UAFA Annual Conference 2025 to take place in Boise, Idaho

Industry leaders to convene for aerial firefighting discussions at UAFA Annual Conference

The United Aerial Fighters Association (UAFA) has announced the 2025 UAFA Annual Conference, scheduled to take place from 18-20 November in Boise, Idaho.

The event is designed for professionals in aerial firefighting, bringing together industry leaders, executives, innovators, and government officials.

Attendees will engage in discussions on industry advancements, policy updates, and future challenges.

John Longhurst from Tangent Link said: “The complexity of the US AFF mission in the years ahead demands a strong and coordinated voice for the aerial fire community.

“Since November 2022, the success that UAFA has already achieved for the US aerial fire and wildfire management communities has been immense.

“UAFA events and activities are now essential for any practitioner or stakeholder. Tangent Link is proud to support UAFA and its mission.”

Keynote sessions and interactive panels planned

The conference will feature a lineup of keynote speakers, interactive panels, and networking opportunities.

These sessions will focus on equipping attendees with insights into wildfire management, emerging firefighting technologies, and policy developments.

Breakout discussions and roundtables will address industry challenges and strategies for collaboration.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with experts and decision-makers shaping the aerial firefighting landscape.

Networking opportunities for industry professionals

The event is expected to attract stakeholders from across the aerial firefighting community, offering attendees opportunities to connect and establish professional partnerships.

UAFA has stated that networking will be a key focus, with structured sessions designed to encourage dialogue between agencies, private sector representatives, and policymakers.

Registration and exhibitor details to be released

UAFA has confirmed that information for exhibitors and sponsors will be available in late spring.

Registration for attendees is set to open in the summer.

Further details about the event, including the full agenda and speaker lineup, will be made available on the UAFA website.

UAFA Annual Conference 2025 to take place in Boise, Idaho: Summary

The United Aerial Fighters Association (UAFA) has announced that its 2025 Annual Conference will take place from 18-20 November in Boise, Idaho.

The event will bring together professionals from the aerial firefighting sector, including industry leaders, executives, and government officials.

The conference will feature keynote speakers, interactive panels, and networking sessions focused on wildfire management, aerial firefighting technologies, and policy updates.

Discussions will address real-world challenges facing the industry.

John Longhurst from Tangent Link stated that UAFA events have become essential for practitioners and stakeholders in the aerial firefighting community.

UAFA has confirmed that details for exhibitors and sponsors will be available in late spring, with attendee registration opening in the summer.

More information will be available on the UAFA website.

Teledyne Flir to showcase hydrogen safety innovations at Hyvolution 2025

Hydrogen detection solutions featured at Hyvolution 2025

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection and Teledyne Flir will jointly address hydrogen safety at the Hyvolution trade show, taking place from January 28 to January 30, 2025, at Porte de Versailles, Paris, France.

According to FLIR, the companies will showcase their hydrogen-specific solutions, including the MEMS cell, GS700-Hydrogen portable detector, and Spyglass IR3 H2 flame detector.

The event coincides with the celebration of Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection’s 190 years of experience, including 75 years of Teledyne Oldham Simtronics in France and Teledyne GMI in Scotland.

The Spyglass IR3 H2 flame detector, a highlight of the display, features a new functionality to detect hydrocarbons.

It offers improved response times, enhanced immunity to false alarms, and compliance with SIL2 standards.

Advanced hydrogen safety products on display

The exhibit will also include the OLCT 100 series sensors, now equipped with infrared and MEMS thermal conductivity technologies for detecting gases such as methane, hydrogen, butane, and propane.

These advancements provide stable measurements and resistance to poisoning.

Additionally, the MX 62 TP central detection unit will be demonstrated.

This unit manages up to 64 secure channels, offers remote management via an integrated web page, and provides advanced features such as event logging and optional SMS text messaging.

Portable gas detection solutions manufactured in Scotland will also be available, including the GS700-Hydrogen, BM25 multi-gas beacon, and PS200 portable detector.

Support services and demonstrations

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection offers comprehensive services, from commissioning to maintenance, supported by a network of over 50 technicians in France.

Continuous demonstrations of gas detection technologies will be held during the event, showcasing their applications in production, storage, compression, and usage within the hydrogen value chain.

Free hydrogen safety conference

As part of the event, a free conference titled “The regulatory environment and feedback on hydrogen detection” will be held on January 29 at 2.30pm in Forum 3.

The session will be presented by the Product Line Manager of Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection.

Teledyne Flir to showcase hydrogen safety innovations at Hyvolution 2025: Summary

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection and Teledyne Flir will present hydrogen-specific safety technologies at Hyvolution 2025 in Paris, France, from January 28-30.

Key products include the Spyglass IR3 H2 flame detector, OLCT 100 series sensors, and GS700-Hydrogen portable detector.

The event also features a free conference on hydrogen detection regulations.

The companies will provide live demonstrations and highlight their 190-year history of expertise, including 75 years of innovation in gas detection by Teledyne Oldham Simtronics and Teledyne GMI.

Final call for nominations: Fire Resilience Excellence Awards

Submit your nomination for the Fire Resilience Excellence Awards

The Fire Resilience Excellence Awards (FREAs) are now accepting nominations, with the deadline set for midnight on Tuesday, 14 January 2025.

According to the organisers, the FREAs aim to celebrate outstanding achievements in fire resilience through innovative products, services, and initiatives.

The awards feature ten categories, offering broad industry recognition. Categories include Outstanding Leader, Team, Organisation, Consultant, Installer/Integrator, Product/Innovation, Partnership/Collaboration, Risk Assessor, Insurance Broker, and Loss Adjustor.

The nomination process is straightforward, requiring responses to two questions per category. Participants can enter multiple categories.

Independent judging and awards ceremony

Entries will be reviewed by an independent panel selected by leading fire associations and special interest groups.

Finalists and winners will be honoured at an awards dinner on Tuesday, 8 April 2025, during The Security & Safety Event Series at the NEC in Birmingham.

The organisers emphasise the impartiality of the judging process, noting that strict ethics policies are in place.

Key details for participants

Nominations are free, and participants can submit their entries online.

The FREAs are sponsored by AXA and are designed to provide fair and prestigious recognition for those who have excelled in the fire resilience sector.

Christine Brooks, the FREAs Event Manager, is available for further information or assistance with the nomination process.

Awards to be presented at NEC Birmingham

The awards dinner will coincide with The Security & Safety Event Series, which runs from 8 to 11 April 2025 at the NEC.

This co-location offers participants an additional opportunity to network and engage with other industry professionals.

Submit your nomination for the Fire Resilience Excellence Awards: Summary

Nominations for the Fire Resilience Excellence Awards close on 14 January 2025.

The awards aim to recognise contributions to fire resilience across ten categories.

The winners will be announced at an awards dinner on 8 April 2025, alongside The Security & Safety Event Series at the NEC, Birmingham.

Sponsored by AXA, the FREAs promise impartiality and prestige, with nominations free and judged by an independent panel.

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 registration attracts global market leaders

Strong exhibitor presence confirmed for INTERSCHUTZ 2026

According to INTERSCHUTZ, preparations for its 2026 event in Hanover are progressing as global companies confirm their participation.

Nearly 450 exhibitors have registered for the international trade fair, which focuses on firefighting, rescue, and civil protection.

This accounts for over a third of the planned exhibition area of 38,000 square metres.

Major companies, including Rosenbauer, Dräger, and Desautel, will exhibit alongside other industry names such as BMW, MSA, and Tatra Trucks.

The organisers expect this early commitment to drive further registrations in the months ahead.

“Safeguarding tomorrow” theme takes centre stage

The 2026 event will centre around the theme “Safeguarding Tomorrow,” highlighting future-focused innovations for enhanced safety.

Bernd Heinold, Head of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe, said: “In view of global crises, climate change, and natural disasters, the message that companies send by participating in INTERSCHUTZ is very significant.”

Key topics include improving international networking, advancing knowledge transfer, and integrating artificial intelligence into safety processes.

Heinold emphasised that the event is designed to facilitate discussions between policymakers, businesses, and aid organisations.

Opportunities for companies to invest in the future

Companies registering early benefit from securing prime locations and reduced rates.

The organisers have encouraged potential exhibitors to act swiftly to finalise their participation.

In addition to networking opportunities, exhibitors will showcase advanced technologies, with INTERSCHUTZ 2026 expected to attract a diverse range of attendees, including industry professionals and decision-makers.

Summary: INTERSCHUTZ 2026 registration attracts global market leaders

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 has confirmed nearly 450 exhibitors, covering over 38,000 square metres.

Prominent companies such as Rosenbauer and Dräger have registered, with the event’s theme focusing on global safety innovations.

Organisers highlight the fair’s importance in addressing climate change, crises, and natural disasters while fostering international collaboration.

Early registration benefits include preferred locations and reduced rates.

The event will take place in Hanover from 1–6 June 2026.

Call for papers issued for the 24th International Water Mist Conference

IWMA issues call for papers for Manchester conference in 2025

The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) has issued a call for papers for the 24th International Water Mist Conference (IWMC2025), which will be held in Manchester, UK, on 24th and 25th September 2025.

Abstract submissions are now open, with a deadline set for 15th April 2025.

According to IWMA, the conference will focus on presenting case studies on the first day and discussions on science and research on the second.

Submissions will also be considered for the Ragnar Wighus Award, recognising the best Ph.D. thesis on water mist.

IWMA CEO Bettina McDowell stated: “We have brought most of the key dates one month forward to be able to publish the programme earlier and thus apply for CPD accreditation.”

Key details for participants and sponsors

In addition to the call for papers, sponsors can begin booking tabletops for the exhibition running alongside the conference.

IWMA noted that all required forms are available on their website.

Ticket sales for the event will open on 15th April 2025, with early bird discounts available until 1st August.

Tickets for the first day only will also be offered.

Ragnar Wighus Award submission deadline

Submissions for the Ragnar Wighus Award are due by 31st March 2025.

The award will be presented to the author of the best Ph.D. thesis on water mist, with the winner invited to present their research at the conference.

The IWMA scientific council, chaired by Bogdan Raciega of the Baltic Fire Laboratory, will evaluate the entries.

Call for papers issued for the 24th International Water Mist Conference: Summary

The IWMA has issued a call for papers for the 24th International Water Mist Conference, to be held in Manchester on 24th and 25th September 2025.

Abstracts must be submitted by 15th April 2025.

The conference will feature case studies, scientific discussions, and an exhibition.

Submissions for the Ragnar Wighus Award, recognising exceptional Ph.D. theses on water mist, are due by 31st March.

Early bird tickets will be available starting 15th April, with discounts ending on 1st August.

Ajax Systems unveils fire protection upgrades and new product segmentation at special event

Ajax Systems’ fire protection and compliance developments

Ajax Systems hosted its sixth annual Ajax Special Event on 21 November 2024, showcasing its latest technologies and devices.

The event, attended by professionals across 132 offline gatherings in 43 countries, highlighted the company’s strategic move to establish fire and life safety as a distinct product line.

This portfolio segmentation aims to meet 100% compliance with the UK’s BS 5839-6 standard, catering to professionals in fire safety, intrusion detection, CCTV, and electrical contracting.

The fire protection line includes 19 devices certified to international standards. The FireProtect 2 was recently certified with a BSI Kitemark, ensuring regional compliance across Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Paul Pope, Global Head of Fire and Life Safety Business at Ajax Systems, said: “Our products are tested and certified by leading certification bodies such as BSI and UL, reflecting our commitment to exceeding the strictest international standards, including UKCA and EU CPR.”

Ajax has also joined the Fire Industry Association, strengthening its role in European fire safety standards.

New products introduced at the Ajax Special Event

Ajax unveiled several new products during the event, enhancing its offerings in security and life safety. Among the new releases were:

  • IndoorCam, a Wi-Fi security camera equipped with a PIR sensor, AI, and fallback communication channels.
  • DoorBell, a video doorbell featuring built-in AI, motion detection, and app control.
  • MotionCam Outdoor HighMount (PhOD) Jeweller, an outdoor motion detector offering flexible installation heights and wide coverage for various property types.
  • Hub BP Jeweller, a battery-powered control panel for securing sites without constant power supply.
  • SpeakerPhone Jeweller, a voice module aiding alarm monitoring and response.

Enhancing outdoor and motion detection capabilities

The event also marked the debut of products aimed at improving outdoor protection and motion detection.

These devices are intended to provide comprehensive security coverage for industrial sites, construction areas, and private residences.

Focus on global compliance and market needs

Ajax’s product strategy aligns with its global approach to meeting regulatory demands.

In the UK, Ajax has adapted its devices to meet diverse compliance requirements, ensuring suitability for various properties, including social housing, private residences, and yachts.

Paul Pope said: “This preparation positions us for future regulatory landscapes while offering trusted, high-quality safety systems in an evolving market.”

Ajax’s participation in the Fire Industry Association further demonstrates its commitment to collaboration within the fire safety industry.

The company has highlighted its adaptability by addressing both emerging market demands and regional regulations, showcasing its expertise in intrusion detection, video surveillance, and automation.

Ajax unveils fire protection upgrades and new product segmentation at special event: Summary

Ajax Systems hosted its sixth annual Ajax Special Event, introducing fire and life safety as a distinct product line with compliance to the UK’s BS 5839-6 standard.

The company’s portfolio includes 19 devices certified to international standards, with the FireProtect 2 receiving BSI Kitemark certification.

New products released include the IndoorCam, DoorBell, and advanced motion detectors like the Superior MotionCam HD (PhOD) Jeweller.

Ajax continues to expand its presence in fire safety, intrusion detection, and automation while addressing regulatory requirements in diverse markets. The event underscores its focus on compliance and innovation to meet global demands.

For the full event details, visit Ajax Special Event 2024.

Inspiring global youth to join the fire service through international collaboration

Inspiring youth to join fire brigades internationally

The International Youth Leaders Commission of the CTIF (Comité Technique International de Prévention et d’Extinction du Feu) held its latest conference in Vienna, bringing together participants from 18 nations.

Ernst Woller, addressing attendees at City Hall, highlighted Vienna’s commitment to safety and its role in enhancing the city’s quality of life.

He praised the commission’s work in promoting youth engagement in fire services globally.

Promoting youth fire brigade interests

The Youth Leaders Commission aims to support youth fire brigades worldwide by fostering collaboration and sharing best practices.

Established to enhance international cooperation, it coordinates events and competitions designed to inspire and train the next generation of firefighters.

Through such initiatives, the commission seeks to build a strong network of young professionals skilled in diverse aspects of firefighting and safety.

International youth competitions foster skill sharing

A key feature of the commission’s efforts is the International Youth Firefighting Competitions, organised every two years.

These events provide young firefighters with a platform to demonstrate their abilities and exchange knowledge with peers from different countries.

Participants compete in disciplines that test their skills and understanding, helping to cultivate expertise and camaraderie among international teams.

Acknowledging contributions to fire service training

Special recognition was given to Senior Fire Officer Thomas Hebelka of the Vienna State Fire Brigade Association for his dedication to youth training initiatives.

His efforts were instrumental in organising this year’s conference and supporting international collaboration.

Woller thanked Hebelka and emphasised the importance of fostering such events to inspire and prepare young individuals for the challenges of fire and safety services.

Inspiring youth to join fire brigades internationally: summary

The CTIF International Youth Leaders Commission convened its conference in Vienna, attracting participants from 18 countries.

The event, supported by the Vienna State Fire Brigade Association, highlighted the importance of safety and youth engagement in fire services.

Regularly hosting international competitions, the commission provides opportunities for young firefighters to develop their skills and share knowledge.

The biennial International Youth Firefighting Competitions are a flagship initiative, fostering international collaboration and expertise.

Senior Fire Officer Thomas Hebelka was commended for his role in organising the conference, reflecting Vienna’s dedication to enhancing global fire safety standards.

SIBEC 2024 in Abu Dhabi highlights IoT advancements in fire safety

SIBEC 2024 event overview

The third edition of the SIBEC event, powered by SIBCA, was held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 13-15 November 2024.

According to SIBCA, the event focused on advancing fire and life safety solutions in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) under the theme ‘Innovation That Keeps You Safe.’

The event addressed the role of the Internet of Things (IoT) in improving safety measures and showcased advancements in various sectors, including building management systems, audiovisual technology, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, and information and communication technologies.

Launch of the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Academy

A highlight of the event was the announcement of the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Academy.

This new Abu Dhabi-based facility is an approved NFPA Network training centre aimed at equipping fire and safety professionals with practical knowledge.

The academy will offer NFPA-approved courses covering topics such as fire protection, building safety, electrical hazards, and industrial safety.

Its establishment ensures practitioners in the region remain current with essential codes and standards.

Insights from SIBCA leadership

Ibrahim Lari, Chairman & CEO of SIBCA, expressed gratitude for the success of SIBEC 2024, highlighting the event’s importance: “More than just a conference, SIBEC provides attendees with an unparalleled chance to forge connections, pave the way for meaningful partnerships, and directly experience the latest high-quality products and services on the market, all in the interest of improving fire and life safety.”

He also emphasised the potential of SIBEC 2025, which is anticipated to feature additional partners, technologies, and training opportunities.

Participation from global partners

This year’s event featured over 30 official partners, including NFPA, UL Solutions, Johnson Controls, and Honeywell, among others.

Attendees engaged in talks, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, exploring the latest technologies in fire and life safety.

SIBEC 2024 provided industry professionals with opportunities to interact with global leaders and gain insights into evolving fire and safety trends.

SIBEC 2024 in Abu Dhabi highlights IoT advancements in fire safety: Summary

The third edition of SIBEC, held from 13-15 November 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, spotlighted innovations in fire and life safety with a focus on IoT technologies.

SIBCA announced the launch of the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Academy, an NFPA-approved facility offering courses on fire protection and safety standards.

The event featured over 30 global partners and provided attendees with access to discussions, workshops, and cutting-edge technologies in the sector.

SIBEC 2025 is expected to expand on this success with more collaborations and training opportunities.

Warringtonfire announced as official fire door partner for FIREX 2024 in London

Warringtonfire promotes fire door safety at FIREX

Warringtonfire, part of the Element Materials Technology group, will participate in FIREX as the official fire door partner, promoting the importance of proper specification and installation of fire doorsets.

FIREX, taking place from 2–4 December at ExCeL London, is one of the major fire safety events in the UK, where industry professionals gather to discuss advancements in fire safety.

Warringtonfire will exhibit its expertise in fire door testing and certification at stand FI1840.

The organisation emphasises the need for careful attention to detail when working with fire doorsets, acknowledging their role in maintaining building safety standards.

Technical session on fire and smoke doorsets

Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager at Element Materials Technology, will lead a session on 3 December from 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm.

His presentation, titled “Importance of Fire Resisting and Smoke Control Doorsets and EN Classification,” will cover key distinctions between the European classification system (EN 13501-2) and British Standards (BS 476: Part 22 and BS 476: Part 31.1), as well as their applications in building safety.

In his statement, Barker noted the importance of fire-resisting doorsets, saying: “Fire resisting and smoke control doorsets have an important life safety role to play within buildings, by restricting the spread of fire and smoke through the building and safeguarding the means of escape.”

He pointed out the challenges in specifying doorsets due to fragmented supporting evidence, which often complicates compliance with building regulations.

Warringtonfire’s commitment to clarity in fire doorset specification

Barker explained that with the European classification system set to become the sole standard in Approved Document B by September 2029, understanding this system will be essential for specifiers and manufacturers in England.

He stated: “Our aim is to demystify these building products and give clarity on how to provide added assurance on the products performance from testing through to manufacture, installation and ongoing maintenance.”

Warringtonfire’s participation at FIREX reflects its commitment to raising awareness around fire doorset performance standards, aiming to ensure they achieve tested levels of fire resistance and smoke control when correctly specified and installed.

Interactive features and new facility showcase

Visitors to the Warringtonfire stand will also have the chance to speak with technical and certification experts about their projects and objectives.

The stand will feature a series of “Tech Talks,” presenting on topics such as third-party certification and the impact of regulatory changes on fire safety.

Additionally, Warringtonfire will display a video tour of its new fire resistance testing laboratory at its 104,000 sq ft site in Birchwood Park.

The facility, scheduled to open on 2 January 2025, includes an interactive display detailing its testing capabilities and the advancements it offers for fire safety testing.

Warringtonfire announced as official fire door partner for FIREX 2024 in London: Summary

Warringtonfire, part of Element Materials Technology, will serve as the official fire door partner at FIREX, taking place from 2–4 December at ExCeL London.

The organisation aims to underscore the importance of correctly specifying and installing fire doorsets.

Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager, will present on the role of fire-resisting and smoke control doorsets, comparing European and British standards.

The session, scheduled for 3 December, will provide insights into the EN classification system, which will become the standard for fire performance assessment in England by 2029.

Visitors can engage with Warringtonfire’s experts and view presentations on fire safety standards.

The company’s stand will also showcase its soon-to-open testing laboratory at Birchwood Park, set to provide expanded fire resistance testing capabilities from January 2025.

FEU Leadership Conference to join INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hannover

FEU Leadership Conference to launch at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

In 2026, INTERSCHUTZ in Hannover will host the inaugural FEU Leadership Conference, which will bring together around 300 international fire service leaders on June 3 and 4.

According to INTERSCHUTZ, this collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on November 8, 2024, at the FEU Council meeting in Limassol, Cyprus.

The partnership aims to foster shared strategies and best practices within Europe’s fire and rescue community.

The FEU (Federation of European Union Fire Officer Associations), representing national fire departments and associations, will lead this conference.

The event marks an effort to enhance public safety and resilience by sharing insights and fostering collaboration across national borders.

Partnership to strengthen public safety initiatives

FEU President Stephan Wevers expressed optimism about the collaboration, underscoring the conference’s focus on safety and resilience.

He said: “Our commitment to public safety and resilience is strengthened by our shared dedication.

“Leadership is a cornerstone in shaping our future, and through this partnership, we’re moving closer to that goal.

“Together at INTERSCHUTZ 2026, we look forward to connecting, learning, and building a safer Europe and beyond.”

This collaboration aims to provide a platform where fire service leaders can engage in dialogue on critical safety issues.

The FEU is known for initiatives that promote best practices in the sector, and this new partnership with INTERSCHUTZ is expected to further these efforts at an international level.

INTERSCHUTZ hosts leaders and industry experts

Deutsche Messe AG’s Project Director, Bernd Heinold, highlighted the significance of this event for INTERSCHUTZ 2026.

He stated: “We are delighted to have secured the FEU Leadership Conference for INTERSCHUTZ 2026.

“Welcoming around 300 international chief fire officers and strategic leaders from across Europe is an absolute highlight for us and our exhibitors, visitors, and partners.”

Heinold added that networking and discussing current and future challenges are core aspects of the conference, facilitating global dialogue within the fire safety community.

INTERSCHUTZ, known for convening global industry experts, aims to create a collaborative environment where leaders in fire safety can explore and implement solutions for evolving public safety needs.

Focus on networking and knowledge sharing

The FEU Leadership Conference will focus on key topics such as knowledge sharing, networking, and addressing challenges faced by the fire service industry across Europe.

The event is positioned as a central gathering point for leaders to exchange ideas on current safety issues and future developments.

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will bring industry stakeholders together to learn from each other and develop strategies to improve resilience within European communities.

This approach is intended to enhance the collective ability of European fire services to respond to emergencies and improve public safety infrastructure.

FEU Leadership Conference to join INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hannover: Summary

The FEU Leadership Conference will debut at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hannover, Germany, bringing together approximately 300 international fire service leaders on June 3-4.

A Memorandum of Understanding between the FEU and INTERSCHUTZ formalised this partnership during the FEU Council meeting on November 8, 2024.

The conference will focus on leadership, networking, and knowledge-sharing within the European fire service sector, aligning with FEU’s commitment to enhancing public safety.

Stephan Wevers, FEU President, and Bernd Heinold, INTERSCHUTZ Project Director, highlighted the conference as an opportunity to build a safer Europe by connecting industry experts.