Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 expands with 25% larger venue and global participation

Event to feature global speakers and increased exhibition space

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has reported that Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 will take place at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) from 30 September to 2 October.

The seventh edition of the event will cover 13,908 net square metres, marking a 25 percent increase in exhibition space compared with 2024.

The organisers expect over 27,000 visitors and will host more than 370 exhibitors from 35 countries.

Government and private sector engagement in security and safety

According to Messe Frankfurt Middle East, Intersec Saudi Arabia is held in association with government entities and will focus on national infrastructure, fire protection and public safety.

The event is licensed by Messe Frankfurt and organised by 1st Arabia.

Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director, Intersec Saudi Arabia, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “The conference and events element of Intersec Saudi Arabia continues to grow each year and will once again bring together the brightest minds in security, safety and fire protection from around the world.

“The event will offer interactive showcases, live demonstrations and engaging panel discussions, all tailored to the unique needs of the Kingdom.”

Conferences to address AI, crisis response and standards

The Future Security and Safety Summit, powered by ASIS, will feature speakers from FIFA, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Company, Kearney and Saudi Aramco.

Messe Frankfurt Middle East stated that the summit will explore responsible AI practices, global risk response, and emerging threat analysis.

The Fire Protection and Technology Summit will include contributions from Saudi Civil Defense, International Maritime Industries and AESG.

Speakers will discuss policies, regulatory standards and emerging fire technologies.

Strategic relevance to Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation

According to Messe Frankfurt Middle East, the exhibition is timed to coincide with a period of rapid development in Saudi Arabia, linked to projects such as Neom, Qiddiya and Red Sea Global.

These developments are part of the country’s preparations for major events including Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.

Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “Intersec Saudi Arabia provides an important platform for decision makers across Saudi Arabia’s major projects to connect with global innovators and work together to build a secure, future-ready environment.

“We look forward to facilitating important business connections that support the country’s growth and long-term success.”

New features and expanded format

The exhibition will take place across seven indoor halls and a dedicated outdoor display area.

Product sectors include Commercial & Perimeter Security, Homeland Security & Policing, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health and Cybersecurity.

New features this year include CPD-certified theatres, a Thought Leadership Pavilion and the return of The Premium Club for buyers and project leaders.

Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 returns to Riyadh with expanded showcase: Summary

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has confirmed the dates for Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025.

The event will be held from 30 September to 2 October at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The exhibition space has increased by 25 percent compared with the previous year.

More than 370 exhibitors from 35 countries will take part.

Over 27,000 visitors are expected to attend.

Product sectors include fire and rescue, safety, policing, cybersecurity and perimeter security.

Summits will cover artificial intelligence, global threats and regulatory policy.

The Future Security and Safety Summit will feature speakers from FIFA and Saudi Aramco.

The Fire Protection and Technology Summit will include input from Saudi Civil Defense and AESG.

Interactive displays and panel sessions will be offered throughout the event.

The show is organised by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt.

New features include CPD theatres and a Thought Leadership Pavilion.

Technical insight at the forefront: IFE’s International President outlines aims for inaugural technical fire conference

The IFE International President’s Technical Conference will support collaboration, knowledge exchange and lobby for fire safety improvement

Fire professionals are under growing pressure to respond to emerging risks, navigate regulatory change and harness innovation. In this context, the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is launching its International President’s Technical Conference; a two-day technical programme focused on the future of fire safety.

Book tickets for the technical conference here

IFSJ spoke to Trent Fearnley, the IFE’s International President, about what attendees can expect and why this event is a key date for the global fire safety community.

Can you tell us a bit about the International President’s Technical Conference?

The sector is facing fast-moving challenges, battery technologies, façade performance, wildfires, and sustainable construction. We need high-quality technical spaces to share ideas and solutions, and this conference is a direct response to that demand, and part of our wider commitment under the IFE strategy to support continuous learning and sector improvement.

This year’s theme is ‘Taking the Next Steps: A Collaborative Path to a Fire Safe Future’. What does that represent?

It reflects the fact that fire safety isn’t something achieved in isolation, and whether you’re a fire engineer, building control officer, operational commander or academic, our progress depends on collaboration. The theme also recognises how far we’ve come, particularly with regulatory reform and new competencies, but that there’s still more to do. This conference is about coming together to take those next steps as a sector.

What’s in store on the programme?

There’s a strong and diverse technical line-up across both days. Topics include façade testing methodology, lithium battery risks, sustainable construction vs fire safety, evacuation modelling, fire strategies and updates from both regulators and UK fire and rescue services. We’ve also got key insights from academia and case studies that will resonate with delegates from around the world.

How does this differ from other IFE events?

This conference is very focused on technical depth and professional exchange. It’s built for people who want to dig into the issues, hear directly from subject matter experts, and go away with knowledge they can apply. It complements our broader member events and CPD activities but stands out for its global scope and strong fire engineering focus which will hopefully satisfy the technical needs of fire engineers and operational fire personnel.

How is the IFE ensuring the content is globally relevant?

Drawing on his research in South Africa, our keynote address is providing an international perspective on sustainability and fire safety.  Other topics have origins in first principles fire engineering and therefore are not national code specific, such as the use of computer fire models for evacuation or structural fire engineering and car park loading calculations. By learning from each other, we can raise global standards and create safer outcomes worldwide.

Who would benefit from attending, and how can people book?

Anyone working in fire safety, engineering, building control, regulation or operational risk will find value here, and all sessions are CPD-accredited. The event takes place 18-19 June 2025 at the University of Lancashire (UCLan). You can register and view the full programme at https://www.ife.org.uk/Home/Events-and-resources/Events/Event-Details/eventDateID/1097

Storage fire protection symposium announced by SFPE to be held in Chicago

Symposium to focus on storage fire protection in complex facilities

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has announced that it will host the SFPE Engineering Solutions Symposium on Storage Fire Protection Challenges from 12 to 14 August 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

According to SFPE, the three-day event will address fire protection concerns across various storage environments, including cold storage, distribution centres and automated storage systems.

The organisation said the symposium will include technical presentations, panel discussions, and a live fire test to support the professional development of fire protection engineers.

Event will explore fire risks in automated and lithium-ion storage

SFPE reported that the symposium’s first two days will include a series of presentations and discussions about fire protection in automated storage facilities and areas with lithium-ion battery hazards.

It added that topics will cover engineering approaches to automated retrieval systems, sprinkler configurations for high-challenge commodities, and strategies for water supply analysis in complex storage layouts.

According to the organisation, several sessions will address cold storage design and performance-based solutions, with contributors sharing research and recommendations on lithium-ion battery loss prevention and commodity classification.

Live fire test to be held at UL Solutions campus

SFPE confirmed that on 14 August 2025, attendees will be transported to the UL Solutions built environment test facility in Northbrook, Illinois.

The organisation said that participants will observe a full-scale fire experiment and interact with researchers and fire safety professionals at the site.

It stated that the live demonstration is designed to connect theoretical guidance with practical implementation by offering direct exposure to fire testing.

Registration open with early bird discount available

SFPE said registration for the event is now open via its official website.

The organisation noted that attendees can receive a discounted rate if they register by 21 July 2025.

Further information, including the full agenda and speaker list, is available at www.sfpe.org/storagesymposium.

Storage fire protection symposium announced by SFPE in the United States: Summary

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers has announced a symposium on storage fire protection.

The event will take place in Chicago, Illinois, from 12 to 14 August 2025.

The symposium will focus on fire protection challenges in storage facilities such as warehouses, automated systems and cold storage.

It will include technical sessions on suppression systems, lithium-ion storage and performance-based design.

A full-scale fire test will be conducted on the final day at the UL Solutions test campus.

SFPE said the event supports the advancement of fire protection engineering.

Registration is now open, with discounted rates available until 21 July 2025.

Further details are available at www.sfpe.org/storagesymposium.

NFPA 2025 Conference returns to Las Vegas with 130 sessions and 400+ exhibitors

NFPA event to feature expert talks, live exhibits and community outreach

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) annual Conference & Expo will be held in Las Vegas from 16 to 18 June 2025.

According to NFPA, the event will take place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center and will feature more than 400 exhibitors and over 130 educational sessions.

The organisation confirmed that the conference will focus on fire, electrical and life safety, and will bring together professionals and experts to address a range of industry issues, including code compliance and building operation standards.

Over 130 sessions to cover safety, preparedness and emerging challenges

NFPA reported that the event programme will include talks on emergency preparedness, response strategies, global safety concerns and the application of new technologies.

According to the organisation, the Spotlight on Education (SOPE) sessions will explore topics related to public health and community risk reduction.

Sessions listed in the schedule include:

  • ‘Reimagining Wildfire Resilience’ and ‘Making Sense of Community Risk Reduction’ on 16 June at 9:15 a.m.
  • ‘Building Our Own Culture of Preparedness’ on 17 June at 8 a.m.
  • ‘The Single Exit Stair Debate’ and ‘Wildfire Prepared Communities’ on 17 June at 9:15 a.m.
  • ‘Grenfell Tower: Legacy, Lessons, and the Path Forward’ on 17 June at 10:30 a.m.
  • ‘Carbon Monoxide: The Invisible Killer’ and ‘Fire and Life Safety Risk Management for Electrical Vehicle Parking and Storage’ on 17 June at 2 p.m.
  • ‘Older Adult Outreach’ on 17 June at 3:45 p.m.

Keller Runaundo Cliffton to return as keynote speaker

NFPA stated that Keller Runaundo Cliffton, co-founder and CEO of Zipline, will deliver the keynote address during the opening general session.

According to the organisation, this will be the second time Cliffton has delivered the keynote at the event.

Cliffton will provide updates on Zipline’s operations since his previous appearance in 2018, including its autonomous drone delivery system and the impact on healthcare, emissions, and access to goods.

NFPA said the company now performs one commercial delivery every 70 seconds, serving over 4,000 clients globally.

Community support initiative announced for local fire departments

As part of this year’s programme, NFPA confirmed it will host a volunteer event involving attendees assembling 1,000 teddy bears and comfort kits.

According to the organisation, these kits will be donated to fire departments in the Las Vegas area to support children affected by fires or other emergencies.

NFPA stated that details regarding a related media event will be shared closer to the time of the conference.

NFPA 2025 Conference returns to Las Vegas with 130 sessions and 400+ exhibitors: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced that its 2025 Conference & Expo will take place from 16 to 18 June at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

The organisation said the event will include more than 400 exhibitors and over 130 educational sessions.

NFPA confirmed that topics will include emergency preparedness, community risk reduction, fire and life safety, and public health.

The Spotlight on Education (SOPE) will focus on community safety and health-related issues.

Sessions will include topics such as wildfire resilience, building evacuation strategies, and lessons from the Grenfell Tower fire.

NFPA reported that Keller Runaundo Cliffton, CEO of Zipline, will return as the keynote speaker.

Cliffton is expected to present updates on Zipline’s commercial drone delivery operations and global impact.

NFPA also announced a volunteer event where attendees will assemble comfort kits for children affected by fire-related emergencies.

The organisation said the kits will be donated to local fire departments in Las Vegas.

Darley reports trade show engagement and catalogue launch in latest update

Trade show activity highlighted in Inside Darley May/June 2025 update

Darley has reported that it has participated in over 50 trade shows in 2025 so far, covering both military and fire-related sectors.

According to the company’s May/June 2025 edition of Inside Darley, its largest event of the year was the FDIC show in Indianapolis, which show manager Eric Schlett reported had more than 37,000 attendees.

The company said that trade shows remain a core part of its marketing strategy due to their value in building customer relationships and visibility across its defence and emergency services markets.

FDIC attendance and catalogue release

Inside Darley reported that the company launched its 278th firefighting equipment catalogue during the FDIC show.

The company stated that printed marketing materials remain relevant across both fire and defence sectors, with many clients still using hard copy brochures.

In addition to the fire catalogue, Darley said it has published a new 48-page defence capabilities brochure.

Customers interested in receiving a copy of either document were invited to request one by email or through the company’s online store.

Upcoming defence and fire service events

Darley highlighted two upcoming events in the US Midwest aimed at defence and fire service professionals.

The company noted that on 14 May, the National Defense Industry Association Great Lakes Chapter will host a compliance-focused event in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Bridget Norton, Associate General Counsel at Darley, will be among the speakers.

Darley also flagged the 19th annual Illinois Fire Service Home Day, scheduled for 5 June at the NIPSTA facility in Glenview, Illinois.

Community initiatives and lifetime achievement award

The May/June update reported that Darley has exceeded its annual pledge to donate 10% of profits to charity in 2024.

As part of its work with the fire sector, the company has supported the National Volunteer Fire Council through sponsorship of the William J Darley Lifetime Achievement Award.

Darley stated that the 2025 award will be presented to Fire Chief Dave Denniston of Cortlandville, New York at a ceremony in Washington, DC on 9 May.

Peter Darley will attend the event to present the award.

Inside Darley: May/June 2025 update highlights US event attendance, catalogue release and community awards: Summary

Darley has released the May/June 2025 edition of its Inside Darley update.

The company reported attendance at more than 50 trade shows in 2025 so far.

Its largest event of the year was FDIC in Indianapolis, which had more than 37,000 attendees.

Darley launched its 278th firefighting equipment catalogue at FDIC.

It also released a new 48-page defence capabilities brochure.

Two upcoming events were highlighted by the company.

These are the NDIA Great Lakes Chapter event on 14 May in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Illinois Fire Service Home Day on 5 June in Glenview, Illinois.

Darley has exceeded its 10% charitable donation pledge for 2024.

It will present the William J Darley Lifetime Achievement Award on 9 May in Washington, DC.

The award will go to Fire Chief Dave Denniston of Cortlandville, New York.

REV Group opens registration for 2025 emergency vehicle training event

Registration opens for Fire Truck Training Conference in the United States

REV Group has announced that registration is now open for its 2025 Fire Truck Training Conference (FTTC), scheduled to take place from 21 to 26 September at the Lansing Center in Lansing, Michigan.

According to REV Group, the FTTC is one of the largest combined symposiums in the United States focused on training and certifying emergency vehicle technicians who maintain fire apparatus and ambulances.

The company confirmed that over 400 participants from the United States, Canada and Latin America are expected to attend the event, which will include new training content in fleet management, leadership and ambulance maintenance.

REV Fire Group expands training scope with new 2025 sessions

REV Fire Group, a division of REV Group, reported that this year’s event will build on the previous format by expanding hands-on courses beyond fire trucks to include ambulance-specific maintenance and operations.

The company stated that more than 50 technical courses will be offered, covering brake systems, roll-up doors, electrical components, pressure governors and pumps.

Component classes will also allow attendees to consult directly with suppliers on troubleshooting and repair techniques.

Awards and certifications to be featured at the 2025 conference

REV Group stated that the FTTC event also provides a platform to recognise the work of emergency vehicle technicians through two awards.

The William F. Foster Award, named after the event’s founder who passed away earlier this year, will be presented.

In addition, Firehouse Magazine’s Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) of the Year Award will be given to a technician selected by a panel of EVTs and fire chiefs.

The company added that attendees will have two opportunities during the week to sit for their EVT certification exams.

Event background and sponsorship confirmed by organisers

According to REV Group, the FTTC was originally established by Spartan Fire Chassis in the 1990s.

It is now sponsored by manufacturers within the REV Specialty Vehicles Segment, including Spartan Fire Chassis, E-ONE, KME, Ferrara, Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal, Ladder Tower, AEV, Horton, Leader, Road Rescue and Wheeled Coach, as well as other industry suppliers.

Chris McClung, vice president of REV Fire Group, said: “We are proud to host this important industry-wide event that was founded on the principle that keeping fire apparatus and ambulances up and running, regardless of the manufacturer or brand, is important to protect all our communities.”

REV Group opens registration for 2025 emergency vehicle training event: Summary

REV Group has opened registration for the 2025 Fire Truck Training Conference.

The event will take place from 21 to 26 September in Lansing, Michigan.

It is expected to host over 400 participants from North and Latin America.

The conference includes training on both fire trucks and ambulances.

New sessions include Fleet Management, Leadership and Ambulance Maintenance.

More than 50 technical courses will be available during the event.

Attendees can consult directly with suppliers in dedicated Component Classes.

Two awards will be presented: the William F. Foster Award and EVT of the Year.

Firehouse Magazine oversees the selection of the EVT of the Year.

Two opportunities to complete EVT certification exams will be available.

The conference was founded by Spartan Fire Chassis in the 1990s.

It is now sponsored by REV Specialty Vehicles and other suppliers.

Early registration discounts run from 1 May to 30 June.

More information is available at http://firetrucktraining.com.

Tall Buildings Conference 2025 to address fire safety and evacuation in high-rise buildings

Conference to explore regulation, smoke control and fire strategy

The Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network has confirmed the agenda for the 9th International Tall Building HRB Fire Safety Conference, taking place on 18 and 19 June 2025 at Olympia London.

According to the organisation, the two-day event will be held alongside the Blue Light Show and will focus on emerging issues in high-rise fire safety, with several sessions highlighting regulatory changes in the United Kingdom.

The first day of the conference includes presentations on smoke toxicity in relation to Grenfell Tower, artificial intelligence in fire strategy development, and the optimal placement of firefighting outlets in stairwells.

Additional talks on 18 June will address common misconceptions in smoke control systems, use of smoke hoods, and updates to fire safety standards.

Day two to cover golden thread, insurance and evacuation

The Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network has stated that the second day of the event will feature presentations on the management of the golden thread and fire safety competence, the Building Safety Register, and insurance developments.

Sessions will also cover tenant engagement, door closer failures and electrical safety risks such as broken neutral faults in tall buildings.

Tim Gates will present findings on the potential use of standard passenger lifts for evacuation in residential towers, while Professor Ed Galea will close the day with a presentation on new methods in façade fire testing and modelling.

A panel discussion led by the Building Safety Regulator will open the day’s events.

Conference to include expert-led panel discussions

The Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network confirmed that each day will begin with a panel discussion involving experts from architecture, engineering and regulation.

Speakers include representatives from the Royal Institute of British Architects, the Building Safety Regulator, and academic institutions.

These sessions will address current challenges in building design and regulatory alignment across the high-rise fire safety sector.

Presentations to highlight technical solutions in fire safety

Several sessions at the conference will focus on technical innovations aimed at improving fire safety in high-rise buildings.

Topics include smoke hood deployment, performance of façade systems, and the integration of artificial intelligence into fire strategy planning.

These presentations are intended to reflect current developments in fire engineering, operational preparedness, and emerging technologies.

Professional training courses confirmed for 2025

The Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network has also announced upcoming dates for its five-day professional course on Tall Building Fire Safety Management.

The organisation confirmed that training will take place in Cyprus from 26 to 30 May, and in London from 23 to 27 June.

Additional sessions in London are scheduled for 15 to 19 September and 6 to 10 October.

Each course is delivered in person and is priced at £2,195 plus applicable fees and taxes.

Free CPD and Australian conference also announced

The Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network continues to offer free CPD material through its YouTube channel and presentation archive.

The organisation also announced that it will host the Australia Tall Building Fire Safety Conference in Sydney from 29 to 31 July 2025.

Attendees can book their place through the organisation’s website.

Tall Buildings Conference 2025 to address fire safety and evacuation in high-rise buildings: Summary

The 9th International Tall Building HRB Fire Safety Conference will take place on 18 and 19 June 2025 at Olympia London.

The event will be held in conjunction with the Blue Light Show.

The Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network said the programme includes 16 presentations on UK fire safety regulation, strategy and response.

Sessions on day one include topics such as smoke toxicity, firefighting infrastructure, smoke control systems and AI-based fire strategies.

Day two will address the golden thread, evacuation lifts, tenant engagement and insurance.

Training courses in Tall Building Fire Safety Management will be held in Cyprus and London throughout 2025.

The training fee is £2,195 per course, excluding booking fees and tax.

Free CPD materials are available via the organisation’s YouTube channel and online archive.

An Australian edition of the conference will take place in Sydney from 29 to 31 July 2025.

WildfireCamp at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 to focus on global vegetation fire response

New INTERSCHUTZ feature addresses climate-driven wildfire threats

INTERSCHUTZ has announced that its 2026 event in Hanover will include a new feature called WildfireCamp, dedicated to the topic of forest and vegetation fires.

According to INTERSCHUTZ, the new area will run across all six days of the event from 1 to 6 June 2026 and include expert input from both German and international participants.

The event will feature outdoor demonstrations, presentations, and discussions centred on wildfire detection, prevention, and firefighting, as stated by INTERSCHUTZ.

WildfireCamp to host joint sessions between emergency services and industry

Deutsche Messe, the organiser of INTERSCHUTZ, explained that the goal of WildfireCamp is to encourage knowledge exchange between developers, suppliers, and emergency responders.

Bernd Heinold, Head of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe, said: “With WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ, we are creating excellent conditions for bringing together developers, suppliers, and emergency responders.”

Heinold added: “Exhibitors can gain first-hand insights into the challenges faced by emergency services, while responders can experience the latest technological advancements the industry has to offer.”

Heinold described the concept as becoming “a small INTERSCHUTZ within INTERSCHUTZ”.

He added: “Climate change and its negative impacts are one of the key topics of our world’s leading trade fair, and vegetation fires are a crucial part of this discussion.”

Heinold stated: “We are therefore grateful to have attracted such a strong and knowledgeable partner network for WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ.”

Partner Bosch to present AI-supported wildfire detection system

One of the event’s partners is Bosch Building Technologies, which will present its Wildfire Detection service.

Bosch explained that the system supports early detection in forests and green areas near infrastructure, automatically alerting emergency services.

Thomas Reinicke, Head of the Solutions Business Life Safety division at Bosch Building Technologies, said: “As a partner with many years of experience in networked fire protection solutions, we are fully leveraging the advantages of digitalisation, connectivity, and artificial intelligence for our latest Wildfire Detection service.”

Reinicke added: “We are proud to apply our fire protection expertise not only to safeguard people and property but also to contribute to the preservation of nature.”

European Forest Institute and @fire highlight international collaboration

Another partner involved is the European Forest Institute (EFI), which operates with 116 organisations across 36 countries.

Alexander Held from EFI said: “We want to use INTERSCHUTZ to put an even stronger focus on the issue of forest fires.”

Held added: “It’s about knowledge transfer and networking, equipment, training, strategy, and tactics. We can also greatly benefit from the experience of our international guests.”

Held stated: “We need a coalition of the willing.”

The third partner, @fire – Internationaler Katastrophenschutz Deutschland e.V. – is contributing through its expertise in vegetation firefighting and emergency support.

Dr Martin Schmid from @fire said: “We look forward to working with various partners at WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ to showcase innovative approaches and available solutions for integrated fire management.”

Schmid added: “For me, integrated fire management means considering prevention, deployment, and reforestation as interconnected elements.”

Schmid stated: “It also involves examining all aspects of these solutions, such as the proper tactical integration of firefighting operations, necessary logistics like water supply, the availability of specialised personnel, and suitable communication technology.”

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 to include outdoor wildfire zone in Germany

INTERSCHUTZ said that outdoor areas northeast of Hall 26 at the Hanover fairgrounds will be dedicated to WildfireCamp programming.

These areas will host contributions from both commercial and non-profit exhibitors, with shared spaces made available for presentations.

The organisation said that several interested parties have already confirmed their participation.

Heinold concluded: “We are confident that WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ will deliver an exciting programme that not only presents solutions to current challenges but also inspires visitors.”

WildfireCamp at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 to focus on global vegetation fire response: Summary

INTERSCHUTZ has announced a new wildfire-focused programme called WildfireCamp for its 2026 event in Hanover.

The initiative will take place outdoors near Hall 26 from 1 to 6 June 2026.

INTERSCHUTZ reported that the programme will feature daily presentations and demonstrations from German and international experts.

The organiser, Deutsche Messe, said the event aims to connect developers, suppliers, and emergency responders.

Bernd Heinold from Deutsche Messe said the camp is designed to create a forum for live learning and exchange.

Partners include Bosch Building Technologies, the European Forest Institute (EFI), and @fire.

Bosch will present a detection system using AI for early fire alerts.

EFI will contribute research and training insights from 36 countries.

@fire will provide operational expertise on integrated fire management.

All three partners will share approaches to prevention, response, and recovery in vegetation fire contexts.

INTERSCHUTZ confirmed that exhibitor spaces will be open to both commercial and non-profit organisations.

Several participants have already signed up to join the WildfireCamp programme.

FloodFighters at Seawork 2025 highlights flood rescue collaboration

Flood rescue operations prioritised in new Seawork 2025 initiative

Seawork has reported that a new feature titled FloodFighters@Seawork will be introduced at its 2025 exhibition in the UK, focused on strengthening flood rescue operations.

According to Seawork, the initiative will include a conference, exhibition pavilion, interactive trail and live demonstrations aimed at equipping emergency responders with access to updated knowledge and equipment for flood rescue scenarios.

The FloodFighters Conference will take place on 10 June 2025 and be chaired by Roy Harold MBE, Emeritus UK Chief Fire Officer.

UK and international response frameworks under discussion at FloodFighters Conference

Seawork stated that the conference will gather specialists to examine maritime search and rescue (SAR) challenges and responses to major flood incidents.

Topics include how climate change is expected to affect SAR capabilities, the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) flood rescue concept updates, and the Netherlands’ approach to managing widespread flood impacts.

The organisation added that the conference will include a panel session with audience Q&A and will be followed by a networking lunch.

FloodFighters Pavilion and Trail to showcase flood response technologies

Seawork explained that attendees will be able to follow a FloodFighters Trail, connecting with suppliers and rescue teams demonstrating water and flood rescue equipment and services.

The FloodFighters Pavilion will provide an area for companies to exhibit tools and technologies to professionals in emergency response.

Seawork noted that this trail is designed to help organisations access the equipment and services required to respond to rising flood incidents.

On-water demonstrations to show flood rescue in practice

The event will feature live demonstrations on the water, coordinated by Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue.

Seawork stated these displays will offer practical insights into new rescue methods and equipment relevant to flood scenarios.

The organisation said this component of FloodFighters@Seawork aims to support knowledge sharing through direct observation of techniques used in dynamic rescue conditions.

FloodFighters at Seawork 2025 highlights flood rescue collaboration: Summary

Seawork has confirmed a new initiative titled FloodFighters@Seawork for its 2025 programme.

The initiative focuses on flood rescue preparedness and includes a conference, exhibition pavilion, trail and live demonstrations.

The FloodFighters Conference will take place on 10 June 2025 and will be chaired by Roy Harold MBE, Emeritus UK Chief Fire Officer.

Conference topics include international SAR challenges, climate-related risks and updates to the UK DEFRA flood rescue framework.

The FloodFighters Trail and Pavilion will display flood and water rescue products and services.

Attendees will be able to observe on-water rescue demonstrations organised by Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue.

Seawork stated that the event will provide emergency response professionals with access to tools, techniques and networks to support flood rescue operations.

Seawork is organised by Mercator Media Ltd and will take place in Southampton, UK.

Fire Safety Week in health facilities: India marks national awareness campaign

Indian Health Ministry marks nationwide Fire Safety Week initiative

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched Fire Safety Week across India from 21 to 25 April 2025, focusing on the safety of health facilities.

According to the Ministry, the campaign involves collaboration with all States and Union Territories, alongside central Ministries and Departments.

The week-long initiative began with a national pledge ceremony held at Nirman Bhawan, led by Union Health Secretary Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava.

Pledge event gathers over 3,000 participants from health sector

The Ministry reported that more than 3,000 individuals from public and private health institutions attended the event virtually.

Senior Ministry officials participated in the ceremony in person.

The pledge ceremony was accompanied by webinars on emergency evacuation, patient safety strategies, and fire risk management in critical healthcare areas.

Fire preparedness highlighted through training and mock drills

Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava said: “Fire and electrical safety in health facilities is essential and must be continuously prioritised.”

She added: “We must ensure that all healthcare workers are trained and that fire preparedness and patient evacuation mock drills are conducted regularly.”

Smt. Srivastava further stated: “Developing a culture of safety within our institutions is necessary to protect lives and reduce risk.”

She called on health institutions across the country to share examples of effective practices to improve fire safety outcomes.

Hospitals urged to undertake audits and awareness activities

The Ministry explained that hospitals are being encouraged to carry out fire audits and host awareness programmes as part of Fire Safety Week.

These activities include poster-making and quizzes, as well as demonstrations of fire detection and suppression systems.

A detailed checklist was sent to all States and Union Territories to guide public and private health facilities on conducting safety assessments.

The Ministry added that medical colleges and tertiary hospitals have been asked to prioritise engagement with the campaign.

Webinars focus on equipment maintenance and evacuation

The Ministry has organised a two-day webinar series addressing prevention, compliance, and operation of fire safety systems in health facilities.

It confirmed that more than 3,000 people have attended the sessions so far.

Topics included maintaining detection and suppression systems, patient evacuation, and mock drills.

Private sector and professional associations invited to participate

The Health Ministry has also reached out to the Indian Medical Association and other central Ministries, encouraging them to support Fire Safety Week activities.

According to the Ministry, these bodies have been asked to engage their branches at State and District levels to extend campaign reach.

Private sector involvement has been highlighted as an important element of the national effort.

Online resources and public engagement via MyGOV

The Ministry reported that it has worked with the MyGOV platform to provide an online pledge and fire safety quiz.

The digital resources are intended to support individual and institutional engagement during the campaign.

Links to the pledge and quiz were shared to increase accessibility and promote awareness among wider audiences.

Ongoing guidance and resources provided to States and UTs

The Ministry stated that it remains engaged with States and Union Territories by issuing advisories, checklists and recommended practices.

These materials are aimed at supporting continuous improvement in fire safety standards in both public and private health facilities.

It reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of patients, visitors and healthcare workers through proactive risk management.

Fire Safety Week in health facilities: Summary

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched Fire Safety Week from 21 to 25 April 2025.

The initiative aims to improve fire prevention and preparedness in Indian healthcare institutions.

A national pledge ceremony was held at Nirman Bhawan and led by Union Health Secretary Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava.

Over 3,000 people from public and private health sectors joined virtually.

Webinars on evacuation, patient safety and high-risk area management were included in the event.

Smt. Srivastava emphasised training, mock drills and safety culture in her address.

Hospitals have been encouraged to conduct audits and organise awareness activities.

A checklist was circulated to all States and Union Territories for implementation.

Webinars covered regulatory compliance and maintenance of safety systems.

The Indian Medical Association and other Ministries were invited to take part.

Online tools such as a pledge and quiz were launched via MyGOV.

The Ministry continues to support health facilities with guidance and resources.