IAFF ends firefighter protective gear lawsuit against NFPA after two-year dispute

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking News

IAFF moves to dismiss firefighter protective gear lawsuit

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has asked the Superior Court in Boston to dismiss all remaining claims against the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in its lawsuit concerning firefighter protective gear standards.

The IAFF filed the original complaint in March 2023, challenging aspects of the NFPA’s standards development process.

In March 2024, the court dismissed the portion of the case relating to an alleged conspiracy.

The latest motion seeks dismissal with prejudice, meaning the IAFF cannot refile the same claims.

NFPA President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Pauley said the organisation welcomed the outcome.

IAFF says primary objective has been achieved

Edward Kelly, General President of the IAFF, said: “Our objective was to remove PFAS and other toxins from fire fighter protective gear.

“Ultimately, the IAFF and NFPA have worked together toward this outcome, and we value their shared commitment to ensuring the highest standards of protection for the fire service and for our communities across North America.

“The primary objective of the lawsuit has been realized, and the IAFF Executive Board has directed our lawyers to end the litigation.”

NFPA says dismissal confirms standards integrity

Jim Pauley, President and Chief Executive Officer at NFPA, said: “As NFPA stated from the very beginning, the IAFF’s legal strategy was misguided and not supported by the facts.

“It was clear from the discovery process that remaining claims had no basis.

“We are pleased that they have asked the court to dismiss all claims.”

He added that the dismissal supports the transparency and inclusivity of the NFPA’s standards process.

Pauley said: “This outcome underscores that NFPA’s consensus-based process is the right forum for discussions about standards – one where all voices can be heard and all material is carefully considered by technical committee members in a transparent, inclusive manner.”

He explained that the lawsuit had no impact on the NFPA standards process.

Pauley said: “NFPA is a neutral facilitator. We don’t create or dictate the provisions of a standard. That’s the job of our technical committees, which are comprised entirely of expert volunteers representing a balance of interests of groups from the firefighting community, government, industry and consumers.”

Standards committee process outlined

According to the NFPA, its technical committees evaluate every recommendation submitted for new or updated standards.

The organisation stated that all aspects of the process are public, including committee membership, voting records and actions taken.

Each committee includes no more than one-third of members from the same interest category.

NFPA confirmed it does not have any special agreements or relationships with companies or organisations involved in standards development.

It added that anyone in the world may propose changes to any NFPA standard.

Background on firefighter gear standard

NFPA said the first standard for firefighter protective clothing was issued in 1975 to improve safety for frontline responders.

There have since been ten editions, each developed through new research, testing and field experience.

The current standard, NFPA 1970, came into effect in September 2024 and combines four previous standards into a single document.

The NFPA said the 1970 edition includes new measures on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), ultraviolet light testing and chemical content labelling.

Among these are a Restricted Substances list, updated light resistance tests for full garment composites, and an optional test for low total fluorine content.

NFPA clarified that the preceding standard, NFPA 1971, never required the use of any particular chemicals or materials, leaving compliance methods to manufacturers.

Commitment to firefighter health and safety

Pauley said: “The full dismissal of the lawsuit affirms the hard work our organisation and our valued volunteers do every day to make the world a safer place and to help protect first responders.

“The IAFF has long been an important and diligent participant in the NFPA code development process bringing the essential voice of the fire service.

“We look forward to remaining focused on the mutual goal that matters most: protecting firefighter health and safety through strong, evidence-based standards.”

He added that NFPA remains committed to addressing occupational health risks in the fire service.

Pauley said: “NFPA understands the complex health risks that come with firefighting, and we’re deeply sympathetic to the terrible toll that cancer takes on firefighters and their families.

“We’re proud of our efforts to educate the fire service about occupational cancer risks, to advance research through the NFPA Fire Protection Research Foundation, and to advocate for federal legislation around this important public health issue.

“For more than a century, we’ve worked with the fire service to protect life and property in our communities, and that important work will continue.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The IAFF’s decision to end its lawsuit against the NFPA confirms that firefighter protective gear standards will continue to be governed by NFPA’s established consensus-based process.

For fire chiefs, safety officers and procurement managers, this maintains stability and clarity in the specification of turnout gear under NFPA 1970.

The statement from the IAFF clarifies that the primary goal of removing PFAS and other toxic substances from firefighter protective clothing has now been achieved, signalling progress for occupational health protection.

Manufacturers, testing laboratories and certification bodies can continue working within a transparent system that balances environmental, health and performance requirements.

The outcome also reinforces that NFPA standards remain a trusted reference point for both regulatory compliance and product design.

Fire Prevention Week 2025 puts lithium ion battery safety in focus

by Americas - Breaking NewsAssociations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Fire Prevention Week 2025: what to know and how to act

Overview

Fire Prevention Week runs from 5 to 11 October 2025.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

The core public message is simple: buy safely, charge safely, recycle safely.

See NFPA’s campaign hub for dates, materials, and downloads: NFPA Fire Prevention Week.

What Fire Prevention Week is and why it falls in October

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of 9 October to mark the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

NFPA is the international sponsor and curates resources used by authorities, schools, and businesses worldwide.

A concise overview appears in NFPA Journal’s coverage.

2025 theme at a glance

The 2025 theme addresses lithium ion batteries used in everyday home devices, from phones and laptops to e bikes and power tools.

NFPA’s press announcement confirms the focus and dates: NFPA press release.

The supporters page shows the breadth of participating organisations: FPW supporters.

“Lithium ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere.”

Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of outreach and advocacy, stressed the need for clear public guidance.

“Making sure the public knows how to use them safely is critical to minimizing the potential risks they pose.”

Both quotes appear in industry coverage of the NFPA announcement: Security Sales & Integration.

Three key actions for 2025

Buy safely, charge safely, recycle safely.

The campaign frames household behaviour around these three actions, supported by tip sheets and visuals.

NFPA provides ready to use materials on selection, charging, storage, and disposal: lithium ion safety hub and consumer tip sheet PDF.

Quick guide for households: how to buy

Choose devices and replacement batteries that are certified by a recognised testing laboratory such as UL, ETL, or CSA.

Avoid unbranded chargers and aftermarket batteries without proof of listing, even if the price is lower.

Reference: NFPA lithium ion safety hub.

Quick guide for households: how to charge

Use the charger and cable supplied with the device or a manufacturer approved equivalent.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid prolonged unsupervised charging.

Charge on a hard, non combustible surface away from bedding, sofas, or piles of papers.

Keep devices out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources while charging.

Reference: NFPA tip sheet PDF.

If a battery is hot, swollen, leaking, or giving off odour, stop using it, move it away from anything that can burn if safe to do so, and seek advice from your local fire and rescue service.

NFPA’s consumer sheet explains warning signs and immediate steps: consumer tip sheet.

Quick guide for households: how to store and dispose

Do not put lithium ion batteries or devices in household rubbish or in standard kerbside recycling bins.

Use a dedicated battery recycling point or a manufacturer take back scheme.

NFPA points residents to certified recycling options and the reasons standard bins are unsafe: FPW tip sheet PDF.

Core NFPA resources to use and share

NFPA provides public education resources that fire services, schools, landlords, facility managers, and resident groups can distribute.

The materials include lithium ion battery safety, smoke alarms, home escape planning, cooking safety, and electrical safety.

Start with the main hub and downloads: Fire Prevention Week and lithium ion battery safety.

Suggested activities for organisations during FPW

Hold a short battery safety toolbox talk for staff, covering approved chargers, safe charging areas, and reporting of damaged devices.

Update workplace policies to set clear rules on personal device charging, storage, and disposal points.

Audit communal charging setups in offices and residential blocks, removing improvised extensions and multi adapters.

Promote the three NFPA actions on posters, intranet pages, tenant newsletters, and social media.

Coordinate with local retailers or repair shops to highlight certified products and authorised service.

Useful context for planning activities appears in NFPA’s updates and partner communications: NFPA Journal explainer and Capitol Hill briefing note.

Frequently asked questions

When is Fire Prevention Week in 2025

It runs from Sunday 5 October to Saturday 11 October 2025.

Source: NFPA Fire Prevention Week.

Why is it always in October

It is held during the week of 9 October to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

Background: NFPA Journal explainer.

What is the official theme this year

“Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Announcement: NFPA press release.

Who runs Fire Prevention Week

NFPA leads the campaign and publishes public education tools that local agencies and organisations adapt.

See: FPW hub.

What are the three steps in the 2025 campaign

Buy only listed products, charge devices safely, and recycle batteries responsibly.

See: SSI summary of NFPA messaging and NFPA tip sheet.

What charging habits should households avoid

Do not charge on beds or sofas, do not cover devices while charging, and avoid long periods of unattended charging.

Reference: NFPA tip sheet PDF.

How do I recognise a listed battery or charger

Look for a safety mark from a nationally recognised testing lab such as UL, ETL, or CSA on the device or packaging.

Reference: NFPA lithium ion safety hub.

Can lithium ion batteries go in household recycling

No. Use a battery recycling point or manufacturer programme.

Guidance: FPW tip sheet PDF.

A short, ready-to-use message for public channels

Fire Prevention Week runs from 5 to 11 October, and NFPA’s theme is lithium ion safety in the home.

Households are asked to buy listed products, charge devices safely, and recycle batteries responsibly.

Community groups and employers can download free, ready made materials here: NFPA Fire Prevention Week and lithium ion battery safety resources.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Lithium ion devices are now present across homes, workplaces, and public spaces, which shifts risk from a specialist hazard to an everyday one.

Fire Prevention Week provides a defined window to reinforce simple controls that reduce incident frequency and severity without new equipment spend.

The NFPA three step message is easy to brief, audit, and monitor across housing, education, healthcare, retail, and offices.

Resources are free, translate well into UK contexts, and support existing local campaigns on safe charging and responsible disposal.

For dates, assets, and more context, start with the FPW hub, the press release, and the lithium ion safety hub.

Why America’s most decorated fireboat is searching for a new home

by Americas - Breaking NewsFeatured News

America’s Fire Boat Fire Fighter seeks new home after 2026

Historic vessel prepares for relocation

The Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum has announced that America’s Fire Boat, Fire Fighter, is preparing for relocation as her time at Mystic Seaport Museum concludes in 2026.

The National Historic Landmark, described as one of the most decorated firefighting vessels in the US, is seeking a new permanent home to continue her role as a museum and educational attraction.

Since arriving at Mystic Seaport Museum in 2021, thousands of visitors have boarded Fire Fighter to learn about her history and service.

The Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum said the move offers a rare opportunity for a host community or organisation to welcome an iconic vessel with deep historical and cultural value.

Vessel restored with more than $1 million in grants

Fire Fighter has been restored to her original condition thanks to grants and donations exceeding $1 million.

The funding was provided by the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, Save America’s Treasures and other contributors.

The museum said the vessel can now travel to her next location fully overhauled and ready for public display.

At 134 feet long, Fire Fighter requires dock facilities that provide both stability and safe access for visitors.

According to the museum, the ship presents a valuable tourism opportunity capable of enhancing waterfront destinations while serving as an educational exhibit.

James W. Tomes, Chief Executive Officer of Telgian and Board Member of the Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum, said: “Fire Fighter is known as America’s Fireboat because she embodies courage, service, and resilience.
“It’s about giving future generations a place to connect with American history in a tangible, inspiring way.”

Record of service across major national events

Commissioned in 1938, Fire Fighter is recognised as the most award-decorated fireboat in the world.

When she was decommissioned in 2010, she was the second-oldest fireboat still in frontline service globally and the longest-serving member of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) Marine Unit Fleet.

During the Second World War, Fire Fighter protected ammunition ships bound for Europe and responded to incidents including the SS Normandie fire, the El Estero explosion and other major harbour emergencies.

In 1974, she received the Gallant Ship Award for her work during the Sea Witch and Esso Brussels collision and fire beneath the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in 1973.

On 11 September 2001, Fire Fighter operated continuously for three weeks, pumping water from New York Harbor to supply firefighters at Ground Zero after the destruction of hydrants and water mains.

In January 2009, she also assisted in rescuing passengers following the emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River.

The museum said Fire Fighter remains the only fireboat ever to receive the Gallant Ship Award since its establishment in 1944.

Invitation for communities to host the vessel

The Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum said it is seeking proposals from communities, maritime organisations and civic leaders interested in providing a safe and suitable long-term berth for Fire Fighter.

Charlie Ritchie, President of the Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum, said: “Her legacy is about much more than firefighting.
“It embodies courage, resilience, and American history.”

The museum added that the next host location will have the opportunity to become part of a living legacy that continues to educate the public about maritime history, engineering and public safety.

Communities and organisations interested in partnership or preservation opportunities are encouraged to contact the Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The relocation of America’s Fire Boat Fire Fighter is relevant to professionals in marine firefighting, maritime safety and heritage preservation.

Fire Fighter’s operational record demonstrates the evolution of marine firefighting technology and its role in major emergencies, including wartime harbour protection and post-9/11 response operations.

For fire service training officers and museum educators, the vessel provides a practical model for interpreting historical firefighting methods and equipment.

Maritime authorities and port safety managers may also find relevance in the vessel’s restoration, which highlights the importance of maintaining historic response assets that shaped modern firefighting practice.

America’s Fire Boat Fire Fighter seeks new home after 2026: Summary

America’s Fire Boat, Fire Fighter, will leave Mystic Seaport Museum in 2026 after five years as a public exhibit.

The Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum announced plans to find a new permanent home for the 134-foot vessel, which has been restored using more than $1 million in grants.

The National Historic Landmark is considered one of the most decorated firefighting vessels in US history and the longest-serving member of the Fire Department of New York Marine Unit Fleet.

Fire Fighter’s service record includes key events such as World War II operations, the Sea Witch and Esso Brussels fire, 9/11 response and the 2009 Hudson River aircraft rescue.

The Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum is inviting communities and maritime organisations to propose hosting the vessel as a museum and educational attraction.

This article contains information from the following source: Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum

Pierce details $150m investment to reduce fire truck delays

by Americas - Breaking NewsFeatured NewsVehicles

Pierce outlines new investments

Pierce Manufacturing has said it has invested $50 million since 2022 to address extended fire truck delivery times, with a further $100 million planned.

The company’s Vice President of Sales, Dan Meyer, gave an opening statement to the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Disaster Management, District of Columbia and Census on 10 September 2025.

He said Pierce has increased its workforce by more than 25 percent in under three years, adding nearly 800 jobs.

He said the company has also expanded its manufacturing space by 28 percent, adding nearly 500,000 square feet.

Meyer said: “Since lead times began to extend in 2022, Pierce has invested approximately $50 million to increase throughput, and we have another $100 million on the way.

“In less than three years, Pierce grew our workforce by more than 25%, adding nearly 800 good-paying American jobs.

“We expanded our manufacturing space by 28%, adding nearly 500,000 square feet.

“In short, we are significantly increasing investment to meet the needs of our customers – and our ship-rate reflects our commitment.

“That said, Pierce recognizes the need to provide options for our customers. For departments that don’t want to wait for custom fire apparatus, we produce stock trucks, which are built to standard specifications and are available immediately.”

Pierce on cost pressures

Meyer addressed the issue of rising costs in fire apparatus production, noting the broader supply chain and labour conditions affecting the industry.

Meyer said: “I also want to emphasize that Pierce has always been committed to being fair, honest, and transparent about costs.

“The costs to make fire trucks, like other heavy equipment, climbed substantially in recent years due to supply chain and labor disruptions across industries.

“While material costs in the fire truck manufacturing process remain high – at Pierce – price increases have slowed significantly.”

Pierce on consolidation

Meyer also spoke about industry consolidation, addressing concerns raised during the hearing about limited competition among major manufacturers.

Meyer said: “Finally, I understand the Subcommittee is interested in reports of consolidation in the fire truck manufacturing industry.

“I want to be clear: neither Oshkosh nor Pierce has acquired any other U.S.-based fire truck manufacturer.

“I am deeply proud that our growth has been organic: driven by innovation, a commitment to our customers, and high-quality support for Pierce trucks long after they leave our factory floor.

“Our plan for growth is to continue investing in our business and our people, not through acquisitions.

“I know our customers have choices when purchasing their trucks, and Pierce fiercely competes with dozens of manufacturers wherever we sell.

“These choices are also reflected in our aftermarket business, where customers have a choice in who services their vehicles.”

Pierce on lead time progress

Meyer said the company acknowledged the problem early and has shipped more trucks in the past quarter than any time in its history.

Meyer said: “I share the Subcommittee’s serious concern about the industry-wide prolonged lead times seen since the pandemic, when demand for fire apparatus skyrocketed as supply chains and labor became strained.

“The current lead times, which are a function of that demand spike, are unacceptable, and Pierce remains laser-focused on reducing them to pre-pandemic norms.

“I’m happy to share that – while there is work left to do, Pierce has been making progress.

“We shipped more trucks last quarter than any other in Pierce’s history.

“We acknowledged the lead time problem as soon as it emerged, and we have made – and will continue to make – historic investments to increase throughput.”

Senate hearing context

The Senate hearing also heard from firefighter organisations, fire chiefs, and legal experts on the impacts of delays and costs.

Edward Kelly of the International Association of Fire Fighters told senators that shortages left departments deploying staff in pickup trucks, while Dennis Rubin of Kansas City Fire Department described price increases and three-year waits for delivery.

Basel Musharbash of the Antimonopoly Council said a Federal Trade Commission Section 6(b) study could clarify whether practices by larger manufacturers created barriers to competition.

Jason Shivers of the International Association of Fire Chiefs reported that vehicle costs have risen by up to 25 percent since 2020 and said delivery times now extend as far as four years. He cited a mix of supply chain shortages, workforce pressures, and federal policy changes as drivers of the problem.

Pierce on commitment to firefighters

Meyer closed his statement by emphasising Pierce’s long-standing role in the fire service.

Meyer said: “It’s a privilege to be here alongside witnesses that include such distinguished fire service leaders.

“President Kelly and Chief Rubin are public servants dedicated to making our communities safer.

“That is why I take their concerns so seriously.

“At Pierce, we are unwavering in our support of the American fire service.

“We will always honor our more than century-long commitment to being transparent with our customers.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Pierce’s testimony outlines measures it is taking to address delays that have been widely reported by fire service organisations.

The company’s comments confirm the scale of investment in facilities, workforce and production capacity, alongside the option of stock vehicles.

The context from the Senate hearing shows how these industry conditions affect operational readiness and procurement planning for departments nationwide.

Pierce details $150m investment to reduce fire truck delays: Summary

Pierce said it has invested $50 million since 2022.

It said a further $100 million is planned.

It said the workforce grew by more than 25 percent.

It said nearly 800 jobs have been added.

It said facilities expanded by 28 percent.

It said this equals 500,000 square feet of new space.

It said stock trucks are available immediately.

It said costs rose due to supply chain and labour pressures.

It said price increases have slowed.

It said it has not acquired other US fire truck manufacturers.

It said its growth has been organic.

It said it competes with other producers in the market.

It said customers have choices in aftermarket servicing.

It said it aims to reduce lead times to pre-pandemic levels.

It said it shipped more trucks last quarter than ever before.

It said it will continue investing in its operations and workforce.

It said it remains committed to supporting the fire service.