Air Purifier to Protect New York’s First Responders

In a decision backed by both the Fire Department and City Officials to reduce exposure to COVID-19 and to instill greater confidence in the safety of their first responders, New York city officials have approved the purchase of air purifier technology proven in independent clinical trials to significantly reduce airborne viruses and bacteria.

The devices, which can be mounted on ceilings or walls and does not require reconfiguration of any building HVAC systems will be installed in the Yonkers firehouses to filter and clean interior air.

Air purifier will keep firefighters healthy

The announcement followed a comprehensive review process conducted by the City of Yonkers resulting in the selection of Red Barn Advisory’s air purifier that effectively combats the main form of virus transmission: Air. “Our firehouses never close,” said Deputy Chief of Operations, John Folkerts. “We need to keep firefighters and emergency response teams healthy so they can continue to protect our community.”

Yonkers Fire Department installed the air purifier devices in all firehouses to maintain a higher quality of indoor air. The devices were independently tested to eliminate 99.9% of airborne pathogens, including the SARS-CoV-2. The four leading factors that the City of Yonkers team mentioned as pivotal in their decision-making process were: 

  1. 4 level air purification.
  2. Ceiling or Wall mount – Floor space at a premium.
  3. Ease of Use – Simply plugs in wall outlet.
  4. Low maintenance – Filters easily replaced every 6 months.

Red Barn Advisory Team members, Chris Kloepfer and Stephen Carty, are proud to supply the City of Yonkers, so they can show their firefighters that they are reaching for the best tools available to reduce exposures to COVID-19.  “We are excited to embark on this great partnership with the City of Yonkers in their efforts to reduce exposures to COVID-19,” said Kloepfer. 

Red Barn Healthcare has one mission: get people back to work, so we can open the global economy.

The Red Barn Advisory Team, comprising senior executives across industries, sources and performs due diligence on tools for COVID Response Teams globally, so they can reach for them with confidence as they develop new operational workflows coming out of the pandemic; thus, creating wellness workflows.

Critical Communications World 2021 delayed

The 2021 installment of Critical Communications World has been delayed until November, with organisers citing ongoing travel restrictions as the driving force behind the decision.

The event brings mission-critical and business-critical end-users and manufacturers all together over the course of three days.

On a statement on their website, TCCA Chief Executive Tony Gray said: “Everyone involved in Critical Communications World must be able to prepare for the event with full confidence. They must be reassured that plans will not have to change, travel costs will not be wasted, and – crucially – that they will be safe.”

“CCW is the largest and most important show in its sector. It will continue to bring the entire industry ecosystem together, setting the agenda for the future of critical communications.”

“This is clearly a difficult time, and we are grateful to everyone for their continued patience and support as we reorganise. We have huge expectations for CCW 2021, and fully expect it to be one of the most successful – and enjoyable – shows in the history of the event.”

The event will now take place on 3 – 5 November at the Feria de Madrid – otherwise known as the IFEMA – in Madrid, Spain.

Siemens launches Cerberus PACE Modular system

Siemens Smart Infrastructure has launched a new compact version of its Cerberus PACE Modular system, further extending the range of applications in which the public address voice alarm (PA/VA) solution can be employed.

Together, Cerberus PACE Modular and Compact offer a comprehensive PA/VA solution, which can beintegrated with fire protection and danger management systems. This enables evengreater customisation to protect lives, assets and business continuity.  

“Thanks to the Cerberus PACE systems, the user can cover all public and voice alarm needs with a single solution. By sharing the same state of the art technology as the modular system, but addressing small and simple applications, the Cerberus PACE Compact enables extensive customisation and is a cost-efficient solution for customers,” said Mario Kahlert, Head of Fire Safety at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. 

The range of potential applications covers any situation which requires high performing and reliable PA/VA, including offices, hotels, airports, commercial facilities and educational buildings. As with the Modular system, Cerberus PACE Compact incorporates multiple redundancy levels and is also suitable for step-by- step modernisation of outdated systems. The system’s professional sound quality and low latency enable clear communication, both in emergency situations and for day-to-day announcements or music. 

Maximised performance for maximised safety 

PA/VA systems are crucial for addressing people in the event of an emergency, requiring clear communication to trigger and then manage a prompt evacuation. Cerberus PACE Compact is available in two versions: Compact 400 and Compact 1000. Wall mounted, despite its comparatively small size, Cerberus PACE Compact offers power of up to 2000 watts and an additional backup amplifier and pilot tone amplifier – the sort of performance that is conventionally only available from much larger, rack-mounted systems. 

Cerberus PACE systems are fully compliant with the EN 54-16 standard and local codes of practice in European countries. The systems can cover all redundancy, ensuring there is adequate back-up. To support the safety-first approach, both high performing and reliable systems stand for no single point of failure, thanks to distributed intelligence, where each network participant has a CPU (a chip that allows the device to be made independent). 

Ensured business continuity 

For convenient setup and management of all components, Cerberus PACE comes with dedicated configuration software and real-time engineering. The system can be configured live, while it is running, without causing any interruption to day-to-day activities. No shut down is necessary for maintenance or to change the configuration, with remote access ensuring business continuity, whatever the environment. This is a crucial consideration for many applications where 24/7 operation is required. 

Flexibility and compatibility  

The state-of-the-art modular and scalable system architecture ensures that Cerberus PACE can be customised for buildings of all types and requirements. Cerberus PACE Compact can be combined with the Modular system using the same network and configuration tools to offer a wider choice of ancillary products (for example, amplifiers or audio matrix), while also enabling cost optimisation.

In addition, both systems can be used for stepwise modernisations of older voice alarmsystems (often using existing cabling), making it possible to futureproof the systemto meet changing demands. Different connection options (loop, stub line, double stub lines, and even compatibility with star structures or T-taps) offer greater flexibility during the installation process.

Fire Department acquires Lenco MedEvac G3

The San Antonio Fire Department has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Founded in 1854 and comprised of 20 volunteer firefighters on a bucket brigade, the department now capably protects more than 2 million San Antonians with modern-day equipment including their latest acquisition, a custom MedEvac from Lenco Armored Vehicles.

Combining tactical options, medical features fire response and off-road capability, the San Antonio Fire Department’s custom-tailored armored rescue and response vehicle meets the needs of this busy department, allowing firefighters to respond to missions in the urban, suburban and rural settings throughout their community.

“We got to know this agency and their needs over time,” said Lenny Light, vice president of sales at Lenco Armored Vehicles. “They’d stop by our booth each year at FDIC [Fire Department Instructors Conference] to meet with us and stay up to date on new vehicle equipment.” 

San Antonio’s MedEvac G3 includes a roof-mounted water monitor, low profile lighting, thermal camera, explosive gas detection system and more, making it a versatile addition capable of responding to varied emergency situations.

Built on a reinforced Ford F-550 chassis, the BearCat MedEvac G3 is primarily sought-after by first responders and tactical EMS teams who utilise a Rescue Task Force.  It features onboard oxygen tanks, lighted workstation and ample storage for medical supplies including two litters. Utilising the same body design, interior features and tactical options of Lenco’s base platform, but affording a higher ground clearance with off-road tires and suspension, the G3 allows teams to more readily respond to natural and man-made disasters, severe weather events or missions in rural settings.

To learn more about the BearCat MedEvac G3 or Lenco’s trusted tactical armored security vehicles, visit LencoArmor.com.

Task Force Tips brings Master Force Nozzles to market

Task Force Tips, a global manufacturer of fire fighting equipment have released the new series of TFT Master Force Nozzles.

The new TFT Master Force nozzles are dual pressure automatic high-volume monitor nozzles that automatically adjust to give you the greatest flow rate, reach, and impact force with your available water supply.  Incorporating TFT’s innovative technology, the Master Force operates at either a standard 7 bar (100 psi) or 4 bar (55 psi) low pressure as selected by the nozzle operator. 

The stream pattern can be varied from straight stream to a dense, wide fog pattern. Turning the shaper past the wide fog setting allows flushing the nozzle of debris without shutting down flow. The Master Force is the only dual pressure automatic nozzle that is available in manual or electric remote models and has a flow range of 1100 – 3000 L/min (300 – 800 GPM).

These compact, lightweight nozzles are perfect for pairing with TFT’s Hemisphere transportable monitor or with a TFT Tornado, Hurricane, or Crossfire water cannon. They can also be paired with other brand monitors available to the fire service.

Contact your TFT Territory Sales Manager or local TFT dealer for a demonstration to see how you can maximise your water flow with Master Force.

Ensuring compliant fire safety during COVID

As the rising number of COVID admissions pushes patient capacity limits, ensuring compliant fire safety has never been more important. As hospitals battle through the second major wave of the virus, concerns have been raised around the NHS’ on-going maintenance backlog and the impact on safety and infrastructure.

In January 2021, figures suggested that the total backlog was the equivalent of the annual running cost of the entire NHS estate, which was around £9.7bn in 2019/20 [1].

Despite the added pressure of COVID-19, hospitals and health care buildings must ensure that fire safety standards are not only compliant, but adapted to facilitate the added challenge of the ongoing pandemic.

Emergency hospital evacuations are inherently more complicated when compared to other public buildings. Alike most aspects of modern life, the pandemic has made this process more difficult, with the requirements
of social distancing and the prevention of infection a vital consideration.

Mobility issues and the vulnerable nature of patients, combined with expensive and often life dependent equipment requires substantial assistance from staff in the event of a fire, slowing the procedure down and risking lives in the process.

A fire evacuation in the accident and emergency unit at the Royal Stoke University Hospital in 2017 saw patients on higher levels waiting for lifts for up to an hour while the fire alarm sounded. As many of the patients were unable to walk, staff attempted to transport them on beds and mattresses, causing a grid lock in the hospital corridors and the subsequent delays.

Furthermore as smoke from the fire spread throughout the building, patients had to be redirected to neighbouring hospitals as the A&E unit and
surrounding wards were closed and ventilated. The limited capacity in hospitals across the UK today would make an incident like this catastrophic, with patients left with nowhere to go.


COVID-19 has seen a change to day-to-day behaviours which may directly intensify the risk of a fire in a hospital. The increased use of ventilators was raised as a heightened fire risk by the NHS England estates team in March last year, with higher oxygen levels within wards allowing a potential fire to spread at a faster
rate.

The need to reduce touch points and prevent contact with door handles has resulted in many high traffic fire doors being held open. Fire doors are essential to provide protection to a building and its occupants, preventing smoke and flames spreading from room to room in the event of a fire.


Geofire, manufacturer of the Salamander fire door system said, “As an official supplier to one the largest hospital trusts in the UK, we want to stress to Fire Safety Officers across the country the importance of not
letting fire safety standards slip. Our approved radio controlled, Salamander devices are battery operated and connect wirelessly to a mains-powered controller unit, which is easily wired into existing fire alarm
systems, ensuring that fire doors will safely close in the event of a fault or fire.

The Salamander system has all the benefits of hard-wired electromagnetic door holders and closers, but as the devices are wire-free, they are quick and easy to install, saving time, installation costs and require no disruption to a building’s fabric or its occupants”.

Holding open a fire door with a non-compliant device not only threatens prosecution, fines and closures following failed inspections, but puts patients, staff, equipment and the building at risk. Salamander offers the
only wire-free system of radio controlled fire door holders and closers which complies with Category A of BS 7273-4.

To find out more about the Salamander range and find an approved installer near you, visit www.geofire.co.uk/salamander-radio-controlled-fire-door-system/

OSSA joins Euralarm to integrate IoT Across Security & Safety

The Open Security & Safety Alliance (OSSA®), an industry body comprised of stakeholders from all facets of the security, safety and building automation space, today announced it has joined Euralarm, the association of European manufacturers, installers and service providers from the electronic fire safety and security industry.

By joining the Security Section within Euralarm, OSSA will contribute valuable expertise in the domain of Internet of Things (IoT), while leveraging on Euralarm’s profound relationships in the European security and safety markets.

Founded in 1970, Euralarm represents the fire and security categories by providing leadership, advocacy and expertise for industry, market, policy makers and standards bodies.

The European association aims to achieve fast and efficient standardisation processes for the region and engages with European institutions on legislative and regulatory issues. Its Security Section represents the intrusion, access and video sector with a focus on surveillance.

“Digital technology is transforming how we all connect with people, places and things – and this evolution offers big – literally life-saving – benefits and possibilities to the fire, security and safety space,” said Paul van der Zanden, General Director, Euralarm. “The member companies that make up OSSA are some of today’s strongest innovators and leaders within the video security and building technology categories. Sharing their collective expertise into programs we have in the works makes good sense as we together can lift up the same industries to benefit those we work hard to serve, save and protect.”

Through OSSA, Alliance members work together to drive an open platform principle and philosophy to harmonise the security and safety marketplace and fuel innovation beyond the limits of a single organisation. Founded in late 2018, members to date have made great strides in laying the foundation for IoT openness within the security and safety markets, starting with video security cameras. Significant markers include the introduction of the OSSA common Technology Stack and two resulting specifications, the introduction of the first OSSA-inspired digital marketplace, and the newly unveiled “Driven by OSSA” designation for the first commercially available video security devices based on the Alliance philosophy and purpose.

“Our Alliance was founded to enhance trust and enable innovation and value for security industry stakeholders and customers, and along this journey toward an open ecosystem platform we’re always interested in combining efforts with fellow associations where there’s shared vision and synergy,” said Johan Jubbega, President, Open Security & Safety Alliance. “In cooperation with Euralarm, we can bring OSSA’s platform and IoT experience to other areas in the security and safety market and speed up innovation in the industry together.”

Organisations interested in the Euralarm membership or seeking more information about Euralarm and the important work their members have underway, visit here. Organisations interested in learning more about OSSA, its membership benefits and the Alliance’s activities can stay informed here.

About the Open Security & Safety Alliance

The Open Security & Safety Alliance is a collaboration initiative that brings together like-minded organisations in order to create a framework providing standards and specifications for common components including an operating system, IoT infrastructure, collective approach for data security and privacy, and a drive for improved levels of performance for security and safety solutions. This will help the market and parties involved to focus on the aspects that really add value for their customers and open up new application possibilities, even beyond security and safety. For more information, visit www.opensecurityandsafetyalliance.org.

About Euralarm

Euralarm represents the electronic fire and security industry, providing leadership and expertise for industry, market, policy makers and standards bodies. The Euralarm members make society safer and secure through systems and services for fire detection and extinguishing, intrusion detection, access control, video monitoring, alarm transmission and alarm receiving centres. Founded in 1970, Euralarm represents over 5000 companies within the fire safety and security industry valued at 67 billion Euros. Euralarm members are national associations and individual companies from across Europe.

Polaris Announces New Pro XD Work Accessories

The Polaris Pro XD utility task vehicle is making work more efficient with new accessories that further enhance productivity and equipment protection.

As a division of Polaris Inc., Polaris Government & Defense is dedicated to supporting public safety personnel, state and federal agencies and global military forces and has thoughtfully expanded the Pro XD product, accessory and service portfolio based on broadening applications for its gas and diesel-powered utility vehicles.

The Polaris Pro XD is designed specifically for durability, serviceability and safety and has two and four-seat, gas and diesel models offering up to 2,075 pounds payload and 2,500 pounds towing capacities, heavy-duty driveline components and up to 200-hour maintenance intervals. The vehicles also feature puncture-resistant Kevlar®-backed vinyl seats, headlights for added visibility, all-new tires for longer life on hard-packed surfaces, as well as multiple standard safety features like horn, reverse beeper and vehicle fault alarms which notify users of potential issues that could cause serious damage to the vehicle. These highly sought-after features are further complemented by an accessories catalog that builds on the flexibility and customisability of the Pro XD.

NEW: Cargo Bed Topper

Keep gear safe, secure and protected from the elements with this lockable, weather resistant bed enclosure. Front, side and rear windows provide line-of-sight visibility from the cab to behind the machine, as well as inside the cargo area. Designed specifically for the Pro XD, the all-aluminum topper is strong and lightweight – and with integrated Lock and Ride technology, can easily be installed and removed.

NEW: Rear Bumper

The Pro XD rear bumper adds protection and minimises damage to taillights and bodywork in the event of a rear collision. The steel bumper has a matte black finish and integrated mounting holes for easy installation.

NEW: Mud Guard

The Pro XD mud guard is a newly available accessory that will also come standard on new Pro XD diesel models. The mud guard is designed to protect the engine bay from excess dirt and mud. This added protection decreases maintenance time in cleaning tough-to-reach areas and helps the engine run smoothly.

These new accessories expand Pro XD’s line of accessories that aim to maximise the vehicle’s utility, weather and climate usage, compliance and safety, and more.

Fire, Rescue and Public Safety –The Polaris Pro XD is a heavy-duty UTV-based apparatus designed to expand the reach of fire, rescue and public safety personnel and help improve response time in environments and conditions that traditional vehicles can’t access.The Pro XD firefighting UTV has a 95-gallon water with 5-gallon integral foam copoly tank, foam fire suppression system, professional fire pump, hose and reel, and the ability to draft from an external water source. The Pro XD rescue skid incorporates a rear attendant seat and a stokes rescue basket. Any of the vehicles can also include professional emergency lighting, public address system and custom graphics to match the rest of a department’s fleet.

Utility – Accessories that increase the utility of the Pro XD include a plow system, high-capacity winch, diesel block heater, cargo boxes, electric cargo box lift, cargo racks, Rhino grips, air filter service gauge and A-arm guards. Lock and Ride technology is a feature of many Polaris accessories providing simple, toolless install and attachment to the Pro XD.

Weather and Climate – Work through the weather with Pro XD windshields, wiper and washer systems, roofs, doors, rear panels, heat and defrost and rock guards with integrated step and boot scraper.

Compliance and Safety – Tailor the vehicle to specific needs with adjustable speed calibrations, interior cab lights, radio and speakers, exterior strobe lights, LED spot lights and light bars or an occupant divider system. Safety accessories include a fire extinguisher holder and a rearview mirror.

View all of our accessories on our website, where customers can also experience the vehicle virtually. Additional information and tools let customers build and quote the different all-wheel drive Pro XD models and accessory packages, view each of them in 3D and request a quote.

Polaris vehicles are also available for government discount pricing through GSA, Sourcewell® (formerly NJPA) or state or local contracts. Once purchased, the vehicles are professionally upfit and delivered directly to the customer’s location. The entire system comes fully set up for immediate use and is under full warranty from Polaris. Polaris also offers customers the capability to support and maintain their own fleet of vehicles through maintenance and operator training courses, authorised Pro XD dealers or Polaris can be contracted directly to provide the on-site service for the vehicles.

Rosenbauer America appoints new VP of Marketing & Sales

Rosenbauer America have appointed Mark Fusco as Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

Fusco brings more than two decades of marketing and sales experience to Rosenbauer. Mark’s expertise includes channel development; go-to-market strategy; sales, inventory and operations planning (SIOP), precision technologies and data insight generation, amongst others areas.

“Rosenbauer is committed to providing innovative solutions for the fire industry,” said John Slawson, CEO of Rosenbauer America. “We are excited to have Mark join our team of dedicated employees.”

Fusco holds a Masters of Business Administration degree from The College of William & Mary, and a bachelor of science degree from West Virginia University. Mark will be located at Rosenbauer’s Sioux Falls, South Dakota campus.

“It is an honor to join one of the world’s leading manufacturers of firefighting technology and resources,” said Mark Fusco. “I’m thrilled to work with the valued customers, dealers and talented employees at Rosenbauer America.”

New Cradlepoint research reveals the state of public safety

Cradlepoint, have released findings from a survey conducted through Police1, FireRescue1, EMS1 and Gov1. The survey  reveals the state of critical communications and key drivers impacting digital innovation in the public safety sector.   

The research spotlights how police, fire rescue, EMS, and local government are leveraging connected technologies and their increasing reliance on LTE cellular solutions to address the need for reliable connectivity — ultimately helping  first responders do their jobs better.    

The pandemic has also prompted a necessity for the digital transformation of various public safety operations. Whether needing to rapidly spin up pop-up networks to support a remote workforce or drive-through COVID testing, or to connect mobile command centers to field operations, the challenges of 2020—and those that will continue in 2021—have also demonstrated how public safety agencies and local governments rely on robust, stable and secure access to mission-critical information.   

“Public safety agencies are rapidly adopting connected technologies, and the pace of this transformation is quickening given societal demands and challenges in keeping front-line personnel safe and productive,” says Todd Krautkremer, Cradlepoint CMO. “However, achieving the desired benefit from connected technology investments is almost entirely dependent on a secure and reliable mobile broadband network that can span vehicles, places and things”. 

Key findings by Cradlepoint include:

Most agencies now have up to nine connected technologies in the field that use LTE cellular networks   

The survey results find that most public safety agencies have at least nine connected technologies that are regularly used to transmit information in the field, with 48% using LTE cellular networks in connected cruisers and devices, emergency response vehicles, and ambulances, followed by 35% in dispatch centers. Most often these devices are tethered to vehicles, and provide agencies with the ability to do things like:   

  • Create instant pop-up networks for medical testing stations.  
  • Monitor field operations by live-streaming bodycam or thermal imaging video to command staff and fire chiefs.   
  • Securely transmit electronic patient care records and vital signs from ambulances to hospitals.  

How agencies are getting connectivity was also examined. For in-vehicle connectivity, 23% use LTE routers, 44% use portable LTE hotspots and 19% use USB devices. There is a clear pattern for reliability, with LTE routers being the most reliable (60%), followed by portable LTE hotspots (54%) and USB devices (44%). While consumer-grade USB modems are inexpensive and easy to deploy, cutting corners comes at a cost. A USB modem can often only connect to only one device, likely insufficient given the number of devices that most public servants use in their jobs. Another shortcoming is reliability. Of agencies using consumer-grade USB modems, a majority reported occasional or repeated drops, with only 3.2% reporting always-reliable connectivity. 

Some agencies don’t know where to obtain funding and grants for new technology   

A significant hurdle for agencies is that they simply don’t know where to look for funding. The survey finds that many agencies are unaware of financial assistance options: 25% do not know where to obtain funding. When asked how their agency plans to use COVID-19 response and recovery funds or other public assistance, 37% of agencies says they are not using any. 

Some of those funding sources, specific to the pandemic response, were for agencies to fulfill demands for life-saving and critical services. Some agencies accessed funding available to state, local and tribal governments under the CARES Act to help them navigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, but also made investments that filled long-standing needs with capabilities for the future.  

Of those agencies that are taking advantage of these resources, 48% are seeking funds to improve wireless infrastructure, including secure wireless communication (36%) and crisis communication (12%). Also, 13% are investing in immediate life-saving care, 6% in infrastructure upgrades, and 20% in both.    

LTE cellular networks play critical role in critical communications; reliability and security are top importance for LTE-enabled router technology 

 Whether they subscribe to a public safety network or not, most first responder agencies regularly rely on cellular connections to transmit information from the field over devices like mobile data terminals, tablets, bodycams and AEDs. Even local government agencies are using LTE wireless connectivity to create instant networks for online learning and to facilitate remote work. Any interruption in connectivity that delays critical information from getting where it is needed can put first responders, the public and property at risk. When asked what their requirements are in evaluating LTE-enabled router technology for critical connectivity, reliability was the top factor (85%) followed by security (61%). 

“This research substantiates what we always have believed – public safety agencies need enterprise-class reliability, security, and management, but delivered in a simple-to-use and cost-effective solution. This is the essence of Cradlepoint NetCloud,” says Krautkremer. 

Click here to view the full report. You can also register to attend Cradlepoint and Lexipol’s upcoming webinar “Connectivity is Key to Safer Personnel and Communities” on January 27th at 11am PST, which will explore the findings from the survey in-depth. Cradlepoint will also donate up to $5,000 to the First Responder Children’s Foundation on behalf of everyone that attends the webinar.