Charity boxing match sends London firefighters to Madison Square Garden

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured News

Firefighters compete in New York charity bouts

Two London firefighters took part in the third International Battle of the Badges charity boxing match at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Dominik Burridge and Shane Mendoza were selected to represent London against American opponents at the event, which raised $50,000 for several American firefighter charities.

Cruiserweight Mendoza, from North Kensington Blue Watch, faced Sam Kelly from New York Fire Department (FDNY) Engine 1.

Light heavyweight Burridge, from Fulham Green Watch, faced Gavin Conner from the Denver Fire Department.

Burridge lost on a split decision. Mendoza lost against a more experienced boxer.

Just over half of the 14 bouts on the card were won by FDNY and the American firefighters.

This is believed to be the first time firefighters from London and New York have officially met in the ring in almost 40 years.

In 1987, firefighters from both services met at a charity event hosted by the Brigade in Bloomsbury.

Boxing team coach on the London bouts

Firefighter Charlie Beatt, coach of the Brigade’s boxing team, said: “It has been an amazing opportunity for the Brigade’s boxing team to be invited to take part in this event, facing up against the best New York has to offer.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work that Dominik and Shane put into preparing for their bouts, and while we didn’t win, they showed the determination you find in every London firefighter.

“Now it is all about what comes next, and what a potential rematch might look like in the future.”

Outreach plans linked to Brigade boxing

London Fire Brigade also said boxing within the Brigade supports work with young people across London.

LFB Boxing runs a 10-week programme centred on coaching, positive role modelling and regular exercise for young people.

The club is led by Beatt and is seeking to expand the boxing outreach programme across London.

Plans include turning space at one of the Brigade’s fire stations in the London Borough of Croydon into a community boxing gym.

Boxing clubs with facilities that can help set up the scheme are being encouraged to get in touch.

Wildfire modelling project links fire spread with smoke impact

by Featured NewsResearchWildland Fire

Wildfire modelling and evacuation planning

George Mason University is developing a wildfire digital twin designed to simulate fire behaviour in real time and forecast air pollution impacts during fast-moving incidents in Southern California.

The work is being led by Chaowei “Phil” Yang, professor in the Geography and Geoinformation Science Department in the College of Science, in partnership with researchers from California State University—Los Angeles, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the City of Los Angeles.

The project was framed against the Palisades and Eaton Fires, which killed 28 people, destroyed more than 16,000 structures and displaced tens of thousands of residents.

Wildfires are difficult to predict because many factors affect their growth, spread and speed.

That uncertainty can slow evacuation decisions and make it harder for response teams to judge who should be moved away from flames or hazardous air pollution.

Yang said: “The goal is to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based system that can provide real-time, high-resolution simulation and forecasting of wildfire behavior and model the resulting air pollution and air quality impacts for better informed public health responses.”

Yang added: “Inhaling wildfire smoke can cause serious and long-lasting damage to the breathing system.

“We need to get those people impacted to safety as well as those in direct line of the spreading flames.”

Data sources and system development

George Mason University said the digital twin will combine data from satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ground observations and citizen reports to simulate wildfire progress and the effect of potential interventions.

The system draws in information on fuel sources, moisture, load and consumption, along with wind speeds, temperatures and real-time fire sensors.

George Mason’s high-performance computing (HPC) cluster is used to automate data interpretation, and machine learning modelling is used to calibrate data sets to improve accuracy.

Model accuracy is expected to improve as more data sets become available.

Yang explained: “When we eventually provide information to firefighters and local agencies, we will give them a range of possibilities and a confidence level in those possibilities, such as ‘the fire will move in this direction with about 90% confidence, or 20% confidence,’

“That’s important for them when they’re trying to make these quick decisions about where to put fire fighters.

“It makes the information actionable instead of just data sets.”

The project also includes student participation from high school level through to post-doctoral research, with work focused on cloud computing and digital transformation.

Anusha Srirenganathan said: “Working closely with researchers from different disciplines helped me grow as a collaborator, and my work on the project strengthened my abilities in large-scale satellite data processing, spatial cloud computing, and AI/ML modeling for environmental applications,”

Yang said the team is also working on a Chesapeake Bay digital twin for flood forecasting and a conflict resolution digital twin with an alert system.

NFCC Apprenticeship Awards recognise UK fire service nominees

by EventsFeatured News

NFCC apprenticeship awards held in Birmingham

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) held its third annual Apprenticeship Awards in Birmingham on Thursday 12 March, recognising apprentices and training providers from across the UK’s fire and rescue services.

NFCC said the awards, launched in 2024, were created to recognise excellence among fire and rescue service apprentices and training providers.

This year’s programme received 198 nominations across seven award categories, which NFCC said was more than double the number received in 2025.

The evening was organised by the NFCC Events team and Apprenticeship Deputy Lead Ashley Roberts.

It also highlighted the work of the NFCC Apprenticeship Network, which brings together apprenticeship professionals, training providers and assessment organisations to share best practice and support the sector’s long-term development.

Winners and sector response

The 2026 winners included Kate Chetland-Johnson of London Fire Brigade for the Inclusion Champion Award and Amanda Kennedy of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service for Non-Operational Apprentice of the Year.

Richie Mathews of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service won Apprentice Support of the Year, while Sue Mottershead of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service received the Apprenticeship Champion Award.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was named Apprenticeship Provider of the Year and James Miller of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service won Operational Apprentice of the Year.

In the Apprenticeship Project of the Year category, Recruit Course 1/25 from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Essex Prevention Apprentices from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were named winners.

Gavin Ellis, Chief Fire Officer of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and NFCC Lead on Apprenticeships, said: “The awards inspire services to prioritise high-quality apprenticeship programmes and help raise training standards nationwide.

“Championing apprentice success enhances professionalism and builds capability across the UK’s fire community.”

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said: “It’s important that we recognise and praise the innovation, commitment and fresh perspectives apprentices bring to the sector as well as the transformative impact apprenticeships continue to have on hundreds of young people.”

NFCC also congratulated all nominees and winners recognised in this year’s awards.

KiddeFenwal names Kathleen Houghton Vice President of Global Sales

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeople

KiddeFenwal appoints Kate Houghton

KiddeFenwal has appointed Kathleen “Kate” Houghton as Vice President of Global Sales.

The company announced Houghton’s return to the company in a LinkedIn post.

Houghton has more than 30 years of experience across fire and life safety, HVAC and industrial manufacturing.

Her role includes oversight of KiddeFenwal’s global commercial strategy.

The company said her focus will include scaling sales organisations and delivering value to customers worldwide.

KiddeFenwal wrote: “We’re thrilled to welcome Kathleen “Kate” Houghton back to Kidde-Fenwal as our new Vice President of Global Sales!”

Houghton’s previous role and background

Houghton’s return follows her time as Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Hudson Technologies, where she led global strategy and revenue and margin performance.

The company said her career has included work in public and private equity-backed organisations.

It also said she brings experience in suppression systems and engineered solutions.

Houghton holds an MBA from Boston University.

She also holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honors) from Monash University and a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) from Monash University.

Pye-Barker completes 57 company acquisitions in 2025

by Featured NewsMergers & Acquisitions

Pye-Barker acquisition growth in 2025

Pye-Barker Fire & Safety acquired 57 fire alarm, fire sprinkler, suppression and security companies in 2025, taking its workforce to 9,000 team members across 47 states.

The company announced the figures as part of its 2025 update, which also said it entered Hawaii and Arkansas during the year.

Pye-Barker said it continued to add locally operated branch locations across the United States.

Bart Proctor, CEO of Pye-Barker, said: “Each acquisition from 2025 plays a pivotal role in our continued impact.

“Our team deliberately acquired companies that align with our values and company culture to create a team of like-minded, driven individuals nationwide.

“We plan to continue this trajectory in 2026 as we elevate fire and life safety services to take care of our customers and the communities we serve and be a superior single source partner for all life safety needs.”

Pye-Barker programmes and 2025 recognition

The update also outlined internal programmes launched in 2025, including the ALL In employee ownership program for eligible full-time team members and the What Matters community impact platform.

The What Matters platform was described as a source of support for employees during hardship and emergencies, and for local causes across the U.S. and firefighter safety work through a partnership with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Proctor added: “Our culture and the passion of our team members for taking care of each other and their customers nationwide is what makes Pye-Barker special.

“As I look ahead to 2026, I feel confident that we will continue to enhance everything we’ve been working on at Pye-Barker, including continuing to be a great place to work, a supportive resource to our communities and a trusted safety partner to our customers.”

Pye-Barker also said it rose to number four on the SDM 100, made the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies list for the sixth time and received Great Places to Work certification in 2025.

ZIEGLER sets out INTERSCHUTZ 2026 trade fair plans

by EventsFeatured NewsVehicles

Ziegler at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

ZIEGLER will present firefighting vehicles, pump systems and extinguishing systems at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in the outdoor area K66 and Pavilion 35.

The company said the stand will include new products, digital operations management systems, interactive presentations and live demonstrations.

Visitors will be able to see current vehicle technology and established systems, with specialists available to answer questions and provide background information.

ZIEGLER said the exhibition will cover firefighting vehicles, specialised pump and extinguishing systems, and components from across the ZIEGLER Group.

ZIEGLER links event plans to 2025 performance

ZIEGLER said INTERSCHUTZ offers a platform to present its technology and team following successful financial years and a strong finish in 2025.

Markus W. Weber, CSO of the ZIEGLER Group, said: “Our mission is clear: we stand united behind those who work every day to ensure our safety,

“For us, that means ‘safeguarding tomorrow’.”

The company said it is optimistic about the future and will use the event to present its range to fire departments, rescue services and other visitors interested in emergency response technology.

JELD-WEN marks 25 years with Secured by Design

by Featured NewsFire Doors

JELD-WEN reaches 25 years with Secured by Design

Timber door manufacturer JELD-WEN has been recognised for reaching 25 years of membership with Secured by Design (SBD) in the UK.

SBD accreditation is used for doors that show enhanced resistance against opportunistic break-ins.

The company said this police recognition is only available to firms whose products meet the standards required by SBD.

Testing and accreditation requirements

JELD-WEN said certification requires PAS24 testing by an independent third party from a United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) authority.

The testing includes assessments for resistance against impact and hardware attack.

It also measures manipulation resistance and endurance.

JELD-WEN manufactures doorsets in the UK, including specialist fire doorsets, for new build and retrofit projects.

Investment, manufacturing and quoted response

JELD-WEN said it has invested millions of pounds in the development and testing of its doorsets in the UK.

The company was established more than 60 years ago and is part of the global JELD-WEN group, which operates in 19 countries.

Its UK business supports projects in commercial and residential settings, along with healthcare, education and hospitality.

Lisa Ward, Product and Marketing Director for JELD-WEN UK, said: “Ensuring the highest standards of security are built into our doorsets is an absolute priority for JELD-WEN.

“With rigorous research and development processes backed up by third-party testing, we take every step to ensure optimal standards – and ensure that this has been independently verified.

“Doors and the need for security are inseparable, and in aligning with Secured by Design for more than two decades we have demonstrated our commitment to keeping this at the forefront of our product offering.

“We recognise the work SBD does in establishing and reinforcing standards in security for both residential and business properties and are proud to have been a member for the past 25 years.”

Alfie Hosker, Secured by Design, commented: “Reaching 25 years with Secured by Design is a significant achievement and reflects JELD-WEN’s sustained commitment to delivering safe, secure and independently tested products.

“Their continued investment in quality and certification sets a strong example across the industry and we are delighted to recognise this milestone.”

The recognition marks 25 years of membership between JELD-WEN and SBD.

Perimeter Solutions secures FM approval for fluorine-free sprinkler foam

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

Perimeter Solutions foam approved for fixed systems

Perimeter Solutions has secured FM 5130 approval for SOLBERG EVOLUTION 3% Synthetic Fluorine-Free Foam (SFFF), a Newtonian formulation for aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) and sprinkler applications.

The company said the approval makes SOLBERG EVOLUTION 3% SFFF the first fluorine-free foam on the US Department of Defense’s Qualified Products List (QPL) to also hold FM approval for fixed sprinkler systems.

The approval applies to aircraft hangars, fuel storage facilities and other fixed fire protection systems.

The foam has water-like viscosity and is compatible with standard sprinkler hardware.

It is designed for hydrocarbon fuels including gasoline and kerosene-based fuels such as Jet A and Jet A-1.

The product has demonstrated performance through aspirated and non-aspirated standard sprinkler heads to extinguish and secure Class B hydrocarbon fuel fires.

Zachary Brackin, Manager – Business Development and Southern Region Sales Manager at Perimeter Solutions, said: “Aviation fire protection is evolving, and so is the chemistry behind it.

“This advanced formulation delivers effective fire suppression that meets the strict performance and compliance standards set by FM, UL, ICAO, FAA and the US Department of Defense, helping customers transition to fluorine-free foam that is compatible with their existing fire protection infrastructure.”

Technical approvals and product details

SOLBERG EVOLUTION 3% SFFF has UL 162 and FM 5130 fixed-system approvals with SOLBERG bladder tanks, foam chambers and associated system hardware, including non-aspirated sprinkler heads.

It is designed to meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requirements for hydrocarbon fuel and critical asset protection, including aircraft hangars, JUHI facilities and fuel storage operations.

The product is MIL-SPEC-approved and holds International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Level B certification for ARFF performance, meeting Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and ICAO requirements.

It has been tested in accordance with Boeing Specification Support Standard (BSS 7432) for evaluation of airplane maintenance materials.

The formulation contains no intentionally added per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

It was developed without silicone or siloxane chemistries, biopolymers or thickening agents and is designed to be biodegradable with no persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) profile.

James Perriss, Director of Product Management – Global Suppressants at Perimeter Solutions, said: “SOLBERG Evolution builds on the success of SOLBERG 3% MIL-SPEC SFFF, the first fluorine-free concentrate to be included on the Department of Defense’s Qualified Products List (QPL).

“This formulation expands the range of approved applications, including use with standard sprinkler systems, providing another example of how SOLBERG is advancing fire suppression technology while supporting customers with environmentally responsible, high-performance solutions.”

The company said the Solberg team will be at the National Fire Sprinkler Association North American Fire Sprinkler Expo from April 29 to May 1, 2026.

Fomtec confirms INTERSCHUTZ 2026 stand and Enviro NEO showcase

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Suppression

Fomtec at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

Fomtec has invited visitors to meet its team at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hannover, Germany, where it will exhibit in Hall 13 at Stand B20.

The company said its sales team will be available for meetings and questions during the event, and that meetings can be booked in advance through its sales team page.

The company also said it will introduce its newest products at the event, including the Enviro range and Enviro NEO.

Fomtec details Enviro NEO

Enviro NEO is a synthetic fluorine-free firefighting foam (SFFF) for petrochemical, oil and gas, marine and other high-hazard industries.

The company described the product as part of its Enviro Programme and said its development was based on thousands of full-scale fire tests.

It said the formulation uses 100% hydrated polymers, which it says removes issues linked to partially hydrated polymers and unstable viscosity.

According to Fomtec, this is intended to support reliable proportioning and uniform foam performance from initial discharge through to complete extinguishment, including offshore and petrochemical oil and gas environments.

Fomtec lists test standards and applications

Fomtec said Enviro NEO is designed for use with fresh, brackish and seawater.

The company said the product is suited to coastal, marine and offshore installations.

It also said Enviro NEO has been validated through, and beyond, standards including EN 1568, UL 162, ICAO, IMO and LASTFIRE.

The Hannover event will also give visitors an opportunity to discuss the product directly with the company’s sales team.

Qwake and webAI set emergency response focus on fire departments

by AI & Deep LearningFeatured News

Emergency response partnership begins with fire departments

webAI has announced a strategic collaboration with Qwake Technologies to assess predictive AI capabilities for emergency response, starting with fire departments.

The company said the work is intended to combine webAI’s edge intelligence infrastructure with Qwake’s critical operations platform to give incident commanders better information during incidents.

The collaboration is centred on moving AI into field use by bringing intelligence to where data originates.

The companies said this could create a practical tool for the fireground and could help operators, command staff and city leaders manage risk and improve operational effectiveness without additional resources.

How the companies described the work

webAI said Qwake currently embeds sensors and AI into emergency environments, including on people and vehicles, and that the two companies are examining how a predictive edge intelligence system could support the modern fireground.

David Stout, founder and CEO of webAI, said: “AI shouldn’t live in a distant cloud.

“It should be a practical tool that helps people in their own communities.

“Through our collaboration with Qwake, we see an opportunity to bring edge intelligence to the fireground in a way that could give first responders more real-time, mission-critical technology to stay safe and stay ahead of crisis.”

Sam Cossman, CEO of Qwake, added: “Today, C-THRU puts sensors on the people and vehicles closest to the crisis.

“That gives us real-time data from inside the most dangerous environments on earth.

“webAI’s edge intelligence has the potential to accelerate our roadmap from rapid response to prediction, and that could meaningfully expand how cities protect their communities.”

webAI said the escalation prediction tool is the first step in a wider shared vision for intelligent infrastructure across cities.