Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025: Finalists revealed

by Breaking NewsEventsPeople

Recognising achievements in UK fire safety

The finalists for the first Fire Resilience Excellence Awards (FREAs) have been announced.

The FREAs highlight achievements in fire safety and resilience across the UK.

The awards recognise individuals, teams, organisations, and innovations that contribute to fire protection and preparedness.

According to Fire Resilience Excellence Awards, the judging panel is formed of representatives from industry bodies, including the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA), Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), Fire Industry Association (FIA), Fire Protection Association (FPA), and Women in the Fire Service UK (WFS).

Categories and finalists

The FREAs include several award categories. Finalists for the Outstanding Leader award include Colin Todd of CS Todd and Associates, Craig Parkin of Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, and Mabel Higgins of MH Fire Safety.

For the Outstanding Team category, shortlisted groups include the Pobl Fire Compliance Team, NHS Leicester’s Fire Safety Team, and Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service Corporate Communications Team.

The Outstanding Organisation category features CBES Fire & Security, Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, and the Fire Industry Association.

Industry contributions and innovation

The Outstanding Consultant category includes PartB Group, Keith Todd of Ridge, and Global HSE Group.

In the Outstanding Installer/Integrator category, finalists include Steve Farr of Camsafe Fire & Security Systems, Wentworth Security & Fire Protection, and Mitie Fire & Security Systems.

Shortlisted candidates for Outstanding Product/Innovation include OmniCALL by Baldwin Boxall, Redplug’s Red-Stop®, and the FRAEW App by Kieran Essex and Sam Squire of PartB.

Event details and ticket availability

The FREAs ceremony, sponsored by AXA, will take place on 8 April 2025 at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel.

The awards will be presented during a dinner event, co-located with The Safety and Security Series.

According to Fire Resilience Excellence Awards, tickets for the event are now available for purchase online.

Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025: Summary

The Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025 finalists have been announced.

The awards recognise individuals, teams, organisations, and innovations that contribute to fire safety and resilience in the UK.

Finalists include professionals from fire safety organisations, hospitals, universities, and private sector companies.

Categories include Outstanding Leader, Outstanding Team, Outstanding Organisation, and Outstanding Product/Innovation.

The awards are supported by industry bodies such as the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association, Fire Industry Association, and Women in the Fire Service UK.

The ceremony will take place on 8 April 2025 at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel.

Tickets are available for purchase online.

Finalists for the Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025: Full List

Outstanding Leader

  • Colin Todd – CS Todd and Associates
  • Craig Parkin – Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service
  • Mabel Higgins – MH Fire Safety
  • Andrea Necchi Ghiri – City Fire Proofing
  • Nick Lacey – Wolverhampton Homes

Outstanding Team

  • Pobl Fire Compliance Team – Pobl Group
  • Michael Meehan – Lancashire Teaching Hospital
  • Fire Safety Team – NHS – UHL Leicester
  • James Cass – Trinity Pro
  • Fire Safety Team – Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
  • University Hospitals of Liverpool Group Fire Safety Team
  • FRSNI
  • Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service Corporate Communications Team
  • Fire Risk Assessment Team – The Riverside Group
  • MH Fire Safety
  • Wolverhampton Homes’ Fire Safety Team

Outstanding Organisation

  • CBES Fire & Security
  • Aico
  • FRSNI
  • Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service
  • Fire Industry Association
  • Eurotech Fire Systems
  • 4site Consulting

Outstanding Consultant

  • PartB Group
  • Keith Todd – Ridge
  • Global HSE Group

Outstanding Installer/Integrator

  • Steve Farr – Camsafe Fire & Security Systems
  • Wentworth Security & Fire Protection
  • Mitie Fire & Security Systems
  • RayFire Services

Outstanding Product/Innovation

  • Mary-Anna Jennings – SWIFS Project
  • FRAEW App by Kieran Essex and Sam Squire – PartB
  • The Mass Timber Insurance Playbook – The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products
  • OmniCALL – Baldwin Boxall
  • Redplug – Red-Stop®
  • Matt Bates – Ciqurix
  • Global HSE Group – Global Academy
  • Eurotech Fire Systems – Sygno-fi Dongle Device
  • SafeVue – Drax Technology
  • Safegate – Safegate Drakon
  • Bull Products – SITENET
  • Cygnus – SmartNet
  • Mark Paton – Original CAD Plans

Outstanding Partnership/Collaboration

  • Aico & Melville Housing Association
  • Eurotech Fire Systems & Charles Thomas Heritage Fire Protection
  • Canary Wharf Group & London Fire Brigade

Informa plc discontinues Anticipate London event after one year

by Breaking NewsEvents

Event organiser Informa plc confirms closure of Anticipate London

Informa plc has announced that Anticipate London, the event that incorporated FIREX International, IFSEC International, Safety and Health Expo, and The Facilities Show, will not return.

The event was introduced at ExCeL London in December 2024, following the consolidation of several long-running industry exhibitions.

However, Informa plc has now confirmed its decision to retire the event.

A statement on the event’s website read: “We’ve taken the decision to retire Anticipate. This industry is about evolving and adapting.

“We know that the ways in which UK professionals want to stay informed across the many topics and specialisms within security, safety, health, buildings and facilities are changing, too.”

Anticipate London lasted one year before being discontinued

Anticipate London was launched as a unified event bringing together multiple industry sectors under one banner.

It replaced long-established brands such as FIREX International and IFSEC International, which had previously operated as independent events.

The event was positioned as a response to changing industry needs, aiming to provide a platform for professionals across security, fire safety, workplace health, and facilities management.

However, despite its initial launch, Informa plc has now opted to discontinue the event, citing evolving methods of industry engagement.

Impact on the fire and security industry

The discontinuation of Anticipate London marks the end of a series of major trade shows that had been a fixture in the industry for decades.

FIREX International and IFSEC International had long been recognised as key events for fire safety and security professionals.

By absorbing these events under Anticipate London, Informa plc sought to create a broader industry platform.

However, the move has now been reversed, leaving uncertainty over how these sectors will engage in future trade events.

Informa plc’s statement on the future of industry engagement

Informa plc has expressed appreciation for the industries and professionals that supported its past events.

The company acknowledged the role these exhibitions played in shaping the security, fire safety, health, and facilities sectors.

The statement continued: “We’re proud to have served this fantastic community over the years. Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey.”

No further details have been provided on whether Informa plc will introduce alternative formats or digital engagement strategies in place of Anticipate London.

Informa plc discontinues Anticipate London event after one year: Summary

Informa plc has confirmed that Anticipate London, the industry event that combined FIREX International, IFSEC International, Safety and Health Expo, and The Facilities Show, will not continue.

The event was introduced in December 2024 at ExCeL London as a new format for engaging professionals across security, fire safety, workplace health, and facilities management.

In a statement, Informa plc said the decision reflects changes in how UK professionals seek industry information and engagement.

FIREX International and IFSEC International, which were previously standalone events, had been absorbed into Anticipate London before its discontinuation.

Informa plc thanked attendees and industry participants but has not announced any alternative events to replace Anticipate London.

TBA FIREFLY to showcase fire protection solutions at Fire Safety Event 2025

by EventsFeatured News

TBA FIREFLY to exhibit at Fire Safety Event 2025 in Birmingham

TBA FIREFLY is set to participate in the Fire Safety Event 2025 at the NEC Birmingham from 8–10 April.

The company will present its full range of flexible fire barriers at stand 4/J75.

The event will host more than 250 exhibitors and offer attendees the opportunity to explore fire protection products, witness live demonstrations, and receive practical guidance.

New fire protection products on display

TBA FIREFLY will highlight its FB180 Ablative Batt Systems, designed for floor, wall, and roof cavity upgrades, along with its recently launched fire collars.

The FB180 Ablative Batt 60mm Floor System has been tested for use between timber joists and across larger areas where a protected zone is required.

The fire collar is designed as a penetration sealing device, expanding under heat to seal off combustible pipes passing through walls and floors.

Technical experts to provide guidance

TBA FIREFLY’s technical sales team and Head of Marketing, Jason Steer, will be present to offer advice on fire compartmentation and envelope protection solutions.

The company’s stand will provide information on its lightweight, easy-to-install fire barriers, including Zeus and Apollo, which are supported by independent certification and tested across various substrates and penetration types.

CPD sessions and networking opportunities

Visitors to the event can earn CPD points and hear from industry experts, government officials, and legal specialists.

The Fire Safety Event 2025 is expected to draw over 11,500 professionals, including fire safety managers, fire officers, and risk assessors.

TBA FIREFLY to showcase fire protection solutions at Fire Safety Event 2024: Summary

TBA FIREFLY will exhibit at the Fire Safety Event 2025 at NEC Birmingham from 8–10 April.

The company will showcase its range of fire protection solutions, including flexible fire barriers, the FB180 Ablative Batt Systems, and newly launched fire collars.

The event will feature over 250 exhibitors, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities for more than 11,500 industry professionals.

TBA FIREFLY’s technical sales team will provide insights into fire compartmentation and envelope protection.

Attendees can also gain CPD points through expert-led discussions.

IAFC outlines 2025 conference schedule for fire and EMS professionals

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsEvents

Key IAFC fire and EMS conferences set for 2025

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its full conference schedule for 2025, offering a series of events for fire and EMS leaders.

Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference to focus on wildfire prevention

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its 2025 conference schedule, featuring a range of events for fire and emergency medical services (EMS) leaders.

These conferences will address wildfire prevention, EMS advancements, community risk reduction, hazardous materials response, and technology in fire services.

The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference will take place in Kansas City, Missouri, from March 25 to 29.

The event will provide a platform for professionals to discuss wildfire prevention, protection, and mitigation strategies.

Attendees will have access to preconference workshops on wildfire modelling technology and networking opportunities with industry experts.

IAFC has stated that early bird registration is open until February 19.

Fire-Rescue Med (FRM) Conference returns to in-person format

The Fire-Rescue Med (FRM) Conference, initially launched as a virtual event, has gained traction and will continue as an in-person gathering in 2025.

The conference will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from May 5 to 9, with a preconference on May 4.

FRM 2025 will focus on fire-based EMS operations, offering sessions on patient and responder safety, personnel management, data technology, and government relations.

The exhibit hall will feature new fire-rescue apparatus and advancements in medical technology.

IAFC has confirmed that registration for FRM 2025 will open in February, with an early bird rate available until March 29.

Community Risk Reduction Leadership (CRRL) Conference to highlight fire data analysis

The Community Risk Reduction Leadership (CRRL) Conference will take place in Glendale, Arizona, from May 13 to 15.

This event is aimed at fire service managers and chief officers who are developing community risk reduction programs.

According to IAFC, CRRL 2025 will focus on practical strategies and measurable outcomes, featuring case studies and best practices for risk reduction.

A preconference session, the Fire Data Analysis Working Group (FireDAWG), will be held on May 12 for those interested in fire data collection and analysis.

Registration will open in late February, with early bird rates available until April 1.

Fire-Rescue International (FRI) Conference remains IAFC’s flagship event

Fire-Rescue International (FRI) will be held in Orlando, Florida, from August 13 to 15.

The annual conference, which dates back to 1931, is IAFC’s largest event, drawing thousands of fire and EMS professionals, government officials, and industry representatives.

FRI 2025 will feature keynote speakers, workshops, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing the latest fire service technology.

The conference will also include leadership training and panel discussions on emerging industry challenges.

IAFC has stated that the registration period will be announced in the spring through its website and social media channels.

IAFC outlines 2025 conference schedule for fire and EMS professionals: Summary

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its full conference schedule for 2025, offering a series of events for fire and EMS leaders.

The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference will take place in Kansas City, Missouri, from March 25 to 29, focusing on wildfire prevention and mitigation strategies.

The Fire-Rescue Med (FRM) Conference, set for May 5 to 9 in Las Vegas, will cover fire-based EMS operations, including patient safety and data technology.

The Community Risk Reduction Leadership (CRRL) Conference will be held in Glendale, Arizona, from May 13 to 15, with a preconference on fire data analysis scheduled for May 12.

Fire-Rescue International (FRI), IAFC’s largest event, will take place in Orlando, Florida, from August 13 to 15, featuring leadership training, keynote speakers, and industry exhibits.

Registration details for each event will be available on IAFC’s official website and social media channels.

Intersec 2025 sees increased exhibitors and new industry initiatives

by Breaking NewsEventsMiddle East - Events

Intersec 2025 records exhibitor and visitor growth

Intersec has reported record exhibitor participation at its 26th edition, held at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

According to Intersec, the event, which took place under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, hosted exhibitors from 61 countries, covering 61,000 sqm of exhibition space.

The 2025 edition marked a 20% increase in floor space compared to the previous year.

The event attracted 47,300 visitors from 142 countries, featuring innovations and discussions across five key sectors: commercial and perimeter security, fire and rescue, safety and health, cyber security, and homeland security and policing.

New conferences address policing and cybersecurity

Intersec 2025 introduced the Intersec Policing Conference, a two-day event featuring over 50 speakers from law enforcement agencies including Abu Dhabi Police, INTERPOL, the Metropolitan Police, and the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit.

Discussions covered topics such as digital policing, automation, drone operations, and quantum-led crime.

The event also saw the launch of the CISO Business Briefing, which brought together regional Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) to examine cybersecurity threats and opportunities.

H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, delivered the keynote address.

Intersec Startup Arena launches with industry backing

A new addition to the event was the Intersec Startup Arena, launched in partnership with Ignyte.

The platform provided startups with an opportunity to present their technologies to government representatives, investors, and industry leaders.

According to Intersec, the initiative was designed to facilitate strategic partnerships, mentorship, and investment opportunities for emerging companies in the security, safety, and fire protection sectors.

MoUs and industry recognition at Intersec Awards

Several companies signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) during the three-day event, including Abu Dhabi Civil Defence, Nordon, Saudi Sicli, ASIS International, Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA), Gallagher, Sharjah Civil Defence, NAFFCO, and UXE Security Solutions.

Intersec 2025 also hosted the 4th annual Intersec Awards, which recognised contributions to critical industries.

Award recipients included Dubai Civil Defense, NAFFCO, Dubai Municipality, the Ministry of Interior, Emirates Safety Laboratory LLC, and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).

Intersec 2025 sees increased exhibitors and new industry initiatives: Summary

Intersec has reported increased exhibitor participation at its 26th edition, with 61,000 sqm of exhibition space and exhibitors from 61 countries.

The event, held at Dubai World Trade Centre, recorded 47,300 visitors from 142 countries.

New initiatives in 2025 included the Intersec Policing Conference and the CISO Business Briefing, which focused on law enforcement and cybersecurity developments.

The event also introduced the Intersec Startup Arena, which provided startups with access to investors and industry leaders.

Intersec 2025 hosted multiple MoU signings and the 4th annual Intersec Awards, recognising contributions from organisations such as Dubai Civil Defense, NAFFCO, and Dubai Municipality.

The next edition of Intersec will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Fire safety experts to gather for Tall Buildings Conference 2025 at FDIC International

by Breaking NewsEvents

Tall Buildings Conference 2025 to address high-rise fire safety in Indianapolis

The Tall Buildings Conference will take place from April 7 to 9, 2025, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. The event, held alongside FDIC International, will bring together fire safety professionals, engineers, and policymakers to discuss fire risks in high-rise buildings.

The conference will feature expert speakers covering topics such as firefighter air replenishment systems, lithium-ion battery fire hazards, and emergency response planning. The full program is available on the official website.

Early bird registration ends on February 7, 2025. Discounted delegate passes can be purchased at: 9th International High Rise/Tall Building Fire Safety Conference (US).

Key speakers and topics

The conference will include keynote addresses from industry leaders. Trent Fearnley, International President of the Institution of Fire Engineers, will deliver the official opening.

Other speakers include Curtis Massey, who will present on high-rise fire safety career insights, and Jake Pauls, who will discuss stairwell prioritization for evacuation and firefighter access.

Topics will also include mass timber high-rise fire safety, lithium-ion battery risks, and fire protection engineering approaches. The event will conclude each day with expert panel discussions.

Accommodation and travel information

Delegates attending the conference can book hotel accommodations at a discounted rate through FDIC. The booking portal is available here: Tall Buildings FDIC 2025 Hotel Booking.

The Indiana Convention Center is the primary venue for the conference. FDIC International will take place at the same location from April 7–12, 2025.

Training courses for 2025

The Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network is offering training courses in 2025. The Tall Building Fire Safety Management Course will be held in Cyprus from May 26–30, 2025, with additional sessions in London later in the year.

The course provides training in fire safety management for tall buildings. Registration details are available at: Tall Building Fire Safety Management Course.

Tall Buildings Conference 2025 to address high-rise fire safety in Indianapolis: Summary

The 9th International High Rise/Tall Building Fire Safety Conference will be held in Indianapolis from April 7–9, 2025. The event will take place at the Indiana Convention Center alongside FDIC International.

Keynote speakers will address fire safety challenges in tall buildings. Topics include lithium-ion battery fire risks, firefighter air replenishment, and emergency response strategies.

Early bird registration ends on February 7, 2025, with discounted tickets available. Delegates can also book reduced-rate hotel accommodations through FDIC.

The conference will feature expert presentations and panel discussions. The Tall Building Fire Safety Management Course will take place in Cyprus in May 2025, with further sessions in London later in the year.

For more information, visit the Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network website.

NHS Estates Fire Safety Forum addresses compliance challenges for hospital doorsets

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Doors

Specialist Door Solutions hosts first NHS Estates Fire Safety Forum

The first NHS Estates Fire Safety Forum took place on 16 January 2025, bringing together fire safety professionals from NHS Trusts across the country to discuss compliance with updated regulations for hospital doorsets.

Specialist Door Solutions (SDS) hosted the event, which welcomed over 100 attendees.

The panel included representatives from healthcare and fire safety sectors, including Marc Wimble of the London Fire Brigade (LFB), Mazin Daoud of NHS England, Alan Oliver of Golden Thread Fire Delay, and Stephen Hatcher of P+HS Architects.

Discussions focused on regulatory changes such as amendments to Approved Document B and the updated HTM 05-03 part K guidance on fire risk assessments for complex healthcare premises.

The forum highlighted the need for continued collaboration to ensure patient safety and compliance with evolving fire safety regulations.

Regulatory changes and the impact on NHS fire safety

The panel addressed the complexities of testing, installing, and maintaining doorsets in NHS buildings while ensuring compliance with updated regulations.

Mazin Daoud discussed the importance of adhering to HTM 05-03 part K, which was revised in 2024.

He stated: “People need to understand that non-compliant doorsets are a business continuity concern, and in the NHS business continuity is treatment continuity; potentially a life safety issue.

“You simply can’t treat patients if an area has been badly affected or destroyed by fire.”

He also emphasised that maintenance protocols should be risk-based, considering factors such as patient dependency, frequency of use, and potential impact damage.

Challenges in implementing fire risk assessments

Delegates raised concerns about the requirement for primary and secondary risk assessments and the difficulties NHS Trusts face in ensuring fire risk assessments remain up to date.

Mazin Daoud explained that primary risk assessments cover common building-wide elements such as fire alarm systems and external wall systems, while secondary risk assessments focus on specific areas requiring further scrutiny.

On the issue of enforcement, Marc Wimble noted: “While we do make assessments in line with the current regulations, we understand the challenges for estates teams, and we will work with NHS colleagues to ensure they know the right actions to take to maintain compliance for the long term.”

Future considerations for NHS fire safety compliance

The discussion also explored how healthcare buildings are shifting away from traditional construction methods and whether modular, stacked structures require additional fire door testing.

Stephen Hatcher highlighted the importance of staying at the forefront of design and compliance.

He said: “By sharing insights and exploring new ideas together, we can create environments that not only meet but exceed the safety standards expected.”

Russell James, Strategic Partnership Director for SDS, reflected on the success of the event: “Seeing so many at our first NHS Estates Fire Safety Forum event has highlighted just how important it is to be clear about the requirements for NHS Trusts to ensure their doorsets are specified, installed, and maintained correctly.”

NHS Estates Fire Safety Forum addresses compliance challenges for hospital doorsets: Summary

The NHS Estates Fire Safety Forum, hosted by Specialist Door Solutions on 16 January 2025, brought together over 100 fire safety professionals from NHS Trusts across the UK.

The forum addressed challenges related to hospital doorset compliance with updated regulations, including changes to Approved Document B and HTM 05-03 part K.

Speakers included representatives from the London Fire Brigade, NHS England, Golden Thread Fire Delay, and P+HS Architects.

Discussions covered primary and secondary fire risk assessments, enforcement challenges, and the impact of evolving hospital construction methods on fire safety compliance.

Panellists highlighted the need for continued collaboration to ensure compliance and patient safety.

NHS England’s Mazin Daoud stressed that non-compliant doorsets pose a business continuity risk, while LFB’s Marc Wimble stated that the fire service would support NHS estates teams in maintaining compliance.

Attendees discussed the potential need for additional fire door testing in modular healthcare buildings.

SDS confirmed plans to hold similar forums in the future.

FIA announces Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 in Dublin

by ActiveEventsFeatured NewsPassive

FIA to host Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 with ASFP and IFE

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced the Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025, set to take place on 25 March at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport.

This is the first time the FIA has partnered with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) and the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) to deliver the event.

The conference will focus on competence in active and passive fire protection amid ongoing regulatory changes.

Regulatory updates and industry standards to be discussed

The event will provide insights into regulatory developments, best practices, and advancements in training and certification.

Attendees will hear from fire safety professionals, regulators, and industry specialists through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical workshops.

Speakers will address the evolving landscape of fire safety regulations, with a particular emphasis on professional competence.

The programme aims to equip delegates with the latest knowledge to support compliance and improve fire protection strategies.

Professional development and networking opportunities

Attendees can earn four Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points by participating in the conference.

The event also provides a platform for networking and collaboration between fire safety professionals, engineers, building managers, regulators, and industry leaders.

The FIA has stated that the event will allow delegates to engage with key stakeholders and gain a better understanding of the latest technical and regulatory developments in fire safety.

Free attendance for industry professionals

The conference will run from 9:15 AM to 3:15 PM, with free entry for registered attendees.

Those interested in attending can secure their place by registering online.

The FIA has encouraged early registration due to expected high demand, highlighting the event as an opportunity for professionals to stay informed and connected within the fire safety sector.

FIA announces Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 in Dublin: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced that the Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 will take place on 25 March at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport.

The event is being organised in collaboration with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) and the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).

The conference will focus on competence in active and passive fire protection, with keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical workshops covering regulatory changes, best practices, and training developments.

Attendees can earn four CPD points.

Industry professionals, including fire safety consultants, engineers, building managers, regulators, and business leaders, are invited to attend free of charge.

The conference will run from 9:15 AM to 3:15 PM, with registration required.

New research on carbon monoxide exposure and detection to be discussed

by EventsFeatured NewsFire DetectionSafetyTraining

Webinar to share findings on carbon monoxide detection and alarms

The Fire Protection Research Foundation (FPRF) will host a webinar on 6 February 2025 to present new research on carbon monoxide (CO) detection and alarm systems.

The event will cover two research projects: the state of CO alarms in US homes and a review of CO alarm detection thresholds.

The discussion will include insights from a survey conducted by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and a literature review examining CO exposure risk levels for different populations.

Survey reveals gaps in carbon monoxide alarm awareness

In September 2024, the CPSC released findings from a nationwide survey on the presence and functionality of smoke and CO alarms in US households.

The Survey on Use and Functionality of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms (SCOA) in Households included in-home interviews with 1,060 households across the country between 2019 and 2024.

The results indicate that while 90% of respondents consider smoke alarms “extremely necessary,” only 66% expressed the same view about CO alarms.

Additionally, 26% of respondents stated they knew “nothing at all” about CO alarms, and only 55% reported having at least one installed.

These findings, which reflect continuing challenges in CO safety awareness, will be discussed in the webinar.

Review examines carbon monoxide exposure risks

The FPRF is conducting a separate research project that evaluates current literature on CO exposure risks and detection thresholds.

The study aims to identify potential knowledge gaps in how CO exposure levels impact different populations and provide recommendations for future research.

Traditionally, symptoms of CO poisoning have been linked to carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels in the blood.

However, recent studies challenge this correlation.

The webinar will review these findings and their implications for CO safety standards and detection methods.

Industry experts to present findings

The webinar will feature speakers from the FPRF, CPSC, and REM Risk Consultants.

Jacqueline Wilmot, research project manager at the FPRF, will discuss the organisation’s ongoing studies.

Arthur Lee, senior electrical engineer at the CPSC, will present insights from the SCOA survey.

Dr.

Michael Larrañaga and Heather Genuise from REM Risk Consultants will also contribute to discussions on CO safety research.

The event will run for 90 minutes and is scheduled for 12:30 PM Eastern Standard Time on 6 February 2025.

Fire Protection Research Foundation to present latest carbon monoxide detection studies: Summary

The Fire Protection Research Foundation will host a webinar on 6 February 2025 to present research on carbon monoxide detection and alarms.

The event will cover findings from a US Consumer Product Safety Commission survey on household CO alarms and a literature review examining CO exposure risks.

The survey, conducted between 2019 and 2024, found that while 90% of respondents viewed smoke alarms as “extremely necessary,” only 66% felt the same about CO alarms.

The study also revealed that 26% of respondents had no knowledge of CO alarms, and only 55% reported having one.

A separate FPRF study is evaluating CO exposure thresholds and detection standards.

Experts from the FPRF, CPSC, and REM Risk Consultants will present their findings in the webinar, which will take place at 12:30 PM Eastern Standard Time.

FireAid benefit concert raises funds for wildfire relief in Los Angeles

by EventsFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Stars perform at FireAid to support wildfire victims

FireAid took place in Los Angeles on Thursday, with artists including Billie Eilish, Pink, Katy Perry, Nirvana, and Dr Dre performing to raise funds for wildfire relief efforts.

The benefit concert aimed to support recovery from the Palisades and Eaton fires, two of the largest wildfires in the city’s history.

The event was held simultaneously at the Kia Forum and Intuit Dome, with an online stream alternating between the two venues.

Billy Crystal, who lost his home in the fires, opened the concert at the Kia Forum, saying: “You’ll be hearing from a number of people who were tragically affected by these fires, and I was one of them.”

California artists highlight local impact

Several artists at the event have ties to California.

Katy Perry, a native of the state, performed with a California flag while singing “California Gurls.”

Dr Dre also referenced his connection to the region, performing “California Love” and expressing gratitude: “I appreciate all the first responders and all the firemen who put their lives on the line.”

Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac dedicated her performance of “Landslide” to firefighters, recounting how they saved her home from destruction.

“I was a full-on Pacific Palisadean woman with an old, beautiful, famous house that was almost taken from me,” she said.

Donations and contributions for fire relief

The concert raised funds through ticket sales and donations.

Crystal announced that U2 donated $1 million, while Connie and Steve Ballmer pledged to match all donations made during the event.

Funds will be managed by the Annenberg Foundation to assist with short-term relief efforts and long-term fire prevention.

Viewers were encouraged to donate through FireAidLA.org or via text message.

FireAid concludes with major performances

The event featured a mix of rock, pop, and hip-hop performances.

Nirvana’s remaining members reunited, performing with St Vincent and Kim Gordon.

Olivia Rodrigo performed “Deja Vu,” referencing her experiences in Los Angeles.

Lady Gaga closed the event with “Shallow” and a new song written specifically for the night.

At least 29 people died in the January fires, with more than 16,000 homes and businesses destroyed.

The Palisades and Eaton fires were exacerbated by strong winds, spreading embers that ignited entire communities.

FireAid aimed to provide relief to those affected and support rebuilding efforts.

FireAid benefit concert raises funds for wildfire relief in Los Angeles: Summary

FireAid was held in Los Angeles to raise funds for wildfire recovery efforts following the Palisades and Eaton fires.

The event featured performances from over 20 artists, including Billie Eilish, Pink, Katy Perry, and Nirvana, with simultaneous concerts at the Kia Forum and Intuit Dome.

Billy Crystal, who lost his home in the fires, opened the event.

Artists with ties to California, such as Katy Perry and Dr Dre, highlighted the local impact of the wildfires.

Stevie Nicks dedicated a performance to the firefighters who saved her home.

The concert raised funds through donations and ticket sales, with U2 contributing $1 million.

The Annenberg Foundation will oversee fund distribution for immediate relief and fire prevention projects.

The event concluded with performances from Olivia Rodrigo, Nirvana, and Lady Gaga.

The fires, which began on 7 January, destroyed more than 16,000 homes and businesses, leading to ongoing recovery