Firefighters awarded in King’s Birthday Honours for service in New South Wales

by Featured NewsPeople

Recognition of firefighters announced by Fire and Rescue NSW

Four Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW) firefighters have been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours list for their service to fire safety and community resilience.

According to Fire and Rescue NSW, Captain Edwin Gray, Chief Superintendent Steven Hayes, and Station Officer Mark Porter have received the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM), while Assistant Commissioner Michael Morris has received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) alongside his wife, Jo-ann.

The medals were awarded by the Governor-General on the advice of federal and state ministers.

The Australian Fire Service Medal recognises distinguished service by members of Australian fire services.

The Medal of the Order of Australia is awarded for service to the community and national achievement.

Long-standing leadership and community focus of Captain Edwin Gray

Fire and Rescue NSW stated that Captain Edwin Gray joined the organisation in 1994 and has served the Tenterfield community for over 30 years.

He was promoted to Captain in 2010 and has led Tenterfield Fire Station since, with a focus on operational performance, bushfire response, and public engagement.

The organisation noted that Captain Gray played a key role during the 2019–20 bushfires and has supported the Home Fire Safety Visit Program and local events such as the fire station centenary.

He has also contributed to public safety in other ways, including mentoring junior firefighters and assisting in his community as a school bus driver.

Fire and Rescue NSW said his actions reflect sustained service beyond his core duties.

Chief Superintendent Hayes commended for leadership during emergencies

According to Fire and Rescue NSW, Chief Superintendent Steven Hayes began his fire service career in 1990 and has served across multiple stations including Liverpool and Macquarie Fields.

He currently leads the Fire Safety Directorate and regularly attends incidents to provide operational oversight.

The organisation reported that Chief Superintendent Hayes was involved in responses to major emergencies including the 2019–20 bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.

It also said he was seconded to NSW State Emergency Service during the 2020–21 floods and coordinated support in flood-affected regions.

His work with Sydney Metro and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator was described by Fire and Rescue NSW as instrumental in developing emergency access strategies for the expanded rail network.

Station Officer Porter recognised for national fire safety contributions

Station Officer Mark Porter has served in the fire service since 1983, according to Fire and Rescue NSW.

He currently works in the Fire Safety Policy Unit, where his responsibilities include regulatory development and technical standards assessment.

The organisation said Station Officer Porter contributed to Australian standards related to fire hydrants, sprinkler systems and firefighting water storage.

He played a role in revising AS2419.1, the national standard for hydrant systems, which Fire and Rescue NSW said directly influences equipment design and deployment.

It stated that his involvement extends to national committees through the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council.

Assistant Commissioner Morris and Jo-ann Morris awarded for public advocacy

Assistant Commissioner Michael Morris and his wife Jo-ann were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for their work in health advocacy and community support.

Fire and Rescue NSW explained that they founded the Samuel Morris Foundation in 2007 following a non-fatal drowning incident involving their son.

The foundation’s efforts led to legislative change in water safety, as reported by the organisation.

Assistant Commissioner Morris has held roles in FRNSW and advocacy positions in paediatric health and disability support.

According to the organisation, their personal experiences shaped campaigns for improved services for families caring for people with disabilities.

The OAM award recognises both of their sustained efforts in charitable and public health initiatives.

Government and agency leaders comment on recognition

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: “While we’re recognising King’s Birthday Honours recipients today, I want to acknowledge all the FRNSW staff who work tirelessly to keep NSW communities safe all year round.

“In the past few weeks, we’ve seen FRNSW crews once again answer the call to support local communities, in response to the devastating Mid North Coast floods.

“I’ve witnessed this exceptional work first-hand, and I’m grateful to all our NSW emergency services agencies for working together to help people during the worst of times.”

FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM said: “I send my congratulations and appreciation to each of the recipients on their service, firefighting careers and outstanding contributions.

“Each of these firefighters bring different perspectives, skills and contributions to our workplace, but what they share is a commitment to go above and beyond the call of duty.

“These recipients don’t seek recognition or praise, but it’s wonderful to see them recognised nationally for their leadership and dedicated contributions to the community.”

Firefighters awarded in King’s Birthday Honours for service in New South Wales: Summary

Four firefighters from Fire and Rescue New South Wales have received national honours.

Captain Edwin Gray, Chief Superintendent Steven Hayes, and Station Officer Mark Porter received the Australian Fire Service Medal.

Assistant Commissioner Michael Morris and Jo-ann Morris received the Medal of the Order of Australia.

The awards were announced as part of the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours list.

FRNSW confirmed the awards were based on contributions to leadership, fire safety and public advocacy.

Captain Gray was recognised for his operational work and community engagement in Tenterfield.

Chief Superintendent Hayes was acknowledged for his emergency management and infrastructure planning.

Station Officer Porter was recognised for contributions to national fire safety standards.

Assistant Commissioner Morris and Jo-ann Morris were awarded for health and disability advocacy.

The honours were confirmed by Fire and Rescue NSW on 10 June 2025.

All medals were awarded by the Governor-General on ministerial recommendation.

Water mist award recognises research into shielded fire applications

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire SuppressionPeople

IWMA recognises Italian PhD research in water mist systems

The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) has announced that Azad Hamzehpour has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Ragnar Wighus Award.

According to the IWMA, Hamzehpour completed his Ph.D. thesis at the Polytechnic University of Turin in Italy under the supervision of Professors Vittorio Verda and Romano Borchiellini.

The award is presented annually to a young scientist whose academic work focuses on water mist systems.

Hamzehpour to present research at UK conference

The IWMA confirmed that Hamzehpour will present his research at the International Water Mist Conference, taking place on 24 and 25 September 2025 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

The conference will include a presentation of his thesis titled “Experimental and Simulation Analysis of Water Mist Systems for shielded Fire Applications”.

The IWMA stated that this opportunity continues the organisation’s tradition of showcasing award-winning research during its annual event.

Research supervised by experts in fire safety and energy systems

Hamzehpour’s Ph.D. research was supervised by Vittorio Verda and Romano Borchiellini, both professors at the Polytechnic University of Turin.

The IWMA noted that he is currently working with Associate Professor Davide Papurello on a new project focused on lithium-ion battery fires.

The organisation stated that the research continues to address fire suppression challenges in shielded environments, contributing to the body of knowledge in alternative fire protection technologies.

Award alternates between Ph.D. and master’s level recognition

The IWMA confirmed that the Ragnar Wighus Award is alternated annually between Ph.D. and master’s theses.

The association stated that in 2026, the award will be presented to the author of the best master’s thesis focused on water mist.

The IWMA added that the award aims to support early career researchers by recognising academic contributions to the field of water mist fire suppression.

Water mist award recognises research into shielded fire applications: Summary

The International Water Mist Association has announced Azad Hamzehpour as the winner of the 2025 Ragnar Wighus Award.

Hamzehpour completed his Ph.D. at the Polytechnic University of Turin in Italy.

His thesis was supervised by Professors Vittorio Verda and Romano Borchiellini.

He is currently working with Associate Professor Davide Papurello on lithium-ion battery fire research.

The award is given annually to early career researchers studying water mist systems.

Hamzehpour will present his thesis at the 2025 International Water Mist Conference in Manchester.

His research is titled “Experimental and Simulation Analysis of Water Mist Systems for shielded Fire Applications”.

In 2026, the award will be presented to the author of the best master’s thesis.

Hamzehpour said:
“I’m deeply honored to receive this award for my PhD thesis.
It’s incredibly rewarding to have my work recognized in this way, and I’m grateful to my supervisors and colleagues for their support throughout the journey.
This recognition inspires me to continue pursuing research that contributes to meaningful advances in the field.”

NFCC celebrates UK fire and rescue volunteers during Volunteers’ Week

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Volunteering spotlight across the UK fire sector

Organisations across the UK are marking Volunteers’ Week from 2 to 8 June 2025.

According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), this annual event is an opportunity to recognise the contribution of volunteers who support fire and rescue services throughout the UK.

The NFCC stated that volunteers play a key role in local prevention work, community education, and public engagement, contributing hundreds of thousands of hours each year to support safety initiatives.

The NFCC explained that volunteer involvement extends beyond incident response.

It noted that volunteers often assist with educational outreach, deliver safety messaging, and contribute to wider prevention work related to fire, water, and road risks.

Community roles support safer outcomes

The NFCC reported that volunteering helps build safer communities by increasing the capacity of fire and rescue services.

It stated that volunteers work alongside operational crews to engage the public in settings such as schools, community events, supermarkets, and health centres.

The council added that volunteer work may include distributing safety leaflets, assisting with home fire safety checks, and promoting awareness of career opportunities in the fire sector.

The NFCC explained that these activities help strengthen community links and broaden the diversity of people involved with fire and rescue services across the UK.

Volunteer experience shared by GMFRS contributor

The NFCC shared the example of John Griffiths, who joined Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) as a volunteer in 2023.

It said that over the course of 18 months, Griffiths dedicated more than 500 hours to three volunteer roles: Community and Support Volunteer, Safety Centre Volunteer, and Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor.

NFCC Volunteer Lead Wendy Richings said: “John’s flexibility, enthusiasm and reliability have made him an invaluable asset to the service.

“His contributions have not only made a lasting impact on the community but have brought additional skills, knowledge and life experience to GMFRS.

“I would urge anyone considering a rewarding volunteering role to contact their local fire and rescue service and enquire about what volunteering opportunities are available.

“You’ll meet like-minded people with the knowledge that you’re making a tangible difference to safety in your community.”

Motivation and impact of volunteer work

The NFCC stated that people choose to volunteer for various reasons, including maintaining activity after retirement, contributing to the community, or exploring new career paths.

Richings said:
“People volunteer for a variety of different reasons, but one thing that unites them all is the impact they make.

“It can add a great deal to your life and the lives of those that you help in the community.

“Our volunteers give their time so generously and connect us in a really different way to members of our public, and our communities.

“We are so grateful for their ongoing dedication and support.

“They are a valued part of our service and we can’t thank them enough for what they do.”

The NFCC said there are a range of volunteering opportunities available within the fire and rescue service, and encouraged members of the public to learn more by visiting its website.

NFCC celebrates UK fire and rescue volunteers during Volunteers’ Week: Summary

Organisations across the UK are marking Volunteers’ Week from 2 to 8 June 2025.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) highlighted the role of volunteers in the UK fire and rescue service.

Volunteers contribute to public education, community safety, and engagement work.

The NFCC stated that volunteers support prevention efforts beyond emergency incident response.

Activities include leaflet drops, safety messaging, and attendance at public events.

Volunteers also support home fire safety visits and career outreach.

John Griffiths volunteered over 500 hours with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service since 2023.

He held roles including Community and Support Volunteer and Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor.

NFCC Volunteer Lead Wendy Richings praised Griffiths’s impact on the service and community.

Richings encouraged others to consider volunteering with their local fire and rescue service.

The NFCC stated that motivations vary but the impact of volunteers is consistent.

It said volunteering can benefit both the community and the individual.

A list of volunteering opportunities is available via the NFCC’s website.

Four New Zealand fire personnel recognised in King’s Birthday Honours

by Featured NewsPeople

Recognition for services to fire and rescue across New Zealand

Four long-serving fire and rescue volunteers from New Zealand have been recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, according to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

The awards include a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit and three King’s Service Medals for contributions to search and rescue and community safety in Oxford, Fox Glacier, Matatā and Taihape.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand Board Chair Rebecca Keoghan said: “These awards recognise the outstanding contributions that our people have made to Fire and Emergency, Search and Rescue and their local communities over many years.”

Honours awarded for decades of volunteer rescue service

The highest award was presented to Ronald (Ron) Ealam of Oxford, who was named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand reported that Mr Ealam has volunteered in land search and rescue for over 50 years, contributing 25 years to training dogs through New Zealand Land Search and Rescue Dogs.

He has been a qualified national trainer and assessor for more than ten years, specialising in training border collies.

Mr Ealam was involved in the 2011 Canterbury earthquake response and has chaired the Oxford Land Search and Rescue Group for over a decade.

The organisation noted that he received the New Zealand Search and Rescue Excellence Award in 2023 for his service.

Fox Glacier volunteer recognised for leadership and emergency response

Marius Bron, based in Fox Glacier, received the King’s Service Medal for his role in local emergency coordination and volunteer leadership.

According to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Mr Bron has been involved in various voluntary roles since 1999, including firefighting, civil defence, and first response.

He leads the South Westland Land Search and Rescue Group and supports the Department of Conservation by maintaining alpine huts.

Mr Bron was commended for helping rescue injured climbers on Mt Rolleston and facilitating community infrastructure such as the Emergency Services Centre.

He is also Operations Manager at Fox Glacier Guiding, a business supporting tourism in the area.

Community leadership in Matatā and Taihape acknowledged

Fire and Emergency New Zealand also reported that Gavin Dennis of Matatā was awarded the King’s Service Medal for four decades of service to the fire brigade and local governance.

Mr Dennis is Chief Fire Officer of the Matatā Volunteer Fire Brigade and played a central role in flood responses in 2005 and 2017.

He launched a cadet programme in 2014 to recruit young firefighters and served on school boards and community groups from 1993 to 2019.

Alan (Curly) Troon of Taihape received the King’s Service Medal for service to Fire and Emergency and local activities.

Mr Troon has served in the Taihape Volunteer Fire Brigade since 1991 and led the rebuild of the town’s fire station.

He is active in promoting Taihape’s gumboot throwing events through the New Zealand Boot Throwing Association and has participated in international competitions.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand stated that Mr Troon has supported local sports and ambulance services and continues to mentor young people.

Four fire and rescue volunteers honoured in 2025 King’s Birthday list: Summary

Four New Zealand fire and rescue personnel have been recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours.

The information was reported by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Ronald Ealam of Oxford received the Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Marius Bron of Fox Glacier, Gavin Dennis of Matatā, and Alan Troon of Taihape each received the King’s Service Medal.

Mr Ealam has contributed more than 50 years to land search and rescue.

Mr Bron volunteers in multiple emergency response roles and leads local initiatives.

Mr Dennis has served as a firefighter and community board member for over 30 years.

Mr Troon is a life member of the Taihape Fire Brigade and community organiser.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand acknowledged all recipients for their community dedication.

FireQual appoints David White and Colin Todd to UK board

by Featured NewsPeople

New appointments aim to support UK fire safety qualifications

FireQual has announced the appointment of David White and Colin Todd to its board of directors.

According to FireQual, the appointments bring over 100 years of combined experience to the organisation, with a specific focus on advancing fire safety qualifications in the United Kingdom.

David White joins with immediate effect.

FireQual stated that White has over 50 years of experience in the sector, including 30 years in the fire and rescue services.

White is Chairman and former President of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers.

He has contributed to the development of both UK and international fire safety standards.

White said: “I trust that I can support its growth and provide the industry with robust, regulated qualifications that best represent the skills and knowledge required to work in the industry today.”

Colin Todd brings regulatory and committee experience

FireQual reported that Colin Todd has also joined its board.

Todd has five decades of experience in the fire safety field and has received national honours for his contributions.

He has worked extensively with organisations including the British Standards Institution and the Fire Industry Association.

Todd has also participated in multiple government committees.

The organisation stated that his work in consultancy, training and standards development has influenced national practice.

Todd said: “The importance of training new and existing members of the fire safety profession cannot be overestimated and has always been a passion of mine.

“I look forward to the challenges of FireQual’s role in raising standards within the profession.”

Board changes reflect strategic focus on training and regulation

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the BAFE Group, commented on the appointments.

Maltby-Smith said: “These key appointments underscore FireQual’s unwavering commitment to excellence in fire safety training and assessment.

“By valuing experience in leadership, FireQual continues to elevate the standards of regulated qualifications across the industry, ensuring professionals have the real-world skills and knowledge needed to protect lives and property.”

FireQual confirmed that both appointments are effective immediately.

The organisation added that the new board members will contribute to the development of its qualification framework.

FireQual aligns board with sector requirements in the UK

According to FireQual, the decision to expand its board reflects ongoing changes in the UK fire safety sector.

The organisation stated that aligning leadership with industry expectations will help ensure qualifications meet national regulatory standards.

It added that both appointees bring direct experience of delivering training and influencing policy.

FireQual also confirmed that its qualifications are regulated and designed to reflect real-world fire safety roles.

FireQual appoints David White and Colin Todd to UK board: Summary

FireQual has added two new members to its board.

David White has over 50 years of experience, including 30 years in fire and rescue services.

White is Chairman and former President of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers.

Colin Todd has also joined the board.

Todd has five decades of fire safety experience and has received national honours.

He has worked with BSI, the FIA and government committees.

FireQual said the appointments aim to support regulated fire safety qualifications in the UK.

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith of the BAFE Group welcomed the appointments.

Both appointments are effective immediately.

Magirus confirms departure of Sales and Customer Services Director Marc Kuntz

by Featured NewsPeopleVehicles

Director’s exit marks shift in Magirus leadership structure

Magirus has announced that Marc Kuntz, Director of Sales and Customer Services, is leaving the company in May 2025 at his own request.

According to Magirus, Kuntz has served on the management board since 2022 and was responsible for global customer-facing operations including sales, marketing, customer service, product management and training.

The firefighting vehicles company stated that Kuntz played a role in the company’s recent strategic realignment, particularly through new sales structures and market introductions.

Responsibilities and impact during tenure

Magirus explained that during his time as Head of Sales and Customer Services, Kuntz oversaw the company’s global commercial functions.

This included managing equipment strategy, quality assurance, international dealer networks and training operations.

The company added that Kuntz had also led efforts to launch new product lines and expand Magirus’ international reach through newly established sales subsidiaries.

Statements from company leadership

Magirus Managing Director Thomas Hilse said: “I would like to thank Marc Kuntz for his work over the past years.

“With his sales expertise, he has played a key role in the successful development of the company, the realignment of sales and the market launch of our new products.

“We regret Marc Kuntz’s decision and wish him every success in his personal and professional future.”

Chief Restructuring Officer Fatmir Veselaj added: “Marc Kuntz played a key role in shaping the strategic realignment of Magirus GmbH as part of the transformation and is particularly responsible for the establishment of our new sales companies.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank him personally for his professional and dedicated work.

“I wish him every success in his new career.”

Professional background prior to joining Magirus

Magirus noted that Kuntz began his career in 2004 at the German sales division of Mercedes-Benz.

He later held senior roles with Daimler Trucks in India and Japan, and in 2020 he was appointed to lead sales and marketing for Daimler Trucks Overseas.

Kuntz joined Magirus in 2022 and has remained on the management board until his departure in May 2025.

Magirus announces exit of Sales Director Marc Kuntz in Germany: Summary

Magirus has confirmed the departure of Marc Kuntz as Director of Sales and Customer Services.

Kuntz joined the company in 2022 and is leaving in May 2025 at his own request.

He held responsibility for global sales, marketing, customer service, product management and training.

Magirus said he contributed to the company’s strategic realignment and expansion into new markets.

Managing Director Thomas Hilse thanked Kuntz for his work and leadership in product launches.

Chief Restructuring Officer Fatmir Veselaj acknowledged his role in the development of new sales subsidiaries.

Prior to joining Magirus, Kuntz worked for Mercedes-Benz and Daimler Trucks in Europe and Asia.

He led overseas sales and marketing at Daimler Trucks before moving to Magirus.

Kentec targets BESS fire risks in China with regional expansion

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Kentec appoints Frank Tan as Asia Pacific Business Development Manager

Kentec has announced a new strategic hire as it expands its fire detection and suppression offering for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in China.

According to Kentec, Frank Tan has been appointed as Business Development Manager for the Asia Pacific region, with a specific focus on growing the company’s presence in the Chinese BESS sector.

Kentec stated that Tan brings over 30 years of experience in fire safety and detection, having previously held roles at Johnson Controls, VESDA, Airsense and SDHY.

Frank Tan to lead regional growth across BESS and detection markets

The company said Tan will lead efforts to strengthen Kentec’s presence across Asia Pacific.

He is a graduate of the University of Science and Technology in Beijing and holds an MBA from Donghua University in Shanghai.

Kentec added that Tan is a Registered Electrical Engineer and Registered Fire Engineer, and a member of the Technical Committee for technical specification for aspirating smoke detection (ASD) fire alarm systems of electrical factories.

Derrick Hall, Director of Sales and Marketing at Kentec, said: “Frank brings invaluable knowledge and experience of the market in China and the wider region, and will help drive Kentec’s growth in the fast-moving battery energy storage sector, where fire presents a considerable risk for BESS operators.”

Kentec develops dedicated fire safety solutions for BESS installations

Kentec reported that its expansion follows increased demand for fire protection solutions in battery storage sites across China, which it described as remote and often unmanned, creating additional challenges for detection and suppression.

The company stated that it has developed a tailored solution to address fire hazards in BESS applications.

According to Kentec, this system includes an early warning function to detect threats in advance and help mitigate the risk of major incidents.

New flammable gas sensor aims to support early hazard identification

Kentec confirmed that it is preparing to launch a flammable gas sensor designed for BESS environments.

It explained that the sensor identifies gases associated with fire risk and functions without requiring calibration throughout its lifespan, helping reduce servicing costs.

The company noted that the sensor integrates with Kentec’s ZXT and other extinguishing and releasing panels to provide alerts when potentially explosive gases are detected.

According to Kentec, this allows operators to act in advance using venting or other control measures before suppression systems are triggered.

Kentec targets BESS fire risks in China with regional expansion: Summary

Kentec has appointed Frank Tan as Business Development Manager for Asia Pacific.

The appointment is part of Kentec’s expansion into the Chinese BESS market.

Tan has over 30 years of experience in fire safety and detection.

He has previously worked at Johnson Controls, VESDA, Airsense and SDHY.

He holds qualifications as a Registered Electrical Engineer and Registered Fire Engineer.

Kentec reported that fire risks in battery storage systems are increasing in China.

The company said many sites are remote and unmanned, raising challenges for fire detection.

Kentec stated that it has developed a solution specific to BESS environments.

It is preparing to launch a flammable gas sensor for early hazard detection.

The sensor integrates with Kentec’s extinguishing and releasing systems.

Kentec confirmed that the sensor does not require calibration over its life span.

The company said the sensor provides early alerts before fire or explosion occurs.

Wellbeing dogs join London Fire Brigade mental health initiative

by Featured NewsPeople

Wellbeing dogs provide post-incident support across London

The London Fire Brigade has announced the graduation of six new canine recruits and their handlers into its wellbeing dog programme.

According to the London Fire Brigade, the dogs are part of a mental health support initiative that helps firefighters process traumatic events.

The newly qualified dogs will join an existing group of four, bringing the total number in the team to ten.

The Brigade stated that the programme allows fire stations across its 102-site network to request visits, particularly after distressing incidents.

The scheme was launched in 2017 by firefighter Shelley Robinson and was expanded in 2023 under the leadership of Sarah Jane King and Katie Pelzman, with operational support from Assistant Operations Manager Becci Dingvean.

Firefighters benefit from therapy dog visits

The London Fire Brigade reported that wellbeing dog visits have taken place around 30 times over the past year.

These include visits to fire stations, public open days and internal departments.

The Brigade explained that future visits will be scheduled in response to serious incidents to provide an immediate morale boost and early emotional support for personnel.

Natalie Elliott, Head of Health and Wellbeing at London Fire Brigade, said: “Our fire crews are called to all manner of incidents, not just burning buildings.

“Some of these incidents may have a significant impact on a person’s mental health, and can range from fatalities to train or car accidents, and incidents involving very young children.

“It’s impossible to know who and how someone is going to be affected from the outset, but we do know that some incidents will stay with our staff long after they’ve left the scene.

“The wellbeing dogs help provide support and are key to bridging the gap between early interventions such as peer-based post incident support and more structured support, such as trauma therapy, which the Brigade provides.”

Dog handlers complete specialist training

One of the new canine recruits is Blue, a miniature Australian Shepherd.

Blue is handled by Lucy MacLeod, Borough Commander for Hammersmith and Fulham.

The Brigade confirmed that Blue and MacLeod have completed 20 training modules through the Oscar Kilo 9 Dogs Trust Handlers course, alongside a behavioural assessment.

Handlers are also required to undertake a two-day Mental Health First Aid course and a one-day peer support training session through the OK9 programme.

Borough Commander MacLeod said: “It does take a special type of dog to take on this work. Blue has the right temperament.

“He is happy to be stroked, adores being made a fuss of and he is very calm around people. He generally loves being around humans.

“Evidence shows that animals like Blue, can have a calming influence on people and provide a positive distraction; there’s no judgement from a dog.

“We’ve found that our staff are more likely to talk openly and honestly on subjects like mental health and wellbeing when four-legged friends are around.”

Fire crews share experiences of wellbeing dog visits

The London Fire Brigade reported that the visits are well received by crews and are seen as a useful tool for decompressing after challenging shifts.

Wallington’s Red Watch Leading Firefighter Craig Parlanti described one such visit to his station.

He said: “It was great to meet Ted.

“He’s a three-year-old working cocker spaniel.

“He came to visit us at the fire station and gave us all a bit of a boost.

“It’s important we unwind and de-stress after some of the incidents we attend.

“Ted’s visit certainly helped us to do that.”

The Brigade added that it hopes to grow the programme further by recruiting additional dogs and handlers in the coming months.

Wellbeing dogs join London Fire Brigade mental health initiative: Summary

The London Fire Brigade has expanded its wellbeing dog programme to include ten qualified dogs.

Six new dogs and their handlers were announced during Mental Health Awareness Week.

The programme was established in 2017 and expanded in 2023 by the Brigade’s wellbeing team.

Fire stations across London can request wellbeing dog visits following traumatic events.

Visits are also made to Brigade departments and public events.

Dogs and their handlers undergo specialist training including OK9 modules and mental health first aid.

The Brigade stated that dogs offer emotional support and aid post-incident recovery.

Handlers include serving firefighters and officers who volunteer their time and pets.

Crews have reported positive effects from the visits, including reduced stress levels.

The Brigade intends to further develop the programme in the coming months.

Fire-Dex confirms 2026 leadership handover

by Breaking NewsPeople
Lauren Burke DeVere [left] will become CEO, John Karban [right] will be named President

CEO succession at Fire-Dex to begin in 2026

Fire-Dex has confirmed that a leadership transition will begin in 2026, with President Lauren Burke DeVere set to take over as Chief Executive Officer.

According to Fire-Dex, Burke DeVere will begin sharing CEO responsibilities with current Chief Executive Steve Allison from the start of 2026, ahead of his planned retirement in early 2027.

Fire-Dex added that John Karban, currently Vice President of Operations, will be promoted to President as part of the same succession plan.

Burke DeVere to become CEO following phased transition

The manufacturer stated that the transition will take place over 15 months, during which time Burke DeVere and Allison will jointly manage executive responsibilities.

Steve Allison, who joined Fire-Dex in 2014 and has served as CEO since, said: “It’s been the honour of my career to lead this incredible team.

“It’s humbling and exciting to step into the CEO role, especially following in Steve’s footsteps,” said Lauren Burke DeVere.

She added: “I care for our people more than anything, and I’m laser-focused on keeping our culture strong, our people supported and our mission front and centre.”

Burke DeVere joined Fire-Dex in 2019 and became President in 2021. The company said her promotion follows a period of sustained growth and strategic change.

Karban to take on President role after two decades at the company

Fire-Dex confirmed that John Karban will succeed Burke DeVere as President after more than 20 years with the business.

The company said Karban began his career with Fire-Dex as a Plant Manager and later led operational, logistics and engineering initiatives.

John Karban said: “I’ve worn a lot of hats here.

“What’s never changed is the heart of this company: our people and our purpose.

Karban added: “I’m excited to take on the role of President and work alongside Lauren and our team to keep building on what makes Fire-Dex special.”

Company outlines long-term focus on internal leadership and product development

Fire-Dex stated that the succession plan reflects its focus on internal leadership development and business continuity.

The company noted that more than 500 associates and multiple facilities are involved in its operations, with no plans to slow growth.

Current CEO Steve Allison said: “We’re not slowing down.

“I’m thrilled to support Lauren and John through this transition as they shape the future of Fire-Dex together.”

Fire-Dex added that its work continues on products and services including AeroFlex turnouts, firefighter sizing AI, and Gear Wash maintenance.

Fire-Dex confirms 2026 leadership handover: Summary

Fire-Dex has announced a leadership transition set to begin in January 2026.

Current President Lauren Burke DeVere will become CEO in a phased handover with current CEO Steve Allison.

Steve Allison will retire in early 2027.

Vice President of Operations John Karban will become President in 2026.

Burke DeVere has been with Fire-Dex since 2019 and became President in 2021.

Karban has worked at Fire-Dex for over 20 years in operations and logistics.

The company said the changes reflect its people-first and internal succession approach.

More than 500 staff work across multiple Fire-Dex facilities in the United States.

The manufacturer said its development of protective gear and services will continue during the transition.

Fire-Dex confirmed it will continue expanding manufacturing and technology capabilities.

FBU challenges proposed shift changes in Mid and West Wales

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Firefighters oppose 12-hour shift plans

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has reported that firefighters in Mid and West Wales are campaigning against proposed shift pattern changes, which would involve the introduction of 12-hour shifts.

According to the FBU, more than 200 people, including firefighters and community supporters, gathered at the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service headquarters in March to voice opposition.

The union explained that over 4,000 people have signed a petition rejecting the proposed changes and that further industrial action is being considered.

Union warns of impact on firefighter retention

Tom Wass, Mid and West Wales FBU brigade organiser, said firefighters are worried about the long-term consequences of the changes on their ability to stay in the profession.

Wass said: “Hardworking firefighters fear that they will be forced to leave the profession.”

He added: “Concerns raised around the financial cost and lack of availability of 12-hour childcare are being ignored by management.”

The union explained that its local branches are meeting to decide the next steps in the campaign, including potential industrial action.

Culture review and leadership concerns raised

The FBU reported that concerns extend beyond shift patterns, with criticism directed at senior management practices.

Union representatives stated that claims of bullying and nepotism, which were detailed in a culture review published in January, have not been adequately addressed.

They argue that instead of acting on cultural concerns, management has prioritised operational changes.

FBU calls for accountability from senior leaders

FBU regional secretary for Wales Duncan Stewart-Ball said the organisation expects leadership to take responsibility for staff welfare and workplace standards.

Stewart-Ball said: “The fire authority must start listening to firefighters and holding the chief fire officer and senior management to account.”

The FBU added that the campaign would continue until the shift proposals and wider organisational issues are fully reviewed.

FBU challenges proposed shift changes in Mid and West Wales: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has reported that firefighters in Mid and West Wales are campaigning against a proposal to change to 12-hour shifts.

More than 200 people attended a protest at the fire service headquarters in March.

Over 4,000 people have signed a petition opposing the proposed changes.

Tom Wass, Mid and West Wales FBU brigade organiser, said that firefighters fear the changes may force them out of the profession.

Wass also said the financial and childcare challenges of longer shifts are being overlooked.

The FBU said that local branches are meeting to discuss industrial action.

The union reported that members are also concerned about bullying and nepotism detailed in a January culture review.

Duncan Stewart-Ball, FBU regional secretary for Wales, said the fire authority must hold senior management to account.

The FBU said it would continue its campaign against the changes.