Wildfires

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's (DACF) Maine Forest Service (MFS) has been awarded two Community Wildfire Defense Grants (CWDG) to support at-risk communities in Northern and Downeast Maine. These grants, totaling $258,000 ($141,000 and $117,000, respectively), will safeguard homes, businesses, forestland, and infrastructure from catastrophic wildfires. Both regions face significant wildfire risks and are considered underserved. Competitive CWDG awards Maine is New England's first and only state to receive these highly competitive CWDG awards Federal funding will facilitate the creation of Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) over five years. Last fall, the USDA Forest Service received 535 applications, awarding grants to only 158 communities nationwide. Maine is New England's first and only state to receive these highly competitive CWDG awards. MFS will lead the development of CWPPs, coordinate data collection, and engage stakeholders and the public. These plans will evaluate wildfire risks, inventory access routes, utility corridors, and other critical assets and foster collaboration between local governments, fire departments, state agencies, the Maine Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC), and other key stakeholders. wildfire risk mitigation "Earning these federal grants is a significant accomplishment for our Maine Forest Service. Given the competitive nature of these grants, typically awarded to western states, we are incredibly proud that Maine is the first New England state to be awarded these funds," said Amanda Beal, DACF Commissioner. "As the most heavily forested state with a history of rural wildfires, it is crucial to prioritize wildfire risk mitigation. This federal funding will enhance our efforts to protect communities and ensure their safety from wildfires," said Patty Cormier, MFS Director. Mitigate wildfire risks "We are thrilled to receive the CWDG grants and are eager to collaborate with County Emergency Management Agency directors, Fire Chiefs, and large forest landowners to mitigate wildfire risks and bolster the resilience of our forests," said Robby Gross, Chief Forest Ranger. The Northern Maine/Katahdin Region grant encompasses Millinocket, East Millinocket, Medway, and several adjacent unorganized territories. This project area borders the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument and is near Baxter State Park, home to Maine's highest peaks. The Downeast Maine grant includes the towns of Whiting and Dennysville and four unorganized territories in Southeast Washington County.

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) recently hosted its first Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP) Advocate train-the-trainer event for a new network of regional representatives that will teach the WFAP curriculum and advocate for mitigation and safety in wildfire-prone areas across the U.S. The WFAP is a joint effort by the U.S. Forest Service and the NVFC to provide fire service volunteers with training and resources to conduct safety assessments for homes located in the wildland-urban interface. The WFAP teaches volunteers to evaluate a home and provide residents with recommendations to protect their property from wildfire. Training, an award-winning toolkit, and supplemental resources are available to help implement the program at the grassroots level. Volunteer fire department Advocates started the two-day event with an overview of the WFAP program 13 Regional Advocates from across the U.S. – California to Massachusetts – attended the training, which was hosted at the Utah Fire and Rescue Academy (UFRA) in Provo, UT, on March 8-9. These Advocates are qualified and skilled individuals with backgrounds in wildfire mitigation, safety, and instruction and have worked with or are part of a volunteer fire department. Advocates started the two-day event with an overview of the WFAP program and resources available to support them in this role. They were provided with training on best practices for reaching a target audience, specifically through teaching and learning techniques. Attendees were also given an overview of the WFAP curriculum and performed a mock assessment at residencies in a Provo neighborhood to help put knowledge gained into practice. “We’re extremely excited about the new WFAP Advocate Network,” said WFAP lead instructor and NVFC wildland committee chair Chief Steve McClintock. “This group contains a variety of experienced and knowledgeable individuals that are passionate about protecting our communities from wildfires, and their leadership and skills will help us grow this invaluable initiative. We are grateful to the UFRA for being such a gracious host and to the U.S. Forest Service for its continuous support of the program.”

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) recently hosted its first Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP) Advocate train-the-trainer event for a new network of regional representatives that will teach the WFAP curriculum and advocate for mitigation and safety in wildfire-prone areas across the U.S. The WFAP is a joint effort by the U.S. Forest Service and the NVFC to provide fire service volunteers with training and resources to conduct safety assessments for homes located in the wildland-urban interface. The WFAP teaches volunteers to evaluate a home and provide residents with recommendations to protect their property from wildfire. Training, an award-winning toolkit, and supplemental resources are available to help implement the program at the grassroots level. Volunteer fire department Advocates started the two-day event with an overview of the WFAP program 13 Regional Advocates from across the U.S. – California to Massachusetts – attended the training, which was hosted at the Utah Fire and Rescue Academy (UFRA) in Provo, UT, on March 8-9. These Advocates are qualified and skilled individuals with backgrounds in wildfire mitigation, safety, and instruction and have worked with or are part of a volunteer fire department. Advocates started the two-day event with an overview of the WFAP program and resources available to support them in this role. They were provided with training on best practices for reaching a target audience, specifically through teaching and learning techniques. Attendees were also given an overview of the WFAP curriculum and performed a mock assessment at residencies in a Provo neighborhood to help put knowledge gained into practice. “We’re extremely excited about the new WFAP Advocate Network,” said WFAP lead instructor and NVFC wildland committee chair Chief Steve McClintock. “This group contains a variety of experienced and knowledgeable individuals that are passionate about protecting our communities from wildfires, and their leadership and skills will help us grow this invaluable initiative. We are grateful to the UFRA for being such a gracious host and to the U.S. Forest Service for its continuous support of the program.”

KIMTEK Corp, makers of MEDLITE®, FIRELITE®, and LEOLITE® Transport skid units for off-road rescue and wildland firefighting, have announced plans to celebrate the company's 40th anniversary with a number of events planned throughout 2024.  KIMTEK Transport skid units fit easily into most utility vehicles and pick-up trucks, enabling first responders to travel over rough terrain and through tight clearances with essential fire and/or medical rescue equipment and attendants. Markets have responded enthusiastically, resulting in record demand for KIMTEK products around the globe in 2023. Corporate milestone Multiple patent-holder and quit fire chief who apprehends firsthand the challenges of panel off-road rescue Reaching this corporate milestone represents a personal achievement for KIMTEK president and founder Kimball Johnson, a multiple patent-holder and retired fire chief who understands firsthand the challenges of meeting off-road rescue needs while under strict budget constraints typical for municipal and government agency emergency departments. "After spending decades talking with first responders about the challenges of meeting off-road rescue, firefighting and law enforcement demands, I appreciate the particular needs of these agencies and departments," he said. "They need resources that are reliable, versatile, and affordable. It's why I started KIMTEK Research then, and it's why our team keeps researching, adapting, and providing medical, fire rescue and law enforcement solutions that exactly meet first responders' needs now," he said. Fire departments and ambulance squads  Mr. Johnson and several KIMTEK employees are themselves experienced first responders, having routinely performed off-road rescues and wildfire suppression as part of their duties with fire departments and ambulance squads. This field experience makes it inherently easier for KIMTEK to develop off-road solutions that are designed right, built right, and priced right. 

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is seeking qualified individuals with backgrounds in wildfire mitigation, safety, and instruction to join a new corps of qualified instructors, in order to help teach the Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP) curriculum and advocate for mitigation and safety in wildfire-prone regions across the U.S. NVFC’s Wildland Fire Assessment Program Advocate Network NVFC is looking for a variety of folks from across different topographies NVFC is looking for a variety of folks from across different topographies, since wildfires look different among forests and grasslands/prairies. Instructor stipends and travel reimbursements are available. For those who are interested in joining this Network, fill out the NVFC subject matter expert form by January 31, in order to be considered. Kick-off meeting and advocate training A kick-off meeting and advocate training will be held in Provo, Utah (UT), at the Utah Fire and Rescue Academy, on March 8-9, 2024. All approved advocates will be invited to attend and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) will cover their travel expenses.

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company, announced Canada-based dealer Commercial Emergency Equipment Co. has secured a 10-year contract with the Calgary Fire Department (CFD), focusing on the provision of custom tenders in an as-needed quantity.   Building upon the earlier established contract in 2022, which was centered on the supply of aerial platforms and ladders, this new agreement also places significant emphasis on apparatus standardization. Tandem-axle Enforcer™ chassis tenders The first two orders under the agreement, as well as all future tenders, will be state-of-the-art tandem-axle Enforcer™ chassis tenders with the following specifications: Two-door cab with fully sealed enclosed transverse cab compartment Dry-side tanker body Dual hydraulic tank racks w/4000-gallon portable tanks Cummins X12 500 hp engine Waterous CSPA 750-gallon PTO-driven mid-ship pump 3450-gallon water tank TAK-4® Independent Front Suspension Cold-climate package Our previous collaboration with Pierce and Commercial Emergency Equipment Co. set a solid foundation" Nigel Thorley, Leader of Fleet and Equipment with the Calgary Fire Department, remarked, “Our previous collaboration with Pierce and Commercial Emergency Equipment Co. set a solid foundation, and this second agreement underscores the synergy we've established with the team.” He adds, “Pierce and Commercial Emergency Equipment’s dedication to quality, as well as the proximity of service resources for our fire department has proven to be a good match.” CFD’s emphasis on apparatus standardization In pursuit of CFD’s significant emphasis on apparatus standardization, the department selected Enforcer cabs for their tenders to match their Pierce aerials to reduce training and apparatus familiarization time. Drivetrains, suspension, switch locations and cab layout, compartment locations, and maintenance items are identical between the aerials and new tenders. Additionally, the extremely unique transverse cab compartments in CFD’s tender specification are designed to dramatically expand available equipment space which is usually not required for tenders to house wildland and other fireground equipment. Innovation and support capabilities One of the largest municipalities in the country has again placed their trust in Pierce and Commercial" Mike Feduniw, Sales Manager with Commercial Emergency Equipment Co., spoke about the innovation and support capabilities, which drive the relationship. He said, “One of the largest municipalities in the country has again placed their trust in Pierce and Commercial, and we know this is because both companies continuously demonstrate they can meet the very specific needs of the CFD.” Commitment to excellence Mike Feduniw adds, “Access to our knowledgeable service support team members, service centers, and mobile support units also ensures each fire department has the critical resources needed. This commitment to excellence has played a pivotal role in securing these long-term contracts.” The Calgary Fire Department continues its dedicated service with four platoons of firefighters, 1,326 front-line first responders across 43 fire stations, and manages more than 70,000 service calls annually. Given the city's expansive coverage area and diverse community, such robust partnerships are crucial in bolstering the emergency response capabilities for Calgary's growing population and infrastructure.

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

Last year was the largest wildfire season recorded in California in modern history, with six of the top 20 largest wildfires in the state, according to the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). In 2020, firefighters faced a total of 9,917 wildfires that consumed a record 6,653 square miles. These fires took the lives of 33 people and damaged or destroyed 10,488 structures. Ahead of the 2022 wildland fire season, climatologists are predicting another record-shattering year of frequent and intense wildfires across the United States. This reflects a continuing trend of more wildfires and more acres burned, with seasons that are more severe and last longer. Growing concern for WUI firefighters DuPont believes these dedicated men and women deserve the best protection Concern is growing for wildland urban interface (WUI) firefighters as fires today frequently intersect with residential areas, in and around wildland fields. WUI firefighters are fighting both wildfires and urban fires. This comes with combined hazards and the clear need for their gear to work harder than ever before. DuPont believes these dedicated men and women deserve the best protection and the best gear to match their unwavering commitment to keeping everyone safe. At DuPont, we look at singular and multiple threats simultaneously. Our decades of experience, wide portfolio of solutions and unique partnerships with firehouses around the world, allow us to continue to innovate our next-generation gear to face emerging threats. Uncompromised Protection The DuPont Nomex brand has been trusted for over 50 years. WUI firefighters can depend on apparel made with Nomex and Nomex Nano to offer higher fire resistance along with over 99% particulate protection in lighter weight options. Nomex Nano was developed to address the growing problem of heat stress. It is engineered to be thinner than other advanced flame-resistant (FR) materials used for thermal liners and features a higher limiting oxygen index (LOI) than traditional Nomex and DuPont Kevlar. Nomex Nano We have seen Nomex Nano provide up to 40% reduction in thermal liner thickness, when compared to other advanced liners available in the market, while providing similar thermal protection performance. By reducing the weight and bulk of current turnout gear (TOG) systems, liners made with Nomex Nano can help give firefighters increased mobility and a better range of motion, thereby helping to reduce fatigue, disorientation and heat exhaustion. Reduced heat stress and enhanced moisture management Nomex Nano also helps reduce heat stress due to its enhanced moisture management Nomex Nano also helps reduce heat stress due to its enhanced moisture management, which includes a high absorption rate to remove sweat quickly and a high evaporation rate to drive water out of a firefighter’s skin and the thermal liner system. Kelly Whitt, Business Development Manager at DuPont said, “Our existing products have been proven with years in the structural firefighting arena. Today, we’re looking at ways to bridge the gap and give WUI firefighters the same level of protection from harmful smoke particulates that can be found in structural fire turnout gear.” Field test of new laminated composite fabric technology Kelly Whitt adds, “We are field testing a new laminated composite fabric technology – utilizing Nomex® Nano – that will provide superior particulate protection for both wildland-urban interface and brush fire firefighting.” DuPont understands that collaborating with a variety of stakeholders is the key to taking the technology to the next level and providing WUI firefighters with a better level of protection, than what they have previously experienced with traditional wildland gear. Game-changing barrier protection Scientists are just starting to learn more about what firefighters are exposed to, when they are battling a wildland blaze. They know that a variety of airborne pathogens get kicked up in a fire. They have tracked countless living microbes and airborne pathogens that could seep into the skin, enter lungs and cling to clothing. But the long-term effects of wildfire smoke aren’t really known, as fires haven’t burned for this long until recent years. At this point, experts don’t have a good understanding of the many trillions of microbes that survive and proliferate in wildfires. “The diversity of microbes that we've found are really mind-bending,” said Leda Kobziar, the University of Idaho’s Wildland Fire Science Director.  The addition of Nomex Nano Flex to a firefighter hood composite structure Enhanced protection against particulates As we look to the next generation of gear, we want to focus on increasing protection against particulates. We know that when added to a firefighter hood composite structure, hoods made with Nomex Nano Flex provide higher than 99% particulate, bacterial and viral filtration efficiency, without compromising on comfort. The addition of Nomex Nano Flex to a firefighter hood composite structure provides improved particle barrier protection in the neckline and upper jaw. These are areas that are known to be the most vulnerable and least protected. In fact, it results in up to a 4x increase in particle barrier efficiency. And comfort doesn’t take a back seat. Better situational awareness and high breathability “I speak with firefighters daily, and they tell me hoods with Nomex Nano Flex have exceptional durability,” said Chris Nowacki, Regional Sales Manager – Emergency Response and Utility/Arc at DuPont, adding “In addition, fire departments specify Nomex Nano Flex over other particulate-blocking materials for enhanced safety, better situational awareness, high breathability, low shrinkage and enhanced performance, when soaked with perspiration.” Protection That Lasts Tests show that hoods and composites made with Nomex Nano Flex offer 99% particulate-blocking efficiency Tests show that hoods and composites made with Nomex Nano Flex offer 99% particulate-blocking efficiency, which is four times better than conventional hoods, even after 150 washes. To further validate the durability of the hoods, a test was performed at two local fire stations using hoods from three different manufacturers with different designs, including quilted and non-quilted options. Nomex Nano particulate-blocking gear Each trial consisted of 250 cycles of donning and doffing, followed by one NFPA 1851 recommended washing and drying for 10 cycles. Despite these aggressive trials, the hoods maintained their protective performance. Nomex Nano particulate-blocking gear helps prevent crews from being exposed to particulates and aerosolized microbes. At DuPont, we are committed to continuing our work with our industry partners to leverage our proven technologies and push the boundaries of science so that the next generation of WUI firefighting gear offers the highest level of protection possible. We are the innovation partner and ingredient. We stay with partners throughout the entire process of adoption and make sure the end user also has what they need to be safe and successful in their jobs. Our heroes deserve it.

Globally, it’s clear that devastating wildfires are now becoming commonplace. Of the top 20 largest wildfires in Californian history, six of them occurred in 2020 alone. In Australia, the story was the same – 2020 saw wildfires destroy millions of acres of land and raze billions of dollars of property. As the Earth’s temperature climbs and the effects of climate change become more apparent, there is increasing evidence that wildfires will become a greater threat, even in the UK, in the coming years.  Firefighters around the globe, including here in the UK, must formulate new ways of fighting this growing threat. Use of modern technology Drones in conjunction with cellular technology, can help detect wildfires and in the fight to assert control Unfortunately, one of the most common occurrences of a natural disaster like a wildfire is that it destroys infrastructure. This wipes out the ability for responders to communicate and coordinate, hindering vital response and proving life-threatening for responders. Fortunately, technology is playing a key role in keeping our responders safe. But it can also take an additional role of helping take on some of the burden. By deploying technology such as drones, when used in conjunction with cellular technology, can not only help detect wildfires but also be used in the fight for responders to assert control. Identification and isolation in the modern era In the past 30 years, wildfires have raged more intensely than ever before, with most summer wildfire seasons lasting on average 40 to 80 days longer than in 1990. While methods of handling wildfires in the past, such as using towers, planes, helicopters, and even relying on eyewitnesses to help draft up reports and plans, have been effective, new methods are needed to fight this unprecedented wave of destruction. With the increase of urban settlements, the time at which firefighters respond and manage the first fires is critical. With wildfires occurring at a higher rate, firefighters and first responders need access to modern technology and tools with the right infrastructure to support the detection, response time, and management of these emergencies. This is where drones are hugely valuable.  Drones Drones are cheaper and more sustainable than helicopters and other aircraft, allowing them to run for long periods They can be deployed from almost anywhere, enabling emergency services to get instant views and information of their surrounding area, no matter how remote it is. Likewise, they are cheaper and more sustainable than helicopters and other aircraft, allowing them to run for long periods. The increase in mobility enabled by drones is also an essential aspect to consider. Long-range drones can be deployed to survey and collect data, for up to 10 hours – 3 times longer than a helicopter on a full tank. On top of all of this, because they are remote-controlled, they can get closer to dangerous situations, giving greater information to responders without putting lives at risk. All of which makes them a valuable tool in the firefighters' arsenal making emergency management and environmental monitoring a lot smarter. Limitations of legacy technology Employing drones would bolster efforts by firefighters, transforming how they can respond to fires and other emergencies, but it is critical that these drones can be operated and receive data in real-time. Using drones as means of monitoring wildfires can help predict their trajectory, characteristics, and behavior. However, natural disasters often impact traditional networks, hindering this type of communication. Meanwhile, legacy technology such as radio limits the range of the drone, in turn limiting its effectiveness for the responders. The role of consistent connectivity This is where 5G and LTE cellular networks can come into their own. Installing ruggedized routers into the drones enables them to continue to communicate across dedicated public networks, for example, the ESN, which is being rolled out in the UK. Previous line-of-sight trials using drones to assist emergency services have operated within the limitations of non-cellular communications technology and without the ability to use video. These can limit crucial drone trips to approximately 4.5 miles. The data feed to drones provides responders with far greater security and reliability, facilitating response organization BVLOS licenses  Using the 5G and LTE cellular network to track and monitor drones delivers what airborne regulatory agencies call beyond the virtual line of sight (BVLOS), which extends the regulators to allow drones to fly to about 80 miles. BVLOS licenses are being tested and implemented across the globe. To even further shore up redundancy, ruggedized modems also come with dual sim cards enabling it to have two separate redundant networks to communicate over if the primary infrastructure fails. The data feed to drones provides responders with far greater security and reliability, facilitating response organization. Battling the blaze with technology Thinking about the future should come first when considering the practical benefits of firefighting technology. There is no point in investing in equipment that won’t comply with future legislation or work on new infrastructure. For example, networks like the ESN will require high levels of security protocols which edge routers will need to comply with. Similarly, as the UK develops its 5G infrastructure, and sunsets its 3G network, the future map of connectivity is still unclear. This makes it essential that any device can connect and switch between multiple networks to help reduce the chance of entering a dead zone. Changing the future of wildfire management Drones can take advantage of the latest advances, making firefighters jobs easier and allowing them to focus Fundamentally, firefighters must be provided with a platform where technology, such as drones, can take advantage of the latest advances, making their jobs easier and allowing them to focus on essential information and images for tackling wildfires. Utilizing the bandwidth and reliability of 5G and LTE cellular networks ensures that drones operate as expected using avoidance sensor information and location tracking while delivering the tactical data. The same cellular network can also be responsible for transmitting including high-quality video, images, and communications that can be at high speed, which is essential to making quick decisions needed to fight back against wildfires. By utilizing the latest drone technology, combined with the flexible, secure, and powerful cellular routers that make the most of 4G and 5G networks, the future of wildfire management is set to change. It will enable firefighters to share information between themselves and other emergency responders seamlessly, ensuring a smooth response to any emergency.

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.” 

NFPA 1900, a new standard, applies to any fire apparatus purchased beginning in January 2024. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has introduced a new, broader standard that encompasses the content previously contained in separate standards for automotive, wildland fire, aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles, and automotive ambulances. The new standard is a soft-covered book containing 375 pages and incorporating 34 chapters and 10 indexes. NFPA 1900 Standard Most fire departments will not buy an apparatus that is not NFPA-compliant.  Additional changes to the NFPA 1900 standard reflect the trend toward newer technologies such as electric fire vehicles and LED lighting. The previous standard specified the use of equipment such as an alternator or a muffler that is not required with an electric apparatus. New standard specifies such equipment is only required in the case of an internal combustion engine The new standard specifies such equipment is only required in the case of an internal combustion engine (but not for an electric vehicle). On the other hand, unique electric vehicle safety requirements are added. The chapters are written in a way to distinguish between electric propulsion and internal combustion engine propulsion. Specific seating requirements The ability of LED lighting to provide greater intensity is addressed by guidelines allowing for a warning light “night mode” that avoids a distracting contrast between very bright flashing lights in a dark environment. In the daytime, the brighter lights increase visibility, exceeding the minimum requirements previously set by NFPA.  More specific seating requirements make a distinction between seats that are intended to be occupied on every response, which is larger, and those provided only for occasional use. The intent of the requirement is to maximize the comfort of personnel who will be riding in the cab most of the time. Clean cab features are not required in the new standard, but guidance is provided in the annex for those wishing to adopt clean cab procedures. NFPA 1910 aerial test Chevron striping on the end of the device can vary in color as long as it is retroreflective and opposite The new standard requires a rear-view camera on all apparatus. Chevron striping on the rear of the apparatus can vary in color as long as it is retroreflective and contrasting. Operator manuals must be available as a hard copy on the apparatus, as an electronic display, or as a QR code to a website download. The operator manual must include all the information the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) would need to perform the annual and five-year NFPA 1910 aerial test. The other hundreds of features listed in the standard range from better weather resistance of door seals to better vehicle control during emergency braking to a harder finish and better UV protection of paint. Current issue of NFPA 1900 NFPA is titled “Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicles, Automotive Fire Apparatus, Wildland Fire Apparatus, and Automotive Ambulance.” It replaces previous standards NFPA 414 (covering airport firefighting vehicles), NFPA 1901 (covering automotive fire apparatus), NFPA 1906 (for wildland fire apparatus), and NFPA 1917 (for automotive ambulances). While NFPA 1901 and 1906 officially disappeared in January 2024, there are some references to the previous standards included in the current issue of NFPA 1900. There are some references to the previous standards included in the current issue of NFPA 1900 The standard seeks to limit its requirements to cover the design, performance, acceptance, and testing of apparatus, not focusing on what equipment is carried on the apparatus. Therefore, NFPA 1900 no longer requires a specific hose, ladder, or miscellaneous equipment to be included; rather that information has been moved to the annex as recommendations rather than requirements. Development of any NFPA standard NFPA standards are formulated by technical committees and task groups that consider each change. Anyone can comment on or make suggestions and recommendations for the development of any NFPA standard, and revisions take place over the course of multi-year cycles.  A second main standard covering fire apparatus is NFPA 1910 “Standard for the Inspection, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Testing and Retirement of In-Service Emergency Vehicles and Marine Firefighting Vessels.”

The world is changing and challenging the fire service to keep up. The core missions of firefighting and fire prevention have not changed, but the environments in which those missions operate are changing faster than ever before. Technology, sustainability, shifting demographics in recruitment and retention, and an increasing need for partnership and collaboration are among the factors that will impact the fire service and the fire industry in 2024. Let’s consider some of the big issues in play. Technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) was a dominant force in 2023, but its impact on the fire service is just getting started. Currently, AI is being used to analyze video footage of remote locations to provide an early warning at the first sign of a wildfire.  Daily life of fire departments The broad applications of AI ensure it will become part of the daily life of fire departments  The broad applications of AI ensure it will become part of the daily life of fire departments and firefighters in ways we can now only imagine. Another technology, virtual reality, provides a more immersive training experience and better simulations. In the hardware arena, aerial drones are providing firefighters with better visual data about an active fire, and firefighting robots can navigate dangerous environments and fight fires without risking human life.  The Power of Data. So-called predictive analytics, some incorporating AI, are increasing our ability to identify fire hazards before they occur. A flood of data is the byproduct of all the sensors, fire reports and other information that are part of today’s fire service, but we are now beginning to harness the power of that data to predict fire risks and optimize the allocation of resources. Better budget efficiencies Smart technology is redefining what it means to be a smart firefighter, given the availability of data to guide a more effective and efficient workforce. Using historical data and current trends enables the fire service to proactively deploy resources and prevent fires. Data analytics will also drive the use of scarce resources, enabling better budget efficiencies. Data analytics will also drive the use of scarce resources, enabling better budget efficiencies Sustainability and Electrification. Electric and hybrid fire trucks are the new standard, and the adoption of more sustainable apparatus will likely accelerate in the new year. Eco-friendly fire suppression materials, more effective but less harmful to the environment, are also being developed. However, the electrification trend comes with a significant downside for fire departments, that is, the increased danger of lithium-ion batteries. More sustainable materials Damaged batteries can erupt into flames, and badly designed charging systems have been known to cause fires. When it comes to more sustainable buildings, the use of more sustainable materials and newer, lightweight construction can make structures more prone to fire. More Cooperation. In the firefighting and fire prevention environments, there is never enough budget to adequately address mission-critical needs. More collaboration among fire departments and even public-private partnerships can help to maximize resources. Fire departments are working with private companies to develop and implement innovative fire safety solutions. Fire safety and prevention Trade schools are an option, and so is involvement in the fire service Meanwhile, departments are sharing more data, expertise, and resources, especially when it comes to large-scale fires and emergencies. There is also a growing need to engage with communities, working with other stakeholders to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention.  Attracting Talent (and Keeping Them Healthy). The fire service has a shortage of skilled personnel and drastically needs to recruit more people to careers in the fire profession. Many are questioning the value of a college education in the job market, and young people are becoming open to other career paths. Trade schools are an option, and so is involvement in the fire service. A sales effort is needed to attract new talent and to equip the fire service to compete with other occupations for the best talent. To retain firefighters, departments need to take seriously the need to support personnel dealing with stress and trauma. Addressing other medical issues, such as cancer and heart disease, are also critical. Seeking more diversity expands the range of candidates and may help to address issues of morale and turnover.  Global medical emergency Extinguishing flames and saving people from danger will always be a core function The role of firefighters is changing as the world changes. Extinguishing flames and saving people from danger will always be a core function, but a firefighter also deals with hazardous materials, road traffic incidents, medical emergencies, and natural disasters such as floods. The batteries inside electric cars are changing the risks of traffic accidents. Climate change has been credited with everything from heavier rainfall and floods to an increase in wildfires. There is a lesson to be learned from the pandemic’s impact on the fire service, and the next global medical emergency could happen at any time. As the world changes, so does the fire service. A new generation of fire service leaders is needed to address the uncertainty and challenges of 2024 beyond, and many of them are already in the rank and file of the fire service. Beginning in 2024, their careers will be shaped by radical changes in the fire service and the world at large. It will take thoughtful leadership and enormous dedication to answer the call.

Superior protection with maximum comfort, a wide range of functions and optimum operational hygiene: these are the arguments that convinced the Bremen Fire Department about the HEROS firefighting helmets from Rosenbauer. The first batch of almost 1,500 helmets was delivered at the end of last year, with the second installment delivered in January 2023. Since then, a total of 58 HEROS H30 helmets in the color ‘daylight fluorescent red’ (for the command staff) and 1,386 HEROS Titan (for the crew) helmets have been in use by the full-time fire service and the voluntary fire services in Bremen. Easy to clean Operational hygiene played a particularly important role in the award process Operational hygiene played a particularly important role in the award process, and this is where the HEROS H30 and the HEROS Titan firefighting helmets score highly, with a retention system that can be removed easily and without tools: the head section, chin strap and neck guard can be removed in a few simple steps. Users can clean the helmet shells conveniently, while the retention system can be entrusted to an external company for cleaning. Replacement retention systems are carried by the Bremen Fire Department in the ‘hygiene equipment truck’ and can be replaced quickly and easily. Eye-catching colors and special stickers In the wear test that preceded the final decision, the wear comfort, adjustment options, and service-friendliness were also rated extremely positively. The ultra-low weight of just under 1.4 kilograms, visibility-supporting visors, integratable helmet lamps, and the very good warning effect, due to the eye-catching colors are additional points that favor the HEROS firefighting helmets from Rosenbauer. Speaking of eye-catching, it is not only the bright colors that are worth mentioning, but also the special stickers. This is because the Bremen Town Musicians, which the Bremen Fire Department also uses in its logo, have been integrated into the helmet trims. About Bremen Fire Department Bremen Fire Department is made up of approximately 690 full-time fire service personnel and about 620 volunteer firefighters. The full-time fire service is divided into seven firehouses, the voluntary fire service into five squads. Approximately, 80,000 operations are carried out per year.

Ziegler Feuerwehrgerätetechnik GmbH & Co. KG, based in Mühlau, Saxony, Germany, manufactured four TLF forest firefighting vehicles for the State of Thuringia, in Germany. In the course of the year, the delivery of three additionally commissioned vehicles of the same type will also take place. TLF forest firefighting vehicles Overview of orders placed to date by the State of Thuringia within ZIEGLER Group: 2016: 8 firefighting vehicles LF 20 KatS on MAN chassis 2017: 7 firefighting vehicles LF 20 KatS on MAN chassis 2021: 12 firefighting vehicles LF 20 KatS on MAN chassis 2021: 7 TLF forest firefighting vehicles on Mercedes-Benz Unimog U5023 2022: 22 firefighting vehicles LF 20 KatS on MAN chassis (with the option for up to 32 vehicles) Superstructure (ALPAS) and the operating concept (Z-Control) The loadings of all 7 TLF for the Federal State of Thuringia are also supplied by ZIEGLER The superstructure (ALPAS) and the operating concept (Z-Control) are of the latest generation. The loadings of all 7 TLF for the Federal State of Thuringia are also supplied by ZIEGLER. Thus, everything from the chassis to the load comes from one source. With the above procurements, the State of Thuringia invests with a foresight to help fast, when natural disasters such as forest fires or floods occur, and therefore, equipped the fire departments with additional special vehicles and equipment. TLF forest firefighting vehicles for the State of Thuringia Udo Götze, the State Secretary for the Interior and the Head of Office at the Thuringian Ministry of the Interior was also on-site in Mühlau for the official handover. There, he was able to see the design and performance features of the vehicles for himself. Project Manager - Florian Patz says, “It was a constructive and great collaboration with the customer and the result is something to be proud of - Simple, user-friendly technology for extreme situations and the daily business of the fire departments.”

Heat waves caused by climate change are currently also increasing strongly across Europe and the associated risk of forest fires is rising immensely. Fires in natural areas are increasingly getting out of control due to drought or wind, and the risk of danger to people, animals, nature, and infrastructure is growing. But how can fires be detected and localized at an early stage to minimize or even avoid serious damage? Artificial intelligence With image processing and artificial intelligence, even such challenges can be mastered. Instead of elaborately programming a solution, neural networks and deep learning algorithms teach an image processing system to see, recognize and verify objects in this case smoke. Furthermore, AI enables a corresponding image processing system to conclude what it learns. The French company Paratronic has taken up this issue. Within the scope of its field of activity of monitoring natural hazards, the solution provider has successfully devoted itself, among other things, to the development of an intelligent product for fire monitoring. Automatic forest fire detection system ADELIE Four industrial cameras from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH are integrated into each system The automatic forest fire detection system ADELIE (Alert Detection Localisation of Forest Fires), whose key components are industrial image processing and artificial intelligence, has proven itself in practice. Four industrial cameras from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH are integrated into each system. These permanently observe a specific forest area within a radius of up to 20 kilometers. Depending on the system, they need a maximum of two minutes to monitor a radius of 360 degrees. Efficient planning and control With the help of algorithms specially developed by Paratronic, the system can recognize and localize fire sources based on the recorded images and provide real-time information for appropriate options for action. In this way, ADELIE ensures efficient planning and control of the fire brigade to protect the living space and, last but not least, to protect buildings, power lines, telecommunication lines, and road or rail infrastructure. Application The ADELIE system is composed of at least two surveillance points that are networked together. Each surveillance point consists of two detection cameras and an additional camera that serves to eliminate doubts. Four Gigabit Ethernet cameras from IDS are integrated per ADELIE detection camera. Thus, a total of eight IDS cameras are used per surveillance point. These monitoring points allow 360° monitoring, with each azimuth visualized approximately every two minutes. Automatic monitoring of the observed natural area takes place around the clock, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. AI-based image processing algorithms By comparing the images and using taught-in features, the system detects the rising smoke The system is connected to a processing unit whose software contains artificial intelligence-based image processing algorithms. The program developed by Paratronic registers compares and analyses the images provided by the cameras. Long before a tree burns, smoke is released from the surrounding grass and scrub. By comparing the images and using taught-in features, the system detects the rising smoke. Remote monitoring and detection As soon as this smoke is visible from the monitoring point, ADELIE triggers an alarm. This phase is called automatic fire and forest fire detection. The operator on duty then controls the doubt-removal camera remotely and checks the type of detection. He locates the source of the fire on a map using triangulation and informs the control center, which initiates the fire-fighting measures. Real-time visualization At the same time, all information, images, and knowledge gained by the AI are transmitted to the fire alarm center or the fire control center without delay. With the help of the real-time visualization of the event, the localization of the source of the fire on a digital map, and various augmented reality functions, the context, extent, and development of the fire can be immediately visualized there and appropriate fire-fighting measures can be taken. A remote-controlled video camera completes this system. This is used to verify and monitor the fire until the first fire-fighting unit arrives and enables the fire to be tracked from the outbreak until it is extinguished. role of IDS cameras The IDS cameras continuously film the forest azimuth by azimuth and provide the software with images" "The IDS cameras play an important role in the operation of the ADELIE system. They have the task of continuously filming the forest azimuth by azimuth and providing the software with these images in real-time," underlines Edouard BOUILLOT, Director of Projects and Innovation at Paratronic. "When choosing the appropriate model for the automatic forest fire detection system, the decision was made in favor of a Gigabit Ethernet camera from the SE series from IDS. "Our system uses the UI-5240SE-NIR-GL model," explains Loïs Carrié, Paratronic engineer. Industrial camera with a 1.3-megapixel CMOS sensor This particularly powerful industrial camera is equipped with a 1.3 megapixel CMOS sensor from e2v. The highly sensitive sensor is used by Paratronic in the NIR version (EV76C661ABT). In addition to its outstanding light sensitivity, the sensor offers two global and rolling shutter variants that can be switched during operation. This allows maximum flexibility for changing requirements and environmental conditions, as in this case caused by different times of day and weather conditions. In addition, four areas of interest are available. This allows either several features to be checked at the same time or the AOIs to be captured in an exposure series with different parameters. Reasons for choosing the cameras  The camera thus meets all requirements, confirms Lois Carrie. "We chose this model for three main reasons. Firstly, it convinces with its spectral sensitivity. The sensor picks up all visible color wavelengths, with particularly good sensitivity in the near-infrared." "We also need the option of screwing a wavelength filter into the C-mount close to the sensor. Thirdly, the camera offers the direct possibility of sequentially taking four pictures with increasing exposure time. Continuous shooting makes it possible to get a very high dynamic range." Software The ADELIE software then does the image analysis to detect the presence of smoke on the canopy" For image acquisition, the system uses the uEye SDK, "Then our image processing system comes into play," explains Edouard BOUILLOT. "The ADELIE software then does the image analysis to detect the presence of smoke on the canopy." "The analysis is done by comparing two images taken in the same orientation to detect any smoke. This is made possible by several exclusive algorithms developed by PARATRONIC that allow the comparison of a very large number of factors that are not visible to the naked eye." 3 phase analysis This analysis is carried out in three phases. In phase one, the images to be compared are registered to the nearest 50th of a degree. In phase two, the images are compared to highlight any changes, such as the movement or displacement of objects or the appearance of smoke. In the third stage, advanced analysis takes place, based on the use of different algorithms: The highlighted differences are not only examined in terms of their shape, size, distance, etc., to eliminate all elements other than smoke as best as possible. Other algorithms using automatic classifiers and working with parameters extracted from one or more images complete this analysis. Fiber optics transmission The data is then transmitted to the computer control system via a digital network such as fiber optics. The respective data sets contain both a JPEG file of the image for display on the screen, as well as a file containing the camera number, the angle of view, the date and time of the shot, and the azimuth. By integrating a weather station, meteorological data such as wind strength or precipitation can also be recorded and taken into account. Permanent smoke If at least two towers have detected it, the exact location fire source in the control center is determined If an image and its linked file report a fire, an automatic check is carried out: the system estimates the location of the smoke, then cross-checks it against known locations where other types of smoke appear. This ensures that an alarm is only triggered if this detection has not occurred in an exclusion zone, i.e. a zone where permanent smoke is known to exist, such as a factory chimney. If only one tower has detected the smoke, the distance indicated in the telemetry is used. If at least two towers have detected it, the exact location of the source of the fire in the control center is determined by triangulation. High-resolution camera As with any automatic system, human validation of the alarms transmitted is essential with ADELIE. The staff at the control center use a high-resolution camera with a powerful optical zoom (30x, with a wide-angle lens) to confirm whether it is indeed a fire outbreak. The persons responsible for surveillance can observe the situation from a distance without interrupting the detection system thanks to these cameras, the so-called doubt removal cameras. The ADELIE detection system thus remains fully active to be prepared even if several fires occur. Optimizing measures The system is extremely powerful. For each site, 13500 images are taken, transmitted, and stored for 30 days within 24 hours, regardless of whether they contain a detection or not. In addition to these captured images, the system also stores the videos from the camera that were used to observe and validate the incident, thus enabling comprehensive documentation. Based on all the data collected, ADELIE can generate statistics based on which emergency services can align and optimize their measures. reliability  The amount of data grows continuously with each event that feeds the database" "With the help of the stored images, we can analyze the course of the fire and the firefighting afterward. The amount of data grows continuously with each event that feeds the database." "This in turn increases the reliability of the statistics needed for the continuous improvement of prevention and control measures," sums up Edouard Bouillot. Network monitoring  The system is successfully used in the Sarthe department, the most densely forested department in the northwestern quarter of France. Forest fires are increasingly a reality there, especially in the spring and summer months. For several years, there have been more and more fires in natural habitats. After numerous forest fires in 2019, a total of 117,000 hectares of forest were equipped with a network of automatic fire detection systems at the beginning of 2021. A total of 48 cameras monitor the forests above the treetops at twelve points distributed across the department near particularly endangered areas. “The ADELIE System allowed us to improve the detection time as well as the precision of the fire location,” says Christophe Burbaud, Comptroller General at the Sarthe Fire Department (SDIS72).  Advantages Continuous monitoring of forest fires: all year round, on the whole, or part of the territory, day and night. Time-saving: real-time visualization of the disaster, the immediate transmission of alarms, and precise localization of the source of the fire thanks to a triangulation system. Thanks to the cameras and especially the doubt-removal camera, verification and confirmation are much faster than an emergency call. Elimination of human risks: no more isolated men on watch towers. Long-term monitoring: data storage enables continuous improvement of forest fire monitoring and detection. Monitoring and information management system Early fire detection and precise localization of fire outbreaks, significantly reduce the risk of spread ADELIE is thus more than an automatic fire and forest fire detection system, but an integrated fire and forest fire monitoring and information management system. The French image processing solution thus makes a decisive contribution to damage limitation. Early fire detection and precise localization of fire outbreaks, significantly reduces the risk of spread and can minimize associated damage to people, the environment, and the national economy. Client PARATRONIC is a French manufacturer of hardware, software, and integrated systems for the management of water, the environment, and natural risks. Its areas of expertise range from the production, distribution, or remediation of measurement equipment for water, groundwater, and surface water, to monitoring fires. PARATRONIC thus offers complete solutions for the acquisition, transmission, processing, and management of field data.

Fire officers in Cornwall have responded to the increasing frequency of wildfires and flash floods by commissioning an extreme off-road Mercedes-Benz Unimog that can be kitted out to tackle both types of incidents and much more besides.   The ultra-high mobility Unimog UHE will transport mission-specific ‘pods’, each packed with specialist equipment. 4x4 chassis These are the work of prime contractor Emergency One (UK), of Cumnock, Ayrshire, a manufacturer of appliances and specialist vehicles for fire services. Its conversion design included three sets of access steps that fold up against both sides and the rear of the pods while in situ. Dealer South Cave Tractors supplied the 4x4 chassis with the maximum permissible gross weight of 14.5 tonnes. Technicians at its workshop in Brough, East Yorkshire, also fitted a sub-frame and, immediately behind the cab, the Palfinger PK12502 SH crane used to lift the pods on and off the vehicle, as well as the outriggers and winches front and rear. U5023 variant Unimog is powered by a 5.1-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 kW (230 hp) and a muscular 900 Nm of torque As a U5023 variant, the Unimog is powered by a 5.1-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 kW (230 hp) and a muscular 900 Nm of torque across a broad rev range it transmits via an optional EAS automated manual version of the standard gearbox. To supplement its eight forward and six reverse gears, Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service specified the working and crawler gear range, which provides another eight forward and reverse ratios. unrivaled traction The vehicle offers unrivaled traction due to its strong yet torsionally flexible frame and torque tube suspension system that achieves exceptional levels of axle articulation. The extreme off-road Unimog has a standard water fording capability of 800mm but the Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service vehicle has been optionally specified for operation in depths of up to 1,200mm.    Central Tyre Inflation system The innovative Central Tyre Inflation system allows the driver to drop the pressures from the cab when the Unimog is off-road. In addition to increasing grip, this brings an environmental benefit by minimizing damage to the ground. Tyres can then be reinflated when back on a hard surface for greater safety and fuel efficiency at normal road speeds. Unimog Unimog was supplied with ‘Wildfire Response’, ‘Flood Response’, ‘Line Rescue’, and ‘Disaster Response’ The new Unimog is based at Tolvaddon Community Fire Station, Camborne. It was supplied with four pods, one each for ‘Wildfire Response’, ‘Flood Response’, ‘Line Rescue’, and ‘Disaster Response’, and also boasts the additional power and communications systems that will allow it to double as a mobile command unit. This is the authority’s second Mercedes-Benz Unimog. The first, a rescue pump with a crew cab, is built on a U500 implement carrying chassis and works from Launceston Fire Station, this unit has provided outstandingly reliable service since it was purchased in 2007. Enhance fleet availability Firefighters from stations across the county have battled record numbers of fires in gorse and other vegetation throughout this exceptionally hot, dry summer during one 48-hour period, 422 calls were made to fire control, putting the service under “sustained operational pressure”. According to Mark Salter, Group Manager – Assets Team at Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service, the latest addition to the fleet will significantly enhance its ability to deal with some of the most challenging incidents. exceptional off-road performance “The Mercedes-Benz Unimog was the obvious chassis on which to base this new and highly specialized appliance,” he said. “Given some of the rough terrain here in Cornwall, exceptional off-road performance was an absolute ‘must’. No other vehicle with a similar carrying capacity can match Unimog’s ‘go-anywhere aptitude." “As a result of the drought we’ve dealt with numerous fires on difficult-to-access moorland in recent weeks. The Wildfire Response pod carries a 1,000-litre water tank and nebular misting system, as well as bush cutters for creating fire breaks, misting leaf blowers, and other gear so it will be an invaluable aid to firefighters in tackling such incidents in the future." Line Rescue pod Line Rescue pod carries a versatile range of line rescue and recovery systems, including a bipod and Tirfor winches" “The Line Rescue pod carries a versatile range of line rescue and recovery systems, including a bipod and Tirfor winches, that will be used to recover members of the public and large animals after falls over cliffs or down old mineshafts, a regular occurrence in this part of the world." “Meanwhile,” he continued, “the Flood Response pod, coupled with the Unimog’s impressive wading ability, will enable us to recover residents who have become stranded in their homes after torrential downpours, as has happened two or three times in recent years." heavy-duty equipment “Completing the picture, the Disaster Response pod contains heavy-duty equipment that might be used to rescue casualties in the event of anything from a building collapse to a plane crash or an accident involving a heavy goods vehicle.” He added, “From the very early stages of specification and issue of the tender documents this has been a complex and demanding project, so to take delivery of the finished vehicle is extremely exciting. Emergency One have been brilliant throughout, facilitating factory inspections and answering all of our questions. Nothing has been too much trouble." increased operational capability “Once training programs have been completed for the firefighters who will operate the new Unimog, and our workshop colleagues who will maintain it with parts support from our local Mercedes-Benz Dealer, I’ve every confidence that this impressive vehicle will prove its worth by providing the increased operational capability for which it was designed.” Mercedes-Benz Trucks will be presenting another Unimog U5023, in this case, a crew cab variant, at the Emergency Services Show 2022, which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from September 21-22.

Frontline Communications, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc., and a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation, announced that the Gulf Coast State College in Panama City, Florida, USA, has taken delivery of three disaster response vehicles, incorporating advanced communication and technology features. Sold through Pierce Manufacturing and Frontline Communications’ dealer, Ten-8 Fire Equipment, the highly customized vehicles include two C-25 Mobile Command Vehicles and one C-33 Mobile Command Center. Disaster response vehicles delivered “When hurricane Michael came through in 2018, it was a category 5 event resulting in extensive damage and communications challenges,” said James Baxley Jr., the Executive Director of radio, TV, and broadcasting with Gulf Coast State College. He adds, “We aimed to close communications gaps and do a better job next time, and our new Frontline Communications disaster response vehicles provide us with the most technologically advanced resources to face future events. The vehicles were obtained through the Triumph Grant and maintain an eight-county memorandum of understanding to be put in service where and when needed, to support emergency operations.” System design and integrated communications attributes Some of the most notable system design and integrated communications attributes of Gulf Coast State College’s new disaster response vehicles include: Cellular and satellite data network Point-to-point transmission system 2+ gigabit per minute Dual HD/thermal PTZ camera Columbia weather station HAM radio system with auto-tuning and PC controls Video switching matrix Multiple PCs for data processing 42-foot mast for custom antenna/camera deployment Docking station for TVU cellular backpack encoder Exterior workstation with anti-glare monitor Electric awning UHF, VHF, and HAM radios mast-based, point-to-point transmission system The vehicles’ data services on a cellular and satellite backbone are augmented by a mast-based transmission system The vehicles’ data services on a cellular and satellite backbone are augmented by a mast-based, point-to-point transmission system featuring auto-acquisition and transfer rates of over two gigabit per minute, intended for transfer of live UAV video between trucks. James Baxley Jr. adds, “With over 40 years of building communications vehicles, we knew Frontline Communications would be able to deliver what we needed. These new vehicles were customized to fit our needs and we hope even more than the eight counties around us will benefit from their remarkable features, when they are faced with water, hurricanes, fire, and other emergencies.” Gulf Coast State College’s new disaster response vehicles Gulf Coast State College’s new disaster response vehicles were delivered in late May 2022 and emergency responders have begun extensive training to properly utilize the assets, when needed. “We’ve appreciated having the opportunity to work with Gulf Coast State College, in developing vehicles, which will provide critical disaster response and communications support for such a substantial geographic area in Florida,” said Rob McAtee, the Fire Apparatus Sales Representative with Ten-8 Fire Equipment. Dedicated support for training, service and beyond Rob McAtee adds, “The customized design of the two C-25 Mobile Command Vehicles and one C-33 Mobile Command Center incorporates some of the most advanced features we’ve built into specialty vehicles to date. Our team and our partners at Frontline Communications, look forward to providing dedicated support for training, service and beyond.”

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company, announced the Big Bear, California Fire Department (Big Bear Fire Department ) has placed an order for three custom Pierce fire apparatus, including two Pierce Arrow XT 4x4 pumpers and an Ascendant 100’ Heavy-Duty Aerial Tower with mid-mount configuration. The new fire apparatus purchase is part of a fleet upgrade and replacement initiative for the Big Bear Fire Department and was coordinated through authorized Pierce dealer, South Coast Fire Equipment, Inc. Pierce fire apparatus for Big Bear Fire Department Norman Dykesten, Big Bear Fire Department Captain, said “Due to economic challenges and a consolidation nearly 15 years ago, fire apparatus replacements were on hold, making upgrade and replacement initiatives a major priority in recent years.” The value and quality construction we received from Pierce within our available resources were immense" Norman Dykesten adds, “As we began the bid process, we appreciated South Coast Fire Equipment’s responsiveness and efforts to introduce configurations we didn’t know existed. The value and quality construction we received from Pierce within our available resources were immense, and we are confident the new fire apparatus will be exactly what we need, to continue serving our community.” Big Bear Fire Department’s new fire apparatus will feature: Pierce Arrow XT 4x4 Pumpers Arrow XT chassis 500-gallon water tank 1,500 gpm pump Cummins X12 engine Command Zone Multiplex Electronics Ascendant 100’ Heavy-Duty Aerial Tower Arrow XT chassis Mid-mount configuration 300-gallon water tank 2,000 gpm pump Cummins X15 605 hp engine Integrated ground pads 20’ setback capacity 20-degree below grade operation TAK-4 T-3 Independent Suspension Big Bear Fire Department The Big Bear Fire Department operates out of four fire stations with 58 personnel The Big Bear Fire Department operates out of four fire stations with 58 personnel and responds to over 4,500 calls per year. The service area is a unique mix of rural, mountainous, and urban neighborhoods. The jurisdiction includes two resorts offering skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as mountain bike trails and golfing in the spring, summer, and fall seasons. The population for this resort community can fluctuate from approximately 17,800 full-time residents to upwards of 250,000 on any given day or holiday weekend, depending on tourist activity. This creates an ever-evolving basis of fire suppression and ambulance needs, for which the Big Bear Fire Department must always be prepared. Big Bear Fire Department Captain, Norman Dykesten, adds “Although San Bernardino County Fire is able to provide immediate assistance should mutual aid become necessary, one of the biggest challenges that Big Bear Fire Department faces is significant additional resources are farther away. The next closest community is 25 miles from us. The commute on mountain highways makes accessibility to critical equipment particularly important for our crew.” Fire apparatus order includes Type 3 Model 34 Wildland vehicle The fire apparatus order is the first the Big Bear Fire Department has placed with South Coast Fire Equipment. Fleet upgrades also include the addition of a Type 3 Model 34 Wildland vehicle from Boise Mobile Equipment. “We enjoyed having the opportunity to share all of the advanced features Pierce offers to help the Big Bear Fire Department select apparatus to best fit their needs,” said Tim Olley, the Sales Representative at South Coast Fire Equipment. Tim Olley adds, “Our team looks forward to building our relationship and providing dedicated service support for many years to come.”

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