UK fire and rescue services send largest convoy to aid Ukrainian firefighters

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Launch of a historic convoy to aid Ukrainian firefighters

A convoy, organised by FIRE AID, embarked today from Kent, carrying essential fire and rescue equipment to Ukraine.

This marks the largest UK initiative of its kind to date, with 33 vehicles transporting over 2,800 pieces of equipment to aid Ukrainian firefighters.

The convoy includes fire engines, command units, and various other specialised vehicles.

The equipment has been donated by UK Fire and Rescue Services and supported by the Home Office.

The need for such aid has become critical as Ukrainian fire services face severe challenges, with numerous firehouses destroyed and many firefighters casualties of the conflict.

Unprecedented scale and support

The convoy’s scale and the collaboration involved underscore a significant undertaking by the UK fire and rescue community.

The Home Office, along with FIRE AID, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) National Resilience, and other organisations, have coordinated this mission to bolster the struggling Ukrainian fire services.

This effort builds on previous contributions, including 89 surplus vehicles and over 190,000 items of equipment delivered since the conflict escalated in 2022.

The partnership extends to the fire industry, with organisations like the Fire Industry Association playing a crucial role in gathering and dispatching the aid.

Continued commitment amid ongoing conflict

Mark Hardingham, Chair of the NFCC, reflected on the resilience of Ukrainian firefighters: “We have witnessed the sheer strength and resilience of Ukrainian firefighters since the day the war began.

“With the war continuing and the task before them increasingly challenging, the UK and international firefighter community will continue to provide support however we can.”

Chris Philp MP, Minister for Crime, Policing and Fire, commented on the initiative: “Putin’s barbaric invasion of Ukraine has taken a toll on the brave people of Ukraine’s fire and rescue services, who have not just seen their equipment and buildings decimated, but also led to the loss of many heroic firefighter’s lives.

“We are now in the third year of this senseless conflict and today’s donation shows our determination to support the people of Ukraine remains as strong as ever.

“Every western country must do everything they possibly can – big and small – to help Ukraine defeat Russia’s invasion. We cannot allow aggression to win.”

IFSJ Comment

The international effort to support Ukrainian firefighters through these extensive donations highlights the global firefighting community’s solidarity.

This convoy delivers a message of unity and support to those at the front lines of a devastating conflict.

The ongoing commitment from UK fire and rescue services demonstrates a proactive approach to international aid, reflecting the best of humanity in times of crisis.

Campaign “Be Water Aware” launched to address accidental drownings

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Overview of the Be Water Aware campaign

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched the “Be Water Aware” campaign running from the 22nd to the 28th of April.

The initiative aims to increase public awareness about the risks of accidental drowning and to provide safety advice.

This is especially critical as the warmer months approach, a period which historically sees an increase in drowning incidents.

According to data from the Water Incident Database for 2022, around 40% of those who drowned had not planned to enter the water, with many incidents resulting from slips, trips, and falls.

Statistics and reasons for drowning

The campaign highlights the dangers associated with water-related activities such as swimming and jumping into water bodies, which are often underestimated, particularly by individuals with limited experience in outdoor swimming.

Factors such as unseen hazards and cold water shock contribute to the difficulty even strong swimmers may face in such environments.

The campaign also disseminates potentially life-saving advice, including the “Float to Live” strategy, for those finding themselves in trouble in the water.

IFSJ Comment

The “Be Water Aware” campaign is a crucial initiative by the NFCC to mitigate the risks associated with water-related activities as we approach the warmer months.

By combining educational efforts with heartfelt personal stories, the campaign seeks to foster a greater understanding of water safety, potentially saving lives.

It is imperative for community members, especially parents and guardians, to engage in open dialogues about water safety to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Firefighters urge resistance against government’s Minimum Service Levels Act

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Union launches campaign against minimum service levels

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has initiated a campaign urging fire and rescue service employers across England to stand against the government’s Minimum Service Levels Act.

This new legislation aims to set restrictions on the ability of firefighters and control staff to strike.

The FBU’s campaign involves direct communication from firefighters and the public to employers, advocating for the protection of striking rights by refusing to issue work notices under the act.

In a comprehensive letter to all fire service employers, the FBU expressed concerns that enforcing these work notices could severely harm industrial relations and compromise public safety.

The union has highlighted the fundamental nature of striking as a right and the detrimental impact any limitation could have.

Union’s plea to employers

Matt Wrack, the general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, made a strong appeal to employers: “Firefighters are calling on their employers to stand up for their democratic right to strike by refusing the government’s draconian minimum service levels.

“Fire chiefs and authorities must listen to their workforce and the public.”

The FBU is adamant that fire and rescue services should clearly communicate their refusal to threaten frontline workers with dismissal during strikes.

The union believes that maintaining the ability to strike without severe penalties is crucial for safeguarding the welfare of both the public and firefighters themselves.

Potential impact on public safety

The implications of the Minimum Service Levels Act on public safety are significant.

The FBU argues that the act could irreparably damage the relationship between fire service employers and their employees, potentially leading to reduced effectiveness in responding to emergencies.

The union’s campaign is not just about protecting workers’ rights but also about ensuring that fire and rescue services can continue to operate efficiently and safely.

Matt Wrack further emphasized the union’s position: “The Fire Brigades Union urges all fire and rescue services to make it clear that they will not threaten the frontline with the sack during any period of strike action.”

ASFP announces new council members at its 2024 Annual General Meeting

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

ASFP unveils new council for 2024 at Annual General Meeting in London

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) announced the appointment of its new council during the 2024 Annual General Meeting held at Drapers’ Hall, London on 11 April.

The council, comprising 12 members, was selected after a robust election process that saw 21 candidates nominated in February and March.

The chair and vice chair have retained their positions, with the other ten seats filled for a two-year term.

This restructuring includes a diverse group from various sectors such as contractors, manufacturers, distributors, associates, and notably, a representative from ASFP Ireland.

A significant addition this year is the inclusion of a principal contractor member, highlighting ASFP’s expanding involvement with this vital sector in the construction industry.

The new council members are Clive Miles as Chair, Sharon McClure as Vice Chair, and representatives including Moe Elmasry, Alan Curran, Carrie Blackshaw, Liam Keenan, Carl Burrell, Jamie O’Hagan, Matthew Jones, Ian Outram, Will Pitt, and John O’Callaghan.

Highlights from the AGM and future plans

The 2024 AGM provided a platform for ASFP members to engage with the newly elected council and receive comprehensive updates on the association’s activities over the past year.

Sharon McClure, the Vice Chair, presented the ASFP’s future vision.

Mike Ward, the Managing Director, discussed significant milestones such as the acquisition and launch of a new office and training academy in Coventry.

He highlighted the expansion of the ASFP Competency Pathway, the introduction of new training courses, and the formation of new membership groups and industry collaborations.

Membership Officer Tony Corcoran noted the association’s growth with over 57 new members joining since June 2023, emphasizing the broad interest across the entire supply chain.

Dr Andrew Taylor, ASFP Head of Technical, provided updates on the latest legislative changes and the association’s contributions to industry standards and guidance.

The formal event concluded with a keynote address by Chandru Dissanayeke from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, discussing government and regulatory updates.

IFSJ Comment

The new council’s introduction marks a continuation of ASFP’s dedication to leadership and advocacy in fire protection and safety standards.

This diverse group of professionals brings a wealth of expertise and experience, ensuring the association remains at the forefront of industry developments and continues to influence key legislative and technical standards.

The commitment to expanding the ASFP Competency Pathway and enhancing member engagement through new training initiatives reflects a proactive approach to addressing the challenges within the fire protection sector.

This strategy fosters collaboration across the built environment, enhancing overall industry resilience and safety standards.

“Don’t use them”: UK fire chiefs call for cancellation of sky lantern festivals due to safety concerns

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Fire safety watchdogs urge halt to sky lantern events in London and Birmingham

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is actively urging the cancellation of upcoming sky lantern festivals in London and Birmingham, scheduled for May and June, citing severe fire safety risks.

These events, expected to see hundreds of lanterns released followed by fireworks, have been a longstanding concern for the NFCC due to the uncontrolled risk posed by the naked flames used in sky lanterns.

International bans and local safety incidents

Countries such as Australia and Germany have already implemented national bans on sky lanterns.

The NFCC highlights past incidents, including a major fire at a West Midlands recycling plant in 2013, which was ignited by a sky lantern and required extensive emergency response.

These incidents underline the dangers associated with such lanterns despite claims of enhanced safety measures by event organisers.

Responses from organisers and ongoing safety advice

Event organisers argue that their “custom lanterns are designed with the utmost safety in mind”.

However, the NFCC maintains that no sky lantern is safe for use.

Mark Hardingham, Chair of the NFCC, said: “Sky lanterns have been proven to start wildfires and property fires, kill or injure livestock, as well as polluting our natural environment.

“NFCC does not believe any such lanterns should be used under any circumstances. Our advice is simple – don’t use them.”

Media scrutiny and legal confusion

Further complicating matters, there are media reports suggesting the lantern events might be a scam, with trading standards investigating the claims—a contention disputed by the Lantern Festival UK.

Additionally, the event’s website incorrectly warns that purchasing lanterns outside the venue could lead to prosecution, a statement that has been refuted as fire services do not have such prosecutorial powers.

IFSJ Comment

The persistent advocacy by the NFCC against the use of sky lanterns reflects a broader commitment to public safety and environmental protection.

Despite reassurances from event organisers regarding safety improvements, the inherent risks associated with these lanterns, coupled with historical precedents of harm, support the council’s stance.

NFCC launches new Middle Leadership Programme to enhance UK fire service leadership

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

Launch of the NFCC Middle Leadership Programme

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) announced the introduction of the Middle Leadership Programme (MLP) on Monday, 8 April, aiming to support and standardise leadership development across the UK fire and rescue services.

The programme is designed to cater to new, existing, and aspiring middle leaders, providing a comprehensive suite of resources to support their progression and ensure consistent leadership skills across the sector.

Programme aims and structure

The MLP seeks to bridge the gap between supervisory and middle leadership roles, offering a progression path that builds on existing knowledge and skills.

It emphasises the importance of standardising leadership development practices and includes resources to support leaders irrespective of their role, contract type, and location.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Matt Cook highlighted the significance of the MLP, noting its role in complementing existing leadership programmes and addressing the evolving needs of the fire service community.

Collaboration and feedback

The development of the MLP involved contributions from fire and rescue services across the UK, reflecting the programme’s commitment to meeting the sector’s needs.

Tanya Aitken from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) expressed pride in collaborating with the NFCC, emphasising the programme’s role in enhancing management skills and leadership qualities essential for career progression.

IFSJ Comment

By focusing on middle leadership, the NFCC addresses a critical transition point in the career paths of fire service personnel, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and support needed for their roles.

The collaborative effort in developing the MLP, with input from across the sector and partnership with the Chartered Management Institute, underscores a collective commitment to improving leadership capabilities.

This initiative not only promises to enhance the operational effectiveness of fire services but also supports the sector’s adaptability and resilience in meeting community needs.

As the fire and rescue service continues to evolve, programmes like the MLP play a crucial role in preparing leaders who can navigate the complexities of modern emergency response and community safety.

NFCC unveils national road traffic collision risk assessment tool for fire services

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Launch of the road traffic collision risk methodology

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has announced the release of the Road Traffic Collision (RTC) Risk Methodology.

This tool is part of a series designed to support UK fire and rescue services (FRSs) in their community risk management planning (CRMP).

It aims to provide a uniform approach to evaluating the risk, likelihood, and consequences of RTCs across the UK, thereby aiding FRSs in assessing their readiness, prevention, and response strategies.

Dan Quin, NFCC’s Executive Lead for Road Safety and Chief Fire Officer at Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, stated: “This methodology highlights the importance of fire and rescue service involvement with road safety, and the necessity of a coordinated approach with our road safety partners.

“We set out to understand the national picture of risk identification and assessment, and created a standardised, data-led tool and evidence-based methodology.

“This will support decision-making on how to mitigate road safety risk locally and support national comparison and collaboration activities across England, Scotland, and Wales.”

Impact on UK fire and rescue services

The RTC Risk Methodology is the latest in a series of evidence-based risk assessment tools provided by the NFCC to support community risk management planning across UK FRSs.

The introduction of this methodology aligns with findings from an independent review in 2018, which identified varied approaches to community risk management among UK FRSs.

The first State of Fire report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) further echoed this, recommending standardisation.

These tools by the NFCC aim to help services consistently identify, assess, and mitigate community risks and offer a framework for developing CRMPs.

Broader implications and next steps

In addition to the RTC Risk Methodology, the NFCC has launched the Evaluation of Fire Interventions document as part of its guidance series.

This document aims to enhance the UK FRS’s capabilities in conducting robust evaluations across Prevention, Protection, and Response domains.

Through collaboration with the Fire Standards Board, the NFCC has also produced a fire standard for community risk management and delivered several pieces of guidance and tools now in use by UK FRSs.

IFSJ Comment

The NFCC’s release of the Road Traffic Collision Risk Methodology is a notable step towards standardising risk assessment and management within the UK’s fire and rescue services.

By offering a unified framework for evaluating the risks associated with road traffic collisions, this methodology enhances the ability of FRSs to prepare and respond effectively.

As the UK continues to face diverse and evolving community risks, the role of such standardised tools in ensuring a coordinated and data-driven approach to risk management cannot be overstated.

Association for Specialist Fire Protection announces strategic team expansion

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

ASFP introduces new roles in technical and training team

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced the addition of two key members to its team, marking a significant step in enhancing its technical and training capabilities.

Jo O’Neill has been appointed as the Academy Manager, a new position created to oversee the smooth operation of the ASFP’s training Academy.

Meanwhile, Adam Shipstone joins the team as the fourth Technical Officer, bringing extensive experience in fire safety to support the Association’s technical, regulatory, and training initiatives.

Jo O’Neill is tasked with managing all operational aspects of the Academy, including welcoming members and guests, organising training and hospitality needs, and further developing the Academy’s services.

Her extensive background in administration and operations, most recently with the British Coatings Federation (BCF), along with over 16 years in the hotel industry, positions her well to enhance the ASFP Academy’s offerings and member experience.

Adam Shipstone’s role and background

Adam Shipstone’s role as Technical Officer will see him supporting a broad range of technical and training activities within the ASFP.

His responsibilities include assisting with Technical Committees and Technical Task Groups, drafting and revising technical publications, and supporting the Regulatory Affairs Officer in influencing standards and regulations to improve industry standards.

Shipstone brings over 16 years of experience in fire safety, with a strong background in passive fire protection roles across various organisations.

Prior to joining ASFP, Shipstone was involved in several key roles at Novus Property Solutions, including Assurance Manager, where he was instrumental in ensuring compliance with statutory, legislative, and accreditation requirements.

His career started as a passive fire protection installer, progressing to positions such as Passive Fire Protection Inspector and Contracts Manager, showcasing his comprehensive expertise in the field.

Official statements on the appointments

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward expressed his enthusiasm for the new additions to the team.

He highlighted Jo O’Neill’s familiarity to ASFP members and guests from her time at BCF and her potential to enhance the ASFP Academy experience.

Regarding Adam Shipstone, Ward commended his extensive knowledge of passive fire protection standards and legislation, stating, “Adam has a proven track record of delivering fire safety projects and will be a valuable addition to the ASFP technical team.”

Ward’s statement underscores the strategic importance of these appointments in strengthening the ASFP’s capacity to deliver high-quality training and technical guidance.

The additions of O’Neill and Shipstone are poised to contribute significantly to the Association’s mission of advancing fire protection standards and education within the industry.

IFSJ Comment

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection‘s recent appointments reflect a strategic move towards enhancing its educational and technical capabilities.

Jo O’Neill’s extensive experience in customer service and operations, combined with Adam Shipstone’s deep expertise in fire safety and passive fire protection, are expected to bring valuable insights and improvements to the ASFP’s training Academy and technical initiatives.

This expansion underscores the ASFP’s commitment to advancing fire safety standards and supporting its members through comprehensive training and expert guidance.

As the industry continues to evolve, such developments are crucial for maintaining high levels of competency and safety within the fire protection sector.

New lithium-ion battery fire safety course introduced by Fire Industry Association

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafetyTraining

Introduction to the lithium-ion battery fires awareness day

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) recently announced the launch of a new course, “Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Awareness Day,” aimed at enhancing safety protocols amid the growing use of lithium-ion batteries.

Scheduled to take place in Northwich, this one-day course is designed specifically for first responders, including fire consultants, safety managers, operational F&RS crews, police, and ambulance staff.

The course will cover critical aspects of lithium battery operation, the phenomenon of thermal runaway, its consequences, and strategies for effective incident management.

Course content and objectives

The “Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Awareness Day” will delve into the technicalities of battery chemistry, potential hazards, toxicity issues, and the various types of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Domestic Battery Storage Systems (DBESS).

It aims to provide invaluable knowledge and tools for those on the frontline of emergency responses, enabling them to assess and mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries effectively.

This initiative underscores the FIA’s commitment to elevating safety and education standards within the fire industry.

Future sessions and industry-wide implications

While the inaugural course in Northwich is exclusively for first responders, the FIA plans to conduct subsequent sessions tailored to other industry sectors.

This approach ensures comprehensive coverage across the fire safety and emergency response spectrum, reflecting the expanding role of lithium-ion batteries in various technologies.

The FIA encourages first responders to participate in the Northwich session, highlighting its importance in setting the foundation for future courses aimed at empowering the wider industry with essential knowledge and skills.

IFSJ comment

The introduction of the “Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Awareness Day” by the Fire Industry Association marks a proactive step towards addressing the challenges posed by the increasing use of lithium-ion batteries in various technologies.

By focusing on equipping first responders and subsequently other sectors with specialized knowledge and strategies, the FIA demonstrates its dedication to advancing safety standards and preparedness within the fire industry.

As lithium-ion batteries become more prevalent, such educational initiatives are critical for ensuring that professionals across the fire safety and emergency response fields are well-equipped to handle potential incidents, thereby enhancing overall safety and mitigating risks.

NFPA expands outreach with the launch of NFPA Global Solutions and NFPA Global Advisors

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Introduction of NFPA Global Solutions

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), renowned for its commitment to minimising risks associated with fire, electrical, and related hazards, has launched NFPA Global Solutions.

This newly established, wholly-owned subsidiary aims to offer a broad spectrum of compliance solutions, digital products, and advisory services.

This initiative extends NFPA’s traditional scope, offering advanced support beyond its standard range of products and services.

NFPA Global Advisors to foster global safety improvement

Simultaneously, NFPA has unveiled NFPA Global Advisors, a strategic business line within NFPA Global Solutions designed to assist governments and corporations worldwide in bolstering safety.

By leveraging the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem, NFPA Global Advisors aims to promote the application of NFPA codes and standards on a global scale, addressing both persistent and emergent safety challenges.

Strategic leadership and expansion plans

Under the guidance of NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley [left], and led by Carlos Correia [right], the former NFPA vice president of strategic initiatives now President of NFPA Global Solutions, this expansion is set to further the NFPA’s mission.

Paulet noted: “NFPA Global Solutions and NFPA Global Advisors allow us to further advance the NFPA mission and support our customers and stakeholders to enhance fire, life, and electrical safety, in alignment with the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem, a framework that identifies the components that must work together to minimise risk and help prevent loss.”

In addition to internal leadership, Keith Williams and Michael Wallace, esteemed professionals from UL and Carrier Corporation respectively, have been appointed as independent board members, underscoring the strategic importance of this initiative.

Advancing safety and compliance through innovation

NFPA Global Solutions is poised to introduce innovative digital products aimed at mitigating risks and enhancing safety across various industries.

These tools are designed to support stakeholders in achieving operational efficiency while adhering to safety standards and regulations.

NFPA Global Advisors’ mission and services

NFPA Global Advisors is dedicated to assisting entities in establishing and enhancing their safety systems.

By creating tailored action plans for each aspect of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem, the goal is to significantly improve safety for both individuals and properties worldwide.

IFSJ Comment

The establishment of NFPA Global Solutions and the launch of NFPA Global Advisors mark a significant stride towards advancing global safety standards.

Through these initiatives, the NFPA is extending its reach, offering comprehensive solutions that cater to the evolving nature of safety risks.

This strategic expansion demonstrates the NFPA’s commitment to its mission and addresses the global need for enhanced safety measures in the face of new challenges.

As the world grapples with increasing safety risks, the role of organisations like NFPA becomes ever more critical in fostering a safer, more resilient global community.