Firefighter Health, Wellness Research gets big role at US Fire Administration Summit

by Americas - EventsAssociations and Organisations

Science to the Station partners with the First Responder Center of Excellence in conjunction with the U.S. Fire Administrator’s Summit on Fire Prevention and Control for their 2nd annual conference on firefighter health, wellness and science.

In only its second year, the Science to the Station firefighter health and wellness conference will be co-located with the U.S. Fire Administrator’s Summit at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md. The conference runs Oct. 5-6. A meeting of currently funded FEMA researchers is Oct. 7; it is open to the public. The USFA Summit is Oct. 8.

Science to the Station, Powered by FRCE will feature more than 25 recognized fire service health and wellness experts covering a variety of topics including health messaging, concussions, reproductive health, personal protective equipment, lithium ion batteries, heat stress and more.

“When we started Science to the Station, we knew there was a need to better disseminate health and wellness information to the fire service,” says Kepra Jack, owner of HeartFit for Duty and vice president and founding member of Science to the Station. “We just didn’t know if the fire service understood that need. But our membership numbers, our conference attendance and now this co-location with the Summit shows that the fire service does get it. There’s a real hunger out there for evidence-driven information on how to stay healthy in this job.”

Yet, organizers see this as a victory, not as a victory lap.

“We are living through an exciting and crucial moment in fire service history,” says Sara Jahnke, Science to the Station founder and president. “Health and wellness research and outcomes matter. This conference will be bigger and better than our maiden voyage last year. We couldn’t be more grateful to USFA and the First Responder Center for Excellence for giving Science to the Station such a huge gust of wind in our sails. We will build on this momentum to keep bringing the best scientific information to firefighters using regional and national platforms.”

Use this link to register for either Nerdstock, the Summit or both. USFA is making free housing available on the NFA campus. Space is limited with more than a third of the spots already taken. Registration is free.  

“This is a tremendous opportunity to learn about how research is changing firefighter wellness, and do it at such a beautiful and historic setting,” Jahnke says. “as well as attend the Summit, one of the most important fire service events of the year.”

About Science to the Station

Science to the Station is a membership-driven group with a mission to foster collaboration and communication between subject matter experts and frontline public safety personnel to translate and disseminate evidence-informed health, wellness, and safety education and interventions. The group aims to become the key resource where science informs practice and practice informs science for public safety. Learn more about the group and how to join here.

International Fire Suppression Alliance welcomes Profit by Piping Logistics as new governing member

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Suppression

International Fire Suppression Alliance expands with new member

The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) has announced the inclusion of Profit by Piping Logistics as its newest governing member.

The IFSA, an organisation dedicated to promoting the benefits of fire suppression technology globally, continues to grow its network with this latest addition.

Piping Logistics operates in over 60 countries, supplying grooved fittings, couplings, valves, and hoses to the fire protection and HVAC industry.

As reported by the International Fire Suppression Alliance, the company is known for its commitment to long-lasting partnerships, extensive stock availability in Europe, and a focus on just-in-time deliveries.

Piping Logistics’ role in the fire protection and HVAC industry

Piping Logistics, under the Profit brand, has made significant strides in the fire protection and HVAC sectors.

Their extensive range of products, including grooved fittings, couplings, and accessories, supports a wide array of fire protection systems.

The company’s business model is built on establishing and maintaining long-term relationships with its customers, offering comprehensive aftersales services, and providing favourable sales conditions.

Piping Logistics’ commitment to these principles has positioned them as a key player in the industry.

IFSA’s global efforts in fire suppression

The IFSA plays a crucial role in promoting fire suppression technologies worldwide.

The alliance is committed to raising awareness about the benefits of fire suppression systems, aiming to enhance safety in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

By welcoming new members like Piping Logistics, the IFSA continues to strengthen its global presence and influence in the fire safety industry.

Summary: International Fire Suppression Alliance welcomes Profit by Piping Logistics as new governing member: Summary

The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) has announced that Profit by Piping Logistics is its newest governing member.

Piping Logistics, which supplies fire protection and HVAC products globally, operates in over 60 countries and is known for its extensive stock and commitment to long-term partnerships.

IAFF Convention concludes with re-election of key leaders

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

Edward Kelly re-elected as IAFF General President

The election results for the 57th International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Convention have been finalised, as reported by the International Association of Fire Firefighters.

Edward A. Kelly has been re-elected as General President with a total of 226,797 votes, while his opponent, Braden Frame, received 4,043 votes.

Frank Líma was re-elected as General Secretary-Treasurer by acclamation, continuing his service in this critical role.

The votes were meticulously counted and certified by the IAFF Elections Committee, General Counsel, and candidates’ observers, ensuring a transparent and fair process.

The re-election of Kelly and Líma signals continuity in leadership for the organisation’s more than 350,000 members.

Vice President results across various districts

The election also saw the re-election of several Vice Presidents across different districts.

Mahlon Mitchell secured the position of 5th District Vice President with 3,982 votes, defeating Jerry Biggart, who received 2,098 votes.

In the 16th District, James “Jim” Johnson was elected Vice President with 1,827 votes, surpassing Dale Smith, who garnered 1,382 votes.

The IAFF Canadian Trustee position was won by Scott Marks with 18,346 votes, while his opponent Alex Forrest received 8,666 votes.

These results reflect the trust and support of the members in the elected candidates.

Acclaimed positions and new Vice Presidents

Several positions were filled by acclamation, with incumbents returning to their roles.

These include District Vice Presidents James Slevin (District 1), Mark Woolbright (District 2), Jay Colbert (District 3), and others.

Additionally, new District Vice Presidents were elected by acclamation, with Michael Glynn taking the role for District 11 and Chris Ross for District 15.

These appointments highlight the members’ confidence in the continuity and experience of their leadership, ensuring stability within the organisation.

Trustees and their roles in the IAFF

Anthony Mejia and Mark S. Ouellette were re-elected as Eastern and Western Trustees, respectively, by acclamation.

Their roles involve overseeing the fiduciary responsibilities within their regions, a critical function in maintaining the integrity and financial health of the IAFF.

Their re-election suggests a sustained belief in their capability to manage these significant responsibilities.

IAFF Convention concludes with re-election of key leaders: Summary

The 57th IAFF Convention concluded with the re-election of Edward A. Kelly as General President and Frank Líma as General Secretary-Treasurer, marking continued leadership for the association’s 350,000 members.

Key Vice President positions were also filled across several districts, with Mahlon Mitchell and James “Jim” Johnson winning in the 5th and 16th Districts, respectively.

Several incumbents were re-elected by acclamation, while new Vice Presidents were appointed in Districts 11 and 15.

The Trustees, responsible for overseeing financial matters, were also re-elected, ensuring the stability and continuity of the IAFF’s leadership.

UK firefighter cuts since 2010 raise public safety concerns, warns FBU

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

UK sees 21% reduction in firefighter posts since 2010

New figures obtained by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) reveal that the UK has lost approximately 12,000 firefighter positions since 2010, representing a 21% reduction in the national firefighting workforce.

The data shows that the cuts have impacted every region, leaving the country with fewer resources to respond to emergencies, as reported by the FBU.

England has been the most affected, with 10,000 firefighter positions cut, equating to a 22% reduction.

Scotland lost around 1,400 firefighters, Wales saw a reduction of 500 positions, and Northern Ireland cut over 200 positions.

The figures suggest that the UK may not have the resilience needed to ensure public safety, especially with increasing incidents such as flooding, wildfires, and storms.

Critical regions face severe reductions in firefighting capacity

The data highlights that 12 fire and rescue services in England have lost a quarter or more of their workforce.

Buckinghamshire fire and rescue service experienced the most significant cuts, with over 40% of its firefighters lost.

Additionally, services in other regions like Nottinghamshire, London, and Avon have also been heavily affected, with cuts ranging from 22% to 33%.

The FBU also uncovered that approximately 4,000 firefighters hold both full-time and on-call contracts, resulting in double counting within official figures.

This discrepancy suggests that the actual number of firefighters available at any given time is even lower than reported.

Firefighter response times increase across the UK

Response times to life-threatening fires have worsened across the UK, with a national average increase of three minutes over the last two decades.

In 1995, the average response time was 6.11 minutes, which has since risen to 9.13 minutes by 2023.

The prolonged response times are particularly concerning in regions like Dorset and Wiltshire, where current response times average 10 minutes and 46 seconds.

The FBU attributes these delays to staffing cuts and warns that further reductions will exacerbate the situation, endangering lives and property.

FBU urges government action to prevent further cuts

The FBU is calling on the UK government to address the critical situation facing fire and rescue services.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the FBU, emphasised the urgency of the matter, stating: “Fourteen years of austerity have devastated the fire and rescue service.

Every region has been hit, with 12,000 firefighters lost to cuts across the UK.”

He further noted the increased demand on firefighters due to the climate emergency, highlighting that the current resources are insufficient to meet the growing challenges.

The union is urging the Labour party to prioritise investment in the fire and rescue service to ensure public safety.

Fire Brigades Union warns of UK firefighter cuts impacting public safety: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has released data showing a 21% reduction in the UK’s firefighting workforce since 2010, with 12,000 firefighter posts cut.

England has seen the most significant impact, with 10,000 positions lost, while Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have also faced cuts.

The FBU warns that the reduced workforce is leading to slower response times and increased risks to public safety.

The union is urging the government to invest in the fire and rescue service to address these issues and prevent further cuts.

The data was obtained from the Home Office, Stats Wales, SFRS, NIFRS, and FBU Freedom of Information requests.

FBU criticises deregulation and failings at Grenfell Tower fire

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Review of stay put guidance at Grenfell

London Fire Commissioner, Andy Roe, acknowledged that residents of Grenfell Tower were told to “stay put for too long” during the devastating fire.

The Fire Brigades Union responded by supporting a review of the “stay put” policy but highlighted deeper underlying issues.

The union stated that while reviewing such policies is important, the fire at Grenfell was the result of much more profound failings, specifically deregulation and institutional negligence.

The union emphasised that this tragedy could have been avoided had warnings about fire safety been taken seriously over the years.

Institutional failings in fire safety policies

The Fire Brigades Union strongly criticised the lack of adequate preparation, planning, and training for firefighters at Grenfell.

General secretary Matt Wrack said that frontline firefighters faced “impossible conditions” during the incident.

He pointed to years of warnings that had gone unheeded, including concerns raised as early as 2007 following a fatal fire in Harrow Court.

Wrack noted that these institutional failings are not the fault of frontline workers but of high-level management and policy makers who failed to act on critical information.

Warnings about cladding fires ignored

The union also pointed out the numerous warnings issued regarding the dangers of flammable cladding.

Matt Wrack specifically mentioned previous fires at Garnock Court in 1999 and Lakanal House in 2009, both of which involved fatalities.

The Fire Brigades Union had raised concerns about cladding as far back as these incidents, but these warnings were not addressed.

Wrack labelled the lack of action as a “national scandal” and called for accountability from those responsible for ignoring these safety warnings.

He stressed that the situation continues to affect hundreds of thousands of people living in buildings with flammable cladding across the UK.

Ongoing fire safety concerns and the need for change

The Fire Brigades Union continues to push for improvements in fire safety regulations, including the need for proper evacuation guidance in high-rise buildings.

Wrack highlighted that the government has yet to produce clear guidelines for evacuating high-rise buildings during a fire, despite having had ample time to do so since the Grenfell disaster.

The union is determined to fight for justice for the victims of Grenfell and ensure that similar tragedies do not happen again.

Wrack reaffirmed that the Fire Brigades Union will continue to advocate for fire safety improvements until everyone in the UK has a “safe and decent home”.

Fire Brigades Union criticises deregulation and failings at Grenfell Tower fire: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has condemned the Grenfell Tower fire as a result of deregulation and institutional failings.

While acknowledging the need to review “stay put” guidance, the union emphasised that the fire was caused by years of ignored warnings regarding fire safety, particularly in relation to flammable cladding.

The union’s general secretary, Matt Wrack, stated that firefighters faced “impossible conditions” at Grenfell due to a lack of training and preparation.

The Fire Brigades Union also criticised the government for not providing proper evacuation guidance for high-rise fires.

The union continues to advocate for fire safety improvements and justice for Grenfell victims.

Fire Brigades Union welcomes repeal of anti-trade union laws

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Government to repeal anti-trade union laws in the UK

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has expressed support for the government’s decision to repeal legislation restricting trade union activity in the UK.

The government plans to remove the Minimum Service Levels legislation and the 2016 Trade Union Act, as reported by the Fire Brigades Union.

The FBU had long campaigned for the repeal of these laws, which it considered oppressive to workers.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the FBU, welcomed the news.

He said: “Firefighters and other working people will say good riddance to these authoritarian and undemocratic anti-worker laws.”

FBU’s campaign against anti-worker legislation

The Fire Brigades Union has been at the forefront of efforts to overturn these laws, which were originally passed by the Conservative government.

The FBU described the legislation as an attack on workers’ rights to strike, calling it oppressive.

Wrack said: “Both the Minimum Service Levels legislation and the 2016 Trade Union Act sought to effectively ban workers taking strike action in defence of their jobs, wages and conditions.”

The impact of the trade union laws

The 2016 Trade Union Act introduced stricter regulations on strike actions, requiring higher thresholds for industrial action ballots.

Meanwhile, the Minimum Service Levels legislation required specific minimum levels of service during strikes in key public sectors.

The FBU argued that this legislation severely restricted workers’ ability to fight for their rights, describing it as “vindictive anti-trade union legislation.”

Wrack stated: “That vindictive anti-trade union legislation passed by the Tories would not have been out of place in a dictatorship.”

A victory for the Fire Brigades Union

The decision to repeal these laws marks a victory for the Fire Brigades Union and its ongoing efforts to protect workers’ rights in the UK.

According to Wrack, the news represents a significant achievement for the FBU.

He said: “The FBU has been at the forefront of the campaign to scrap this assault on the working class.

“Today’s news is a massive victory for our union.”

Government to repeal anti-trade union laws in the UK: summary

The Fire Brigades Union has welcomed the government’s decision to repeal the Minimum Service Levels legislation and the 2016 Trade Union Act.

These laws, passed by the Conservative government, were considered by the FBU to be an attack on workers’ rights to strike and protect their wages and conditions.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the FBU, has praised the repeal as a “massive victory” for workers, emphasising that the FBU had been central to the campaign to scrap the laws.

The FBU remains committed to defending workers’ rights in the UK.

FIA releases new guidance on antistatic precautions for control and indicating equipment

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire EngineeringSafetyTraining

Fire Industry Association announces release of new guidance document

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced the release of a new guidance document, titled “Guidance on Antistatic Precautions when Fitting Equipment to Control and Indicating Equipment.”

This document, as reported by the FIA, provides detailed advice to help fire safety professionals reduce the risks associated with electrostatic discharge (ESD) when working with Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBA) in Control and Indicating Equipment (CIE).

ESD events can lead to damage to sensitive electronic components within CIE, potentially affecting the safety and performance of fire detection and alarm systems.

The new guidance is designed to provide clear instructions for handling and installing PCBA components in a way that minimises these risks.

Key recommendations for managing electrostatic discharge

The guidance includes several recommendations for mitigating ESD risks, particularly for those working with PCBA’s in CIE.

These recommendations include the use of antistatic wrist straps, grounding techniques, and proper handling and transportation methods for sensitive electronic components.

The document further outlines safety precautions that should be observed before, during, and after working with CIE to ensure the integrity of both the equipment and its functionality.

Aimed at installers, maintainers, and commissioners in fire safety

The guidance is intended to serve as an essential resource for various professionals in the fire safety industry, including installers, maintainers, and commissioners.

It is available for download on the FIA website and is designed to support industry professionals in adhering to high safety and operational standards.

The FIA encourages all relevant parties to review the guidance and apply its recommendations in their work to avoid potential damage from ESD events.

Available for download on FIA website

The guidance document is freely available for download from the FIA’s official website.

It is positioned as a valuable tool to help fire safety professionals maintain best practices while working with control and indicating equipment.

The FIA has emphasised the importance of following the procedures outlined in the document to prevent damage to sensitive components and ensure the continued reliability of fire detection and alarm systems.

New FIA guidance on antistatic precautions in fire safety industry: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has released a new guidance document titled “Guidance on Antistatic Precautions when Fitting Equipment to Control and Indicating Equipment.”

The document offers detailed advice on preventing electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage when working with Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBA) in Control and Indicating Equipment (CIE).

It includes recommendations for antistatic precautions such as wrist straps, grounding methods, and safe handling of components.

The guidance is aimed at installers, maintainers, and commissioners in the fire safety industry and is available for download from the FIA website.

Nominations now open for IAWF Board of Directors in 2024

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

IAWF opens board nominations for 2024

The International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF) has announced the opening of nominations for new members to its Board of Directors.

As reported by the International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF), the organisation is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within the wildland fire community.

Nominations, including self-nominations, are being accepted until 30 September 2024.

Successful candidates will begin their three-year term on 1 January 2025.

To be eligible, candidates must be individual, volunteer/seasonal, or student members of IAWF in good standing.

Corporate, library, and organisational members are not eligible.

Candidate requirements and application details

The IAWF Board of Directors functions as a working board, requiring members to contribute time, energy, and expertise to various committees.

Candidates are expected to participate in monthly conference calls and assist in furthering the mission of the Association.

Those with skills in financial management, board governance, and communication/media are especially encouraged to apply.

Applicants should ensure that they can meet the time commitments required by the board, including the ability to participate in monthly meetings and committee work.

Although attending an annual face-to-face board meeting is recommended, it is not a mandatory requirement.

IAWF’s mission and principles of conduct

The IAWF is dedicated to facilitating communication and providing leadership within the wildland fire community.

The organisation was established to promote a deeper understanding of wildland fire as a critical aspect of natural resource management and firefighter safety.

The IAWF’s Principles of Conduct emphasise the importance of integrity, responsibility, and maintaining high standards in both personal and professional matters.

These guidelines are available to all members and non-members who participate in IAWF activities.

Compliance with these standards is seen as a demonstration of respect for the profession and the long-term goals of the IAWF.

Application process and timeline

Candidates for the IAWF Board of Directors will be evaluated based on their knowledge, experience, IAWF service, geographic location, and diversity.

There are three open board seats available.

Applications must be submitted by 30 September 2024, with the election for the positions taking place during the week of 28 October 2024.

Successful candidates will be invited to attend the board meeting in November, where they will begin their term in January 2025.

Nominations now open for IAWF Board of Directors in 2024: Summary

The International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF) is currently accepting nominations for its Board of Directors, with a deadline of 30 September 2024.

Eligible candidates must be individual, volunteer/seasonal, or student members of IAWF in good standing.

The board is seeking members who can contribute to various committees and possess skills in financial management, board governance, and communication.

Three board seats are available, with successful candidates starting their term in January 2025.

CTIF highlights global collaborations in 2024 annual report

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

CTIF’s participation in global fire safety events

As reported by CTIF President Milan Dubravac, the International Association of Fire and Rescue Services (CTIF) played an active role in key international events throughout the past year, including COP28, the European Firefighter Summit, and the World Fire Congress.

At COP28, held in December 2023, CTIF joined the International Alliance for Reduction of Fire Emissions, an initiative led by the United Arab Emirates.

This alliance aims to monitor and reduce fire-related emissions globally.

CTIF also provided expertise in environmental protection and statistics.

In April, the European Firefighter Summit took place in Paris, where CTIF supported the idea of a more uniform appearance for firefighters within the European Union.

Additionally, in May, CTIF participated in the first World Fire Congress in Washington, USA.

The Congress, which included participation from around 60 countries, is expected to become a biennial event.

CTIF, as a member of the steering group, seeks to influence the future organisation of this event.

CTIF commissions and working groups activity

Throughout the year, CTIF’s commissions and working groups remained active, primarily through hybrid meetings, allowing wider participation from members.

Significant progress was made with the successful reactivation of three commissions: Fire Investigation, Fire Prevention, and Tunnels.

The CTIF Executive Committee met 20 times online during the year, ensuring the organisation’s smooth operation between annual assemblies.

Some Executive Committee members also attended COP28, the European Firefighter Summit, and the World Fire Congress.

President Dubravac expressed gratitude to these members for their active involvement, emphasising the importance of their contributions to CTIF’s success.

Cooperation with other associations

CTIF maintained and expanded its cooperation with various associations through memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and other collaborative initiatives.

Notably, cooperation with the Organisation of Fire Brigades (OBA) saw the OBA delegating members to several CTIF commissions and working groups, enhancing knowledge exchange.

The collaboration with the Fire Chiefs Council of Europe (FEU) was most intensive within the EU project DIREKTION, where both organisations contributed to providing practitioners’ input.

President Dubravac also highlighted CTIF’s ongoing cooperation with EURO NCAP, the World Rescue Organisation (WRO), and the International Emergency Drone Organisation (IEDO), among others.

Strategic developments and future plans

CTIF is focused on strengthening its National Committees, which President Dubravac described as “the real decision-makers” within the organisation.

To this end, CTIF’s Executive Committee has initiated the formation of a Strategic Board, intended to gather Presidents and heads of national committees to shape the future policies of the organisation.

The first meeting of this board is planned for the end of summer 2024, where future challenges and strategies will be discussed.

The CTIF website has also become a valuable resource, now offering materials in five different languages.

This expansion aligns with CTIF’s goal of providing useful information to firefighters worldwide.

CTIF highlights global collaborations in 2024 annual report: Summary

CTIF’s 2024 annual report, presented by President Milan Dubravac, detailed the organisation’s involvement in major international fire safety events, including COP28, the European Firefighter Summit, and the World Fire Congress.

The report also highlighted the reactivation of key commissions and continued cooperation with various global associations.

Looking ahead, CTIF plans to strengthen its National Committees through the establishment of a Strategic Board and aims to enhance its role in future international fire safety initiatives.

The report emphasised the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in advancing CTIF’s mission.

International Women in Fire and Rescue Services commission gathers in Basel for annual CTIF meeting

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Meeting of women firefighters in Basel

Seventeen women firefighters from 12 different countries gathered in Basel, Switzerland, on August 6 and 7, 2024, for the annual meeting of CTIF’s Commission for Women in Fire and Rescue Services, as reported by CTIF.

This meeting is part of a yearly event hosted in different locations worldwide, allowing for in-depth discussions on various issues affecting women in the fire service.

The meeting was hosted by Swiss guest member Mireille Glauser at the pharmaceutical company ROCHE’s facility, which also has a professional onsite fire department.

Throughout the two-day conference, participants engaged in presentations and discussions on various topics, ranging from workplace ergonomics to bullying prevention and disaster response strategies.

These meetings are a crucial part of ongoing international exchanges among women in the fire service, supplementing regular online meetings held throughout the year.

Presentations and key discussions

The event began with a presentation from Mireille Glauser on ROCHE and its professional fire department.

This was followed by introductions and presentations from participants representing various countries, including Ireland, Sweden, and Greece.

A notable presentation from the Netherlands focused on the topic: “Water, friend or foe,” which captured the audience’s attention.

The second day of the conference opened with a talk from a ROCHE ergonomist on the importance of physical health in firefighting, titled “Strong back – strong performance.”

This was followed by a presentation from Canadian representatives on bullying prevention training, complemented by a similar session from Germany on guidelines for combating sexual harassment, discrimination, and bullying within the fire service.

Regional experiences and challenges

The conference also highlighted regional challenges faced by women in firefighting.

Greece presented on their seasonal forest fire unit, sharing insights into their operational strategies and challenges.

Slovenia shared experiences from recent floods, providing valuable lessons on disaster management and response.

These presentations allowed participants to exchange knowledge and discuss solutions that could be implemented in their respective countries.

Concluding the event

The meeting concluded with a brief but engaging tour of the host’s fire station, showcasing an impressive fleet of vehicles.

Although time was limited, the tour offered a glimpse into the resources and infrastructure supporting firefighting operations in Switzerland.

International women firefighters commission gathers in Basel for annual CTIF meeting: Summary

Seventeen women firefighters from 12 countries met in Basel, Switzerland, on August 6 and 7, 2024, for the annual CTIF Commission for Women in Fire and Rescue Services meeting.

Hosted by Mireille Glauser at ROCHE’s facility, the event included presentations on various topics such as ergonomics, bullying prevention, and disaster response.

Participants shared experiences from their respective countries, discussing challenges and strategies in the fire service.

The meeting ended with a brief tour of the host’s fire station, enhancing international collaboration among women in firefighting.

Photo by Mireille Glauser.