. In addition, the wider Horbury Group provides painting and decorating, flooring refurbishment and installation, amongst others. The company has its head office in South Yorkshire, plus regional offices in London and South Wales, ensuring a truly national capability. This regional presence enables its teams to successfully deliver responsive repairs or large planned refurbishment and maintenance programmes.  Arches Housing is a community-based social landlord, which was established in 1975 and provides more than 1,200 affordable homes in Sheffield and Rotherham.

In large factory halls used for metalworking operations, conventional fire alarm systems are often not enough to protect buildings, employees and equipment. In many cases, high ceilings, greater fire hazards and interference from reflected light characterize these halls. The company of MKM Mansfelder Kupfer und Messing GmbH (MKM) faced exactly this challenge. MKM is a manufacturer of copper and copper-alloy precursor and semi finished products. Achieve Better Protection The company wanted to achieve better protection from fire hazards in two of the halls at its Hettstedt site in Saxony-Anhalt, a state in the eastern part of Germany. Conditions in the halls are particularly challenging because the pace of production constantly varies While searching for the optimal solution, the plant fire brigade tested a number of candidates, including quite a few conventional fire alarm systems. Conditions in the halls are particularly challenging because the pace of production constantly varies. “Due to the large size of both halls, in the end we decided that only one solution was up to the job: the AVIOTEC visual early fire detection system from Bosch,” explains Christoph Dammann, administrator fire and alarm systems at MKM. Fire Detection System AVIOTEC is the first video-based fire detection system to be certified by VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH (VdS). Intelligent algorithms integrated in the camera ensure reliable early detection of smoke and flame. This innovative technology also excels in terms of costs and efficiency. Bosch experts planned and configured the solution for MKM and then took care of integrating it into the existing fire detection system and connecting it to the monitoring center of the plant fire brigade. If a fire is detected in either of the two halls, it sends signals to the central fire detection system as well as directly to the fire brigade. Then the firefighters can check the video monitor and take targeted appropriate action to extinguish the fire before it can spread.