Wildfire Mitigation Awards 2025 recipients announced across four US states

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Five awarded for wildfire mitigation leadership and impact

Five individuals and organisations have been named recipients of the 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Awards.

The awardees were selected for their leadership in wildfire prevention efforts across Colorado, Hawai’i, Idaho and Florida.

The awards recognise community-level action, technical innovation, and collaboration in reducing wildfire risk.

Community-led and nonprofit efforts recognised in Colorado and Hawai’i

Aaron Johnson from Ridgway, Colorado, has been recognised for developing the Wildfire Ready Home certification programme.

The programme integrates data and guidance from insurance providers, local governments, and fire agencies to support homeowners in reducing wildfire risk.

Johnson also provides wildfire assessment training to homeowners’ associations and fire departments.

The Hawai’i Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO), operating across the state for 25 years, provided support after the August 2023 Lahaina fires.

In 2024, HWMO reached over 10,000 residents with workshops, assessments, campaigns, and projects.

Public sector wildfire mitigation efforts in Idaho and Florida

Tyre Holfeltz of the Idaho Department of Lands received the award for his work in helping counties update Community Wildfire Protection Plans and for developing vegetation management partnerships with utility companies.

He contributed to the development of a geospatial database and served in the national Grant Accomplishment Reporting Portal working group.

In Florida, Aleese Maples of the Chipola Forestry Center facilitated 206 mitigation projects across seven counties after Hurricane Michael.

She designed the contractor bidding and procurement process that resulted in 1,847 acres of defensible space near homes.

Volunteer-driven model in Colorado receives national recognition

The NoFloCo Fire Mitigation Posse, led by founder Don Moore in Teller County, Colorado, has been awarded for its volunteer-based approach to wildfire mitigation.

The group uses non-mechanised methods to keep costs down and reduce environmental impact.

Volunteers are recognised with symbolic awards, such as a purple hard hat for repeated participation, and community meals follow each event.

The group was nominated by one of its own volunteers.

Additional mentions and upcoming awards ceremony

The Wildfire Mitigation Awards Committee also highlighted several efforts outside the primary awardees.

These included 103 mitigation projects recorded in a virtual dashboard by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and a community-focused “WUI Summit” held in South Carolina by the State Forestry Commission.

The 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Awards will be presented at the Wildland-Urban Interface Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, on 28 March 2025.

NFPA, NASF, IAFC and the USDA Forest Service will also host a virtual meeting between award recipients and partner organisations prior to the event.

The nomination period for the 2026 awards is expected to open in summer 2025.

Wildfire Mitigation Awards 2025 recipients announced across four US states: Summary

NFPA has announced five recipients of the 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Awards.

The awardees are Aaron Johnson (Colorado), Hawai’i Wildfire Management Organization, Tyre Holfeltz (Idaho), Aleese Maples (Florida), and NoFloCo Fire Mitigation Posse with Don Moore (Colorado).

The awards highlight local action, public sector programmes, nonprofit leadership, and volunteer-based models.

Each awardee was cited for measurable wildfire risk reduction and technical contribution.

Additional mentions were made of efforts in California and South Carolina.

The awards will be presented at the Wildland-Urban Interface Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, on 28 March 2025.

The programme was founded in 2014 by NASF, IAFC, NFPA, and USDA Forest Service.

The 2026 nominations open in summer 2025.

All information was reported by NFPA.

UK safety experts to discuss lithium-ion battery risks at Fire Safety Event

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

Experts to examine lithium-ion battery safety regulations

S Jones Containers has announced it will host a panel seminar on lithium-ion battery safety regulations at the Fire Safety Event on Wednesday 9 April at the NEC in Birmingham.

The session will be led by Andrew Nicholls, Head of Conversions at S Jones Containers.

It will bring together experts from Warwick Manufacturing Group, Electrical Safety First, and the Fire Protection Association to discuss current gaps in UK legislation relating to the manufacture, storage and testing of lithium-ion batteries.

As electric vehicle use increases, the session will focus on the need for regulation that balances safe handling with continued innovation.

According to S Jones Containers, thermal runaway events during testing or use pose risks that current rules do not sufficiently address.

Warwick Manufacturing Group to share battery safety research

Dr Simon Jones, Principal Engineer at Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), will join the panel discussion.

Dr Jones oversees the WMG Battery Safety Centre, which provides abuse testing services for industrial clients.

WMG is an academic department of the University of Warwick and part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult.

Dr Jones has 30 years of experience in destructive testing and specialises in battery failure events such as thermal runaway.

His work includes research on improving the safety of battery technologies used in electric vehicles.

Electrical Safety First and Fire Protection Association to contribute insights

Giuseppe Capanna, Product Safety Engineer at Electrical Safety First, will also join the panel.

He has been involved in the organisation’s battery safety campaign, which aims to protect UK consumers from faulty lithium-ion products, including those used in e-bikes and e-scooters.

Chris Miles, Commercial Director at the Fire Protection Association, will contribute on behalf of the organisation.

According to the Fire Protection Association, there is limited understanding in the market of the full range of fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

The organisation publishes industry guidance and carries out testing and research related to fire safety, including battery hazards.

Additional seminar planned for July battery expo

The Fire Safety Event runs from 8 to 10 April and is aimed at professionals and organisations working to maintain and improve fire safety standards.

S Jones Containers will exhibit throughout the event at stand 4/F106.

The seminar, titled Electric Revolution, Safety Evolution: Prioritising Battery Regulations, is scheduled for 10.15 to 10.45 on Wednesday 9 April in the Innovation and Compliance Theatre.

The company also plans to host a similar panel discussion at the Battery Cells & Systems Expo at the NEC on 9 July.

That session will cover battery safety and best practices in the industry.

UK safety experts to discuss lithium-ion battery risks at Fire Safety Event: Summary

S Jones Containers will host a panel seminar at the Fire Safety Event on 9 April 2025 at the NEC Birmingham.

The session will examine the current state of UK regulations on lithium-ion battery manufacturing, storage and testing.

Panel members include representatives from Warwick Manufacturing Group, Electrical Safety First and the Fire Protection Association.

Dr Simon Jones of WMG will share research from the WMG Battery Safety Centre.

Giuseppe Capanna of Electrical Safety First will speak about the group’s campaign on e-bike and e-scooter battery safety.

Chris Miles of the Fire Protection Association will discuss industry risk awareness.

The event aims to address concerns around thermal runaway and regulatory gaps.

The seminar will take place from 10.15 to 10.45 on 9 April in the Innovation and Compliance Theatre.

S Jones Containers will also present on battery safety at the Battery Cells & Systems Expo at the NEC in July.

Cygnus SmartNet celebrates two years of EN 54 certification at UK Fire Safety Event

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Detection

SmartNet to mark EN 54 certification milestone at UK exhibition

Cygnus has announced it will commemorate the two-year anniversary of its SmartNet fire alarm system receiving EN 54 certification at The Fire Safety Event 2025.

The announcement was made ahead of the exhibition taking place at the NEC in Birmingham from 8 to 10 April 2025.

SmartNet is described by Cygnus as the world’s first 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system to receive EN 54 certification.

The system is also BS5839-1 compliant and is designed to be up to 20 times faster to install than traditional wired systems.

Cygnus to highlight full SmartNet range including SmartNet-Pro and SmartNet-100

The company will use its stand (4/G20) to demonstrate SmartNet’s wireless mesh technology and showcase its full product range.

SmartNet-Pro can support up to 511 devices per panel and includes functionality for up to 96 zones.

Multiple panels can be connected via a software release code to enable a system of more than 2500 devices.

Cygnus will also present SmartNet-100, which has been developed for smaller-scale applications.

It supports up to 100 devices and provides a more cost-effective alternative to SmartNet-Pro while using the same core technology.

New accessories expand system capability and support installation process

Cygnus will also highlight its range of SmartNet accessories at the event.

These include Cygnus ALERT, a monitoring and notification platform that provides real-time updates about fire events, faults and mesh network status.

Other tools include the Cygnus Mesh Analyser, the Portable Programming Unit (PPU) for firmware updates, and the Site Survey Kit, which helps assess the environment’s suitability before full installation.

According to Cygnus, these additions support installers and end-users by simplifying the setup process and improving system performance.

SmartNet has been adopted across a range of building types

Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales at Cygnus, commented on the adoption of the system and its ongoing development:

“Over the past two years, SmartNet has been widely adopted across various sectors, from commercial and industrial properties to high-rise buildings and public institutions.”

He added: “Our SmartNet range has continued to develop over the last year, and we have introduced a comprehensive accessories range to complement the system including Cygnus ALERT, a remote monitoring and notification platform, the new Cygnus Mesh Analyser, Portable Programming Unit (PPU) and the Site Survey Kit.

“We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to our stand and celebrating two years of SmartNet.”

SmartNet celebrates two years of EN 54 certification at UK Fire Safety Event: Summary

Cygnus has confirmed it will mark the two-year anniversary of SmartNet achieving EN 54 certification at The Fire Safety Event 2025 in Birmingham.

SmartNet is a 100% wireless, BS5839-1 compliant fire detection and alarm system.

It is designed to be installed up to 20 times faster than traditional wired systems.

The system includes SmartNet-Pro, which can support more than 2500 devices across multiple panels, and SmartNet-100, which is suited to smaller sites.

Cygnus will also display its accessory tools including Cygnus ALERT, the Mesh Analyser, the Portable Programming Unit and the Site Survey Kit.

According to Cygnus, SmartNet has been deployed in commercial, industrial, high-rise and public sector buildings.

The Fire Safety Event takes place at the NEC from 8 to 10 April 2025.

Cygnus will be exhibiting on stand 4/G20.

Davao City Fire District promotes fire safety with community roadshow

by EventsFeatured News

Fire prevention event draws over 1,200 participants

The Davao City Fire District conducted a two-day Fire Square Roadshow as part of National Fire Prevention Month.

The event, held on 15 and 16 March at SM Ecoland Davao Annex, was attended by more than 1,200 residents.

The activities focused on raising public awareness about fire prevention and preparedness.

Community engagement in fire safety education

The roadshow featured activities such as mini rappelling, earthquake and fire drills, displays of personal protective equipment (PPE) and firefighting gear, and a basic life support session.

Julie Dayaday, officer-in-charge of the City Social Welfare and Development Office, highlighted the importance of community involvement in fire prevention efforts.

She said: “A single fire can destroy homes, belongings, and books.

That’s why initiatives like the roadshow are crucial.”

Bureau of Fire Protection’s role in safety and preparedness

Dayaday also acknowledged the work of the Bureau of Fire Protection in educating and protecting the public.

She said: “Your work is often thankless, demanding, and incredibly challenging.

“You face danger head-on, frequently putting yourselves at risk to save others.”

The Davao City Fire District reaffirmed its commitment to fire safety education through ongoing initiatives, including visits to barangays under “Oplan Ligtas sa Pamayanan” and house-to-house inspections to identify fire hazards.

Call to action for fire safety awareness

The event concluded with a call for community vigilance and cooperation in fire prevention efforts.

Officials urged residents to remain proactive in maintaining fire safety and preparedness in their homes and communities.

Davao City Fire District promotes fire safety with community roadshow: Summary

The Davao City Fire District hosted a two-day Fire Square Roadshow at SM Ecoland Davao Annex on 15 and 16 March as part of National Fire Prevention Month.

More than 1,200 people attended the event, which aimed to raise fire safety awareness.

Activities included mini rappelling, earthquake and fire drills, PPE and firefighting equipment displays, and a basic life support session.

City Social Welfare and Development Office Officer-in-Charge Julie Dayaday highlighted the importance of community involvement in fire prevention.

The Davao City Fire District reiterated its commitment to fire safety through ongoing barangay visits under “Oplan Ligtas sa Pamayanan” and fire hazard inspections.

The event ended with a call for community vigilance and cooperation in fire prevention efforts.

British Safety Council announces winners of 2025 International Safety Awards

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

789 organisations recognised for workplace health and safety

British Safety Council has announced the winners of its 2025 International Safety Awards, recognising organisations for their efforts in workplace health, safety, and wellbeing.

A total of 789 organisations from 45 countries have received awards this year.

The winners represent various industries, including construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, mining, power, and utilities.

Of the recipients, 212 organisations were awarded a Distinction, 371 received a Merit, and 206 achieved a Pass.

The annual awards, now in their 67th year, acknowledge organisations that have demonstrated a commitment to preventing workplace injuries and work-related illnesses.

The awards also recognise efforts to support mental health and wellbeing at work.

British Safety Council commends award recipients

Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of British Safety Council, congratulated the winners: “Sincerest congratulations to all organisations, individuals and teams that have won a prestigious International Safety Award.

Our winners have clearly made substantial and ongoing efforts to protect and improve the health, safety and wellbeing of everyone in their organisations.”

He added that the achievements of the winners can serve as inspiration for other employers: “By sharing the achievements of the winners of these awards, we can inspire other employers everywhere to follow their lead and give workers’ health, safety and wellbeing the priority it rightly deserves.”

Awards highlight global commitment to workplace safety

British Safety Council has reported that award winners span multiple sectors, reflecting a broad commitment to workplace health and safety worldwide.

The International Safety Awards are judged by an independent panel that assesses each organisation’s safety performance over the previous year.

The full list of winners is available on the British Safety Council website.

Celebration event to recognise achievements

British Safety Council will host a gala dinner event to celebrate the success of the award winners.

Robinson highlighted the importance of the event: “We believe it is important to celebrate these successes, as we know it fosters a sense of community and empowers others.

It also creates the momentum which attracts more success.”

The event will also recognise the winners of British Safety Council’s free-to-enter awards, providing further opportunities to highlight workplace health and safety achievements.

British Safety Council announces winners of 2025 International Safety Awards: Summary

British Safety Council has announced the winners of its 2025 International Safety Awards, recognising organisations for their efforts in workplace health, safety, and wellbeing.

A total of 789 organisations from 45 countries were awarded, including 212 with Distinction, 371 with Merit, and 206 with a Pass.

The awards, now in their 67th year, acknowledge organisations that have demonstrated a commitment to preventing workplace injuries and work-related illnesses, as well as supporting mental health and wellbeing.

The winners represent a range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, mining, power, and utilities.

British Safety Council Chief Executive Mike Robinson congratulated the winners and emphasised the importance of sharing their achievements to encourage wider adoption of workplace safety measures.

A gala event will be held to celebrate the recipients and recognise additional free-to-enter awards.

The full list of winners is available on the British Safety Council website.

Desu Systems to present fire safety innovations at Fire Safety Event 2025

by EventsFeatured News

Desu Systems to exhibit at FSE 2025 in Birmingham

Desu Systems will participate in the Fire Safety Event (FSE) 2025, taking place from 8-10 April at the NEC Birmingham, UK.

The company will showcase developments in its Flame and Gas Detection and Kitchen Fire & Hygiene Solutions divisions.

The event brings together industry professionals, manufacturers, and fire safety specialists to discuss workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

Fire detection and suppression technologies on display

At FSE 2025, Desu Systems will present fire detection and prevention technologies aimed at improving workplace safety.

Ronald Verkroost, CEO and Founder of Desu Systems, said: “We are excited to join the Fire Safety Event this year and showcase the latest advancements in fire detection and prevention.

“With our expertise in Flame and Gas Detection, as well as Kitchen Fire & Hygiene Solutions, we help businesses stay protected while meeting the highest industry standards.

“This event is the perfect opportunity to connect with safety professionals and demonstrate how our solutions contribute to a safer environment.”

Industry engagement and compliance discussions

Desu Systems representatives will be available at stand 4/J25 to discuss regulatory requirements, early detection strategies, and fire risk mitigation.

The company will highlight how its technologies support businesses in meeting industry standards while enhancing safety in high-risk environments.

Event details and further information

The Fire Safety Event 2025 will take place at NEC Birmingham, UK, from 8-10 April.

Attendees can visit Desu Systems at stand 4/J25 to learn more about flame and gas detection, kitchen fire suppression, and hygiene solutions.

More information is available on the company’s website: https://desusystems.com.

Desu Systems to present fire safety innovations at Fire Safety Event 2025: Summary

Desu Systems will participate in the Fire Safety Event (FSE) 2025, held from 8-10 April at NEC Birmingham, UK.

The company will showcase solutions from its Flame and Gas Detection and Kitchen Fire & Hygiene Solutions divisions.

CEO and Founder Ronald Verkroost stated that the company will present advancements in fire detection and prevention.

Desu Systems representatives will be available at stand 4/J25 to discuss industry challenges, compliance requirements, and risk mitigation strategies.

The Fire Safety Event 2025 brings together industry professionals, manufacturers, and safety specialists to explore workplace safety and regulatory developments.

More information about Desu Systems and its solutions is available at https://desusystems.com.

Allegion to showcase fire door solutions at The Fire Safety Event 2025

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Doors

Allegion UK to present complete fire door solution at Birmingham event

Allegion UK has announced its participation in The Fire Safety Event 2025, taking place from 8-10 April at the NEC, Birmingham.

The company, alongside its portfolio of door hardware brands, will showcase a range of fire door solutions designed for safety and compliance.

Allegion will exhibit a flagship selection of architectural hardware, fire and smoke seals, vision panels, and an intumescent fire block louvre system.

The company’s stand (4/K106) will feature three full-sized door models, each displaying tested and certified products for timber and steel fire doors.

Allegion’s fire door hardware and safety demonstration

Visitors to Allegion’s stand will be able to view and interact with various fire door solutions designed to demonstrate the importance of correct specification, installation, and maintenance.

The exhibition will also include a working model of the XB120 automatic door operator from Boss Door Controls.

According to Allegion, the XB120 is available in seven finishes, including ‘Light Bronze’ and ‘Matt Black’, to complement different architectural styles.

The company states that its fire door safety solutions are intended to offer comprehensive compliance support.

Allegion UK’s commitment to fire safety education

Pete Hancox, country manager at Allegion UK, commented: “Fire doors are a key element of passive fire protection, and in the event of a fire, it’s crucial that essential door hardware has been expertly specified, correctly installed and properly maintained.”

Hancox added that the company is focused on addressing knowledge gaps in fire door safety: “As part of our ongoing campaign to raise awareness, we’re delighted to return to The Fire Safety Event, as it provides the perfect platform to offer valuable expertise and support to a key audience.”

Live demonstrations and expert advice

During the event, Allegion’s team will provide real-time installation advice and live demonstrations of its self-adhesive Accufit system.

The company states that recent enhancements to the system aim to simplify the installation of Briton door closers.

The Fire Safety Event brings together industry professionals, practitioners, and organisations to discuss fire safety management and compliance.

The event features a range of exhibitors showcasing the latest products and technology in the sector.

Allegion to showcase fire door solutions at The Fire Safety Event 2025: Summary

Allegion UK will participate in The Fire Safety Event 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham, from 8-10 April.

The company will present a full range of fire door solutions, including architectural hardware, fire and smoke seals, vision panels, and an intumescent fire block louvre system.

Allegion will also display the XB120 automatic door operator from Boss Door Controls and provide hands-on demonstrations of its Accufit system for Briton door closers.

Country manager Pete Hancox said the company aims to raise awareness about fire door specification, installation, and maintenance.

The Fire Safety Event provides a platform for fire safety professionals to explore new products and technologies.

More details about the event and registration information are available at www.firesafetyevent.com.

Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar to focus on industry competency and education

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

Fire Industry Association announces Gibraltar fire safety event

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced that the Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar will take place on 15 May from 10am to 3pm at the Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel.

The event is aimed at professionals within the fire safety sector and will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, and an exhibition.

The Summit will focus on advancing technical competency and promoting education within the industry.

According to FIA, the event will provide attendees with opportunities to enhance their knowledge, share best practices, and engage with peers across the sector.

Agenda includes presentations and panel discussions

The Summit will feature a programme of educational sessions designed to enhance technical skills and understanding of fire safety best practices.

Attendees will have access to keynote presentations and panel discussions led by industry professionals.

FIA has stated that the event is open to both experienced professionals and those new to the field.

Alongside the speaker sessions, an exhibition will take place, allowing attendees to explore industry developments and innovations.

FIA highlights commitment to fire safety education

FIA has stated that the Summit aligns with its ongoing focus on raising industry standards through education and training.

The event aims to bring together professionals from across the sector to discuss best practices and collaborate on ways to improve competency.

FIA has positioned the Summit as an opportunity for individuals and organisations to strengthen their knowledge and skills in fire safety.

A full agenda will be published ahead of the event, with FIA encouraging interested parties to register.

Registration details and event information

FIA has invited fire safety professionals to attend the event, with registration now open.

The Summit will take place at the Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel, and further details will be available on FIA’s events page.

FIA has encouraged those seeking additional information to get in touch.

Professionals interested in attending can register here.

Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar to focus on industry competency and education: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced the Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar, scheduled for 15 May at the Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel.

The event will include keynote presentations, panel discussions, and an exhibition, with a focus on improving technical competency and fire safety education.

FIA has stated that the Summit aligns with its objective of raising industry standards through knowledge-sharing and professional development.

A full agenda will be released in due course.

Fire safety professionals can register for the event through FIA’s official registration link.

NFCC Protection Conference 2025 examines fire safety policy changes

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

Government outlines fire safety reforms at NFCC event

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) hosted its Protection Conference 2025 at the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon, where around 150 fire and rescue professionals gathered to discuss ongoing fire safety reforms.

NFCC Protection Lead Dave Russel opened the event, addressing what he described as a “dust storm” of changes impacting fire safety policy.

He highlighted the need to maintain core Protection services while ensuring alignment with Prevention and Response.

Representatives from the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) provided updates on fire safety responsibilities, including the transition of key functions to MHCLG, the government’s position on Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs), and the regulation of fire risk assessors.

The rollout of the Fire and Rescue Data and Performance (FARDAP) system was also discussed.

Fire safety sector debates regulation and funding

Discussions at the conference focused on regulatory strengthening, remediation guidance, and the financial sustainability of fire safety reforms.

Government representatives reiterated their commitment to placing residents at the centre of policy changes, with an emphasis on ensuring fire services have adequate resources to implement new requirements effectively.

NFCC leaders spoke about the importance of organisational learning and workforce competence, calling for risk-based interventions to be prioritised.

The conference also examined the balance between high-rise and high-risk considerations, as well as updates on fire safety inspection and enforcement practices.

HMICFRS reports on fire protection improvements

Delegates heard from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) on progress in the Protection sector since the first round of inspections in 2018.

While improvements were noted in consistency and staffing levels, challenges remain in training and operational capacity.

Sessions explored how fire services can meet evolving standards, with particular focus on the implementation of the Protection Fire Standard and the delivery of PEEPs in residential buildings.

NFCC calls for collaboration across fire safety sector

With ongoing policy changes and scrutiny on fire safety, NFCC leaders stressed the need for collaboration between government, fire services, and industry stakeholders.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that fire protection remains effective amid reforms.

NFCC stated that maintaining safety standards while adapting to legislative changes is a priority for fire and rescue services.

The event concluded with discussions on how the sector can continue to improve risk management and workforce capability.

NFCC Protection Conference 2025 examines fire safety policy changes: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) hosted its Protection Conference 2025 in Stratford-upon-Avon, where fire and rescue professionals discussed ongoing fire safety reforms.

NFCC Protection Lead Dave Russel highlighted the challenges of adapting to policy changes while maintaining Protection services.

Government representatives from the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) provided updates on regulatory transitions, PEEPs, fire risk assessor regulation, and the rollout of the Fire and Rescue Data and Performance (FARDAP) system.

Discussions covered funding concerns, fire safety enforcement, and regulatory strengthening.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) reported improvements in staffing and consistency but noted ongoing challenges in training and capacity.

The conference concluded with calls for greater collaboration between government, fire services, and industry stakeholders to support the implementation of fire safety reforms.

Skills for Security and WorldSkills UK merge competitions for 2025 season

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

UK security skills competition updates format for next generation professionals

Skills for Security has announced that the Electronic Security and Fire competitions will be merged into a single category for the 2025 season in partnership with WorldSkills UK.

The decision aims to reflect industry changes by providing participants with a broader platform to develop expertise in both electronic security and fire safety systems.

The revised competition format is intended to ensure future professionals gain a comprehensive skill set aligned with evolving sector requirements.

Darrell Gilmour, Director of Technical Training at Skills for Security, said: “By combining the Electronic Security and Fire competitions, we are ensuring that competitors develop a well-rounded skill set that reflects today’s integrated fire safety and security industry.

“We believe this evolution will benefit both competitors and the sector as a whole.”

National Qualifiers at The Security Event

Applications for the competition open at 9:00 AM on 3 March 2025 and close on 17 March 2025.

The National Qualifiers will take place at The Security Event (TSE) on the Skills for Security stand (5/D130) across three dates.

A total of 36 competitors from across the UK will participate.

Skills for Security will also engage with attendees at the event to promote training opportunities and initiatives supporting talent development within the fire safety and security industry.

David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security, said: “It is always a pleasure to host the competition qualifiers at The Security Event, where we can demonstrate the incredible skills and talent emerging.

Skills for Security remains committed to nurturing the next generation of security professionals, and this competition is a real opportunity to highlight the importance of continuous training and development in our sector.”

Sponsorship and industry support

The competition is sponsored by CSL Group, The Security Event, and Texecom.

Additional support is provided by Eaton, Yuasa Battery, NSI, SSAIB, Fenix Monitoring, Honeywell, and Dahua.

These organisations support the initiative to foster excellence in fire safety and security training, aligning with broader industry efforts to advance technical skills development.

Event details and application process

The Security Event will take place from 8 to 10 April 2025 at NEC Birmingham.

Applications for the competition can be submitted via WorldSkills UK’s website, with shortlisted participants invited to compete at The Security Event.

Further information on the competition and application details are available at: https://www.worldskillsuk.org/

Skills for Security and WorldSkills UK merge competitions for 2025 season: Summary

Skills for Security and WorldSkills UK have merged the Electronic Security and Fire competitions into a single category for the 2025 season.

The competition aims to provide a broader skills platform for participants in the fire safety and security industry.

Applications open on 3 March 2025, with National Qualifiers taking place at The Security Event from 8 to 10 April 2025 at NEC Birmingham.

The event will host 36 competitors from across the UK.

Sponsors include CSL Group, The Security Event, Texecom, Eaton, Yuasa Battery, NSI, SSAIB, Fenix Monitoring, Honeywell, and Dahua.

Skills for Security will also engage with attendees to highlight industry training initiatives.

Further details on the competition are available at: https://www.worldskillsuk.org/.