IFSJ Influencer Insight: Jimmy Jönsson, FSFPE, President of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Engineering

‘Acceptance of the use of fire protection engineering in the industry has shifted.’

Our profession has quite a few challenges ahead, some are very apparent, but others are not.

The obvious one is how sustainability aspects are already affecting us, and with no doubt it will affect us even more in the future. The pace of sustainability measures that are being incorporated into industry and into our society as a whole is steadily increasing. Sustainability is becoming a key concept in most areas — whether it is water consumption, energy production, or development of new materials – and it touches everything.

Sustainability is obviously entering into many aspects of the fire protection engineering profession. Since facilitating a sustainable and fire-resilient built environment for future societies has become an essential objective, fire protection engineers must understand how sustainability is an important aspect of daily jobs. 

It is important for fire protection engineers, architects, policymakers, researchers, code officials, fire service representatives, and sustainability professionals to engage in a meaningful dialogue with the aim of promoting sustainable and fire-resilient built environments. This requires understanding the diversity of sustainability and fire resilience design objectives for the built environment. It also includes balancing the diverse and sometimes competing objectives of current and emerging technologies for building sustainability and fire safety.

Building designers will need to go beyond the prescriptive codes to design sustainable and fire resilient buildings. This will require that fire protection engineers (and others) implement alternative fire safety solutions that balance social, environmental, and economic impacts of fire.

There is a need for a change within our industry, a necessary step to truly understand how sustainability impacts fire risks.  This starts with thinking about how sustainability impacts the industry as a whole through design, research, legislation, etc. If the fire protection engineering profession can understand this impact and consider it in our daily work, it will have taken the first important step.

I would also like to touch upon another important topic that has been identified as one of the key challenges for our profession – competence.

Looking across the globe during the last decade, acceptance of the use of fire protection engineering in the industry has shifted. Many national regulations have performance-based codes, something that is necessary if we want to take real advantage of the principles of fire protection engineering in our projects. Buildings and infrastructure need a first-principles approach to justify fire safety goals, and that can only be done by using fire protection engineering. However, during the last few years, several national codes have restricted engineering freedom by imposing design restrictions for technical analysis.

Why is the profession going in this direction? In essence, it is because the technical quality of fire protection engineering analyses, the design solutions, and the performance criteria for projects can be so varied — ranging from excellent, to deficient, to everything in between. The fire safety of buildings often comes down to one important aspect: the competence of the fire protection engineer.

There is a definite need to create industry awareness. Increasing the global awareness of the specialized knowledge and experience needed for competent practice of fire protection engineering is a very important task needed to steer our profession in the right direction. This will help the fire protection engineering discipline gain professional recognition and acceptance in countries where it is not yet recognized. This recognition will let other professional engineers know there is an intricacy of knowledge and relevant experience required to ensure that appropriate fire protection engineering considerations have been taken.

Sustainability and competence are at the forefront of the initiatives that SFPE is working on. We have identified these as main strategic goals; if you are interested in helping us with this please reach out to get involved. 

About the IFSJ Influencer

Jimmy Jönsson, FSFPE, directs JVVA Fire & Risk and President of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) in 2023. A 20-year SFPE member, former SFPE Spain and SFPE Europe president, current SFPE EUROPE magazine editor, and board officer, he has a BSc and MSc from Lund University.

This article was originally published in the December2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

IFSJ Influencer Insight: Jim Pauley, President and CEO, NFPA

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsIFSJ Influencers

‘Fire does not discriminate, but its impacts do.’

I recently had a few opportunities to speak about the fire and life safety challenges of our times. These issues are not unique to any particular country when looking at them through an international lens, and neither are the solutions we can bring to bear.

Each preventable fire that claims lives and property is a reminder of the gaps in the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem™, which is comprised of eight interconnected cogs that must work together to keep people and the places where they live, work, and play safe. The ecosystem includes policymakers setting the right regulatory framework; jurisdictions using the most updated codes and standards; applying all of the standards – including referenced standards; prioritizing safety across the board; promoting the development of skilled workers in design, installation, inspection, and ongoing maintenance; supporting effective code enforcement; providing effective preparedness and response capabilities; and educating the public on the dangers posed by these hazards. Every cog is essential; tragedies can occur when one or more ecosystem elements is missing or ignored.

In an increasingly interconnected and electrifying world, the importance of robust fire, life, and electrical safety codes and standards transcends national borders and is essential to deal with new and persistent complexities.

What is similar in most countries is that many safety codes and fire prevention measures, wherever they exist, often arise from the ashes of tragedy. This is true from the high-rises of London to the informal settlements of Mumbai to the deadly e-bike fires in New York City.

Fire does not discriminate, but its impacts do. Globally, the most vulnerable populations—older adults, children, ethnic minorities, low-income groups, and people with disabilities—are disproportionately affected. Using and enforcing safety codes is difficult in developing countries due to the lack of infrastructure and resources, but it can be valuable in moving safety forward.

The entire global community plays a crucial role, including governments at all levels, international organizations, the building industry, first responders, enforcement officials, and citizens.

This shared responsibility model is critical. As the world looks to new energy sources, the need to ensure their safe use is paramount alongside their enormous societal benefits.

In developing nations, factors such as urbanization and poverty drive higher fire risks. Fire safety is particularly pressing in the context of public housing and informal settlements, where the risks are often magnified. In countries worldwide, national and local governments must invest in protecting lives and property in the structures they build and fostering relationships in informal communities where they have a duty to protect. This builds a culture of fire safety that can grow and strengthen over time. Efforts should also include retrofitting existing public structures with essential fire safety equipment. Studies by organizations like NFPA show significant decreases in fire-related deaths and injuries in buildings with sprinklers and smoke alarms.

In regions prone to wildfires, such as Australia, the Mediterranean, and the western United States, the challenge of fire safety takes on a different dimension. Climate volitility has exacerbated the frequency and intensity of wildfires, making it imperative to rethink building practices and policies. This requires an international coalition of governments, fire services, and communities to embrace policies and construction standards that mitigate fire risks, especially in wildland-urban interface areas.

The global nature of fire safety challenges calls for an equally global response. By embracing fire and life safety codes and standards at all levels—we can significantly address the fire problem that plagues our world. Together, we can turn the tide against the scourge of fire, ensuring safer communities. In this interconnected world, our collective safety and well-being depend on it.

About the IFSJ Influencer

Jim Pauley is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). NFPA is a global, non-profit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. He also serves as chair of the Board of Trustees of the NFPA-affiliated Fire Protection Research Foundation.

This article was originally published in the December 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Retired firefighter completes equatorial run for Fire Fighters Charity

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

An inspirational journey

David Gill, a retired firefighter, recently completed on a remarkable challenge: running the equivalent of the Earth’s equator’s length.

This endeavour spanned eight years, during which Gill ran 8 miles daily.

His journey culminated in completing the 24,901 miles, equivalent to the equator, by running his final mile on the equator itself in Borneo.

The challenge begins

Gill, now 62, retired in 2012 after serving with South Yorkshire FRS and later in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

His passion for running intertwined with his love for travel, sparking the idea for this fundraiser during a trip to Australia in 2015.

There, he started running eight miles daily, traversing diverse landscapes from cities to deserts.

Scaling up the goal

Initially, Gill aimed to run daily for a year, then extended this to 1,000 days, and eventually to 2,000 days.

He strictly adhered to this regimen, only allowing a day off for travel if compensated with an additional run the previous day.

The equator challenge

The idea of running the distance of the equator emerged around the 1,200-day mark.

To reach his goal by a specific date, Gill increased his daily mileage, finishing on November 27, 2023, exactly eight years after starting.

The final mile and beyond

Gill’s final runs took place in Borneo, where the equator crosses near Pontianak.

Supported by locals, he completed his last mile on the equator.

His wife, Wendy, and his daughter’s family celebrated his achievement, presenting him with a custom-made medal.

Charity and personal connection

Gill’s efforts raised over £1,200 for The Fire Fighters Charity as a gesture of gratitude for their support, especially for his sciatica, a condition stemming from his previous career as a coal miner.

Gill’s connection with the charity also extended to his role in Scotland, where he referred colleagues to the charity during long-term sickness.

IFSJ Comment

David Gill’s extraordinary feat of running the equivalent of the Earth’s equator length is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

This accomplishment serves as an inspiration not only to the firefighting community but to anyone facing daunting challenges.

Gill’s initiative also highlights the significant role charities like The Fire Fighters Charity play in supporting individuals during difficult times.

His contribution goes beyond personal achievement, fostering a sense of community and underlining the importance of giving back.

As we witness such endeavours, it reinforces the value of setting ambitious goals and the power of perseverance in achieving them.

FBU: UK faces potential industrial unrest over new anti-strike laws

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Government introduces controversial anti-strike legislation

In an effort to mitigate the disruption of public services during strikes, the UK government introduced the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill in January 2023.

This legislation, proposed by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy and Business Secretary Grant Shapps, empowers the government to set minimum levels of service in critical public sectors such as rail, ambulances, fire services, health services, education, and border security during industrial actions.

The bill’s objective is to ensure the safety of the public and maintain access to crucial services, reducing risks to life and ensuring continuity of work and healthcare services.

The government has stressed that the bill is a protective measure for the public, intended to be used only when necessary​​.

Fire Brigades Union warns of unprecedented confrontation

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) General Secretary, Matt Wrack, has issued a stern warning regarding the potential consequences of these new laws.

Wrack predicts that the legislation could trigger trade union defiance on a scale not seen since the 1970s.

He expressed concern that these laws represent a significant attack on workers’ rights, likening the restrictions to those found in authoritarian regimes.

The FBU has been instrumental in gaining the Trades Union Congress’s (TUC) support for a strategy of non-cooperation and non-compliance with the new laws.

A TUC special congress scheduled for December 9 will discuss plans for mass non-compliance, possibly marking the beginning of a widespread campaign against the legislation.

Wrack has highlighted the risk of a wave of strikes in response to the laws, potentially affecting the upcoming General Election​​.

Trade unions and advocacy groups criticise the Bill

Trade unions and advocacy groups have criticised the government’s approach.

UNISON, representing a range of public service workers, describes the bill as a frontal attack on workers and their rights.

General Secretary Christina McAnea has called on the government to focus on resolving pay crises and legitimate disputes rather than punishing workers.

UNISON’s analysis of the bill raises concerns about the lack of detail on the limits of ‘minimum service levels’ and the potential for forcing workers to work against their will, undermining existing strike provisions.

The bill also introduces ‘work notices’, which could compel union members to comply with government-set service levels or face legal and financial repercussions.

There are also fears that the bill could remove key protections for striking workers, making them vulnerable to dismissal and penalising unions financially.

UNISON’s Assistant General Secretary, Jon Richards, has called for more focus on addressing public service crises rather than fast-tracking this bill, which he believes undermines democracy and workers’ rights​​.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill in the UK marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between the government and trade unions.

While the government’s intention to safeguard public interest during strikes is clear, the response from trade unions and public service advocates highlights a profound concern about the erosion of workers’ rights and the democratic process.

The bill’s potential impact on the fabric of industrial relations in the UK cannot be understated.

The prospect of unprecedented industrial action in response to these laws suggests a deepening rift between the government and workers, particularly in essential public services.

This situation warrants careful observation as it develops, given its potential to influence not only the upcoming elections but also the long-term landscape of labour relations and workers’ rights in the UK.

ASFP welcomes Nadine Saxon as new Operations Director

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Association for Specialist Fire Protection appoints experienced executive to drive growth and enhance member services

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced the appointment of Nadine Saxon to the position of Operations Director, a move that is set to strengthen the organisation’s senior team.

This newly established role within ASFP will see Nadine Saxon play a vital part in facilitating the Association’s ongoing expansion and enhancing its service offerings to members.

A strategic addition to the ASFP executive board

In her role as Operations Director, Saxon will be responsible for managing various aspects of the Association, including operational, commercial, and establishment functions.

Her immediate focus will be on overseeing the ASFP’s transition to its new headquarters and academy, slated for this month.

Additionally, Saxon’s role includes membership in the ASFP Executive Board and participation in the ASFP Council.

Extensive industry experience and leadership

Nadine Saxon brings over 20 years of managerial experience across diverse sectors, including hospitality, education, and energy.

Her most recent tenure was with the British Coatings Federation (BCF) as Office Manager.

Her involvement with the ASFP through BCF, which has been offering secretariat and management services to the Association, positions her as a familiar and respected figure within the organisation.

Saxon’s expertise in strategic leadership and fostering collaborative environments is expected to be instrumental in driving industry advancements and maintaining the ASFP’s leadership in its field.

Commitment to excellence and industry advancement

Speaking on her appointment, Nadine Saxon expressed enthusiasm about her new role: “I am delighted to join the ASFP as Operations Director.

“My foremost commitment will be to drive strategic initiatives that will elevate industry standards and enhance the services we offer our valued members.

“While my expertise lies predominantly in strategic leadership and fostering collaborative teams, my dedication to the ASFP’s mission will be a key focus.

“I firmly believe that through focused strategic planning and the cultivation of a robust team environment, we can pave the way for significant industry advancements, ensuring the ASFP remains at the forefront of our field.”

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward welcomed Nadine to the team, highlighting her already significant contributions: “We are thrilled to welcome Nadine to the ASFP team.

“Nadine has already played a pivotal role in the development of the ASFP over the last three years, providing support from her position with the BCF.

“As a result, she has already earnt the respect of members, Council and the ASFP team.

“I am convinced Nadine is perfectly placed to support the Association’s growth over the coming years, nurturing strong relationships and partnerships, both within our membership and beyond.

“I look forward to joining her on that journey as we strive for excellence and further develop the services we offer.”

For further information on the ASFP and for passive fire protection advice, visit ASFP.

IFSJ Comment

The appointment of Nadine Saxon as Operations Director of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection marks a significant step in the ASFP’s evolution.

Her extensive experience and demonstrated leadership skills are crucial assets for the ASFP as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of an evolving industry.

Saxon’s appointment represents not only a strategic decision for internal growth but also an affirmation of the ASFP’s commitment to enhancing industry standards and member services.

As the organisation embarks on this new chapter, it’s poised to make considerable strides in leading and innovating within the fire protection sector.

Dubai Civil Defense and CTIF sign Memorandum of Understanding

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

International collaboration to enhance fire safety and prevention

On December 1, the International Association of Fire Services for Safer Citizens through Skilled Firefighters (CTIF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Dubai Directorate General for Civil Defence.

This significant event took place during the opening ceremony of the World Fire Reduction Emission Alliance at the COP 28 World Climate Conference.

Details of the Memorandum of Understanding

The MOU, signed by CTIF President Milan Dubravac and representatives from several other global organizations, outlines a comprehensive plan for cooperation between CTIF and the Dubai Civil Defence. Key aspects of the agreement include:

  1. Holding awareness forums to provide information aimed at reducing the effects of fires or hazards.
  2. Collaborative work on laws and standards relevant to fire safety and First-party programs, focusing on education, best practices, and research.
  3. Joint efforts in awareness conferences, training, certification programs, and forums.
  4. Participation in fire research, data analysis, economic impact assessments, and international comparisons.
  5. Collaborative work on fire prevention and fire safety information dissemination at the community level.
  6. Encouraging dialogue and information exchange.
  7. Annual consulting meetings between key contacts of both parties to discuss current agreements and review potential projects​​.

CTIF Joins Global Dialogue on Climate Change and Fire Safety

The Executive Committee of the International Association of Fire Services (CTIF) attended the COP28 Climate Change Conference in Dubai as specially invited guests.

This attendance marked a significant milestone for CTIF, highlighting its role in the global conversation on climate change and fire safety.

The delegation, led by President Milan Dubravac, emphasised the fire protection sector’s vital role in safeguarding life, property, and the environment​​.

Influential contributions

The conference featured key speakers such as Lt. General Rashid Thani al Matroushi, Director General of Civil Defense in Dubai, and Lt. Colonel Dr. Ahmed al Zarouni of the Ministry of Interior.

Their speeches underscored the link between fire safety and environmental protection. Major Essa al Mutaea from Dubai Civil Defence also delivered an eco-readiness demonstration, showcasing practical steps towards environmental preparedness​​.

Dubai Civil Defence presented its innovative environmental readiness program, which includes a world map of carbon emissions from fire incidents.

This initiative demonstrates fires’ significant impact on climate change and is part of Dubai’s ambitious goal to reduce carbon emissions from fires by 80% by 2050, aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero pathway​​.

Dubai’s pioneering role in fire safety and AI Use

Dubai Civil Defence has been internationally recognized for its use of advanced technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in fire safety and prevention.

This has been exemplified in various international collaborations, such as with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), where Dubai Civil Defence was praised for its security, safety protocols, and innovative use of AI in operations.

The department’s commitment to maintaining high international standards in public safety and crisis prevention was reaffirmed during these collaborations​​.

Global acclaim for Dubai Civil Defence

Dubai Civil Defence’s global role and influence were further highlighted during their participation in the “Digital Transformation Summit” in South Africa.

Their leadership in applying modern technologies and AI to proactive forecasting, awareness-raising, and fire prevention was lauded by the Fire Protection Organization in South Africa (FPASA), one of the largest firefighting organizations globally.

 Dubai Civil Defence’s initiatives aim to develop cutting-edge capabilities for civil defense organizations worldwide, focusing on safety, security, and safeguarding lives and property​​.

International Alliance and Eco Readiness program

CTIF’s visit to a Dubai fire station and participation in high-level conferences at COP28 spotlighted the launch of an international alliance aimed at enhancing global firefighting collaboration and efficiency.

This alliance focuses on sharing knowledge and best practices, building stronger international connections, and developing data-driven strategies to understand and reduce wildfires’ carbon footprint.

The introduction of the ‘Eco Readiness Program’, a digital tool for analysing real-time climate data to forecast climate impacts, further underscores the importance of technology and data in fire safety and environmental protection​​.

IFSJ Comment

This memorandum between CTIF and Dubai Civil Defence marks a significant advancement in international efforts to enhance fire safety and prevention.

The collaboration, emphasising the importance of awareness, research, and the use of advanced technologies, reflects a global shift towards more proactive and informed approaches to fire safety.

Dubai’s pioneering role in integrating AI into fire safety operations serves as a beacon for other fire services worldwide.

The partnership is not just a testament to the increasing globalization of fire safety standards but also highlights the growing importance of technology and data analysis in this field.

It represents a strategic step towards a safer global community, demonstrating how international cooperation can lead to more effective and innovative solutions in public safety.

The Mindful Firefighter: A webinar by IFE’s Northern Ireland branch

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsHealth and SafetyTraining

The Northern Ireland branch of the Institute of Fire Engineers (IFE) is set to host an enlightening webinar titled “The Mindful Firefighter”.

This upcoming event, chaired by Hayley Burgess, IFE’s International President and Northern Ireland branch chair, aims to shed light on the critical topic of mindfulness in the firefighting profession.

Focus on mindfulness in firefighting

In a field known for its high-stress and demanding nature, the concept of mindfulness is increasingly becoming vital for firefighters.

This webinar is a timely initiative to explore this important aspect of mental health in the firefighting community.

Expert insights from Daniel Meeks

The event will feature a presentation by Daniel Meeks, a certified life coach with a deep understanding of mindfulness techniques.

Meeks’ presentation will delve into four key areas: cultivating a state of awareness, the benefits of mindfulness, his unique concept of past, present, and future, and how this approach can benefit the delegates in their professional and personal lives.

Interactive session with opportunity for questions

Following Daniel Meeks’ presentation, the webinar will provide a platform for attendees to engage in a question-and-answer session.

This interactive segment will allow for a deeper understanding and discussion of the topics covered.

Support from industry partners

The Mindful Firefighter webinar is supported by prominent industry partners, including MH Fire Safety Ltd, MSC Fire Ltd, and HB Safety Consultancy Ltd.

Their sponsorship is a testament to the industry’s commitment to the well-being of firefighting professionals.

Upcoming dates for the event

The webinar is scheduled for the following date and time:

  • Date: Wednesday, 13 December 2023
  • Booking Deadline: Wednesday, 13 December 2023
  • Venue: Online

Book here.

IFSJ Comment

The Mindful Firefighter webinar is a commendable initiative by the IFE’s Northern Ireland branch, highlighting the growing recognition of mental health in the firefighting profession.

The focus on mindfulness, especially in a high-pressure environment like firefighting, is not only progressive but essential.

Daniel Meeks’ insights into mindfulness and its application in both professional and personal realms offer valuable tools for firefighters.

This webinar is an important step towards fostering a more mentally resilient and aware firefighting community.

Fire Sector Federation introduces comprehensive model for fire safety

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

The Fire Sector Federation has recently published a blog post entitled “Defining the Fire Safety Landscape,” which introduces a novel ‘Fire Chain’ model.

This model is a significant step in the sector’s effort to comprehensively address fire safety in the UK, especially in light of the impending recommendations from the Grenfell Inquiry.

Exploring the ‘Fire Chain’ model

The ‘Fire Chain’ model conceptualised by the Fire Sector Federation represents a significant shift in addressing fire safety.

This model comprises eight interconnected links, each representing a critical aspect of fire safety.

The first link, Policy, emphasises the government’s role in setting a policy direction to ensure societal safety.

The second link, Design, focuses on embedding fire safety in the design process, moving away from treating it as an afterthought or a hindrance to good design.

The third link, Approvals, reflects the need to ensure safety standards in products and competencies in personnel.

Construction, the fourth link, is one of the most complex, demanding adherence to the aspirations of the Hackitt report and a collective approach towards a fire-safe built environment.

The fifth link deals with the occupation of buildings, acknowledging the dynamic nature of building use and occupant behaviour.

The sixth link recognises the need for a well-trained and equipped fire and rescue service, while the seventh, Investigation, focuses on learning from fire incidents.

The final link, Recovery and Rebuild, goes beyond rebuilding structures to restoring community fabric post-major fire events.

National strategy for fire safety

Earlier, the Fire Sector Federation launched an initiative advocating for a National Strategy for Fire Safety, as reported on October 25, 2022.

This strategy aims to go beyond current legislative measures, focusing on raising competency, mitigating risks in specific building types, and raising awareness about potential risks from new products and methodologies​​​​.

Involvement of industry leaders and strategy board

The initiative involves collaboration with industry leaders and the establishment of the Fire Safety Strategy Board, chaired by Jonathan O’Neill.

The board includes experts from diverse sectors, including fire safety, construction, and building control.

It aims to create a unified voice in managing fire risk and defining a pathway to improved fire safety.

IFSJ Comment

The Fire Sector Federation’s ‘Fire Chain’ model and the initiative for a National Strategy for Fire Safety represent a paradigm shift in the approach to fire safety in the UK.

This holistic strategy, necessitating collaboration across various sectors, is pivotal in proactively addressing fire risks rather than reacting post-tragedy.

The ‘Fire Chain’ model, in particular, provides a structured framework that touches upon every aspect of fire safety, from policy and design to investigation and recovery.

Such an approach is crucial for an integrated and effective fire safety strategy, ensuring a resilient, fire-safe society.

The involvement of a diverse group of experts and industry leaders underlines the commitment to a collaborative approach, essential for addressing the dynamic challenges in fire safety.

Firefighters in Cambridgeshire Protest Over ‘Dangerous’ Crew Reductions

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Yesterday, firefighters in Cambridgeshire voiced their strong opposition to the Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service’s (CFRS) new policy of reducing crew numbers.

This protest, occurring at the official opening of the Huntingdon Fire Station and Service Training Centre, has drawn significant attention to the safety concerns associated with the policy change.

Protest at Huntingdon fire station opening

On 29th November, members of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) took to the streets in protest against the CFRS’s trial policy, introduced in January 2023, which has reduced the number of on-call firefighters per crew to three.

This change has raised serious concerns among firefighters, with the FBU arguing that at least five firefighters are necessary to safely respond to life-threatening incidents.

Mark Harriss, FBU Cambridgeshire brigade secretary, emphasised that crews with only three members are inadequately equipped to enter burning buildings safely, thereby jeopardising both public and firefighter safety​​​​.

The impact of reduced crews

The reduction in crew numbers means a typical crew will comprise one driver, one officer overseeing operations, and one crew member.

This configuration, according to the FBU, is insufficient for effective rescue operations and safe firefighting.

For instance, in April, there was a flat fire where a crew of three couldn’t act until backup arrived 11 minutes later, highlighting the potential risks of delayed response in emergencies​​.

CFRS’s perspective on the policy

Despite the concerns, CFRS defends the policy, stating that allowing a crew of three to respond to all incidents can improve response times, particularly in rural areas.

This approach, they argue, allows for quicker deployment of resources to emergencies, though the service aspires to always have larger crews available.

Chief Fire Officer Chris Strickland has expressed CFRS’s commitment to improving response times while also striving to recruit more on-call firefighters​​​​.

Safety and response time concerns

However, the FBU remains adamant that the reduced crew levels compromise safety and do not effectively address Cambridgeshire’s firefighting needs.

Almost 90% of on-call firefighters in the union opposed the decision, underscoring the depth of concern within the ranks.

Furthermore, there is no concrete evidence suggesting that smaller crews enhance response times, especially since a crew of three must often wait for additional crews before tackling serious incidents​​​​.

Statistics and performance measures

The fire authority reported that the policy of smaller crews contributes to 1,000 additional hours of fire cover each month.

Performance measures for 2022/23 indicated that average response times in urban areas were within targets, though rural response times slightly exceeded the 12-minute target.

This policy, according to the FBU, places both the public and firefighters in increased danger, especially considering the need for sufficient crew members to safely conduct rescues and firefighting operations​​.

IFSJ Comment

The recent protests by Cambridgeshire firefighters highlight a critical dilemma in public safety: the balance between rapid response times and adequate crew strength for firefighting and rescue operations.

On one hand, CFRS’s policy aims to address the challenge of quicker responses in rural areas, acknowledging difficulties in recruiting sufficient on-call firefighters.

On the other, the firefighters’ protests and concerns raise valid points about the risks associated with under-crewed teams, especially in life-threatening situations.

This situation underscores the complexity of firefighting logistics and the vital importance of both speed and crew capacity in emergency responses.

The protest at the Huntingdon Fire Station opening serves as a focal point for broader issues in fire and rescue services, including resource allocation, recruitment challenges, and the evolving demands on emergency services.

Firefighters urge fire minister to attend meeting over Northants PFCC fire service governance issues

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

In a significant development, firefighters from Northamptonshire are set to visit Westminster on 29th November to express their deep concerns about the ongoing issues within their fire service.

This action comes amid what has been described as “chaos” following the integration of police force and fire service governance under the stewardship of Northamptonshire’s Police Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC), Stephen Mold.

Firefighters raise alarm over PFCC’s conduct

The core of the firefighters’ concerns lies in the PFCC’s decision to appoint chief fire officers lacking operational firefighting experience, despite widespread public disapproval.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) representatives are organizing a meeting in Parliament, where they have secured the presence of Shadow Fire Minister Alex Norris and are urging Fire Minister Chris Philp to attend.

Matt Wrack, the FBU’s General Secretary, emphasized the importance of the minister’s participation, stating, “The Fire Brigades Union urges Chris Philp to accept the invitation to meet with firefighters from Northamptonshire, and to engage with their serious concerns around the governance of their fire service.”

Adam Taylor’s perspective

Adam Taylor, FBU Executive Council Member for the East Midlands, highlighted the firefighters’ prolonged apprehension regarding their service’s governance.

He pointed out the crucial role of maintaining public trust and the need for respectful treatment of frontline firefighters.

According to Taylor, “Northamptonshire firefighters have been raising the alarm around the governance of their fire service for months.

We’re now bringing the message to Westminster directly and calling upon the fire minister to intervene in the chaos.”

Response from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service

In contrast, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Chief Fire Officer, Darren Dovey, welcomed the Government’s White Paper on the fire service’s future.

Dovey expressed his belief in the necessity of sector reform and the importance of attracting and retaining talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.

He stressed the significance of focusing on leadership and development, equality, diversity, and inclusion within the fire services​​.

Stephen Mold’s tenure and actions

Since assuming the role of PFCC in 2019, Stephen Mold has made significant decisions impacting the fire service, including the controversial appointment of Nicci Marzec as Interim Fire Chief, which was met with criticism from the FBU for her lack of operational understanding.

Marzec’s tenure was short-lived, ending amid allegations of a personal relationship with Mold, which he denied​​.

Mold’s tenure has also seen the purchase and subsequent sale at a loss of a building for police and fire service vehicle repairs​​.

Mold asserts that his governance has brought stability and modernization to the fire service, including investments in additional firefighters and modern fire appliances​​.

Inspection findings and reforms

An inspection by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) in November 2018 found that Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) was operating below the safe number of fire engines required to cover the county and had incomplete firefighter training records.

However, subsequent follow-up visits by HMICFRS indicated satisfaction with NFRS’s progress by March 2021​​.

IFSJ Comment

The situation in Northamptonshire serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing fire services in the modern era.

The conflict between traditional firefighting practices and modern governance models highlights the need for a delicate balance.

The firefighters’ plea for governmental intervention underscores the necessity for effective leadership that respects the operational aspects of firefighting and embraces the evolving needs of fire services in terms of technology, diversity, and community engagement.