FireAngel launches Spec+ domestic safety alarms for professional installations

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Domestic safety alarms range combines smoke, heat and carbon monoxide protection with flexible interconnection and 10-year battery backup

Domestic safety alarms specialist FireAngel has launched its new Spec+ range, introducing a portfolio of mains-powered smoke, heat, carbon monoxide and multi-sensor alarms designed to simplify installation, improve replacement and support long-term residential fire protection.

Developed for the UK professional market, the Grade D1 alarm range is aimed at installers, landlords, housebuilders and housing providers, with every product featuring a 10-year sealed rechargeable lithium back-up battery and compliance with the requirements of BS 5839-6 for most residential applications.

The Spec+ portfolio includes dedicated smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms, alongside multi-sensor devices that combine smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detection within a single unit. The products have been developed to support changing legislation and evolving domestic safety requirements while providing greater flexibility for residential installations.

FireAngel said the new alarms have been designed to make installation and replacement easier through a practical base plate design, while built-in Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity enables up to 50 Spec+ devices to be interconnected wirelessly, via hardwired connections or through a hybrid of both without requiring additional communication modules.

The smoke alarms combine the company’s Thermoptek and UltraSense technologies, which operate in parallel to improve fire detection while reducing nuisance alarms caused by contaminants and everyday household activities. Bug mesh and dust compensation features have also been incorporated to improve product longevity and minimise interference that can lead to false alarms.

Across the range, alarms are designed for a 10-year service life and are backed by a 10-year warranty. FireAngel recommends replacing smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms after 10 years to maintain optimum protection, even if devices continue to function beyond that period.

The Spec+ range includes the SP500 smoke alarm, SP510 heat alarm, SP520 multi-sensor smoke and heat alarm, SP530 multi-sensor heat and carbon monoxide alarm, and the SP540 multi-sensor smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarm. Compatible wireless and hard-wired low-level control units are also available.

All products in the range comply with recognised standards for smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detection, including BS EN 14604, BS 5446-2 and EN 50291-1 where applicable. FireAngel said every alarm is individually tested during manufacture and the range carries third-party SGS certification.

Nick Rutter, Chief Executive Officer at FireAngel, said: “Our new Spec+ range represents a significant product portfolio for FireAngel that will enable a step-change for the future of domestic safety. Spec+ has been designed around real installation needs, quality-first design principles and trusted protection for residents.”

He added: “The launch comes at an important time for the fire safety sector, where innovation and healthy marketplace competition are essential to continuously improving protection in homes across the UK. FireAngel believes that bringing new products to market plays a vital role in giving specifiers, contractors and housing providers greater choice, while ensuring safety-critical technology continues to evolve.”

IFE celebrates female fire engineers for International Women in Engineering Day 2026

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IFE International Women in Engineering Day 2026 campaign highlights the achievements of female fire engineers from across its global membership

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is marking International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026 with a week-long campaign celebrating the achievements and contributions of female fire engineers from across its global membership.

Running from 21–28 June, the campaign recognises the expertise, leadership and innovation women bring to the fire engineering profession while highlighting their role in creating a safer built environment.

Throughout the week, the IFE will share stories from female members representing a range of countries, career stages and professional specialisms. The member spotlights will showcase how women are advancing fire safety, driving professional standards and inspiring the next generation of fire engineers.

The campaign will also examine how IFE membership has supported the professional development of female fire engineers by providing opportunities to connect with peers, access learning and development resources, gain professional recognition and contribute to the wider fire safety community.

Representing more than 15,000 members worldwide, the IFE said it remains committed to supporting greater diversity across the fire sector. The campaign features women from the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States and South Africa, reflecting the breadth of expertise within the global fire engineering community.

The IFE said that by celebrating female fire engineers across its membership, it aims to recognise the expertise strengthening fire safety today while inspiring the women who will help shape the profession in the future.

Professionals are also encouraged to join the IFE Women’s Networking Group, which provides a community for women across the fire sector to connect, share experiences, support professional development and inspire future fire engineers.

Siemens launches intelligent fire detection and notification systems for smart buildings

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Intelligent fire detection portfolio combines connected fire detectors and digital notification technology to support autonomous buildings

Siemens has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new intelligent fire detection and notification portfolio that combines cloud-connected fire detectors with digital alarm notification systems to improve building safety, reduce maintenance and support autonomous building operations.

The company has introduced its next-generation Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detectors alongside the Acend Intelligent notification portfolio, creating an integrated fire safety ecosystem that delivers continuous self-testing, predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics and real-time monitoring. The combined offering is designed for sectors including healthcare, hospitality, commercial real estate, higher education and data centres, where maintaining uninterrupted operations is critical.

Together, the new products transform conventional fire safety into a proactive, connected system that gives building operators greater visibility of system performance while reducing manual maintenance through cloud-based monitoring and diagnostics.

Intelligent fire detection monitoring

The Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detectors continuously monitor their own performance using Disturbance-Free Testing (DFT), allowing automated self-checks to take place around the clock without disrupting occupants or building operations. Smoke Entry Supervision (SES) technology monitors smoke entry points in real time, while ASAplus technology combines multi-wavelength optical and dual thermal detection to reduce false alarms and unnecessary evacuations.

The detectors are fully IoT-enabled and integrate with Siemens’ Building X Fire Apps, allowing facility managers and service providers to access real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance and shared operational data from connected buildings.

Complementing the new detection portfolio, the Acend Intelligent notification range digitises fire alarm notification through connected horns, strobes, speakers and combination notification appliances that can each be monitored and activated individually.

Its integrated Disturbance-Free Testing technology enables technicians to verify system readiness without triggering audible or visual alarms, helping minimise disruption in environments such as hospitals, hotels, office buildings and data centres. Individual device monitoring also allows faults to be identified more quickly, reducing the need for physical inspections.

The notification portfolio also incorporates Class X isolation technology, ensuring systems remain operational by isolating wiring faults while maintaining protection across unaffected parts of the building.

Peter Nebiker, Head of Fire Safety at Siemens Smart Infrastructure Buildings, said: “The launch of our Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detection portfolio is a game-changer in ensuring all alarms are accurate as best as possible. By moving from periodic checks to continuous, data-driven, self-supervising systems, we’re laying the foundation for truly human-centric, autonomous buildings. By automating testing, delivering real-time insights, and enabling remote action, these solutions protect people while freeing up staff to focus on strategic priorities. This shift isn’t just about innovation – it’s about smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.”

Commenting on the launch of Acend Intelligent, Nebiker added: “As buildings become increasingly connected and digitalized, safety systems must evolve alongside them. With Acend Intelligent, we are transforming fire notification into a foundational technology for these next-generation environments by combining cloud connectivity, real-time data, and digital integration.”

The new fire detection portfolio has been designed to simplify modernisation projects by supporting stepwise upgrades while remaining compatible with existing Siemens fire panels, eliminating the need for complete system replacement. Plug-and-play integration and automatic transfer of configured settings help reduce installation time and project risk for both new-build and retrofit applications.

Both the fire detection and notification portfolios have been developed with sustainability in mind. They incorporate recycled materials and carry Siemens’ EcoTech environmental product performance label to provide greater transparency around environmental performance. The Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova detectors are also part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, the company’s open digital business platform, and have been developed and manufactured in Switzerland.

The Acend Intelligent notification portfolio is available in markets using UL certification standards, including the United States, Canada and selected countries in Latin America, the Middle East and Asia. Siemens showcased the new notification technology at the 2026 NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

UK firefighters continue Venezuela earthquake response mission

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Venezuela earthquake response continues as UK International Search and Rescue teams work alongside international partners

UK firefighters are continuing life-saving search and rescue operations as part of the Venezuela earthquake response, where specialist teams are supporting international efforts following last week’s devastating earthquake.

The 68-strong UK International Search and Rescue (UK ISAR) team is now two days into its deployment in the Caraballeda coastal region, around 15km north of Caracas. Working alongside local and international partners, the team is carrying out systematic searches of collapsed structures using specialist equipment and trained search dogs in difficult and hazardous conditions.

The deployment includes firefighters and specialist personnel from 14 UK fire and rescue services, supported by six search dogs, medics, a structural engineer and a veterinary surgeon.

Images released show UK ISAR personnel searching collapsed buildings, coordinating with local emergency responders and deploying canine teams as rescue efforts continue.

National Fire Chiefs Council Chair Phil Garrigan said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these devastating earthquakes and the families still waiting for news of their loved ones.

“Since arriving in Venezuela the UK ISAR team has been working round the clock in incredibly challenging conditions, working side by side with local and international colleagues as part of a coordinated global response. Their dedication and professionalism is a source of great pride for the UK’s fire and rescue services.

“The commitment of our firefighters and specialists to do everything they can to help brings hope at a time of immense difficulty.”

The UK ISAR team deployed through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office remains self-sufficient and is expected to support operations for up to 10 days.

The earthquakes, which struck on 24 June, have killed at least 1,450 people, with tens of thousands still reported missing.

Britannia Fire appoints Matt Humby as expansion drives next phase of growth

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Britannia Fire appoints Matt Humby as Head of Client Support and Development as the manufacturer enters its next phase of growth

UK-based company Britannia Fire has appointed Matt Humby as Head of Client Support and Development.

Describing Humby as “highly-regarded in the fire safety sector”, Britannia said he brings more than 25 years of industry experience and a strong track record in technical engagement, customer relationships and helping organisations respond to evolving fire safety challenges.

In his new role, Matt will focus on strengthening customer support, training and engagement, and contributing to future business development initiatives across the organisation. 

Commenting on his appointment, Humby said: “I am incredibly excited about my next chapter with Britannia Fire. I’m looking forward to becoming part of a fantastic team, supporting customers and continuing to contribute to an industry I am passionate about.”

Managing Director Andy Spence added: “This is an exciting time to welcome Matt to our team.  As we continue to grow, we’re investing not only in manufacturing capacity but also in strengthening the support, education and training we provide to our customers and partners. 

“Matt’s experience in technical engagement and customer development will help us expand our existing training programmes and create broader learning opportunities across the sector.

“Alongside this, our investment in facilities and production capacity ensures we are well placed to meet increasing demand for the P50 range.”

Britannia, which manufactures fire extinguishers, said the appointment comes as it enters its next phase of growth following investment in its facilities and manufacturing capacity.

As well as the expansion of its headquarters in Ashwellthorpe in Norfolk, the company recently opened a 350m2 administration centre.

It has also installed a second winding machine worth more than £300,000, which is used to attach super-strength aramid fibre to its P50 fire extinguisher cylinders.

Britannia said the investment will double production capacity for the P50 composite range, enabling the company to meet growing demand.

For further information on Britannia Fire, please visit www.britannia-fire.co.uk.

Ghent University student wins Ragnar Wighus Award

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Ragnar Wighus Award recognises Ghent University master’s graduate Mohsen Morshedi for his award-winning water mist research

A Ghent University graduate has been announced as the winner of the Ragnar Wighus Award. Mohsen Morshedi will present his master thesis at the annual International Water Mist Conference (IWMC2026) in Prague, Czech Republic, on 7th and 8th October 2026. 

The title of the winning thesis is “Numerical Simulation of dense Water Mist Sprays in ‘cold’ Conditions with an Emphasis on Multi-Droplet Aerodynamics Interaction”. The thesis was supervised by Prof. Dr. Tarek Beji and Prof. Dr. Tom de Mulder. 

On receiving the news, Mohsen Morshedi said: “I am deeply honoured to be named the recipient of the Ragnar Wighus Award this year. It is a privilege to be recognised among such inspiring professionals, and I sincerely appreciate the support I have received along the way.” 

The sponsor of the award is the International Water Mist Association (IWMA). The committee that evaluates the submissions is the IWMA Scientific Council under the chairmanship of Kemal Arsava (Norwegian University of Science and Technology). 

In 2027, The Ragnar Wighus Award will go to the author of the best Ph.D. thesis. Deadline to hand in submissions is 31st March 2027. The terms under which to apply will be published towards in November. 

IFE celebrates women in fire engineering for INWED 2026

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The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has launched a week-long campaign to celebrate women working across the fire engineering profession as part of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026.

Running from 21-28 June, the campaign highlights female fire engineers from across the IFE’s global membership community, recognising their expertise, leadership and innovation in helping to create a safer built environment.

International Women in Engineering Day, held annually on 23 June, celebrates the achievements of women engineers around the world. The 2026 theme, Engineering Intelligence, focuses on the expertise, judgement and leadership women bring to engineering across every sector.

Throughout the week, the IFE will share member stories from women working in different countries, career stages and professional specialisms. The spotlights will explore how females are advancing fire safety, supporting professional standards and inspiring future generations of fire engineers.

The campaign will also examine how IFE membership has supported the development of female fire engineers by providing access to peer networks, learning resources, professional recognition and wider opportunities to contribute to the fire safety community.

The IFE, which represents more than 15,000 members globally, said the campaign reflects its commitment to supporting greater diversity across the fire sector. Women from the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States and South Africa will feature during the campaign.

Professionals are also being encouraged to join the IFE Women’s Networking Group, which provides a supportive community for females across the fire sector to connect, share experiences, develop professionally and help inspire the next generation.

The IFE said the campaign aims to highlight the expertise strengthening fire safety today while encouraging the females who will help shape the sector in the future.

New Korean Fire Protection Association Chief shifts focus from response to prevention

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The newly appointed chairman of the Korean Fire Protection Association, Kim Ki-hwan, has pledged to shift the organisation’s focus from post-accident response to proactive risk management and prevention.

Speaking at his inauguration ceremony on Monday, Kim said: “Our mission is to identify risks before they materialize, prevent accidents and help build a safer society.

“Over the past 53 years, the association has helped shape Korea’s history of risk management and disaster prevention. The expertise, experience and data we have accumulated over these decades are valuable assets that only few organisations can match.”

Kim pointed to growing challenges posed by climate-related disasters, electric vehicles, energy storage systems and data centres, saying rapid technological change is creating new demands for risk management.

The chairman also emphasised the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics in strengthening disaster prevention capabilities, pledging to transform the association into an AI- and data-driven risk management organisation.

Kim said the association would seek to expand its expertise in risk assessment and prevention, while strengthening cooperation with leading international institutions.

Kim previously served as CEO of KB Insurance and held several senior positions at KB Financial Group and KB Kookmin Bank, including chief risk officer and chief financial officer.

Founded in 1973, the Korean Fire Protection Association conducts fire safety inspections of large-scale commercial and industrial buildings and engages in a wide range of activities, including research into disaster prevention technologies, training programs and fire investigations.

The association has played a key role in advancing fire safety standards and risk management practices in Korea.

Northern Ireland emergency services thanked for response to recent disorder

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Secretary of State Hilary Benn, recently met with Firefighters and other emergency service responders at Central Fire Station in Belfast, to thank them for their extraordinary response to recent disorder across Northern Ireland.

During the visit, Firefighters shared their experiences of protecting the community and responding to incidents during the challenging period last week.

Mr Benn praised the commitment of crews who continued to serve across Northern Ireland under challenging and difficult circumstances and acknowledged the vital role they all play in keeping people safe.

Compact water mist system for rail applications

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Wagner Rail has expanded the WAGNER Group’s FirExting portfolio with the launch of Water Mist Compact, a water mist-based fire suppression system for use in passenger areas in railway carriages.

The system is said to provide high efficiency performance with a reduced space requirement and easier integration and maintenance.

Water mist systems work by releasing micro-fine water droplets that evaporate very quickly as mist, drawing heat energy away from a fire. This enables fast, effective, and gentle fire suppression with low water consumption.

“Thanks to their low water consumption, water mist systems cause very little secondary damage, making them ideal for areas where operations need to resume quickly after a fire,” explains Dr. Markus Müller, Managing Director of Wagner Rail.

“Our latest development goes one step further: it is our smallest and lightest water mist system. It can be installed in a more compact space while delivering the same performance. Both planning and integration into the vehicle are simpler than with conventional systems.”

According to Wagner Rail, the compact water mist system houses the water needed for fire suppression and the nitrogen gas required for atomisation in a single container. This is said to eliminate additional components and piping typically found in traditional water mist systems.

This design saves installation space and weight as well as reduces the number of interfaces with the vehicle. It also simplifies planning and execution of the installation process.

After an activation, the system can be replaced quickly as the containers can be kept in stock as compact replacement parts.

The system is claimed to comply with ARGE Part 2 and UNI 11565:2021, suiting it for use internationally. Since the containers can be heated or insulated, this solution is also suitable for demanding applications and operates reliably even at very low temperatures.

“Ultimately, what matters most to operators is a comprehensive package that combines safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness,” Müller adds. “Our technology stands out for its high effectiveness, low impact on the interior, and excellent retrofitability. This makes it ideal for both existing fleets and new vehicle designs.”

Wagner Rail has begun implementing its first projects using the Water Mist Compact system, which will be showcased at InnoTrans in Berlin from September 22 to 25.