Finalists Announced for the Women in Fire Safety Awards

by Breaking NewsEvents

The Women in Fire Safety Awards has unveiled its line-up of finalists for the upcoming awards ceremony, celebrating women who have made significant contributions to the field of fire safety.

Set to be hosted at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in London on Thursday, 28th September 2023, the event aims to recognise the outstanding achievements of women within the fire safety community.

The awards seek to address the historical gender imbalance in the industry and to spotlight women who have remarkably improved fire safety standards.

Honouring excellence in fire safety

The awards are divided into several categories, reflecting a broad spectrum of achievements. Among the finalists for Woman of the Year are luminaries like Paula Johnston of Luminate Education Group and Mary Freer of Honeywell.

Lifetime Achievement Award finalists include Michelle Agius of Eurotech Fire Systems Ltd and Tracy Kirk of Hochiki Europe, showcasing women who have devoted their lives to enhancing fire safety.

Encouraging the next generation

Co-founded by Chloe Vickery and Kate Blake, both veterans in the industry, the Women in Fire Safety Awards not only honours established professionals but also strives to inspire the next generation.

The Rising Star Award, for instance, has recognised young talents like Michelle Baah of Chubb Fire & Security UK & Ireland and Annie Flores of Hydrock.

Chloe Vickery, with her extensive background in fire safety solutions and risk assessment, and Kate Blake, a dedicated Performance Coach, have both championed the cause of increasing women’s participation in what has historically been a male-dominated field.

A varied and rewarding Industry

The awards also aim to demonstrate the diverse opportunities within the fire safety industry, with categories such as Training Providers of the Year, Administrator of the Year and Diversity Champion.

Among the businesses and individuals who have been recognised in these categories are The Fire Protection Association, Clare Barker, and the Arup Fire Team, respectively.

The shortlists

Woman of the Year

  • Paula Johnston of Luminate Education Group
  • Rachel Dobson of Ashton Fire Limited
  • Catriona Reid of Hoare Lea
  • Lisa Hendricks of Assent Building Control Ltd
  • Mary Freer of Honeywell

Lifetime Achievement Award

  • Michelle Agius of Eurotech Fire Systems Ltd
  • Tracy Kirk of Hochiki Europe
  • Joanna Strickland BA (Hons) of CPG UK

International Woman of the Year

  • Marzena Maj
  • Anuška Smotlak
  • Sara Phillips

Rising Star Award

  • Stephanie Price of Fire Safe Global Ltd
  • Mary Button of Delta Fire Engineering Ltd
  • Grete Wilson of Arup
  • Gitana Grudyte of OFR Consultants
  • Rachel Magnanon of Ashton Fire Limited
  • Michelle Baah of Chubb Fire & Security UK & Ireland
  • Annie Flores of Hydrock

Fire Service Award

  • Lola Quinn BSc (Hons)
  • Sophie Morley
  • Jenni Seex

Influencer of the Year

  • Stephanie Rampton MIFSM TIFireE
  • Nicky Venables IRMCert ILMCert MIConstM
  • Helen Buchan

Fire Safety Manager of the Year

  • Laura Smith MSc MIFSM of Gentoo Group
  • Stephanie Lloyd-Foxe MBA MCMI MSc MCIArb of Magna Housing Ltd
  • Sherrie Wheeler

Training Provider of the Year

  • The Fire Protection Association
  • Nullifire
  • Clare Barker

Business Manager of the Year

  • Sophie Mogford-Revess of LGM Products
  • Shila Dharma of Kiwa Fire Safety Compliance
  • Helen Buckley of OFR Consultants

Administrator of the Year

  • Jodi Lovell of Magna Housing Ltd
  • Victoria Paisley of Trigon Fire Safety
  • Michele Buckley of Hydrock
  • Diana Cristin of Orama
  • Gina Isaacs of Hoare Lea
  • Fiona McGregor of Eurotech Fire Systems Ltd
  • Louise Mignano of Network Homes

Recruiter of the Year

  • Lauren Bellini of Mears Group PLC
  • Lauren Cooper of Cento
  • Tina Iacono of Design Fire Consultants

Diversity Champion

  • Lisa Farnell
  • Arup Fire Team
  • Gemma Grant

IFSJ Comment

The Women in Fire Safety Awards ceremony is a landmark event in promoting a more progressive and inclusive fire safety industry.

By honouring those who have led the way and encouraging new entrants, the awards look to pave the path towards a more balanced and enriched field of professionals dedicated to protecting lives and properties from fire hazards.

For more information about the awards or to view the complete list of finalists, visit the official Women in Fire Safety Awards website.

Wildfire protection products to be showcased by Silvflame in live demonstration

by AmericasEventsFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Silvflame Ltd, a trailblazer in wildfire protection technology, has announced an upcoming live fire demonstration event to take place at The Fire Service College in Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire.

Scheduled for Thursday, 18th April 2024, from 12 pm to 3 pm, the event is set to highlight the company’s latest advancements in wildfire containment and protection.

Wildfire protection products on display

Under the guidance of Silvflame’s Director, Jon Silvester, and in partnership with wildfire specialist Andy Elliott, attendees will have an opportunity to witness first-hand a series of cutting-edge products designed to protect against the devastating effects of wildfires.

The products to be displayed include:

  • Wildfire containment system
  • Critical infrastructure protection systems
  • Agricultural land protection
  • Populated area protection
  • Evacuation system

There will be also be a training VR simulator that people can use on where they can deploy the fire protection system themselves.

These solutions are developed with the aim of containing wildfires within a smaller area, allowing for quicker extinguishing and protecting lives, homes, land, and vital infrastructures.

Event networking

Following the demonstration, attendees are invited to an informal talk by Silvester, where he will discuss the products in detail and share insights about their potential impact on wildfire protection. The event will also provide a glimpse into future products such as Wildfire Suppression Systems and Vehicle Protection products.

Silvester expressed his excitement about working with industry specialists and highlighted the potential of Silvflame’s products to “save forests, homes, vital infrastructures, land, livestock, money, vehicles, and most importantly, lives.”

The event is free to attend, and on-site accommodation is available. Those interested in attending can register through the Silvflame Ltd website.

IFSJ Comment

Silvflame Ltd’s commitment to developing innovative solutions for wildfire containment and prevention reflects a growing concern about the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires globally.

Their work promises to be a significant step forward in protecting communities and natural resources from the destructive power of wildfires.

For more information or to register for the event, visit www.silvflameltd.co.uk or contact silvflameevent@gmail.com.

Programme highlights announced for IFE FIRE Conference 2023

by EventsFeatured News

Leading the future of fire safety

FIRE Conference 2023 brings together experts and industry leaders

Details on keynote speakers, workshops, and ticket options for the FIRE Conference revealed

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced the programme highlights for the eagerly anticipated FIRE conference 2023, set to make a return on Tuesday 17th October at the Institution of Engineering and Technology in London.

Following the success of last year’s conference with over 400 delegates in attendance, the event will feature a mix of in-person and online presentations and workshops.

The theme for 2023 will be ‘leading the future of fire safety,’ with a focus on sustainability and new legislation.

This year’s conference will be chaired by broadcaster Sima Kotecha.

Among the keynote speakers and workshop highlights are:

  • Keynotes:
    • Adopting a human-centred response to tragedy – lessons from Grenfell:
      • Danny Friedman KC of Matrix Chambers will discuss the learnings from the response to the Grenfell Tower fire and the subsequent inquiry, including the need for a system that “places human dignity at its core and removes discrimination.”
    • Building Safety Regulator updates:
      • An update on the Building Safety Act and its reception so far in England, led by a government representative.
    • A ministerial plenary:
      • Subject to confirmation, an MP will provide updates from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).
    • Enforcement – who is responsible now?
      • An overview of changes in enforcement due to new legislation.
    • The future of fire risk assessors:
      • Steve Hamm, IFE CEO, will discuss the future of fire risk assessment.
  • Workshops:
    • Legal and contractual responsibilities.
    • The long-term health of firefighters.
    • Utilising new technologies – the future of training.
    • National regulator for construction products and the future of fire testing, featuring speakers like Chris Miles, Commercial Director, FPA, and Peter Caplehorn, CEO, Construction Products Association.
    • Tackling fire safety in batteries.

The event will welcome both physical and virtual attendees, with ticket options ranging from £125.00 plus VAT for virtual attendance to £275.00 plus VAT for non-member and commercial organisations wishing to attend in person.

Further details on sessions and speakers will be released as they are confirmed.

IFSJ Comment

The announcement of the programme highlights for the FIRE conference 2023 underlines the ongoing commitment of the fire safety industry to address pressing issues such as sustainability, new legislation, and technological advances.

The inclusion of key figures from across the industry, government, and related sectors adds to the significance of this event in shaping the future of fire safety in the UK and beyond.

About the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE)

The Institution of Fire Engineers is a global organisation that supports the fire prevention and firefighting communities, promoting best practices and supporting fire professionals’ development.

By providing training, conferences, and resources, the IFE plays a pivotal role in enhancing fire safety and response across industries and governments. For more information, please visit their official website.

NFPA launches call for papers for 2024 conference

by AmericasEventsFeatured NewsResearch

A call for dynamic presentations for the upcoming event in Orlando

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is set to host its annual Conference and Expo from June 17-19, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. For a more detailed overview of the event, you can visit their official call for proposals page.

To ensure the event is both engaging and informative, the NFPA is extending a ‘call for papers’ and seeking speakers with a deep passion for fire, electrical, and life safety.

Characteristics of the ideal speaker

The NFPA is seeking proposals from experts in their respective fields who can present interactive and dynamic talks.

Speakers who are capable of delivering content that’s accessible to attendees regardless of their experience level are highly encouraged to participate.

Call for papers: Real-life examples and participative discussions

The NFPA highlighted that presentations enriched with relevant case studies, real-life experiences or specific examples will be appreciated.

They also urged speakers to create an environment that encourages audience participation and open dialogue.

They emphasised the importance of presentations demonstrating how different perspectives can impact and influence outcomes.

However, they stressed that the primary motivation for presenting should be educational rather than promotional.

Speakers with the ability to meet deadlines are also in high demand. More details about the 2023 conference can be found at this link.

IFSJ Comment

The International Fire & Safety Journal appreciates NFPA’s commitment to fostering a broad exchange of ideas at their annual conference.

The call for papers from a diverse range of experts serves to enrich the discussions and ensure a holistic approach to safety measures.

We encourage our readers to consider contributing and participating in this notable event.

About NFPA

The National Fire Protection Association is a global self-funded nonprofit organisation, established in 1896. It’s dedicated to eliminating death, injury, property, and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.

The association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach and advocacy.

Perimeter Solutions launches ‘Know Your Foam’ training to bridge firefighting foam knowledge gap

by AmericasEventsFeatured NewsFire SuppressionTraining

Complimentary training sessions initiated to enhance understanding and efficient use of firefighting foam

Perimeter Solutions, a globally renowned producer of firefighting products and lubricant additives, has embarked on a mission to train fire departments and various other fire management organisations across the United States on the use of Class A and Class B firefighting foam.

The ‘Know Your Foam’ course, provided free of charge, spans four hours and delivers both theoretical and practical training to firefighters on the correct usage of firefighting foam.

Bridging the foam knowledge gap

According to Norbe Puroll, the ‘Know Your Foam’ program leader at Perimeter Solutions: “Right now, there is a knowledge gap among firefighters about the use of foam and the advantages it introduces to firefighting when compared with exclusively using water to battle a fire.”

During the session, participants are shown how to correctly apply firefighting foam, a resource that enhances the overall efficacy of water in firefighting by hastening heat reduction and minimising the probability of a fire reigniting.

Puroll further elucidated: “Quicker extinguishment time helps lower the chance of a firefighter injury, creates less water damage, and improves the chance of saving any potentially trapped residents.

“This also reduces fuel cost and decreases the wear and tear on trucks that are no longer required to remain onsite as long.”

Highlighting foam’s effectiveness and resource conservation

Perimeter Solutions uses the Los Angeles County Fire Department Palmdale Study to illustrate foam’s superior performance.

The study found that the water needed to extinguish a specific Class A fire fell from 73 gallons to 44 gallons with the addition of foam.

Incorporation of compressed air foam further cut down the requirement to just 16 gallons.

Additionally, using foam reduced the cooling time of a fire from 600° F to 200° F from six minutes to a mere one minute and 45 seconds, significantly increasing survivable space for both firefighters and occupants.

Practical benefits of ‘Know Your Foam’ sessions

Attendees of the ‘Know Your Foam’ session receive instructions on using manual eductors and foam injection systems and gain knowledge on how foam can be employed with their existing equipment.

Furthermore, they receive tips on in-house maintenance for ensuring their equipment is always ready, and insights derived from years of experience using firefighting foam.

The training also covers the proper usage of different suppressant agents including Class A and B, wet water, air/ground applied retardants, and gels.

A special focus is laid on the usage of newer fluorine-free Class B foams, a subject of growing interest among fire management organisations required to use MIL-SPEC products.

“We need to reinforce good foam application tactics as the way you suppress flames with Class B fluorine-free foams when used on flammable liquids. Firefighters who completed foam training even as recently as two years ago will learn something new by attending a ‘Know Your Foam’ session,” Puroll added.

IFSJ Comment

This move by Perimeter Solutions is significant news in the firefighting community. Improving the understanding and application of foam can drastically enhance firefighting efficiency, reduce the resources required, and contribute to the safety of firefighters and the public.

This initiative aligns with our commitment to promote knowledge sharing and the use of advanced technologies for improving firefighting outcomes.

About Perimeter Solutions

Perimeter Solutions is a leading global manufacturer of high-quality firefighting products and lubricant additives. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, the company operates as an industry leader, providing advanced chemical solutions that drive performance and protection capabilities for customers across the globe.

FIA announces upcoming ‘fire summit’ and trade mission in Cyprus

by EventsFeatured News

In a move destined to shape the future of the fire safety industry, the Fire Industry Association (FIA) has recently announced its upcoming trade mission in Cyprus, scheduled for Thursday 19th October.

The ‘fire summit’: a crucial gathering of industry experts

This trade mission is not just a visit but is centred around a one-day conference dubbed the ‘fire summit’, complete with an FIM Expo-style exhibition.

Key discussions will revolve around important issues prevalent in the fire industry. These topics range from the significance of competence and best practices for high rise buildings, to problems facing the Cypriot Fire Rescue Service and future prospects of the fire industry.

As part of the summit, FIA UK will offer accredited keynote presentations accompanied by panel discussions.

FIA’s proactive approach towards enhancing the Cypriot fire industry

What prompted this summit in Cyprus? It was the result of numerous inquiries from companies within the Cypriot fire industry aiming to enhance professionalism across several domains. Over the past two years, FIA has been discussing how they could aid as a non-profit organisation in crucial areas such as training, creating guidance documents and defining competency for companies, individuals, and products. These talks have finally led to the establishment of a standalone branch in Cyprus, run by Cypriots for Cypriots.

The ‘fire summit’ as a platform for fostering UK-Cypriot collaborations

The ‘fire summit’ aims to formally introduce FIA Cyprus, providing an optimal opportunity for FIA UK members to connect with the Cypriot fire safety market. This includes interaction with Cypriot Government officials, Cypriot fire safety companies, and other key stakeholders.

The intention to enhance the industry is apparent, from the Government to key stakeholders and businesses.

This aspiration creates an avenue for UK and Cypriot companies to exchange knowledge on guidance and solutions.

To pave the way for stronger ties between the UK and Cypriot fire industries, the FIA has invested two months in preparatory work in Cyprus.

The mission is scheduled to be held at the State Fair Exhibition Centre in Nicosia, from 09:00 to 15:30. The price for attending is £1500, excluding flights, accommodation, and expenses.

Broad participation and the wealth of opportunities at the ‘fire summit’

The upcoming ‘fire summit’ is expected to draw participants from various sectors including the fire safety industry, fire and rescue services, security, construction, hotels, universities, government bodies, politicians, utilities, standards organisations, and insurance.

The event promises unique opportunities for attendees to access new markets, network with local businesses, industry leaders, and government officials, and showcase their products and services to a targeted audience.

Moreover, it offers a platform for knowledge exchange about the Cypriot market, industry trends, and local business practices. Attendees can also gain access to government officials and the British High Commission for guidance and potential funding programs.

Interested parties are advised to secure their bookings by 31st July 2023 as spaces are limited and offered on a first-come-first-serve basis. For any inquiries, FIA can be reached at events@fia.uk.com.

IFSJ Comment

This announcement is of great significance as it underlines the potential for industry growth and international collaboration within the fire safety sector.

By strengthening the ties between the UK and Cyprus, this trade mission could open new avenues for exchange and growth, benefiting the fire industry on a global scale.

About FIA

The FIA, or the Fire Industry Association, is a not-for-profit trade association with the aim of promoting the professional status of the UK fire safety industry.

The association offers a wide range of services including training, technical support, and updates on legislation, helping members to stay informed and competitive in the industry.

The FIA is committed to shaping legislation and professional standards in the fire industry, and this mission to Cyprus underscores its dedication to international collaboration and industry advancement.

Fire Industry Association set to inaugurate new Northwich facility

by EventsFeatured News

Fire Industry Association’s planned expansion with a new centre of excellence in Northwich

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) is poised to officially open its new Northwich facility. This upcoming event was highlighted in a recent announcement made by the FIA.

In addition to the FIA’s existing Hampton office, the Northwich facility is expected to become a national centre of excellence for fire safety.

FIA Northwich: A prospective boost for enhanced fire safety and a northern hub for members

The Northwich facility is strategically planned to cater to a wide range of activities, including fire safety training and hosting industry events.

The state-of-the-art facility is set to serve as a northern hub for FIA members and others in the industry.

What to expect from the official opening event of the FIA Northwich facility

The official opening event is scheduled for the 13th of September 2023.

The planned agenda includes presentations, a ribbon cutting ceremony, and building tours conducted by FIA staff.

During the presentations, Sir Ken Knight will introduce the event and FIA CEO Ian Moore will address the current state of the UK fire industry.

Moore is expected to assert: “FIA Northwich will enhance opportunities to raise the bar of professionalism across the fire safety industry.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with influential figures in the fire industry and learn more about the aims and offerings of the FIA Northwich.

The event is expected to be attended by FIA member representatives, Fire and Rescue Service, National Fire Chiefs Council, DIT – UKDSE’s Mike Dayson, government officials (local and national), among other VIPs.

The anticipated significance of the FIA Northwich facility

The FIA Northwich facility is more than a building; it is a physical embodiment of the FIA’s commitment to enhancing fire safety and professionalism in the industry.

Guests will have the chance to tour the facility, witness live demos, and see examples of member’s fire alarm products.

Being part of the official opening will allow attendees to fully appreciate the extent of resources available at this centre of excellence.

IFSJ Comment

This upcoming development in the fire safety industry signals the FIA’s ongoing commitment to driving up standards and providing excellent training and resources.

With this new facility, fire safety professionals in the north will soon have a dedicated hub to foster growth, innovation, and collaboration in the industry.

About the Fire Industry Association (FIA):

The FIA is a leading trade association with a firm focus on promoting professional standards in the UK fire safety industry.

The anticipated opening of the Northwich facility underscores the association’s commitment to fostering excellence and enhancing the level of professionalism across the industry.

IFSJ Announces Media Partnership with Antarctic Fire Angels

by Breaking NewsEvents

A Trailblazing Expedition with Antarctic Fire Angels

International Fire & Safety Journal is proud to officially announce its media partnership with the Antarctic Fire Angels, an extraordinary team of female firefighters from the United Kingdom, who are preparing for an unprecedented expedition.

The team’s mission, set for November 2023, is to traverse the challenging landscapes of Antarctica to reach the South Pole.

The Angels’ venture will cover an impressive distance of 1,130 km, a journey undertaken entirely unsupported and unassisted.

The team will face temperatures as low as -50°C and potential wind speeds of over 60 mph while pulling 85+ kg pulks, or supply sleds.

Despite these daunting conditions, the Antarctic Fire Angels aim to complete the expedition in approximately 45 days.

This ambitious project represents a World’s First, as this challenging route has never before been tackled by an Emergency Services team.

IFSJ’s partnership with the Antarctic Fire Angels marks a significant milestone in supporting and promoting such a groundbreaking endeavor.

Antarctic Fire Angels: Changing the Narrative

The Antarctic Fire Angels team comprises three highly dedicated individuals: Georgina Gilbert, Rebecca Openshaw-Rowe, and Rebecca Hinchley, representing South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS), Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS), and Mid & West Wales Fire Service (MAWWFS) respectively.

Each member brings her unique strengths, experiences, and passion for challenging gender stereotypes to the team.

The Antarctic Fire Angels’ motto “You can’t be what you can’t see,” drives their advocacy for representation and inclusivity.

By pushing their physical and mental limits in such an exceptional expedition, they hope to inspire women and girls worldwide, emphasising that societal norms and traditional roles should not limit their aspirations.

IFSJ supports the team’s mission wholeheartedly, understanding the paramount importance of diverse representation, especially in areas predominantly occupied by men, such as the firefighting and emergency services sector.

Supporting the Emergency Services Community

The Antarctic Fire Angels’ expedition extends beyond a world-record-setting mission, promoting gender equality and embodying a deeply-rooted philanthropic spirit.

The team aims to raise £400,000 to cover essential expedition needs such as training, equipment, nutrition, advanced technology, and specialist technical support.

The team has pledged to contribute any additional funds raised to their nominated charity, the Firefighters Charity, an institution dedicated to supporting those in the emergency services sector who are living with trauma and injury, offering vital rehabilitation and recuperation services.

Beyond supporting their immediate community, the Antarctic Fire Angels are committed to other causes.

They are also allies to Mind, the mental health charity, recognising the profound mental health struggles that can arise from the demanding roles in emergency services.

They support also support Tree Sisters, an environmental organisation emphasising their dedication to the planet’s health and sustainability.

The Antarctic Fire Angels’ mission is backed by notable ambassadors who lend their voices and credibility to the cause: British broadcaster Lorraine Kelly, the presenter of ITV’s ‘Lorraine’, and retired London Fire Commissioner, Dany Cotton.

Ultimately, this mission is not just an expedition but a multi-dimensional fundraising endeavour aiming for profound societal impact. The partnership with IFSJ will help illuminate these philanthropic efforts, inspiring others to contribute to these causes.

IFSJ Comment

Duncan J. White, IFSJ Managing Editor, said: “I am delighted that we can play a small part in assisting the Antarctic Fire Angels to spread their message across the world using the global reach of the IFSJ brand.

“I have been following their progress with interest since the team launched their expedition and am extremely proud that we can make sure that their efforts don’t go unnoticed.

“We will be posting regular updates on their progress towards the South Pole on the IFSJ website and social media platforms as well covering the build-up and post expedition reaction in our print issues. The whole team at IFSJ are extremely proud of you all and wish you well on this exciting adventure.”

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey said: “The Antarctic Fire Angels embody the spirit of resilience, courage, and commitment. Their mission is not just a test of physical strength and endurance, but also a strong statement about women’s abilities in the face of the world’s most extreme conditions.

“We look forward to sharing their remarkable journey with our readers. In partnership with them, IFSJ commits to providing regular updates and insights into this awe-inspiring journey, aiming to highlight the preparation, challenges, and successes encountered by these extraordinary women.”

Find out more about the expedition and how you can support it here: https://antarcticfireangels.co.uk/

Fire Prevention Week 2023 to focus on cooking safety

by AmericasEventsFeatured NewsSafety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for over a century, has revealed its theme for the 2023 event

Spanning October 8-14, the theme for Fire Prevention Week 2023 is ‘Cooking safety starts with you! Pay attention to fire prevention’ the NFPA has announced.

The campaign intends to educate the public on straightforward but crucial steps they can take to reduce fire risks while cooking at home, thereby ensuring their safety and the safety of those around them.

Unveiling the theme of Fire Prevention Week 2023

According to NFPA, cooking is the main cause of home fires. Nearly half, precisely 49 percent, of all home fires involve cooking equipment.

Additionally, cooking tops the list of home fire injuries. Unattended cooking stands out as the leading cause of home cooking fires and related fatalities.

NFPA data illustrates that cooking is the sole major cause of fire that led to more fires and fire-related deaths between 2014-2018 than in the period of 1980-1984.

Increasing public awareness of cooking hazards

“These numbers tell us that more public awareness is needed around when and where cooking hazards exist, along with ways to prevent them,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of the Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA.

Carli noted: “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign will work to promote tips, guidelines, and recommendations that can help significantly reduce the risk of having a cooking fire.”

Several cooking safety messages support this year’s theme. These include close monitoring of cooking activities, especially for foods with longer cooking times. Setting a timer can aid in careful observation.

Clearing the cooking area of combustible items is crucial. Items that can burn, like dish towels, oven mitts, food packaging, and paper towels, should be kept away.

Moreover, turning pot handles towards the back of the stove and keeping a lid nearby is recommended.

In case a small grease fire starts, sliding the lid over the pan and turning off the burner can help.

Finally, creating a “kid and pet free zone” of at least one meter around the cooking area and other areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried, is advised.

Fire Prevention Week is commemorated throughout North America every October. Being the oldest public health observance on record in the U.S., this year marks its 101st year.

Fire Prevention Week aims to educate people about the leading risks of home fires and the ways they can better protect themselves and their loved ones.

Local fire departments, schools, and community organisations play an instrumental role in enlivening Fire Prevention Week in their communities each year and disseminating crucial fire safety messages.

To learn more about Fire Prevention Week and this year’s theme, please visit the official site. Additional resources for children, caregivers, and educators can be found here http://www.sparkyschoolhouse.organd here.

IFSJ Comment

This year’s theme underscores the importance of maintaining cooking safety to prevent home fires. It serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by everyday activities like cooking.

Fire Prevention Week is an opportunity to renew our commitment to fire safety and prevention and share this vital information with our communities.

ASFP to host informative seminar focusing on construction changes in Scotland

by EventsFeatured NewsPassive

ASFP brings together industry leaders for a comprehensive construction seminar in Scotland

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) is set to host a continuing professional development (CPD) seminar at the University of Stirling on the 19 of July, 2023.

Details of the event can be found at this link.

The seminar will gather a selection of experts from ASFP as well as guest speakers.

The main topic of discussion will be ‘The Need for Change in Construction – Competence / Compliance / Culture’.

Insight into construction changes from ASFP and guest speakers

The day will commence at 9am.

The opening speech will be given by ASFP’s Managing Director, Mike Ward, and Vice Chair Sharon McClure, who is also the Operations Director at Avesta Scotland.

Next, David O’Reilly, the ASFP Ireland Operations Officer, will share how the ASFP has played a key role in enhancing passive fire protection standards in Ireland.

Technical Officer of the ASFP, Dr Andrew Taylor, will then offer an update on fire safety regulation in England and pave the way for guest speakers concentrating on Scottish regulations.

Key figures in Scottish construction and building standards will also contribute to the discussion.

Stephen Garvin, the Head of Building Standards Division from the Scottish Government, will elaborate on the efforts of the Building and Fire Safety Ministerial Working Group and the Building Standards Future Board.

Alan McAulay, the Building Standards Hub Director, will proceed to provide an overview of the Building Standards Hub and its crucial role in advancing the building standards system in Scotland.

Opportunities for interactive participation and CPD accreditation

Following a break for lunch and an opportunity for networking with exhibitors, the seminar will continue with a panel discussion in the afternoon.

Here, all speakers will address questions from attendees.

Furthermore, the interactive session will be live-streamed, allowing delegates worldwide to participate.

The event is scheduled to conclude at 2.40pm.

Attendees present at the venue will be awarded 2 hours of CPD accreditation.

Those interested in attending the event or the webinar can book their spot here.

About ASFP

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) is a UK-based organisation committed to the protection of life, property, and the environment. ASFP collaborates with government and key stakeholders to promote continuous improvement in fire protection systems and solutions.

IFSJ Comment

This event presents an important opportunity for industry professionals to engage in meaningful dialogue around competence, compliance, and culture in construction.

With expert insights from both ASFP and special guest speakers, attendees will have the chance to broaden their understanding of the evolving landscape of fire safety regulations in England, Ireland, and particularly Scotland.