Exclusive Interview: David Brown, Event Director for the Emergency Services Show

by Breaking NewsEvents

IFSJ caught up with David Brown, Event Director for the Emergency Services Show (ESS) which is set to take place at the NEC in Birmingham, UK from 21/22 September.

What is on the agenda for firefighters at ESS this year?

It’s quite simple this year: the weather. This is an issue that is not going to go away. With what has happened over the last few weeks there is going to be a focus on wildland fires and lessons learned. The industry will be re-evaluating the kit that they have been using and looking for suitable new gear for the future.

When you have sustained weather patterns like the dryness that we’ve had, it is inevitable that we are going to have potential flooding following soon. There’s a lot happening in the industry keeping fire services busy and sustainability and the environment are among the big issues affecting the sector.

What key speakers and sessions should attendees from the fire industry look out for?

There are three main seminar theatre which are all CPD accredited – Health and Wellbeing, Emerging Technologies and Lessons Learnt.

The big one that is always popular is Health and Wellbeing – Mental Health is an ongoing problem for the sector and for all the emergency services, so we’ve got a strong seminar theatre focused to support all staff.

We’re also the new main sponsor for the Control Room Awards who are hosting their awards at the show on the evening of 21 September. Control rooms are the first people who receive that 999 call and some of the work they do listening to people is very challenging and it is so important to give this area the recognition they deserve.

Other new areas of focus for the fire sector are electric vehicles and emerging technology. There are a number of electric vehicle suppliers displaying a great range of vehicles this September including ambulances and fire appliances such as Emergency One will be introducing their newest E1 EV0 fire appliance to visitors at the show.

What’s interesting with new technology is when it goes wrong. There has been a spate of lithium batteries causing fires such as those started by scooters and phones, and of course electric vehicles themselves. That’s something we’re looking at in the Lessons Learnt and Emerging Technologies seminar theatres by exploring the problems it gives the sector as well as looking at solutions to overcome them.

Ukraine has been a big area in terms of the great work Fire Aid have done in delivering vehicles and kit to Ukraine, so we’ve got a few sessions on how they dealt with logistics and how they have worked with equipment suppliers. We’re flying over a paramedic from the front line who is going to be talking about what it is like out there and the type of equipment they are desperate for.

Can you tell us about the range of exhibitors from the fire industry at the show this year?

It’s huge: it’s vehicles, clothing, IT, communications, medical, training, facilities – in fact any type of kit that is used in prevention and responding to incidents – the show has grown considerably. Our show last year was successful, but this year it’s going to be our biggest and best yet. My message to the industry is that we organised last year’s show at short notice, but the last full show was really in 2019. That’s three years ago – imagine how much technology has changed in this time and how many new companies are now in the market. If you missed last year’s show and you are serious about looking at the latest kit then make sure you come to the NEC this September because you have got so much to see.

What networking opportunities will be available at this year’s event?

The show is a great networking arena. New for this year is a health and wellbeing café which will hopefully include yoga sessions and drop in massages. There’s a networking café that we haven’t had before, we’ve introduced a VIP lounge and we’ve got the drinks reception on the Wednesday night.

We have the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) National Procurement Hub who will be hosting their September procurement meetings, and they are really interested in engaging with our exhibitors. NILO, the National Interagency Liaison Officers group will also be in attendance, and the Airport Fire Officers Association are having their AGM at the show.

We will once again have the Collaboration Zone featuring organisations from the voluntary sector who attend the scenes of major incidents, such as the Salvation Army and British Red Cross. They will be looking to discuss the capabilities they have and what they are able to assist with.

What are you most excited for as the event draws closer?

I’m genuinely excited about bringing everyone together again not only in the fire and rescue service but ambulance and police. Future Policing has grown incredibly and has a show itself within the hall so I’m excited about the way that’s going. We’ve just got a new exhibitor on board: BT Emergency Response Team who are coming to the show for the first time. They have their own firefighters and flood teams who protect their own assets as well as their own mobile communication vehicles and are offering their services to the emergency services, so they will be looking to engage with visitors.

The West Midlands Fire Service are once again running their popular regional extrication competition in the hall, which interestingly is currently being used as a competitors venue for the Commonwealth Games.

When you’re so involved in organising the event, you take everything for granted and when you take a step back like now and are asked what’s there – it’s the best and biggest show we’ve ever put on since we launched in 2006 and I believe the show now truly reflects what a fantastic sector the fire and rescue services is and the brilliant work that they do along with the other emergency services. It is truly collaboration at its best!

I know we had the show last year but we had two months’ notice to actually organise it. This time we’re back to the full year. There’s just so much hunger from equipment suppliers to get involved with this sector – the response has been phenomenal. Firefighters, decision makers, fleet managers, whoever has a say in what kit you use and buy, there has never been a better time to come to the show.

To find out more about the Emergency Service Show and register to attend, visit https://www.emergencyuk.com/

Fire Protection Research Association to host annual symposium

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The Fire Protection Research Foundation (FPRF), an affiliate of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is set to host the 24th annual Suppression, Detection and Signaling Research and Applications Symposium (SUPDET 2022) from September 13-16, 2022 at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.

Since 1997, the Research Foundation has organized the annual SUPDET conference, bringing together leading experts in the field of fire protection engineering including designers, manufacturers, installers, and AHJs, to share recent research and developments on techniques used for fire suppression, detection, and signaling. 

This year’s program features more than 25 presentations focusing on the latest topics and benefits from research related to firefighting foam, wildfire applications, advancements in the protection of high hazard commodities, first responder safety, detection advancements, smart technology, and more.

Participants can attend the full conference or choose between the two-day Suppression Program or two-day Detection and Signaling Program. 

Those interested in attending can register to join the event. More information about the conference, including proceedings from past SUPDET symposia, is available on the NFPA website.

Nominations open for ASFP’s Passive Fire Protection Awards

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The Association for Specialist Fire Protection has opened the Passive Fire Protection Industry Awards for nominations. The awards aim to highlight excellence in passive fire protection (PFP) and to reward those who contribute to the advancement of awareness, quality and education within the sector.

The 2022 Awards have been increased to a total of nine, with the addition of new awards for Best Customer Service; Best Marketing Campaign; and Highest Engagement of the Year. The Association’s full range of awards for the year will include:

  • Passive Fire Protection Advocate
  • Passive Fire Innovation
  • Best Installation Project
  • Lifetime Contribution
  • Training and Development
  • Individual Rising Star
  • Best Customer Service
  • Marketing Campaign
  • Highest Engagement

Nominations are now open for all awards categories and entries can be made here. The closing date for all nominations is 4th November 2022.

The winners of the 2022 ASFP Passive Fire Protection Industry Awards will be announced at an Awards dinner at the Park Regis Hotel, Birmingham on the 25th November 2022. The event will feature special guest speaker Mandy Hickson, a former Royal Air Force pilot who was one of the UK’s first female fast jet pilots.

ASFP to host building safety seminar in September

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The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced it will hold a seminar in London onMonday 5th September 2022. 

The event is scheduled to run from 10am-3pm and will be held at the Aviva Building London, 1 Undershaft, London.

Keynote speakers from across Government and the fire industry, along with ASFP passive fire protection experts, will be at the event to discuss the topic: Building Safety Act and Competency Pathway – how they will affect you?

The seminar will focus on two key areas: the Building Safety Act and the implications of subsequent secondary legislation. Discussions will also examine how competency requirements will be introduced and managed.

Planned Topics include the latest legislative changes, and amendments to product standards, including the creation of Safety Critical Product groups. There will also be suggestions on the various ways in which passive fire protection professionals can demonstrate their competency.

Apply now for Security & Fire Awards entry extension

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Due to the Summer holidays, the Security & Fire Excellence awards has agreed to extend the entry deadline for the Awards to a final entry deadline of Monday 29 August 2022 at 11.00PM – but only on receipt of a completed ‘Intention to Enter’ form.

To qualify for an entry deadline extension, entrants must complete this brief ‘Intention to Enter’ form now at: www.securityandfireawards.com/enter/entry-form/intention-enter

On receipt of a completed form, the final entry deadline will be Monday 29 August 2022 at 11.00pm.

The Fire & Security Awards 2022 will take place on Wednesday 23 November 2022 at Hilton on Park Lane.

New categories for 2022 include: Security or Fire Diversity & Inclusion Champion of the Year, Security or Fire Start Up Company of the Year, Security or Fire Sustainability Champion of the Year and Security or Fire ESG (Environment, Social & Governance) Initiative of the Year

Adam Clark, Event Director, Security & Fire Excellence Awards, said: “I very much look forward to receiving your entries ASAP and hope to see you face to face to recognise, reward and celebrate our Finalists and Winners at Hilton on Park Lane on Wednesday 23 November 2022.”

Handy tips for entering: ww.securityandfireawards.com/enter/handy-tips-entering

Follow Awards updates and tweets twitter.com/SecurityXAwards

About the Awards

Security & Fire Excellence Awards will take place on Wednesday 23 November 2022 at Hilton on Park Lane!

As an illustration of the demand for tables, even in the midst of the pandemic, the 2021 Awards sold out well before the event, so please book your tables today and secure places for all your teams.  A limited number of VIP tables are available on a first come first served basis.  The live event has now sold out every year for 7 years, so book NOW to avoid disappointment at www.securityandfireawards.com/attend/

SPONSOR

Check out the exclusive sponsorship opportunities at www.securityandfireawards.com/sponsorship-opportunities/

Rosenbauer showcases PANTHER electric at INTERSCHUTZ

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Rosenbauer is showcasing the first PANTHER 6×6 with electric driveline at Interschutz this week.

The development of the electric model follows an agreement among International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Airports Council International (ACI), and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on the goal of net zero emissions by 2050 in global aviation.

According to the ACI, some airports 100 want to be climate-neutral as early as 2030, including, for example, Amsterdam, Delhi, London City, Marseille, Rome, Vancouver and all Norwegian and Finnish airports. The ADV airports in Germany are aiming for a joint CO2 reduction of 65%, and by 2045 they want to have achieved the goal of “climate neutrality”.

The electrification of ground support (ground vehicles), which includes the fleet of ARFF vehicles, promises to be one of the biggest levers in this regard. Rosenbauer is also convinced that this measure will play a key role in the “green recovery” of airports after the Covid 19 pandemic.

Safety and performance

Airport operators and fire departments from all over the world were involved in the design of the PANTHER 6×6 electric right from the start.

Safety is also the top priority for the PANTHER electric, and there can be no compromises in performance either. Rosenbauer said it was clear from the very beginning that the PANTHER electric had to meet all global standards for ARFF vehicles and that no compromises would be made with regard to the performance of the overall system, even in purely electric operation.

According to Rosenbauer, the development of the PANTHER 6×6 electric was only made possible by the fact that drivelines, on-board networks and electrical components are now available that can also meet the high performance requirements of an ARFF vehicle.

Despite the increasing electrification in the commercial vehicle sector, the required electrical power demand proved to be a challenge.

Rosenbauer decided to create its own e-drive platform for the PANTHER electric in order to get the best out of the electric components.

The vehicle manufacturer’s development partner is Magna, one of the world’s largest automotive suppliers and mobility technology groups. Rosenbauer and Magna will further develop a scalable modular system for the PANTHER, which can be used to electrify not only the PANTHER 6×6 but also other variants in the future.

Refined design

Compared to its predecessor, the PANTHER Electric emphasizes the sheer power and permanent operational readiness of the vehicle with a somewhat more angular and aggressive front as well as clear, simply defined lines and surfaces.

It features a new lighting concept from the airfield projector lamp and the scene lighting to the rear lighting makes the PANTHER electric more visible and safer. The paintwork of the technological leader also symbolizes the transition from the last PANTHER generation, presented at Interschutz 2015, to the new one.

At the front, the PANTHER 6×6 electric is still decorated in black, similar to the trade fair vehicle at the time. From the rear, practically from the engine compartment, comes the new energy, which is expressed with the colour turquoise.

The next steps

Rosenbauer said: “The transition of the concept vehicle to series development will take place over the next two years, with sales of the PANTHER 6×6 electric starting in 2024. For the pre-series, too, Rosenbauer will cooperate with innovation partners, as it has successfully done with the RT, and will incorporate the findings from the test operations under real conditions into the development work and the set-up of series production.”

Flourine-free foam concentrate launched by Perimeter Solutions

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Perimeter Solutions, a leading global manufacturer of high-quality firefighting products and lubricant additives, has announced the launch of SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3 Multipurpose Fluorine-Free Foam Concentrate.

The launch marks Perimeter Solutions’ first 1×3 fluorine-free foam concentrate available on the market, and serves as the newest addition to the SOLBERG VERSAGARD line of fluorine-free firefighting foam concentrates.

SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3 is an alcohol resistant, fluorine-free pseudoplastic foam technology. It is non-persistent, siloxane-free, and contains no intentionally added per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The foam concentrate is designed for extinguishing and securing both Class B (hydrocarbon fuel and polar solvent fuel) and deep-seated Class A Fires. It is ideal for industrial emergency response and is expected to be used extensively at facilities that store crude oil on site.

Jeff Emery, President of Global Fire Safety at Perimeter Solutions, explained: “The fire safety industry has been seeking non-fluorinated firefighting foams capable of meeting the most demanding emergency response applications.  This is exactly what Perimeter Solutions has delivered, with our new SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3 Multipurpose Fluorine-Free Foam Concentrate. At Perimeter Solutions, we continually innovate to develop new products that are more environmentally responsible, and that help firefighters in their efforts to protect property and save lives.”

SOLBERG VERSAGARD biodegradable and non-persistent fluorine-free foam concentrate is a combination of hydrocarbon surfactants and additives that delivers excellent foaming, vapor sealing, drain time, extinguishment and burnback properties for attacking and securing both shallow and fuel in-depth fires, using fresh, sea or brackish water. It is designed to generate stable foams with high fluidity and slow drainage.

The foam is fully compatible with standard firefighting equipment, including in-line inductors, self-inducting nozzles, fire truck pumps, bladder tanks, pump skids, balanced pressure systems and more.

SOLBERG VERSAGARD enters the market having earned multiple international certifications, including EN-1568:2018, International Marine Organization and LASTFIRE batch testing.

SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3 maintains viscosity levels similar to the viscosity of traditional 1×3 alcohol-resistant aqueous film-forming foam (AR-AFFF) concentrates, improving its storage, handling and long-term stability.

“This is a game-changing product for the fire safety industry and demonstrates how Perimeter Solutions continues to innovate to develop new solutions that will help advance the fire safety industry,” commented Javier Castro, General Manager of the EMEA Region for Perimeter Solutions.

“Product testing has shown that our 1×3 foam concentrate performs similarly to AR-FFF products that are currently on the market, and several major multinationals oil companies have already signed on to consider SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3 in their transition programs to fluorine-free foam concentrates.”

For more information on SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3, go to www.perimeter-solutions.com. If you’re attending INTERSCHUTZ 2022, visit Perimeter Solutions in Stand G49, Hall 13.

INTERSCHUTZ opens its doors

by Breaking NewsEvents

INTERSCHUTZ officially opens its doors today in Hannover. Brand-new topics, innovations and a broad supporting program consisting of conferences, competitions, workshops and live training are all on show at the trade fair for fire brigades, rescue services, civil protection and safety/security which will runs until June 26.

What to expect

Against the backdrop of the current geopolitical challenges, the accompanying humanitarian crises and the increasing natural disasters caused by climate change, INTERSCHUTZ provides the urgently needed framework to engage in international discourse and jointly develop solutions to protect human lives.

“INTERSCHUTZ is more important today than ever before,” emphasized Dr. Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Managing Board of Deutsche Messe AG. More than 1,300 exhibitors from over 50 countries are looking forward to seeing their customers at the exhibition.

Parallel to INTERSCHUTZ, the German Fire Brigades Association (DFV) is organizing the 29th German Firefighters’ Day, to which the citizens of the city of Hannover and all international exhibition guests are invited. The event will kick off with a “Blue Light Mile” on Sunday in advance of the exhibition in the Hannover city center.

DFV President Karl-Heinz Banse is also looking forward to INTERSCHUTZ: “This is going to be a successful exhibition, indeed it is going to be a great 29th German Firefighters’ Day! At last, we can meet in person again, discuss technical issues, set the political course, and maintain and expand our national and international network of fire brigades. I’m really looking forward to the big events: Hannover will be the center of the firefighting world from 20 – 25 June 2022.”

Digitalization, population protection and sustainability

With the lead theme “Teams, Tactics, Technology – Connecting Protection and Rescue” , INTERSCHUTZ makes it clear where the journey is headed in the future. The digitalization of the firefighting and rescue sector is driving innovation and making a significant contribution to enabling emergency services to work even faster, more purposefully and more effectively. Visitors can get an overview of the wide range of solutions.

The first port of call on the subject of digitalisation is Hall 16: From the “digital twin” to modern communications and control center technology, it is full of innovations. The use of drones for reconnaissance flights, rescue and firefighting robots, the latest 5G applications and digital features on personal protective equipment will also be on display here and in the other halls.

“Speed, safety and quality are essential criteria for successful firefighting and rescue service operations,” said Dirk Aschenbrenner, President of the Association for the Promotion of German Fire Protection (vfdb). “Today, digitalized processes are already helping to improve operational procedures.” A look at industry and the economy gives an idea of the possibilities that can be exploited in the future to digitally optimize the emergency response system.

INTERSCHUTZ will also focus on other important topics, including civil protection. In times of increasing crisis situations, disaster management organizations are facing challenges as never before. The latest developments in robotics and the prototype of a pontoon boat at the stand of the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief show the direction in which civil protection will be heading in the future.

The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, together with numerous partners, will present the pilot project “Laboratory Care 5,000”. At the voluntary humanitarian organization Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe, rescue missions are simulated via virtual reality, making the new demands on teams visible.

Product innovations also await guests at the exhibition in the area of vehicle technology. Alternative drive systems for emergency vehicles, for example, will play a major role at INTERSCHUTZ in Hannover. The pioneer here is the global Rosenbauer Group, which will be presenting, among other things, the world’s first fully electric turntable ladder at its stand in Hall 27.

The Berlin Fire Brigade is also bringing a Rosenbauer fire truck with electric drive to Hannover. In addition, electric vehicles for emergency command or transport of injured persons will be on display at the exhibition.

These, as well as other topics, can be covered in live, hands-on training sessions for emergency personnel at INTERSCHUTZ.

Six days of excitement and information

INTERSCHUTZ highlights also include the Holmatro Rescue Challenge (Monday to Friday) and the Firefit European Championships (Monday to Saturday), in which the best international firefighters compete against one another. In full gear and with breathing protection; among other things, they will have to climb a twelve meter high tower and pull up a fire hose.

After the impact machine, participants will run through a short slalom course and then pick up a filled fire hose to extinguish a target fire. In the final sprint, the goal is to rescue an 80 kilogram dummy and carry it to the finish line. It will be interesting to see whether the world record of 1:11 minutes will be broken at INTERSCHUTZ 2022.

Things will also get exciting at the new Hackathon@INTERSCHUTZ – a competition on the topic of civil protection and disaster control (23 – 25 June). This is about who comes up with the best ideas and strategies to incorporate artificial intelligence into crisis and situation management.

Civil protection will also be the focus of the CP Symposium on 21 – 22 June. In addition, there are various presentation stages at the stands of partners and exhibitors. The central INTERSCHUTZ Forum in Hall 26 will offer visitors more than 130 presentations where they can join in the discussion.

The conference covers all important aspects of the exhibition and focuses on one topic area each day: Preventive fire protection (Monday), Civil protection and disaster management (Tuesday), Forest fires and firefighting (Wednesday), Digitalization (Thursday) and Rescue services (Friday). The conference program will be broadcast live on the web, giving interested parties who cannot be on site this year the opportunity to follow INTERSCHUTZ live with all its exciting topics.

Digital participation also includes the networking feature, which allows out-of-town visitors to connect digitally with attendees at the exhibition via the INTERSCHUTZ website.

Platform for international exchange and mutual learning

Networking and exchange is also the goal of numerous international firefighting and civil protection delegations. Globe-trotting experts from more than 15 countries, including Australia, India, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and South Korea, plan to use INTERSCHUTZ to gain an overview of the industry’s advancements and expand their network.

“INTERSCHUTZ is the industry’s Number 1 platform for international exchange,” Mr. Köckler emphasized. He is particularly looking forward to the three Partner Countries France, Italy and the USA, which will be in the spotlight from Tuesday to Thursday. Experts will report on the special features of fire protection, safety and rescue in their countries at the joint country stands and in the stage program.

Italy, for example, is one of the countries with the highest natural disaster risk. In addition to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, landslides, floods and storm surges, the country also frequently has to contend with forest fires – an issue that is increasingly becoming a challenge in Germany as well under the influence of climate change.

Help for Ukraine

In addition to the three Partner Countries, Ukraine will also be in the spotlight at this year’s INTERSCHUTZ. Many fire brigades and aid organizations are doing their best every day, not only in the country but also in neighboring countries where Ukrainian refugees have been sheltering since Russia launched its war.

INTERSCHUTZ has launched a fundraising campaign in order to make an active contribution and to support the people in Ukraine, as well as the fire brigades and rescue units based there: “We will donate one euro to the good cause for every visitor to INTERSCHUTZ,” Köckler announced.

100 percent of the donations will go to the “Firefighters Aid for Ukraine” fund organized by the German Fire Brigades Association (DFV), and the donation check will be handed over to the responsible persons on Saturday, 25 June within at the DFV Delegates Meeting.

Tickets & COVID policies

Tickets for INTERSCHUTZ can be purchased on the INTERSCHUTZ website (www.interschutz.de) or at the box offices at the entrances (North 1, West 1 and 2, South 1). Day tickets cost 24 euros, concessionary tickets are 19 euros. The season ticket for the entire duration of the fair is 54 euros. Admission is from 9 AM to 6 PM Monday to Saturday. The digital offerings (conference, networking) can be used free of charge.

There are no longer any COVID-related access restrictions to the exhibition grounds. No vaccination status is requested, nor is evidence of a negative COVID test required. In addition, there is no general requirement to wear a mask, but for personal protection, wearing a mask indoors is recommended. The specifications of the respective exhibitors apply at the exhibition stands. Masks are still compulsory on public transport.

Show Preview: INTERSCHUTZ returns to Hannover

by Breaking NewsEvents

The world’s leading trade fair of fire safety professionals is set to take place this month with over a thousand exhibitors from 50 countries and delegates from all over the world

Scheduled to take place on Hannover, Germany, seven years since it last brought the fire industry INTERSCHUTZ finally returns this month and is set to welcome fire safety professionals from across the globe. The show will feature solutions and products from industry leaders, provide answers to some of the industry’s biggest issues and offers a forum for discussion of key trends. Focussing on the future, the event is a showcase across industrial sectors and national borders.

Staged over six days, INTERSCHUTZ will provide a platform for market leaders to present their innovations and puts the focus on the lead theme: Teams, Tactics, Technology – Connected for Protection and Rescue. It is also set to be a place of action and excitement where the likes of height rescue specialists, smokejumpers and firefighters demonstrate their unique skills and all the latest kit at popular events on the open-air site.

Across the week-long event, the agenda is full of current issues and developments including: civil protection with a focus on vehicles and equipment, fire fighting and fire extinguishing technology, associations, communications and control centre solutions, security and organisational equipment, rescue services, first aid and medical equipment, personal protective equipment and fire prevention. 

For the first time, INTERSCHUTZ has  also dedicated a complete hall to the topic of digitalisation where companies and research institutions will be presenting solutions for the digital networking of systems and players.

The international trade fair will bring together stakeholders and thought leaders from trade associations, politics and industry as well as those with day-to-day operational experience. It is a show that will see business at its heart as it highlights the world’s providers of fire and rescue services, civil protection, and safety and security solutions as it shapes their business cycles.

There will be 1,000 companies from 50 countries as well as the participating associations and organisations will present the solutions for the challenges of our time. Anyone who wants to learn about the latest emergency management innovations and developments heads for Hannover when the gates open on INTERSCHUTZ.

What to expect at INTERSCHUTZ

The economic, ecological and political challenges of our times make the fair an important driver of change. The spread of global warming and the resulting natural disasters have already changed everyday life for many helpers and rescue forces – a challenge made more complex by the Coronavirus pandemic and the humanitarian emergencies caused by ongoing political conflicts.

The fire industry are among those on the front lines tackling these issues which all require new approaches and solutions. Digital technologies for the support and connectivity of key players are becoming increasingly important, which is why INTERSCHUTZ 2022 will specifically focus on digital transformation processes and so visitors can look forward to an extensive program both live on-site and online.

The lead theme of INTERSCHUTZ 2022 is: “Teams, Tactics, Technology – Connecting Protection and Rescue”. According to INTERSCHUTZ Project Manager Bernd Heinold, the trade fair is targeting two aspects that are crucial for the present and the future: the use of innovative digital solutions and cooperation between the various players and institutions.

“The keyword is connectivity at all levels,” Heinold explained during a press conference in Hannover, ahead of the fair. “Digitalisation has fundamentally changed all areas of life and continues to do so. The same is true for emergency response – from firefighters to rescue services right through to disaster responders, all over the world.”

For the first time, INTERSCHUTZ has dedicated a complete hall to the topic of digitalisation. In Hall 16, companies and research institutions will be presenting solutions for the digital networking of systems and players. New technologies are opening up myriad new preventative options and ways of coping with crises and hazards for the fire industry. Everything that happens generates data, which can be captured and cross-matched in vast quantities and used to develop key insights and analyse alternative courses of action for a whole range of requirements and situations.

As increased interconnectedness and integration goes hand in hand with increased dependence on technology infrastructures, INTERSCHUTZ will look at the best way to enable societies to deal with modern crisis situations.

Another new feature of the show is the ‘Smart Public Safety Hub’ at the center of Hall 16, where various companies will be networking under a single roof and demonstrating joint, interdisciplinary application scenarios – for example, including the use of drones to assess the situation or support rescue forces, communication between an airfield firefighting vehicle positioned in the outdoor area with the control center in the hall, or the digital description and analysis of deployment sites on a multi-dimensional scale.

At INTERSCHUTZ, it is not only the exhibitors’ solutions that are digital, but also the event formats. For the first time, visitors and exhibitors be able to experience different scenarios up close on the demonstration grounds in a combination of real and virtual displays. These may include everyday disasters as well as current or conceivable catastrophes and crises and with the help of modern media technology, the participants are integrated into the presentation.

Also new is the INTERSCHUTZ Digital Conference, which is scheduled to be broadcast from 21-23 June in the Media Factory, allowing interested parties who cannot make it to the event the opportunity to learn about the various aspects on show. Like the INTERSCHUTZ Central Forum in Hall 26, the program will cover all the major industry topics, including the electrification of emergency vehicles.

Bernd Heinold explains that, despite the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, the interest of exhibitors from Germany and abroad is extensive with more than 1,000 companies from 50 countries registered to present their products and solutions in eight halls and three pavilions, plus the outdoor area from 20 to 25 June.

However, he says the acquisition phase is far from over: “We are confident of achieving a similar result on the exhibitor side, the same as in 2015,” he said. After Germany, the top five exhibitor nations include Italy, the UK, the United States and the Netherlands. The broad international character of INTERSCHUTZ will also be demonstrated by three separate ‘Country Days’, dedicated to the neighbouring countries of France on Tuesday 21, Italy on Wednesday 22 June, and finally the US on Thursday 23 June.

What’s on the agenda

Staged over six days, INTERSCHUTZ features eye-catching exhibitions and engaging forums on the many aspects of fire fighting, rescue services, civil protection and safety and security.

Civil Protection: Disaster management mobilisations pose major logistical as well as technical challenges. Solutions for meeting those challenges – everything from tents for stay, accommodation or sanitation purposes, mobile power supply or flood protection – will be on show in the civil protection display area at INTERSCHUTZ 2022.

Fire Fighting: Fire brigades from around the globe are faced with an ever-changing set of catastrophic scenarios and major emergencies caused by natural disasters and climate change require closer interaction among the various players. INTERSCHUTZ will showcase vehicles and equipment, hardware and software as well as research and development up close and first-hand. Digital technologies and connected operations in the face of an emergency will be displayed at exhibition stands and discussed in related conferences.

Communications and Control Center Solutions: Increasing urban densification and continuously changing operational scenarios demand innovative digital solutions and seamless cooperation between all players involved. Within the new Digitisation and Transformation display sector, current and future requirements for networked solutions will be put forward and discussed.

Rescue Services: The rescue services are faced with a number of new challenges and developments, not least demographic change, telemedicine, a skills shortage, and large-scale catastrophic incidents. They are under constant pressure to scrutinize their strategic direction and to keep up to date with the latest technologies, which is why INTERSCHUTZ is so important as it will provide a comprehensive survey of the latest emergency-sector products.

Protective Equipment: The requirements for personal protective equipment are becoming more and more individual. From smart textiles to integrated communication solutions for fire protection, rescue services and civil protection, at INTERSCHUTZ there will be the entire range of PPE for all areas of application.

Fire Prevention: Modern building designs, bigger dimensions and densely built-up areas are leading to new requirements for preventive fire protection. INTERSCHUTZ covers all the relevant areas, from planning to implementation. Here you can swap ideas with specialists from around the world within the framework of this, the industry’s networking hub for preventive fire protection.

Parallel to INTERSCHUTZ, the German Fire Brigade Association (DFV) is organizing the 29th German Firefighters’ Day, which will attract many more firefighting fans to Hannover. The event is being organized under the motto ‘Safety.Life’ in cooperation with the state of Lower Saxony, the Lower Saxony Fire Brigade Association, the City of Hannover and the Hannover Fire Brigade. Immediately before INTERSCHUTZ, a blue light mile has once again been planned for downtown Hannover. There, the people of Hannover will already get in the mood on the Sunday before the fair.

Action and excitement during the trade fair will be provided by various competitions and live training courses, including, for example, the “S-Gard Safety Tour,” the “Holmatro Rescue Challenge,” and the “Firefit Championships Europe,” which will be held in Germany for the first time after the INTERSCHUTZ Community Days in the summer of 2021, will also be returning to the exhibition grounds.

All in all, visitors can look forward an extensive program of congresses, workshops, training sessions, live demonstrations and competitions in addition to the products on show in the exhibition.

Tickets for INTERSCHUTZ can already be purchased online at www.interschutz.de.

This article was originally published in the June edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Powering Up: Emergency One gears up for Interschutz 2022

by Breaking NewsEventsProductsVehicles

The UK’s largest manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles, Emergency One, is set to attend Interschutz in Hannover on 20-25 of June. The company’s Managing Director, Mike Madsen, says the team are will be showcasing its offer to new and old customers alike, gearing up to present not one but two new appliances at the show.

After a successful launch of the world’s first fully electric fire engine the E1 EV0 in 2020, Emergency One is set to introducing the newest E1 EV0 to the public at Interschutz. The new E1 EV0 is fully equipped with Alison eGen Power 100D electric axle, providing optimal performance without the emissions. Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, the E1 EV0 mark II operates on battery power for both drive and pump capabilities. An additional onboard smart charge allows the user to extend its driving range and pump duration if required.

The eGen Power 100D electric axle integrates two high-speed electric motors and a multi-speed transmission, eliminating the need for additional drive shafts and support structures, allowing it to fit neatly between the wheels and leaving critical space for battery storage. With continuous power of 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and peak output power of 738 horsepower (550 kilowatts), the eGen Power 100D is among the most powerful propulsion solutions in its class, with a design tuned for high gradeability and high-top speed without sacrificing efficiency.

This, says Madsen, ensures Emergency One’s fire and rescue trucks will continue to deliver on performance and reliability, fast acceleration, and manoeuvrability in an application where failure is not an option, and every second counts.

“We are proud that the Emergency One E1 EV0 (Electric Vehicle, Zero Emissions) is the World’s first all-electric pumping appliance fully certified to BS EN1846 standard,” says Madsen. “The EV0 exceeds the standard’s requirements for driving range and pumping performance at zero emissions, whilst the optional onboard smart charger provides resilience at protracted incidents.”

The latest generation of the EV0 was recently purchased by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) as it pledged to move towards more sustainable practices. The EV0 as specified for SFRS carries the same inventory as a traditional pumping appliance, is one of the first of its kind in the UK and is the first to feature an all-electric rear drive axle installation.

SFRS has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint along with many fire services globally, which proves to be beneficial as it is estimated that an electric appliance will reduce emissions by 66% compared with a diesel appliance. For comparison, a diesel engine appliance will omit around 10.79KgCO2e over a typical distance of six miles whilst an equivalent electric powered appliance will omit 3.46KgCO2e over the same journey.

Making a Splash

Emergency one’s new E1-Manticore range of appliances will also be present at Interschutz and mark the vehicle range’s first public appearance. Designed and manufactured for airport and industrial use, the ARFF appliances are available in 4×4, 6×6 and 8×8 configurations, all of which are manufactured to meet the requirements of NFPA414 and the relevant ICAO standards for the vehicle size and type. The range comes with the option for a full High Reach Extendable Turret packaging in either 16m or 20m iterations and boasts the largest cab in its class.

The Scania DC16 power-plants propelling the vehicles ensure that the vehicle type is one of the fastest in its class and are available in several Euro Emissions Standards to meet our customers’ requirements globally. The E1 Manticore is also available with the E1 EV0 technology coupling it with the Scania DC16 power-plant in a hybrid parallel drive solution, producing over 1000bhp.

The 6×6 configuration is the most popular size and is armed with a 12,500 litre water tank, 1500 litre foam tank, an 8000 litre per minute water pump which feeds a 6000 lire per minute joystick controlled roof monitor as well as a 2000 litre per minute bumper monitor. The vehicle locker and can layouts are completely configurable to meet the end user’s requirements.

International expansion

Emergency One are the largest manufacturer of fire and rescue appliances in the UK and are now expanding further into international markets. Incorporating Clan Tools and Plant Ltd (who supply Fire and Rescue operational equipment), Madsen says that Emergency One Group prides itself in creating the best possible experience for customers, with each vehicle being tailored to suit individual needs and requirements.

As well as being able to supply electric and airport firefighting appliances, Emergency One also produce an extensive range of vehicles from light, medium and super tenders; aerials and turntable ladders, command and control and a variety of special builds.

Beyond fire and rescue appliances, with innovation at the heart of the business, Emergency One also has bespoke design technology solutions such as e1Fleet, ePumpcontrol, eCabControl and eCleanCab.

e1Fleet is the manufacturer’s optional data-logging which unit allows users to connect via the Internet to all e1fleet-enabled Fire appliances, showing the current position and operational status of the fire appliance in real-time.

ePumpControl features nine or 13 freely programmable back-lit function keys, where each switch can be allocated various functions, such as a pre-set pump pressure (either High or Low Pressure), PTO engagement, valve operation (or any other system control) etc. With one touch of a switch the pump can be operating (and regulating) at any given level.

eCabControl features nine freely programmable back-lit function keys. Each switch can be allocated various functions, including all E-1 controlled systems. Graphical display of all safety related functions.

And eCleanCab is the HEPA Filtration System which can be fitted into any crew cab with hassle free installation. Removing at least 99.97% of airborne particulates, the eCleanCab is the perfect solution to providing clean air.

Going global

Since the launch of the E1 EV0 back in October 2020, Emergency One has seen an increase in export sales, ranging from North America, Malta, New Zealand and most recently France. Recent developments include providing REV Fire Group with electrical vehicle solutions as their technology partners in order to help bring American style electric fire trucks into the market. REV Fire Group which consists of E-ONE, KME, Ferrara, Spartan Fire Chassis, Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal and Ladder Tower presented the first North American-style fully electric fire truck during the Fire Department Instructors Conference in Indianapolis in April 2022. Madsen says this first vehicle marks the start of what will hopefully be a long term partnership, with many more builds to come.

Emergency One also recently secured an export contract for Electric Fire Appliances into Hérault Fire Service, France. Commenting on this news, Scottish Government Minister for Business Ivan McKee says: “Businesses such as Emergency One are using their expertise and ingenuity to unlock this potential. The new relationship with Hérault Fire Services has been secured against international competition and positions the company as a global leader in the sector. We congratulate Emergency One, wish it well and are delighted to support its efforts through the team at Scottish Enterprise.”

Madsen says: “Not only is the electric route safer for the environment but also the firefighters themselves and we are proud of the technology and progress to market of the E1 EV0 the world’s first fully electric fire appliance that highlights Scottish innovation.”

And on Interschutz he adds: “With the increase in natural disasters, political disagreements as a result of the Russian war against Ukraine and recovery from the corona virus pandemic, now more than ever it’s important for participants and attendees to come together and find solutions for the challenges of our time.”

Emergency One will be on stand R54 at the Interschutz trade fair in Hannover.

This article was originally published in the June edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.