Peerless Pump Company and AMI Global partner up to launch IoT Solution for fire industry

by Americas - Projects

AMI Global LLC has announced a partnership with Peerless Pump Company, a wholly owned company of the Grundfos Group and a manufacturer of UL listed and FM approved fire pump systems. The partnership brings IoT connectivity and condition monitoring to fire pump systems around the world with the launch of Peerless FireConnect™.

The system architecture of Peerless FireConnect™ is designed to reach beyond accessing just code-mandated alarms and provide real time fire pump system information accessed 24/7. System monitoring will help ensure fire pump systems are always ready through an advanced user interface and system notifications. Remote access to the fire pump system in both static and running conditions provides critical information without having to access the pump room. System data is logged and stored permanently for compliance reference including required ITM and other pertinent information.

“Having critical system information at your fingertips provides peace of mind to building owners and occupants that their fire protection system is ready and operational. In the event of a fire, real time system data can enable better decision making and improve safety,” said Scott Patterson, Vice President – Aftermarket Sales & Service for  Peerless Pump Company. “By developing this solution with AMI Global, we were able to bring Peerless FireConnect™ to the market quickly, enabling us to make a significant and positive impact for our customers.”

“We are proud to partner with Peerless Pump Company to drive digital transformation in fire protection for industrial and commercial buildings and beyond.  Together we can help transform an industry – this is proof that industrial IoT will transform the general pump industry in the very near future,” said Henrik Laursen, CEO of AMI Global.

For more information on Peerless FireConnect™ product visit www.peerlesspump.com.

REV Group announces partnership for Clean Cab Technology

by Americas - Projects

REV Group is proud to announce a partnership with United Safety & Survivability Corporation to provide industry-leading technology that will take the clean cab concept to the next level.

The new product, exclusive to the REV Fire Group brands, in the first responder market, is an active air filtration system that uses UV light and Photohydroionisation technology to neutralize airborne pollutants such as bacteria, mold, and viruses, including COVID-19.  Studies have shown a 99% reduction of airborne pathogens.  The unit is a stand-alone device that can be mounted in the cab of the apparatus and runs off the 12-volt wiring.  The unit can also be retrofit into completed apparatus.

“We are excited to release the next generation of clean cab products in partnership with the REV Fire Group.” said Joe Mirabile, President and CEO of United Safety & Survivability Corporation. “These UV PHI air systems paired with antimicrobial and antibacterial treatments will significantly increase the safety of our first responders by increasing air quality and overall surface cleanliness.  This represents the next generation in cutting edge clean cab improvements that our first responders deserve.”

“When the COVID pandemic first hit, we knew we were going to have to take some kind of action to keep our first responders as safe as possible.” said Mike Virnig, VP of Sales, REV Fire Group.  “We searched for a partner that had the technology to attack this new threat and we found that in USSC.  We are proud to raise the bar on the clean cab initiative and take this next step in protecting those that protect us.”

You can register at www.revtruckexpo.com.

Brazos Valley Council of Governments deploys Motorola Solutions’ cloud-based 9-1-1 software

by Americas - Projects

Motorola Solutions has announced that Brazos Valley Council of Governments and its member jurisdiction, Washington County, Texas, have deployed the company’s CommandCentral 9-1-1 Smart Transcription and CommandCentral 9-1-1 Citizen Input cloud-based solutions.

The deployments are two of multiple cloud-based software deployments for first responders completed by Motorola Solutions during the second quarter of 2020, as the company leveraged the cloud to meet increased customer demand for cloud-based software during COVID-19.

“When a resident contacts 9-1-1 for help, the technology a 9-1-1 operator has at his or her fingertips can make all the difference in a successful outcome to the call,” said Anita Pitt, 9-1-1 program manager, Brazos Valley Council of Governments in Texas. “We are deploying CommandCentral 9-1-1 Smart Transcription and CommandCentral 9-1-1 Citizen Input because these cloud-based solutions offer our 9-1-1 call takers critical advantages.”

With CommandCentral 9-1-1 Smart Transcription, call takers do not have to remember everything as the call – often a stressful situation – is unfolding. Real-time voice to text transcription provides them with a second pair of ears to make sure they heard everything correctly as they share information with dispatchers to coordinate an effective response to the crisis.

Similarly, CommandCentral 9-1-1 Citizen Input allows the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) to receive photos, recorded video or streaming video from a caller to better understand the situation and coordinate the response. It does this while at the same time protecting the call taker from possibly traumatic images by providing the PSAP with tools to control who sees the media.

“These solutions further evidence our progress and our commitment to our command centre suite cloud strategy,” said Andrew Sinclair, senior vice president and general manager, Software Enterprise, Motorola Solutions. “During COVID-19, we’ve seen and have responded to an unprecedented demand for cloud solutions. Our command centre customers are now reaping the benefits of ‘cloud without compromise’ with secure and resilient, innovative and scalable solutions that help them respond to their residents’ calls for help with confidence.”

The Brazos Valley Council of Governments CommandCentral 9-1-1 Smart Transcription and CommandCentral 9-1-1 Citizen Input deployments are two of five cloud-based software deployments for Motorola Solutions in the second quarter of 2020. Others include:

CommandCentral 9-1-1 Smart Transcription 

  • Manatee County, Fla.

PremierOne Cloud CAD 

  • City of Cayce, SC
  • Hampton County Central Dispatch E911, SC

Elizabethtown joins campaign to ease volunteer firefighter shortage

by Americas - Projects

As the state faces a shortage of volunteer firefighters, the NC Association of Fire Chiefs and the International Association of Fire Chiefs are kicking off a two-year plan designed to alleviate staffing shortages in key parts of North Carolina.

More than 70% of NC firefighters are volunteers. As the state sees the number of volunteer firefighters decline at 11-12 percent every year, several communities are in critical need of firefighters.

Bladen County was identified as one of the 15 at risk counties chosen to take part in the effort.

Elizabethtown Fire Department is the only department in the county that has a paid staff of firefighters, according to Chief Nick West. The other fire agencies in the region are predominately staffed by volunteers.

“There is a shortage, not only in Bladen County but this region itself. We will be utilizing this information from the workforce solutions program and getting the word out saying ‘we need some support.’ It’s a critical level for department members in Bladen County…some members volunteer in multiple departments,” said Chief West.

The campaign is funded by a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant to enhance the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters. The effort will include local research on where to find potential volunteer firefighters and workshops to improve recruitment and retention.

Just a month into the campaign, the chief says they’ve seen an overwhelming response from the community. The new interest in lending a hand is further encouraged by the department moving to a brand new station that will serve as a crisp new backdrop for tours and educational events.

The chief says recently, they were awarded a grant for a fitness trainer for the department, giving potential volunteer firefighters even more incentive to work with Elizabethtown Fire.

Having a full staff of firefighters allows the department to work faster at fires and medical calls and do things like better handle traffic at car crash scenes, ensuring the safety of all the first responders working the call.

In addition to emergencies, volunteers are vital to efforts that prevent tragedies in the first place like smoke alarm canvassing, educational outreach and fire inspections.

“We want people to know we rely on our volunteers and say ‘look what we can accomplish in Elizabethtown or Bladen County with the great volunteers we have in our community.’ Its really humbling for sure. We’ve noticed in the hurricanes, people can’t necessarily volunteer but they bring stuff and ask ‘what can they do’ and you can tell in times of crisis, small communities really come together,” said West. “It takes a big effort from a lot of different people to help this work and we’re just thankful for the opportunity to get the word out and say here’s what our community’s needs are and here’s how we can expand it and make it better for sure.”

www.VolunteerFireNC.org

Potter announces web integration of fire alarm systems into Intelliview

by Americas - ProjectsPassive

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC of St. Louis, Missouri USA, announces the integration of Potter fire alarm systems with the IntelliView TM Dashboard. The web-based dashboard allows the user to monitor their Potter fire alarm control panels in addition to the IntelliGen TM nitrogen generators from anywhere in the world. A mobile app is also available in the iOS and Google Play stores and provides increased functionality.

A free Standard version of IntelliView for fire alarm systems is available with limited features that allow for high level panel status and information. The Premium version integrates with the mobile app to send push notifications for any off normal signal, give access to all signals on all fire panels, provide system data and display historical activity. In addition, the Premium version supports a One-Person walk test that can control the panel and provide the needed data for NFPA reports.

Bob Teta, Potter’s Software Engineering Manager said, “Mobile device access to a building’s fire systems is long overdue. IntelliView will make installation, testing and inspection much more efficient and accurate. It will also enable life-safety personnel to have immediate information when a system is in trouble or in alarm – this creates a safer environment for everyone. No system should be installed without Potter IntelliView.”

www.PotterIntelliView.com

US researchers seek firefighters to participate in alcohol use study

by Americas - Projects

Researchers from the Centre for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research and the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation (PIRE) are looking for firefighters and their spouses or partners to participate in a study about firefighters and alcohol use.

With funding from a FEMA Research and Development grant, the researchers seek to review the spectrum of alcohol and the culture around it in the fire service as a first step to understanding how to raise awareness about the importance of moderating drinking to healthy levels.

The researchers would like to interview participants about their alcohol intake and drinking habits, regardless of how much they consume.

“It is well documented in research that there are high rates of alcohol use in the fire service both compared to the general population and other occupational groups,” explained Dr. Sara Jahnke, director of the Centre for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research.

There are a number of reasons the rates are likely so high, she said, some due to things like the role alcohol has played traditionally in the fire service, the camaraderie that is built around meeting up for a drink, and pragmatic reasons like shift work and having the same off days as the people on your crew.

“There is also evidence that behavioural health and alcohol use are intertwined, with higher rates of alcohol use leading to behavioural health concerns and vice versa,” Jahnke said. “There is clear evidence that alcohol is being used as a coping mechanism for some as a way to manage repeated exposure to trauma.”

Jahnke explained that while moderate alcohol use isn’t necessarily a negative health behaviour, there are health implications from binge drinking and regular heavy drinking, including increased risk of some cancers, sleep disruption and cardiovascular impacts.

Further, the study is also designed, Jahnke said, to develop tools for those who believe they may have a problem with drinking and/or feel like they are dependent on alcohol to identify the issue and find ways to address it. However, “The goal of the study is not to start a crusade to stop alcohol use in the fire service, but to help create a shift in the way it is viewed and consumed so it doesn’t contribute to negative health effects,” she added.

The IAFF, the IAFC Safety, Health and Survival Section, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) all support this project.

Apollo Fire Detectors’ announce free online training courses

by Americas - Projects

Hundreds of fire industry professionals from over 30 countries have benefitted from Apollo Fire Detectors’ free online training courses available throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period.

The weekly virtual CPD seminars and product focused webinars have proved so popular that the company has extended the initial six- week programme of events into July and August, and potentially beyond.

Warren Moyle, Senior Technical Support Engineer at Apollo Fire Detectors, who has been leading most of the online training said: “We wanted to support the industry during this difficult time by sharing our expertise and technical knowledge. We’re grateful that people from all over the world including Greece, Singapore and Egypt have been willing to invest in their professional development and learn more about our products. We’ve had some great feedback and we’re looking forward to delivering the next phase of courses that we’ll be running over the summer.”

Aimed at consultants and specifiers, Apollo is delivering online industry focused CPD accredited seminars covering topics such as An Introduction to BS 7273-4, EN54 Part 23 and An Introduction to BS 5839 Pts 1 & 6. Apollo has also condensed its existing full-day face to face CPD accredited training courses into one-hour CPD accredited courses to ensure that customers wanting to attend these sessions don’t miss out due to the lockdown.

Throughout July and August, there will also be a series of 30-minute product orientated webinars, providing useful advice and insights to installers, covering features and benefits, applications, demonstration videos and frequently asked questions for numerous Apollo ranges including XPander, AlarmSense and the Apollo Test Set.

Customer feedback so far includes: “The webinar was simply wonderful. Techno-filled experience of the trainers was really good. The Q&A session helped me to learn new things. Keep it up and boost our knowledge on Apollo products.”  Plus: “Thank you Apollo, these are great sessions without spending time travelling. Your experience in the field gives us many things to learn about the fire industry.” As well as: “Very informative presentation, with good definitions of terminology. Not an area I knew anything about previously.”

All webinars are being hosted on Microsoft Teams events, which allows attendees to watch live and interact with presenters via a moderated Q&A. All registrants receive a recording of the webinar after the event, so those who don’t make the live event still get the opportunity to watch it on demand.

Date Topic
Wednesday 1st July Hybrid Wireless CPD
Wednesday 8th July Test Set Loop Screen
Wednesday 15th July Introduction to BS7273-4
Wednesday 22nd July AlarmSense
Wednesday 29th July Detection principles and device selection /S65/XP95
Wednesday 5th August Xpander
Wednesday 12th August Introduction to BS5839 Pts 1 & 6
Wednesday 19th August Test Set Introduction
Wednesday 26th August Service, Test and Maintenance

For more information and to register for the free online training visit http://apollo.ly/9k

IAFF shows support for firefighters during US riots

by ActiveAmericas - Projects

Protests and riots have been spreading throughout the United States in response to the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis policeman.

In Richmond, Virginia, rioters blocked a fire truck from responding to a burning home. Protesters had intentionally set the fire at the home, and there was a child inside. In Philadelphia during a 24-hour period, the fire department responded to dozens of fires, including a two-alarm fire in North Philly after a weekend of looting.

In Sacramento, California, crews battled a fire that spread through the back of a business; while fighting the 5-alarm fire, 200 personnel worked to keep the flames away from small propane tanks and dozens of cars. When Grand Rapids, Michigan, firefighters arrived to put out a dumpster fire, someone threw a large firecracker or other explosive toward a firefighter as he jumped out of a truck. The explosive knocked him to the ground, and he clutched at his ears.

In Minneapolis, firefighters raced from one blaze to the next, often with police along for crowd control. One night during the protests, the Minneapolis Fire Department responded to 30 fire events including at least 16 structure fires. Department vehicles were damaged from thrown rocks and other projectiles. The level of the unrest prompted the International Association of Fire Fighters to issue a statement.

Throwing rocks, fireworks and directing violence toward fire fighters, paramedics and EMTs is never acceptable”

“Peaceful protests by our neighbours exercising their First Amendment rights across America are being interrupted by violence and unrest,” said Harold A. Schaitberger, IAFF General President. “In the middle of the challenges and turmoil, I am proud of our IAFF fire fighters, paramedics and EMTs who are once again proving their dedication to keeping their communities safe when they are needed most.”

“Throwing rocks, fireworks and directing violence toward firefighters, paramedics and EMTs is never acceptable,” he added. “As always, the safety of our members Is our top priority. So, it was with disappointment and outrage that I witness our members – who are integral to keeping everyone, including protesters, safe – attacked over the weekend.”

Schaitberger citied incidents in Atlanta, Austin, Cleveland, Minneapolis and St. Paul in which members were subjected to having bricks and large fireworks hurled their way, simply for doing their jobs.

“Firefighters will continue to respond when needed; it is their job and their calling,” said Schaitberger, who offered a plea on behalf of the 320,000 IAFF members: “Please allow your fire fighters on the frontlines to do that job, keeping everyone safe, without violence or incident.” He added: “To our members, stay safe and know that this IAFF has your back.”

US army soldiers and Bavaria firefighters participate in firefighting training

by Americas - Projects

US Army soldiers assigned to the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade have recently participated in fire prevention training with the US Army Garrison (USAG) Bavaria firefighters in Germany.

Chief Warrant Officer Thomas McNamara said: “We’re going to be picking up the Bambi Buckets over here to practice aerial firefighting. We’ve got the Grafenwöhr firefighters with us. We are going to be co-ordinating with them and practising fighting fires with them on a range in areas that may be inaccessible or too dangerous to get (from) the ground.”

The goal was to time the water drop effectively so the firefighters could easily handle the fire from the ground. McNamara commented: “The bucket is far below the helicopter. It’s just a visual judgment error to be able to bring that bucket and place it over the fire.”

Josef Rodler, Fire Chief at USAG Bavaria, added: “All my firefighters are host nation firefighters. This is the first time (we’ve done) real training with the pilots. Invite them to the next exercise so they can see how we do it and share the experience.”

The exercise will continue to help with fire prevention on USAG Bavaria and the experience gained for the participants of this exercise will continue to pay off.

NVFC partners with DRONERESPONDERS to help America’s Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services

by Americas - Projects

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the non-profit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services, has announced a partnership with DRONERESPONDERS – the world’s fastest growing program supporting public safety – to help coordinate, cooperate, and co-promote efforts to enhance the use of drones in the pursuit of public safety.

Drone Operations

The memorandum of understanding outlines the key initiatives under which the NVFC and DRONERESPONDERS will collaborate together to assist America’s volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services in adopting and perfecting the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to help save lives.

“Our members are increasingly interested in learning more about how they can use drones to enhance their ability to serve the public,” said Steve Hirsch, chair of the NVFC. “At the same time, we are also hearing concerns from members about privately operated drones interfering with their operations. Our partnership with DRONERESPONDERS will focus on both of these issues, providing information to the volunteer emergency services about drone operations, and educating public safety and the public in general about the benefits and challenges associated with drone use at emergency scenes.”

Aerial First Responders

The partnership works towards the common goal of enhancing public safety and furthering the capabilities of emergency responders. DRONERESPONDERS was created to unite aerial first responders, emergency managers, and search and rescue specialists to maximize drone operations for public safety. With volunteers comprising 65 percent of the nation’s fire service, it is important to educate this segment of the emergency responder community on this growing technology. It could also benefit departments struggling to meet staffing needs by helping them be more effective and efficient in their operations.

“Volunteer firefighters are the backbone of our nation’s fire service, providing life-safety services across most smaller towns and rural communities in the U.S.,” said Charles Werner, director of DRONERESPONDERS and retired fire chief from Charlottesville, VA. “Drones represent an amazing new capability to help these departments conduct a wide-array of operations, ranging from search and rescue missions to structure fires to HAZMAT incidents.”

Drones For Good

Werner says DRONERESPONDERS and the NVFC will work together to provide resources to help volunteer fire departments adopt and implement Drones For Good™, a program designed to utilise unmanned aviation capabilities in disaster response.