IFE’s Elevate series passes 6,000 bookings among fire engineers

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringTraining

Elevate reaches its first anniversary

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is marking the first anniversary of its Elevate webinar series, which launched in April 2025 and has recorded more than 6,000 ticket bookings.

Hosted online by the IFE Early Careers Networking Group (ECNG), the free educational series features guest speakers from across the fire sector and runs in 60-minute sessions.

The IFE said the programme was introduced to support future fire safety professionals through fundamental continuing professional development on a range of topics.

Steve Hamm, CEO of the IFE, said: “It has been a real pleasure to see just how popular our webinar series has become.

“CPD is a crucial aspect of retaining and acquiring knowledge in fire engineering.

“Fire engineering is not a static vocation; it is a discipline that demands continuous learning, innovation and adaptability.

“This series is designed to empower and support the next generation of fire engineering talent, guiding you through the technical knowledge and practical applications that underpin effective fire safety.”

Next Elevate sessions open for booking

Dean Morris, chair of the IFE’s Early Careers Networking Group, added: “Fire safety is not a one-size-fits-all; it requires a complex skill set paired with constant growth, and this was the catalyst for the Elevate series.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved so far with the webinar series.

“It aims to bridge the skills gap within the fire sector and promote a culture of CPD.”

Tickets for the next quarter of sessions cover ethics in the industry, fire safety in schools and atrium design.

Bookings for the 2026 second quarter sessions from April to June are open, and the IFE said organisations can use the programme as part of their ongoing training.

Atlantic Emergency Solutions receives 2025 dealer award from Pierce

by Featured NewsVehicles

Dealer award recognises 2025 performance

Pierce Manufacturing announced Atlantic Emergency Solutions as the recipient of its 2025 Dealer of the Year Award, presented during the company’s annual dealer conference after performance across sales, service and programme measures was reviewed.

Pierce said the award recognised performance across apparatus sales, aftermarket growth, profitability, dealer programme certification and use of Pierce programmes.

The Dealer of the Year award evaluates quantitative and qualitative indicators across the dealership network.

These include apparatus and aftermarket sales growth, profitability, change management and participation in programmes such as the Build My Pierce configurator and Stock program.

Dealer programme measures also include approval packet returns, LEADS participation and feedback from Pierce dealer support teams before finalists are reviewed and a final selection is made.

Dan Meyer, vice president of sales for Pierce Manufacturing, said: “The Dealer of the Year award reflects the overall strength of a dealership’s organization and its ability to support fire departments across its territory.

“Atlantic Emergency Solutions distinguished itself through consistent growth, strong operational performance and significant investments in service capabilities that directly benefit the fire departments they support.”

Dealer expansions increased service capacity

Atlantic Emergency Solutions expanded its service network during 2025 through a series of facility investments across several states.

The company added a 24,000-square-foot collision center in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, featuring a 70-foot paint booth.

It also relocated its Hagerstown service center to a new 24,000-square-foot facility, replacing its previous 8,000-square-foot location.

Further additions included a new 16,000-square-foot facility in Wilder, Kentucky, a 24,000-square-foot Tri-State service center in Milton, West Virginia and a 7,000-square-foot service center in Ashland, Virginia with room for future growth.

Atlantic Emergency Solutions now employs 62 certified Pierce Master Technicians, with another 20 technicians expected to complete certification training in early 2026.

Joe Pack, CEO of Atlantic Emergency Solutions, said: “This award reflects the dedication of every person in our organization; from the sales team who listens carefully to the unique needs of each department, to our service teams who work tirelessly to keep Pierce apparatus in service long after delivery.

“Since we started Atlantic Emergency Solutions in 2010, our focus has always been simple: take care of the people who protect our communities.

“This award is a testament to that commitment, and I’m proud of what our team continues to accomplish together.”

Pack added: “We’re building on this momentum by continuing to do what works, including taking care of our employees and staying closely connected with our customers to support their unique needs.

“With the strength of Pierce’s products and the dedication of our team, we’re focused on delivering reliable solutions and responsive service that departments can count on.”

Fixed gas and flame detection hub launched by MSA Safety

by Featured NewsGas DetectionIndustrialSafety

MSA Safety launches FGFD information page

MSA Safety (MSA) has launched a new Fixed Gas & Flame Detection (FGFD) Solutions webpage as a dedicated online resource for detection systems.

The page is intended to support safety management in oil & gas facilities, chemical plants and new energy sites, bringing together expert insights, technology overviews and service offerings in one place.

It is presented as a resource to help users improve reliability and make more informed decisions about gas and flame detection systems.

Detection systems and named experts

The page includes contributions from Darin Brame, Global Sales Director, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection, Scott Wilkie, Business Director EMEA & APAC, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection, Merin Joseph, Proposal Engineer – Projects, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection, Chandan Das, Business Development Manager, International, New Energies, Edwin Choo, Functional Safety Engineer, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection and George Zhang, Sales Director, China, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection.

MSA has also introduced the TG5000 Gas Monitoring System, described as a general-purpose, self-contained solution designed to detect a range of gases using XCell sensor technology.

The TG5000 is presented as requiring minimal installation and offering flexible configuration options for wastewater treatment facilities, commercial and public buildings and light industrial environments.

MSA fixed detection portfolio and tools

In other news, the company has updated its online Total Cost of Ownership calculator for point gas detection, allowing comparison of ULTIMA X5000 and General Monitors S5000 detectors against other manufacturers.

The calculator is described as providing indicative figures based on market knowledge and includes adjustable inputs such as installation, replacement sensors and calibration gas.

MSA has also published a whitepaper on XCell sensor technology for fixed gas detection, outlining applications and performance in industrial environments.

A recorded panel discussion on hydrogen storage in salt caverns hosted by Mission Hydrogen is now available, featuring Jack Samways, Business Development Manager – New Energies, Europe at MSA Safety.

Finally, MSA has released an updated version of the X/S Connect app, supporting connectivity for ULTIMA X5000, General Monitors S5000 and TG5000 gas monitors through a mobile interface.

Elevation Academy Training Centre launches with Hochiki Europe support

by Featured NewsTraining

Elevation Academy Training Centre opens in Leeds

Hochiki Europe has marked the opening of the Elevation Academy Training Centre in Leeds, which will provide face-to-face training for between 30 and 40 professionals each month.

Hochiki Europe Regional Sales Managers Mick Hall and Nicholas Brammall attended the opening, where they met trainees and staff and handed out branded merchandise and test products.

The centre is based in Leeds and is intended to serve installers and contractors across Yorkshire and the north of England.

Training Centre courses and support

The current curriculum includes the Fire and Security Apprenticeship, Fire Training aligned to BS5839-1:2025, Fire Extinguisher training and the Experienced Worker Assessment.

The Experienced Worker Assessment is described as a route for professionals seeking formal recognition of skills developed over time in the field.

Hochiki Europe said it supports the centre as part of its wider training activity, which includes its own Hochiki Training Academy with online and in-class learning.

Hochiki Europe sets out training position

Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director, Hochiki Europe, said: “At Hochiki Europe, we have always believed that great fire safety begins with great people.

“Through our own Training Academy, we are committed to developing the skills and knowledge our industry depends on, and we are delighted to extend that commitment by supporting the Elevation Academy Training Centre.

“Investing in the people who protect lives is not something we take lightly.”

Elevation Academy is also planning a digital training platform, and Hochiki Europe said it is looking at how its online training offering could align with that work.

Total Fire Group joins Ranger to expand fire risk assessment reach

by Featured NewsMergers & Acquisitions

Ranger expands risk assessment services

Ranger Fire and Security has acquired Bolton-based Total Fire Group to strengthen its fire risk assessment capability, with the deal announced in London on Tuesday 31 March 2026.

Ranger said the acquisition adds fire risk assessment, fire risk management and consultancy services to its existing offer and brings Total Fire Group into the wider business.

Total Fire Group has operated for more than 20 years and works with social housing providers, housing associations, commercial clients and public sector organisations.

The business also provides ongoing support, guidance and management of fire risk actions through long-term client partnerships.

Ranger said the acquisition is intended to link specialist fire risk assessment work with the wider Group’s delivery services, including follow-on remedial support through its regional businesses.

Ranger adds Total Fire Group leadership and client base

Darren Baird, Founder and Group Director of Total Fire Group, will remain with the business and continue leading its operations while working with the wider Ranger Group.

Ranger said Baird, a former firefighter who held senior roles within the fire service, will also support Group strategy on mitigating and managing risk across its customer base.

Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire and Security, said: “Bringing Total Fire Group into Ranger is a critical step in strengthening our overall fire and security offering.

“As customer expectations and regulatory requirements continue to increase, having deep expertise in fire risk assessment and ongoing risk management is essential.

“Darren Baird and the team at Total Fire will help us to significantly enhance Ranger’s support for customers from the earliest stage of identifying and understanding risk, through to delivering the right solutions and long-term support.

“By working with local ‘hero’ businesses like Total Fire, we can ensure customers receive expert fire risk advice, with any issues seamlessly addressed through our wider team of experts.

“This strengthens our existing capabilities while unlocking further cross-selling opportunities, as we continue to build a national one-stop solution for all fire and security needs.”

Baird added: “Our focus has always been on helping organisations understand and manage their fire risk in a practical and effective way.

“By becoming part of Ranger, we can now take that approach further and at a larger scale, combining our consultancy expertise with Ranger’s extensive delivery capabilities.

“There is a clear opportunity to support customers more holistically, from identifying risks and then helping ensure they are properly addressed and managed over time.

“Being part of Ranger also gives us the platform to expand our reach and bring our services to more customers across the UK.”

Ranger records 17th acquisition since 2024

The deal is Ranger’s 17th acquisition since its formation in early 2024 and its fourth acquisition of 2026.

Ranger said the acquisition forms part of its strategy to bring together regional operators into a national platform serving customers across the UK and Ireland.

The company also said it has backing from Hyperion Equity Partners.

Consultation opens on mandatory certification for fire risk assessors in UK

by Featured NewsIndustry Comment

Fire risk assessors certification consultation opens

The UK government has launched a consultation on mandatory certification for fire risk assessors, with proposals linked to its response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy and scheduled to run for 12 weeks.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and Samantha Dixon MBE MP announced the consultation in material published on 26 March 2026.

The consultation is described as part of the government’s commitment to introduce mandatory certification for fire risk assessors.

It is also framed as a step toward delivering Recommendation 26 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report.

The material states that Responsible Persons, usually the owner or landlord, can currently carry out their own fire risk assessments or appoint a fire risk assessor to assist them.

It adds that the consultation is looking at stronger standards and at making sure those carrying out assessments have the competencies and capabilities required.

What the consultation covers

The consultation seeks views on defining the role of fire risk assessors and their protected assistance duties, the Responsible Person’s ability to conduct their own assessments, competency frameworks and standards, career pathways, and regulatory powers for implementation.

Samantha Dixon MBE MP, Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy, said: “Fire risk assessors play a vital role keeping our communities safe from fires.

“I would strongly encourage you to respond to this consultation, to help us introduce the right measures to make sure we have consistent competency across the profession.”

The proposals also include apprenticeships and a proficient workers scheme.

The consultation launched on 26 March and will close on 18 June.

Responses can be submitted until 18 June.

LION outlines full FDIC 2026 booth with PPE training and care systems

by Americas - Featured NewsEventsFeatured NewsPPETraining

FDIC booth plans

LION has outlined the products, training systems and PPE care services it plans to present at booth #1323 during FDIC International (FDIC) at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

LION said its FDIC display will centre on firefighter PPE, first responder uniforms, training equipment and PPE care services.

The company said the booth will include the V-Force EVO Structural Turnout Gear, the Reliant Conversion Strap and the V-Force Structural Fire Boot.

V-Force EVO is described as structural turnout gear built around movements such as crawling, climbing, reaching and operating on air.

The Reliant Conversion Strap is described as a firefighter removal system for Mayday conditions that uses three actions – pull, hook and cinch.

LION said the V-Force Structural Fire Boot includes V-Fit front and rear flex gussets, an ankle lock system, Poron XRD moulded shin protection, a Lenzi-L Protection puncture-resistant midsole and a GORE-TEX CROSSTECH moisture barrier with film technology.

Training and PPE care displays

LION said it will also present Elbeco UFX Tactical uniforms, including UFX Persist and UFX Bold, as part of its FDIC exhibit.

The company said its training displays will be spread across three zones, including The HEAT, The Drill Yard at Lucas Oil Stadium and its convention centre booth.

Training products named in the material include the Live Fire Rollover Simulator, Helicopter Prop, multi-story training structures, digital training tools, the Fire Safety Trailer and the QuickFire Virtual Reality Fire Extinguisher Trainer.

LION said its TotalCare team will also be at the booth to discuss PPE cleaning, repair and maintenance.

The company said its RedZone CO2 Clean process removes an average of 98% of poly-aromatic hydrocarbons and can be used on helmets, hoods, turnouts, gloves and boots from all gear brands.

Other products listed for FDIC

LION said the wider booth display will include RedZone Particulate Blocking Ensembles, turnout gear from the V-Force and Super Deluxe ranges, rescue wear for USAR, wildland and technical rescue use and the MT94 Multi-Threat Suit for CBRN and Hazmat protection.

The company also listed Fit For Her turnout gear and station wear, along with outwear options including the Quilted Jacket, Action Line Jacket and Job Shirts.

LION’s FDIC material presents the booth as a combined product and training display focused on firefighter protection, uniforms and gear care.

Industrial fire breaks out near ADAMA facility in Israel

by Featured NewsIncidents

Fire at southern Israel industrial site

A fire broke out at an industrial area in southern Israel on Sunday after a missile attack, with ADAMA saying its Makhteshim plant was hit either by an Iranian missile or debris from an intercepted missile.

Reuters reported that no injuries were reported and the extent of any damage to the plant was not immediately known.

ADAMA, a maker of active ingredients and crop protection materials, said the site affected was its Makhteshim plant in southern Israel.

The company is part of Chinese-owned Syngenta Group.

Israel’s fire and rescue service said the fire broke out in an industrial area in southern Israel that houses several chemical manufacturing and industrial plants.

It said the cause was likely debris from a missile that was intercepted.

Public warning issued near Ne’ot Hovav

According to Reuters, Israel’s fire and rescue service urged the public to stay away from the Ne’ot Hovav industrial area due to the presence of “hazardous materials” as 34 firefighting crews worked to contain the blaze.

It said there was no danger to the public beyond a distance of 800 meters from the industrial area.

The service said: “Residents in the vicinity are instructed to remain indoors, close windows and ventilation openings, and follow the instructions of security and emergency forces until full control of the incident is achieved.”

Video and images released by the service showed a large ball of fire and heavy black smoke as firefighters worked to prevent the fire from spreading.

Ne’ot Hovav is located about 13 km (8 miles) from Beer Sheva, the largest city in southern Israel.

There are several Israeli military bases located in the area.

Missile launches reported earlier

Reuters said the Israeli military had earlier detected missiles launched from Iran in multiple waves on Sunday.

Until the fire in the south, there had been no immediate reports of damage or injuries.

CitroTech outlines fire product growth after NYSE American uplist

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Fire growth and 2025 results

CitroTech has reported revenue growth in 2025, leadership changes, an NYSE American uplist and further commercial plans for its fire inhibition products and CitroSafe systems.

In a letter to shareholders issued on 30 March, Wesley J. Bolsen, Chief Executive Officer of CitroTech, outlined the company’s financial performance and corporate developments.

Revenue reached $2.4 million in 2025, up from $808,000 in 2024.

The company also completed $8.1 million in Series C financing through preferred equity and convertible instruments.

CitroTech’s common stock uplisted to the NYSE American in December 2025.

Bolsen said Andrew Hotsko joined as Chief Operating Officer in July 2025 and that he joined as Chief Executive Officer in October 2025.

He also confirmed that Craig Huff of Boltrock Holdings and Lorenzo Calinawan from Chemlink Partners joined the Board of Directors.

In early 2026, the company added a Vice President of Business Development and expanded its research and development team.

Fire products and 2026 commercial plans

Bolsen said CitroTech holds 37 granted patents and 45 filed or pending applications covering chemistry, application methods and fire inhibition technologies.

He added that the company remained the first and only fire inhibitor to receive the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice designation and that it has maintained UL GREENGUARD Gold certification.

The letter stated that CitroTech products saw adoption by fire departments, particularly across California.

Its wood treatment products also moved toward commercialisation for the fire-retardant-treated lumber market.

In early 2026, the company began partnering with lumber and building materials companies using CitroTech formulations to produce Class A fire rated wood products.

Bolsen said CitroTech continued deploying CitroSafe Systems for residential and commercial properties and linked further deployment to proof-of-concept work with a major broker.

Fire outlook linked to wildfire demand

Bolsen said CitroTech’s 2026 focus is on scaling operations, expanding commercial channels and building partnerships across the lumber and building materials industry.

He added that CitroSafe Systems deployment is expected to move beyond proof-of-concept, including deeper integration with insurance solutions.

CitroTech expects revenue growth to accelerate in 2026 as wildfire season intensifies and commercial channels expand.

The letter also cited independent research projecting the global fire-retardant market will reach $13.6 billion by 2034.

Bolsen said the company plans to report its first quarter 2026 results during its first formal earnings call in May.

Bill Webb recognised for fire service leadership at Washington symposium

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsPeople

Bill Webb award announcement and symposium details

Bill Webb received the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) received the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award at the 36th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium in Washington, D.C., on March 19, 2026.

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) and Motorola Solutions announced the Mason Lankford award recipient, and the NFFF, CFSI, VFIS and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute confirmed the Sarbanes award recipient.

More than 1,500 leaders in fire and emergency services attended the symposium to network, discuss current challenges and opportunities and honour those recognised by the organisations.

Bill Webb and the Mason Lankford award

Jointly sponsored by CFSI and Motorola Solutions, the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award recognises public safety leaders for work linked to prevention, mitigation and emergency response.

Bill Webb, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at the NFFF and former Executive Director of CFSI, spent three decades leading CFSI and advocating for federal support for the fire service and for the health and safety of fire and emergency services personnel.

During his time at CFSI, Webb worked with six presidential administrations and congressional members on joint fire service positions tied to major legislation.

His work contributed to the creation of the Assistance to the Firefighters Grant program, the expansion of the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program and the establishment of the federal First Responder Network Authority.

Troy Markel, Chair of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Board of Directors, said: “Bill Webb’s steadfast dedication and passion for the fire and emergency services community exemplifies the impact and leadership of Mason Lankford.

“Bill has made a lasting impact on those who serve, meeting challenges head-on while always keeping the future of fire service programs in mind.

“His commitment extends beyond the profession, as he continues to support the families of our Fire Heroes.

“I’m proud to serve alongside him on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Board of Directors.”

Firefighter Cancer Support Network recognised for report

Co-sponsored by CFSI and NFFF with support from VFIS and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute, the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award recognises a public safety organisation for contributions to firefighters’ health and safety.

The Firefighter Cancer Support Network received the award for its report, Doing it Right: Reducing Cancer in the Fire Service.

Developed with fire service leaders and cancer researchers, the programme sets out how to reduce occupational cancer risks faced by firefighters.

It provides steps to limit exposure and support long-term occupational health.

Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, said: “Our nation’s firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities.

“FCSN’s ‘Doing It Right’ report gives them the tools to reduce those risks and safeguard their health over the long term.

“With innovative programs like this, we can reduce the invisible threat of cancers, strengthen firefighter safety, and support those who serve through education.

“We are proud to recognize FCSN with this well-deserved award.”

More information about the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award and the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award is available at cfsi.org/awards.