The future of fire safety: Everything you need to know about The Fire Safety Event 2026

Over 13,500 fire safety professionals to gather at The Fire Safety Event 2026

The Fire Safety Event will open its doors at the NEC Birmingham on 28-30 April 2026 and will play host to leading manufacturers and suppliers to showcase their latest approved products and solutions.

The event, organised by Nineteen Events, is dedicated to supporting industry practitioners, professionals and organisations in achieving and maintaining the very highest standards of fire safety management.

With over 300 exhibitors participating at the show, some of the industry’s leading brands including Apollo, Checkmate Fire, LFS, Sentry Doors, Strongdor and many more, will be showcasing the latest research and development, product and solution launches and live demonstrations.

A number of key associations and industry bodies will also be supporting The Fire Safety Event and will be on hand to offer guidance and expert advice to visitors, including BAFE, FireQual, ECA/FSA, FIA, Fire Aware, FPA, IFCC, IFE, ISCVE, IWMA, NSI, OSPAs, Smoke Control Association and many more.

CPD-accredited conference theatres

Education is at the heart of The Fire Safety Event.

With industry-led theatres and 45+ hours of free-to-attend CPD content, the event offers the opportunity for visitors to gain direct insight into improving, maintaining and championing fire safety for all businesses.

The Fire Safety Leaders Summit, sponsored by RiskBase, will feature a line-up of industry experts and keynotes, offering insight and expertise on best practice, regulatory updates and topical areas impacting the fire safety sector.

The Passive Fire Conference, in partnership with ASPF, will enable visitors to gain more knowledge on passive fire protection topics and various fire safety measures in the built environment.

Visitors will hear from the experts and get the essential advice from specification, installation, inspection and maintenance.

Meanwhile, the Compliance Theatre (sponsored by UL Solutions) will host essential sessions focused on legislation, standards and regulatory updates, helping fire safety professionals stay ahead of compliance.

With expert-led discussions and practical guidance, it offers vital insights for businesses striving to maintain best practices and meet evolving client expectations.

The Innovation Theatre, sponsored by Hochiki, will spotlight the latest advancements, emerging technologies and forward-thinking solutions shaping the future of fire safety.

Through expert-led sessions, the theatre offers attendees a look ahead at the new innovations driving progress and improving safety outcomes across the industry.

Finally, the FIA Guidance Theatre will offer expert insights and practical advice on fire safety regulations and best practices.

Attendees can learn from industry leaders, stay updated on compliance standards and discover innovative solutions to enhance fire protection strategies.

Key features for 2026

UKTC will showcase the operations of a fire testing laboratory with live on-site commentary of passive fire protection product tests.

The UKTC sessions will allow visitors to experience fire tests on a 2.5 x 1.5m screen with the opportunity to ask questions to UKTC’s own experts and take part in thought-provoking debates.

The Fire Safety Event has also partnered with Worldskills UK to bring a fully immersive and interactive zone dedicated to the security engineers of tomorrow.

Hosting the National Qualifiers onsite, this will raise the standard for apprentices to excel in their careers.

Meanwhile,the Fire Safety Event has renewed its commitment to empowering and celebrating women in fire safety management, with visitors able to meet Women Talking Fire on its stand and networking drinks at the end of day one.

According to the organisers, the show is inclusive of people of all ages who are passionate about championing the next generation of talent, describing the network as a genuine movement committed to driving change within an ageing workforce.

As such, there will be specially curated sessions designed for the next generation of industry talent.

After a day filled with discussions and valuable insights, networking opportunities are available at the Networking Café, where complimentary Networking Drinks take place at the end of Day One.

Giveaways and competitions

For the first time, the FIA is to host on its stand a live, hands-on challenge for trainees, apprentices and early career technicians working in fire detection and alarm systems.

Running across all three days, competitors will work on a non-addressable fire alarm system to identify faults and non-compliances, apply safe working practices, test the system correctly and document their work just as on a real maintenance visit.

Visitors to the Specify & Build visitor trail will get the opportunity to take home a cash prize.

To enter, visitors just need to pick up a trail booklet, visit participating exhibitor stands, collect stamps and could win £10,000.

Nineteen Events said the trail is a fun, interactive way to discover new products, meet exhibitors and get more from your day.

Networking at the NEC

Visitors will be able to connect with peers at the Networking Café (sponsored by FIA) or finish the day with networking drinks to celebrate your achievements.

They will also be able to join senior fire safety leaders and influential professionals for an elevated show experience – crafted exclusively for Platinum VIP Club members.

Platinum VIP members gain access to premium networking spaces, curated content, exclusive hospitality benefits at the show and personalised experiences that help to connect with the right people, discover the latest innovations faster and maximise every moment at the show.

Meanwhile, a free-of-charge AI concierge service connects visitors with the right people at the right time.

Using smart matching based on your role and interests, it schedules one-to-one meetings so you can build meaningful connections, save time, and get more value from your event experience.

For instant access to seminars, exhibitor listings, floorplan, speaker detail and live updates, the Safety & Security Series Show App is an essential event companion.

The app enables you to plan your visit, build your schedule and find all the information you need to get the most from the show before, during and after attending.

One place, multiple events

The Fire Safety Event is uniquely co-located with The Security Event, The Health & Safety Event, The Workplace Event and The National Cyber Security Show, which together form The Safety & Security Series.

With only one registration, delegates have access to all shows.

In addition, the event offers free on-site parking at the NEC.

With a train station, airport, and direct access to the M42 motorway, the NEC provides convenience for all attendees.

This series has also partnered with Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, Avanti West Coast, Lufthansa and Swiss International Airlines for exclusive discounts.

SHOW HOURS

Tuesday 28th April 2026: 10:00 – 16:30 

Wednesday 29th April 2026: 10:00 – 16:30 

Thursday 30th April 2026: 10:00 – 15:30 

Register for free pass: www.firesafetyevent.com

VISIT IFSJ AT THE SHOW

International Fire and Safety Journal will exhibit at the on stand 4/M58

Visit the stand to meet the team and to pick up your FREE copy of the magazine

To arrange a meeting with the team email lewisg.tyler@intfireandsafetyjournal.com or iain.hoey@intfireandsafetyjournal.com

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Megafire management: California’s bold new plan to use technology and “Good Fire” to stop the burn

The launch of California’s Joint Megafire Prevention Package and how prevention has moved to the centre of wildfire policy debate

California lawmakers gathered in Sacramento in March to launch what they described as the most comprehensive wildfire prevention package yet proposed in the state legislature. The Joint Megafire Prevention Package combined more than a dozen Senate and Assembly bills covering home hardening, beneficial fire, county coordination and new technology for fire agencies. The announcement came months after the fires that struck Los Angeles in 2025, events that continue to shape debate about rebuilding, insurance pressure and how governments prepare for future fire seasons.

The launch event brought together senators, assemblymembers, wildfire organisations and tribal representatives who outlined why they believed California required a stronger focus on prevention. Speakers returned frequently to the disruption caused when flames reach neighbourhoods, the rising cost of rebuilding and pressure on insurance markets.

Eric Horne, California Director of MegaFire Action, told the audience the package was intended to honour “the victims and survivors of the Los Angeles wildfires and countless other conflagrations” by strengthening work carried out before disaster strikes. He said this meant: “Expanding beneficial fire to restore resilience to our landscapes; providing homeowners with new resources and clear guidance to implement proven protections on their properties, like defensible space and home hardening; and accelerating the adoption of new technologies that reduce risk and give firefighters better tools to protect lives and property.”

The legislation was framed through the condition of landscapes, the vulnerability of homes and the systems used by public agencies to organise mitigation work. Matt Weiner, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of MegaFire Action, described the organisation’s mission when he addressed attendees: “We are a policy shop focused on one thing, which is enacting policy solutions to the catastrophic megafire crisis that is ravaging California and the nation.”

Housing after wildfire

Attention at the launch centred on houses and neighbourhoods exposed to wildfire. Several bills address home hardening, financing for retrofit work and certification of resilient buildings. Speakers linked wildfire mitigation to residents deciding whether they can remain in fire-prone communities.

Senator Ben Allen, who represents Pacific Palisades and Malibu, spoke about families in his district who remained displaced after the fires that hit Los Angeles in 2025. Many residents were moving between temporary accommodation while negotiating insurance claims and rebuilding plans; others remained unsure whether insurance cover would be available once homes were reconstructed.

Allen used that experience to explain SB 894, which proposes a California wildfire resilience loan programme modelled on the state’s energy financing schemes. He told the audience: “We know that there’s work that can be done to harden homes that can reduce a structure’s fire risk by over 35%, which is why home hardening and defensible space is the goal behind my SB 894.”

The proposal would allow homeowners to finance upgrades such as ember-resistant vents, improved windows or stronger roofs. Allen said residents often understand which improvements would reduce risk, though cost prevents many households from carrying them out.

Assemblymember Steve Bennett addressed ember exposure during fast-moving fires. Embers carried by wind can ignite structures even when flames remain some distance away; houses built or upgraded with resistant materials can interrupt that chain of ignition.

Bennett told the audience: “It’s fully hardened homes,” adding that “the most important bill that I will be pushing is a home hardened certification program.” His bill, AB 1934, would create a certification system designed to verify whether a property meets recognised hardening standards.

County coordination

Wildfire mitigation depends heavily on local organisation, an issue addressed by legislation introduced by Senator Josh Becker.

Becker told the audience that SB 973 would establish “a clear statewide framework for both prevention and for preparedness” while expanding the Wildfire County Coordinator Program. The bill would direct Cal Fire to develop guidance for risk assessment and support coordination between state agencies and county governments.

Jessica Martinez, Interim Executive Director of the California Fire Safe Council, said county coordinators had helped secure more than $104 million for mitigation projects and had reached close to one million residents through wildfire resilience education.

Alessandra Zambrano, Wildfire County Coordinator at the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services, described the role from local experience. “In Nevada County, this program has acted as a catalyst,” she said. “It’s allowed us to transform our rural community into a leader in wildfire mitigation and preparedness.”

Her description illustrated how local capacity shapes mitigation work on the ground.

Beneficial fire and tribal knowledge

Another set of proposals focused on beneficial fire and cultural burning.

Assemblymember Damon Connolly introduced AB 1891, while Assemblymember Chris Rogers introduced AB 1699; together the bills aim to increase the pace of prescribed burning across California. Connolly told the audience beneficial fire has been used by tribes “for over a millennium”.

Kenneth Brink, Vice Chairman of the Karuk Tribe, spoke about that history with urgency. “Indigenous people have been burning since time immemorial,” he said. “We know how to manage our landscapes and live in harmony and balance with fire.”

Brink connected the discussion to his own community in northern California. He described the aftermath of the 2020 Slater Fire, which destroyed homes in Happy Camp including the house of his mother. Land affected by that fire remains vulnerable, he said, because treatment has not yet taken place.

Assemblymember Rogers addressed barriers affecting prescribed burns. His bill, the Good Fire Act, deals with liability rules connected to cultural burns and certification requirements governing burn bosses. Speaking at the launch, Rogers said the legislation “will address liability and operational challenges with cultural and prescribed burns”.

Technology proposals

Technology also featured within the legislative package through a proposal introduced by Senator Henry Stern. SB 1079, known as the Fire Innovation Unit Act, would establish a Fire Innovation Unit within Cal Fire responsible for identifying operational needs and evaluating new technologies.

Christopher Anthony, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of FireWERX, told the audience that fire services often possess access to new tools while facing difficulty moving them into routine use. He said: “If we continue to fight today’s wildfires with yesterday’s tools, we should expect to have the same outcomes.”

Anthony said an innovation unit could provide a route for testing equipment in operational settings and deploying successful technology across the state.

Allen raised a similar question during the event when he asked: “What good is all this technology if we can’t sufficiently use it?”

Accountability after Los Angeles

Questions from reporters during the final part of the event turned attention back to the fires that struck Los Angeles in 2025. Allen told the audience he had written to Cal OES requesting further review. “The people in Los Angeles who suffered through this calamity deserve to get a really good reckoning of exactly what happened,” he said.

Bennett spoke about transparency during emergency response. Communities benefit, he argued, when agencies provide clear information about decisions taken during major incidents.

As the event concluded, Horne returned to the economic argument that had appeared throughout the discussion. He said the legislation sought to secure “the highest ROI possible for taxpayer dollars” through investment in mitigation measures that reduce the scale of future disasters.

The legislative fate of the package remains uncertain, though the launch event offered a clear view of how wildfire prevention is being framed within California’s policy debate. Lawmakers discussed houses exposed to ember storms, forests requiring treatment and local governments responsible for organising mitigation. Taken together, those themes suggest a growing effort to address wildfire risk before flames reach communities rather than after they have already burned.

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Albania partners with EU to combat forest fire damage

EU4Forests launches to address forest fire prevention

The European Union and the Government of Albania have launched EU4Forests to strengthen sustainable forest management and climate resilience.

This €16 million programme involves a partnership with the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Forests cover approximately 36 per cent of Albania but have seen a 32 per cent decline in volume over the past two decades.

The initiative aims to help Albania meet environmental and climate standards required for EU accession under Chapter 27.

EU Ambassador Silvio Gonzato said: “Albania’s forests must be protected to secure a sustainable future and EU4Forests is a concrete step in that direction.

“Albania’s forestry sector needs a decisive push to align with EU environmental and climate standards and to reverse the effects of deforestation, fires, and climate change.

“The EU is here to help Albania reach these standards and preserve the country’s green lungs.”

Funding and technical implementation for forestry management

The EU provides €12.7 million for the project while Italy contributes €3 million and the UNDP provides €0,26k.

These funds support reforestation and improved fire prevention alongside the strengthening of national and local institutions.

AICS Acting Director Letizia Fischioni confirmed the commitment of Italy to supporting the forestry sector.

Fischioni said: “Italy’s commitment to supporting Albania in the forestry sector, with particular attention to wildfire prevention and civil protection, as key pillars for environmental resilience and risk management.

“The expertise of CREA and CIMA Foundation will provide added value to the intervention and help deliver tangible results on the ground.”

The programme will support the development of 10 municipal forest management plans and a national afforestation plan.

Innovation and local governance in forest protection

Technical support includes the improvement of the Albania Forest Information System and the use of GIS-based monitoring tools.

The project also introduces AI-supported wildfire risk assessment to enhance monitoring and inspection capabilities.

Sofjan Jaupaj, the Minister of Environment, stated that Albania has undertaken reforms to align its legal framework with the European Union acquis.

Jaupaj said: “Albania has undertaken reforms to align the legal framework with the European Union acquis, including the new law on forests and the strengthening of relevant institutions.

“We are currently working on the establishment of the State Forestry Enterprise, as a key instrument for professional and sustainable management.

“One of the main priorities of the Albanian government is the creation and functioning of state plant nurseries, which will guarantee the production of quality and certified planting material.”

A grant scheme will assist municipalities in implementing local actions and encouraging behavioural changes to protect woodland areas.

The UNDP Resident Representative, Randi Davis, explained that EU4Forests invests in nature and people to build long-term resilience.

Implementation involves the National Forestry Agency and various public institutions over a five-year period.

Secure Information Boxes ensure fire services have critical data

Guidance for information boxes

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) have published an updated Code of Practice for the provision of secure information boxes (SIBs) in residential buildings.

This revised document responds to legislative changes and recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The guidance supports the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025.

It provides a framework for responsible persons, designers and regulators to manage SIBs, which were formerly known as Premises Information Boxes (PIBs).

The Code outlines recommendations for the specification, location and maintenance of these enclosures.

It also details the management of Emergency Response Packs (ERPs) to assist fire and rescue services during an incident.

Technical requirements and resident safety

The Code of Practice requires the ERP to include UK contact details for the responsible person and a logbook for tracking access.

It specifies that the pack must contain “Off the Run” notices for any defective fire safety equipment.

Two sets of A3-sized encapsulated plans must be provided within the box.

These plans include orientation maps showing water supplies and floor-by-floor layouts identifying firefighting facilities.

The guidance states: “It highlights the importance of ensuring that fire and rescue services have access to reliable, up-to-date information to support effective decision-making during an incident.

“There is a strong emphasis throughout on the needs of residents, particularly those who may require assistance to evacuate.

“The guidance incorporates the requirements for Resident Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (RPEEPs) and promotes the importance of handling sensitive information securely while ensuring it remains accessible when needed.”

Physical enclosures must be certified to standards such as LPS 1175 or STS 205 to resist unauthorised access.

Siting for the SIB is recommended at the primary arrival point between 1.4m and 2.5m from the floor.

The document introduces a colour-coded system to identify residents requiring assistance, with Category 1 (Red) for those needing three or more people for rescue.

Fire Safety in Solar Installations: Hidden Risks in 2026

Solar energy is usually talked about as a clean and safer step for the future, and in many ways, that is true. Rooftop solar systems help reduce emissions, lower electricity costs, and make buildings less dependent on traditional power sources. But one thing people often miss is that every solar installation also adds another layer of electrical fire risk.

In 2026, fire safety in solar has become a serious concern for commercial buildings, warehouses, factories, hospitals, and homes. Solar PV continues to grow rapidly, with more than 600 TWh of new solar generation added each year, making it a major part of global power infrastructure.

This growth brings hidden risks. Most solar panel fire risk does not begin with the panel itself. It usually starts in faulty DC connectors, overheated inverters, damaged cabling, poor grounding, or lithium-ion battery failures.

Electrical faults already cause thousands of fires every year. Fire departments respond to around 46,700 home fires linked to electrical failure or malfunction, and nearly half of those involve electrical distribution systems. When solar adds more wiring, more inverters, and more battery storage, the risk becomes harder to ignore. This is why stronger fire safety awareness is essential for building owners, facility teams, and installers from the very beginning.

Why Fire Risks in Solar Installations Are Increasing

Fire risks in solar installations are going up because solar systems are bigger now and, honestly, much more complicated than they used to be. A few years back, most people only thought about rooftop panels. Now, many buildings run solar with battery storage, smart inverters, EV charging points, and much heavier electrical demand. More equipment means more wiring, more connections, and simply more chances for something to fail.

In 2025 alone, global solar PV added nearly 700 GW of new capacity, which pushed total installed capacity close to 3 TW. That is a massive jump. More rooftops and larger commercial systems naturally mean more places where faults can develop. Fire safety in solar is no longer something people can treat as a side issue after installation.

Battery Energy Storage Systems, especially lithium-ion batteries, make things harder. When these systems fail, the fires are often more serious and much harder to control than normal electrical fires. They burn longer and create more risk for emergency teams, and they are becoming more common as facilities add storage for backup power and energy management.

Heat is also part of the problem. Long heatwaves, poor airflow, and constant rooftop exposure put stress on inverters, cables, and battery units. Small faults build slowly. Most of the time, nobody notices until overheating starts.

Installation quality still causes many solar system safety issues. Fast growth has also brought rushed projects, cheap materials, and contractors who are not properly qualified. It may save money at first, but later it can turn into a serious solar inverter fire risk. Fire safety for solar installations really starts with getting the basics right.

Hidden Fire Risks in Solar Installations

Many solar fire incidents are traced back to parts that people rarely notice first. In many cases, the bigger problem comes from connectors, cables, inverters, junction boxes, and battery storage units rather than the panels sitting on the roof. These smaller components create far more fire incidents than most building owners expect.

A lot of electrical fire causes start with faulty DC connectors, especially MC4 connectors. If they are loose, badly installed, or mixed with incompatible parts from different manufacturers, they begin to create resistance and heat. At first, it looks like a small issue. Over time, that heat keeps building and can lead to arcing or even ignition.

DC arc faults are one of the more serious hidden risks. Direct current does not stop the same way AC power does, so once an arc starts, it is harder to control. The heat keeps building inside rooftops, walls, or inverter spaces, and often there is no clear warning before the damage gets serious.

Solar inverter fire risk is another problem that gets overlooked. Inverters work every day, and they generate constant heat. If ventilation is poor, dust builds up, or the system is overloaded, the risk increases fast. Without regular checks, overheating becomes much more likely.

Battery storage systems bring a different kind of fire risk. Lithium-ion batteries can go into thermal runaway, where one overheated cell triggers the next one, and the problem spreads through the battery pack. These fires burn hotter, last longer, and often release toxic gases.

Even cable damage creates trouble years later. Sun exposure, moisture, rodents, roof pressure, and weak grounding slowly damage insulation and increase the chance of short circuits. Most solar fires are not sudden accidents. Strong fire safety in solar starts by finding these small problems before they turn into major fire incidents.

Solar Panel Fires: Real Incidents & Case Studies

Solar panel fires are not common, but that does not mean the risk is small. Most incidents trace back to installation mistakes, connector failures, inverter overheating, or maintenance problems that were ignored for too long. When you look at real cases from different countries, the same lesson keeps appearing: small electrical faults often turn into major fire incidents when warning signs are missed.

At Amazon fulfillment centers in the United States, rooftop solar systems were linked to fire incidents caused by electrical faults. That pushed many large companies to take a closer look at rooftop inspections, inverter checks, and the quality of installation work. Large commercial systems cannot be treated as a one-time installation project and then forgotten.

The UK saw several rooftop fires in schools, warehouses, and commercial buildings, where isolator failures and aging inverter systems were part of the problem. A government-backed Building Research Establishment investigation reviewed more than 50 solar PV fire incidents and found repeated problems with DC isolators, connectors, and inverters. DC isolators were linked to 18 fires, while DC connectors caused 10 incidents, and inverters were responsible for 7 more. The report also found that more than 36% of these fires were directly caused by installation problems, which shows how much poor workmanship still affects rooftop solar safety. Some sites had to shut down temporarily, while others required emergency evacuations. What started as a small electrical issue quickly turned into a serious operational and safety problem.

Australia had similar issues with residential systems, especially with defective DC isolators. Fire investigations pointed back to low-quality parts and poor installation work. Germany also reported cases where inverter overheating and DC arc faults caused rooftop fires and full system shutdowns.

Battery Energy Storage System fires create even bigger problems. When large solar farm batteries catch fire, they can burn for hours and release toxic smoke. Firefighters often cannot move in with normal suppression methods and sometimes have to manage the situation from a distance.

Across all these cases, the lesson stays the same. Most solar system safety issues start small. A missed inspection, a weak connection, or one failing component can turn into a much bigger fire later. Strong fire safety in solar depends far more on prevention than reacting after the fire starts.

Key Fire Safety Standards & Regulations in 2026

Fire safety in solar is not only about passing an installation check anymore. In 2026, the focus is much bigger than that. It starts with system design and continues through battery storage, maintenance, emergency access, and even how firefighters will handle the site during a fire. Fire safety for solar installations really begins long before the first panel is installed.

NFPA standards still sit at the center of this. NFPA 70, especially Article 690 in the National Electrical Code, covers things like PV wiring, grounding, disconnects, warning labels, and rapid shutdown systems. That last part matters a lot because firefighters need a safer way to work around live rooftop solar equipment when an emergency happens.

Battery storage has pushed regulations even further. NFPA 855 focuses on stationary energy storage systems, especially lithium-ion batteries, where thermal runaway can turn a small issue into a serious fire. Proper ventilation, battery separation, and fire-rated enclosures are no longer seen as extra precautions. They are part of normal fire safety planning now.

IEC standards like IEC 62446 and IEC 62548 also support safer installation, testing, and inspections. Clear rooftop access, visible DC warning signs, and certified components all matter. Good compliance is not paperwork. It is what helps keep solar systems safe when real conditions test them.

Fire Prevention Strategies for Solar Installations

Most solar fires do not start as sudden emergencies. They usually begin as small maintenance problems that were easy to miss, such as an inspection that got delayed, weak grounding, poor installation, or equipment that kept overheating without anyone noticing. That is why good fire prevention tips matter from the start, not after the system is already causing trouble.

Fire safety for solar installations starts with how the system is designed and installed. Using approved components, the right inverter size, proper cable routing, and solid grounding removes a lot of risk before the system even goes live. Trying to save money with poor installation often leads to much higher costs later.

Regular inspections make a big difference. Scheduled thermal inspections help identify hotspots in connectors, junction boxes, inverters, and battery units before visible damage appears. Routine checks for dust buildup, corrosion, moisture, and loose wiring also help prevent a small issue from turning into a serious solar inverter fire risk.

Rapid shutdown systems and arc-fault detection also help a lot. They lower the dangerous voltage during emergencies and can stop overheating before it turns into ignition. That makes fire safety in solar better for both building teams and firefighters.

Battery storage systems need even more attention. Good ventilation, fire-rated enclosures, temperature monitoring, and safe separation from occupied spaces all help reduce thermal runaway risks. Most of the time, prevention is not about doing something dramatic. It is about building systems that stay safe every day.

Role of AI & Smart Monitoring in Fire Prevention

A lot of fire prevention starts before anyone sees smoke or smells something burning. In solar systems, the real benefit comes from catching small warning signs early, before they turn into bigger problems. That is why smart monitoring has become such an important part of fire safety in solar.

Manual inspections are still important, but they only show what is happening at that moment. Large solar systems need continuous monitoring because faults can develop between routine checks. Smart monitoring systems track heat, voltage changes, and equipment behavior in real time, helping operators catch unusual patterns before they become visible failures. Many serious fire incidents start with small warning signs that are easy to miss without constant system visibility.

Battery storage needs even closer attention. Battery Management Systems keep checking charging behavior, temperature, and voltage balance across lithium-ion battery packs. If one battery cell starts acting differently, operators can respond early before the issue spreads and becomes a much larger fire risk.

Smart monitoring also helps reduce false alarms. Not every heat change means something is wrong. Dust, steam, or normal operating heat can trigger warnings, so better monitoring helps teams focus on real risks instead of wasting time on harmless changes.

For large rooftops and solar farms, remote monitoring matters even more. Arc-fault alerts, predictive maintenance dashboards, and automatic shutdown systems help reduce long-term solar system safety issues. In many cases, preventing fire is simply about seeing problems early and fixing them before failure happens.

Challenges for Firefighters in Solar-Related Fires

A solar fire is not only harder to put out, but it is often harder to even approach safely. One of the biggest problems is that solar panels can keep generating electricity as long as light is hitting them. Even if the main building power is shut off, rooftop PV systems may still carry live DC current, and that creates a real shock risk for firefighters.

Because of that, normal firefighting tactics change. Crews may avoid cutting through the roof for ventilation because hidden energized cables can run under the panels. Direct current arcs are also harder to stop than normal AC faults, so suppression work becomes more dangerous and much slower.

Large rooftop systems bring another problem. When panels cover most of the roof, safe walking space becomes limited, and access points get harder to reach. Rescue work, ventilation, and movement across the roof all become more difficult. Many older systems were installed without thinking much about firefighter access.

Battery storage systems make things even tougher. Lithium-ion battery fires can restart hours after the first suppression, and they may release toxic gases like hydrogen fluoride. In some large Battery Energy Storage System fires, crews need cooling and isolation instead of direct extinguishing, which takes more time and creates more risk.

Fire safety in solar is not only about preventing fires before they start. It also depends on proper system design, clear rooftop access, and emergency planning that allows firefighters to respond safely when every second matters.

Future of Fire Safety in Solar Energy

The future of fire safety in solar energy is moving toward prevention much earlier in the process. Instead of waiting for faults to become visible problems, newer systems are being designed to detect risks sooner and stop small failures before they turn into major fire events. Fire safety in solar is becoming part of system design itself, not something added later after installation.

A big part of that shift comes from AI fire detection in solar systems becoming standard in larger commercial projects. Smart monitoring is no longer treated as an extra feature. Early warning systems, predictive maintenance tools, and automated shutdown responses are becoming part of normal operational planning because they help reduce long-term solar system safety issues before damage begins.

Battery storage is also pushing stronger safety expectations. As more sites add lithium-ion systems, better Battery Management Systems, stronger ventilation rules, and fire-rated enclosures are becoming basic requirements, not optional upgrades. Small battery faults can spread quickly, so early detection matters as much as physical protection.

Insurance providers are also changing the conversation. Many large projects now require stronger compliance records, safer system layouts, and documented maintenance before coverage is approved. Future regulations will likely demand stricter inspections, better rooftop firefighter access, and clearer emergency shutdown systems.

Clean energy growth matters, but safe energy growth matters more. The strongest solar systems of the future will be the ones designed to prevent failure before it starts.

Conclusion

Solar energy is growing fast, but safe growth matters just as much as clean growth. Many solar fire incidents begin with small electrical faults that stay unnoticed for too long, loose connectors, overheating inverters, damaged cables, or battery failures that slowly turn into serious risks.

That is why fire safety in solar cannot be ignored. Fire safety for solar installations starts with better design, certified installation, regular inspections, and systems that help detect problems early. Stronger standards, smarter monitoring, and proper emergency planning all play a part.

Prevention will always be more effective than emergency response. The safest solar systems are not the ones that respond faster to fire, but the ones built to stop fires from starting in the first place. Solar is only truly sustainable when it is also safe.

FAQ

Are solar panels a fire hazard in 2026?

Solar panels can create fire risks, but serious incidents are still relatively rare when systems are designed and maintained properly. The bigger concern usually comes from faulty installation, damaged wiring, poor connections, or battery problems rather than the panels themselves.

What causes fires in solar installations?

Loose DC connectors, inverter overheating, damaged cable insulation, weak grounding, and battery faults are some of the most common causes. Small electrical issues often stay unnoticed for a long time, and that is usually when bigger fire problems begin.

Can solar batteries catch fire or explode?

Yes, lithium-ion solar batteries can catch fire if they overheat or enter thermal runaway. This can happen because of charging faults, physical damage, poor ventilation, or internal battery failure if the system is not properly managed.

How can fire risks in solar systems be prevented?

Good design, certified installation, regular inspections, thermal monitoring, and proper grounding make the biggest difference. Rapid shutdown systems, battery ventilation, and routine maintenance also help stop small faults before they become dangerous.

What safety standards apply to solar fire protection?

Standards like NFPA 70, NFPA 855, and IEC 62446 help guide safer solar installation and battery storage. They cover wiring, grounding, shutdown systems, warning labels, and emergency access for firefighters.

Standardising fire risk measurement for local communities

National Fire Risk Atlas to improve risk intelligence

A new Fire Risk Atlas is currently under development to provide the first standardised framework for measuring fire risk in local communities across the United States.

The Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) at UL Research Institutes (ULRI) is leading the effort alongside the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) U.S. Fire Administration and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate.

This project focuses on research regarding single-structure fire risk and structure-to-structure fire spread alongside wildland-urban interface vulnerability.

Decision-makers require reliable data to identify emerging threats and guide investments toward effective mitigation.

Local fire departments reported approximately 1.244 million fires in 2024 which resulted in more than 2,200 deaths and $144 billion in property loss.

Wildfires in 2025 consumed over 5.1 million acres and destroyed more than 18,000 structures.

The Southern California fires in January 2025 were recorded as being among the most costly fire incidents.

National spending currently remains focused on suppression and response rather than long-term prevention.

Integrating risk intelligence into NERIS

The analytical tools and measurements produced by this research will be integrated into the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).

NERIS is a platform used by nearly 30,000 fire departments nationwide to support real-time decision-making and the adoption of the latest fire science.

Rebecca Harned, Principal Research Scientist at UL Research Institutes | Fire Safety Research Institute, said: “Despite the increase in destructive fire incidents, resulting in billions of dollars in economic loss annually, we continue to struggle to measure and predict fire risk.

“Yet, accurate and precise risk intelligence is a critical ingredient for empowering communities to take responsibility and invest in prevention and mitigation efforts that make a difference.

“At ULRI, we’ve taken on this challenge by integrating fire behavior science with data science and economics to provide the actionable intelligence on fire risk our public leaders urgently need.”

Advancing wildfire risk modeling science

ULRI has launched the Wildfire Risk Modeling Exercise in 2026 to foster collaboration between over 40 partner organisations.

This convergent experiment aims to identify the strengths of existing models and determine how to ensemble them for greater precision.

The Exercise Planning – Conduct Team includes representatives from CAL FIRE and University of California San Diego’s Wildfire Science – Technology Commons.

Other members include the Gordon – Betty Moore Foundation, FireWERX, Google.org, and the U.S. Department of War’s Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program.

Public safety agencies will use these validated insights to anticipate threats and prioritise prevention strategies.

Why Fire Aware sees a step change in safety attitudes

Supply chain safety shifts toward Fire Aware standards

Supply chains are increasingly adopting rigorous fire safety processes to protect public safety across multiple sectors according to the membership body Fire Aware.

The organisation noted a behavioural change as both large and small companies implement measures to ensure the safety of people using buildings and urban spaces.

Fire Aware CEO Gavin Skelly said: “As we move about to talk to those companies and groups with products and services in fire safety, we are seeing a step change in their attitude to fire safety.

“Even in those companies who don’t necessarily have a fire safety competence requirement but still hold a duty of care.

“They want to commit to doing the right thing and make sure their part in the fire safety supply chain is fit for purpose.

“They recognise that this is more than a job, fire safety is a vocation.”

Professional obligations and the Fire Aware code of conduct

Skelly explained that all parties involved in the design, construction, management, maintenance and letting of the built environment have a fire safety obligation.

This responsibility applies even if the specific business does not focus directly on fire specialisms.

“Many are joining us as members because they want to sign up to our code of conduct which binds us all together,” Skelly added.

“Their membership is a sign of intent to protect people through a combination of competence and behavioral performance.

“After all, it is people’s lives we are talking about.”

The independent Building Safety Regulator (BSR) recently began promoting higher standards and competence following calls for cultural change from Dame Judith Hackitt.

Focus on vulnerable sectors and moral responsibility

Hospitality and healthcare represent sectors particularly vulnerable to fire risk due to the presence of customers and elderly or vulnerable people.

Fire Aware continues to highlight the moral responsibility of designers, developers, asset owners and managers within the supply chain.

The organisation utilizes a series of charters and a moral code of conduct to influence how member companies uphold their duty of care.

This membership body serves the built environment to ensure stakeholders work and trade responsibly in the interest of general public safety.

Hochiki to showcase FIREscape Nepto black range at Fire Safety Event

See live voice sounder demonstrations at the Hochiki stand

Hochiki Europe will exhibit at The Fire Safety Event 2026 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham from 28 to 30 April.

The manufacturer is the Innovation Theatre sponsor and will use stand E97 to showcase new products and systems.

Visitors can view the new FIREscape Nepto black range for the first time during the three day exhibition.

The stand features a live voice sounder demonstration and the company water leak detection range.

Specifiers and installers have the opportunity to see these systems performing in a practical setting.

The company is also introducing a new modular exhibition stand built with a lightweight aluminium frame and PVC-free graphics.

This reusable structure is designed to last for over 300 events across a 15-year lifespan.

Expert sessions on fire safety and water leak risks

Martin Green, Commercial Training and Support Manager at Hochiki Europe, will deliver three educational sessions in the Innovation Theatre.

The first session on Tuesday 28 April covers fire detection system compliance and the EN54 standard for building owners.

A second presentation on Wednesday 29 April focuses on reducing water damage risks to businesses in the United Kingdom.

The final session on Thursday 30 April provides a guide to fire safety in complex built environments.

Green said: “The sessions I’m delivering at the Fire Safety Event this year cover topics that matter to a huge range of people not only working directly in the fire industry, but also across multiple sectors right now.

“The seminar format gives us the chance to go deeper than we can in other settings, then continue those conversations face to face both on the stand and out in the wider world.”

Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director of Hochiki Europe, said: “The Fire Safety Event is one of the most important dates in our calendar and has been for a number of years.

“What makes it valuable is the quality of the people in the room.

“Specifiers, installers, consultants and building owners, all focused on the same thing.

“This year we are bringing new products, live demonstrations and a full programme of talks, but what we value most is the time we get to spend with customers and industry peers in the room.

“Understanding what they are working through, what is shaping the market right now and what they need from us.

“We come away every year with a clearer picture of where the industry is heading, that comes from the time spent face to face with the people who are navigating the same challenges every day.

“The fire safety sector is moving quickly and events like this are where you feel that progress most directly.”

The event is open from 10:00 to 16:30 on Tuesday and Wednesday, and closes at 15:30 on Thursday.

Fire and hazmat teams gain enhanced situational awareness with new sensor technology

Fire monitoring expanded with gamma radiation sensor

Industrial Scientific has expanded its SafeCore sensor portfolio to include gamma radiation detection for the Radius BZ1 Area Monitor.

The manufacturer announced the update to extend hazard monitoring capabilities for fire departments and hazmat teams operating at large public events and complex incidents.

Gamma radiation detection in an area monitor provides continuous monitoring across a defined space.

The system alerts incident command when radiation levels rise above normal background levels.

For fire and hazmat operations, this type of monitoring supports early recognition of changing conditions.

It helps departments maintain hazard awareness over time without keeping personnel positioned in potentially impacted areas.

Integrated gas and radiation detection features

Fire departments can use one area monitoring fleet for routine hazmat responses and special-event coverage by using the Radius BZ1 for combined gas and radiation monitoring.

Teams can place monitors at perimeters, access points and command locations to maintain situational awareness across large or crowded environments.

Deepika Devarajan, vice president, product and technology at Industrial Scientific, said: “Fire and hazmat teams already rely on area monitors like the Radius BZ1 to provide consistent visibility while they manage complex scenes.

“Adding gamma radiation detection was a natural fit to extend that visibility and fits directly into how departments already deploy area monitoring in the field.”

Remote connectivity and hardware specifications

The Radius BZ1 uses the swappable SafeCore Module to detect up to seven hazards including combustible and toxic gases.

Crews can configure the device for radiation monitoring without additional hardware or mode changes.

Built-in peer-to-peer communication allows monitors to share alarms and readings across connected devices.

Data is sent back to incident command through iNet to support remote monitoring across large footprints such as festivals, sporting events and multi-day hazmat responses.

The device is designed for continuous monitoring during emergency response operations to reduce the risk of coverage gaps caused by battery changes.

FSi Promat introduces certified shaft wall fire stopping systems

FSi Promat validates shaft wall systems through independent testing

FSi Promat and Siniat have completed independent testing to provide a third-party certified fire stopping solution for shaft wall applications.

The fire stopping specialist joined forces with drywall manufacturer Siniat to demonstrate the performance of the Stopseal Batt and Flexi Coat system.

Both companies are part of the Etex group and conducted the assessments to ensure compatibility with Siniat shaft wall systems.

Shaft walls require non-standard framing and board configurations which make traditional fire testing to harmonised BS or EN standards impractical.

The use of third-party certification allows these systems to be specified in diverse and complex shaft wall configurations.

Independent validation ensures that extended applications remain compliant while supporting an increased field of application for fire stopping capabilities.

Technical specifications for FSi Promat systems

The certification adheres to European regulations including EN 13501-2 for fire integrity and insulation.

Testing also included EN 1364-1 to verify wall deflection tolerance up to 100mm during fire exposure.

The certification accommodates directional fire testing for both symmetrical and asymmetrical shaft wall constructions.

Compliance with specified minimum wall thickness standards is maintained across the validated configurations.

Paul Nash, Firestop Manager at FSi Promat said: “Through our commitment to innovation and rigorous testing, our technical specialists are consistently developing solutions to address the changing needs of the fire stopping industry.

“The successful third-party testing of our Stopseal Batt and Flexi Coat system allows for the installation of essential fire stopping to be adapted to meet the needs of projects and provides an extensive field of application for our fire stopping solutions.

“Aligning third party testing has allowed FSi Promat and Siniat to create a complete package that single-handedly addresses fire stopping and shaft wall construction – streamlining project specification and increasing on-site confidence for designers, contractors, and consultants.

“The successful third-party certification of this complete fire stopping package for shaft walls not only enhances competency and confidence in fire stopping in complex applications, but reduces time and cost to customers, whilst minimising risks.”