Toxic Suppression Partners with Senseware to keep firefighters safe

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Toxic Suppression, a referenced leader in firefighter safety has partnered with Senseware, a real-time indoor air quality monitoring technology company to launch Sentinel IQ. Sentinel IQ is the first monitoring system specifically designed to track and alert first responders to the threats of airborne contaminants.

First Responders are routinely exposed to many harmful contaminants in the line-of-duty including volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, and contagious pathogens. Cancer alone caused 66 percent of career firefighter line-of-duty deaths from 2002 to 2019, according to data from the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).

Toxic Suppression’s vision is to provide safer working environments for first responders against the multiple hazards they are exposed to. “For the first time, the unseen hazards can be visualized in real-time to alert to unsafe working environments. Designed and tested in station and emergency vehicles, the Sentinel IQ is a future-proof solution with unlimited applications including custom sensor packages” said Scott Hacker, VP of Sales and Marketing.

The Sentinel IQ monitors air quality and sanitization performance including VOC’s, CO2, PM 0.3-1.0, PM 2.5, PM 10, CO, and offers the only real-time cloud-based ion sensor on the market. Coupled with the Sentinel Purifier, The Sentinel offers the only mobile air and hard surface sanitization system where the performance can be validated real-time.

“Our technology was invented from Parkinson’s Disease research and has evolved to help people understand the health of their environment. With over 1M firefighters in the United States risking their lives, we are proud to support Toxic Suppression in providing assurance and peace of mind to our heroes.” said Serene Almomen, CEO and Co-Founder of Senseware.

Command Light introduces Trident Tripod at FDIC 2022

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Command Light, a leader in emergency vehicle lighting, has launched the all-new Trident Tripod. The lights can be powered by AC power, truck 12V DC or one of Command Light’s different non-proprietary battery options with Akron Revels, FRC Spectras, FireTech Helios, Whelen Pioneer Plus or a Feniex Arrow Stick.

“Our tripod is available in AC or DC models, but it’s our DC models that are really going to be a gamechanger in the market. It’s the first time in industry history that fire departments can pair a DeWalt FLEXVOLT, Makita XGT, Milwaukee M28 or HURST EWXT/E3 battery with a high-lumen LED made for the fireground,” Command Light President Roger Weinmeister explained.

“We really wanted to create a tripod that works with crews’ other battery-operated tools, all the while delivering even more light than the traditional tripod. We know that tripods aren’t new to the market, and yet we recognized that the choice in LEDs and power sources was always limited, so now, we’re changing that with the Command Light Trident.”

The Trident is available in 10 DC models and 8 AC models, depending on LED fixture. Each DC tower can be spec’ed with additional options, like shore power, 12V DC truck power and truck mounting brackets with disconnect.

Command Light’s tripod features a compact 50” collapsible design, weighing between 25-35 lbs. depending on model. When deployed and extended, the Trident Tripod features a 91” reach.

“Historically, Command Light has been known for its patented light tower, and while we still firmly believe every truck should be equipped with this important piece of equipment to properly illuminate a scene, we also know mobile lighting is important,” Weinmeister added. “Really, we just want to help crews get light where it’s needed most, whether that’s by setting up lighting near the victim or elevating, rotating and backlighting a large scene.”

The new tripod will be unveiled at FDIC International 2022 (Command Light Booth #3411).

Super Vac to showcase robotic misting turbine at FDIC 2022

by Breaking NewsEventsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Super Vac, one of the leading manufacturers in fire ventilation equipment, will showcase an unmanned misting turbine by EmiControls in its booth at FDIC International 2022 (Booth #3417).

The robotic fan features a water mist system that atomizes water and extinguishing foam into a fine mist before propelling it up to 300 feet with Quadrijet nozzles and turbine propeller. The fan can be maneuvered an additional 1,000 feet toward the hazard thanks to advance remote controls, making these turbines the ultimate unmanned firefighting fans for chemical operations, tunnel systems, subway shafts, recycling plants and urban areas.

The fan’s water misting system includes 40 turbine-ring Quadrijet nozzles, which provides up to 400 gpm of water, and a powerful turbine propeller, which combines 25kW power with a polymer blade to deliver 35,000 cfm. An integrated Akron nozzle (or brand of choice) produces up to 1,200 gpm that can be propelled up to 300 ft. with remote adjustable pattern. In addition to its misting capabilities, the turbine is also highly maneuverable. The robot can tilt

19-degrees down and 43-degrees up, while the turntable features 362 degrees of rotation. The design can also fit into parking garages as low as 80” while having the ability to raise an additional 67”. This large industrial fan can be mounted on tracks, trailer or truck.

When mounted to the crawler tracks, the robotic fan can navigate harsh terrain, 30-degree inclines and 15-degree traverses with the mobile unit’s 71HP Kubota diesel engine. A number of optional features can be added to the firefighting robot, including forklift, railway wheels, camera kit, remote winch, air duct hose, ground-sweep nozzles and web-based GPS.

“We’re excited to partner with EmiControls so that we could bring this firefighting robot to the United States market,” Super Vac President Roger Weinmeister said. “This fan is a great addition to our large-scale PPV lineup, which includes 30”, 48” and 80” industrial fans, all designed for ventilating large structures. At Super Vac, we know every ventilation scenario is different, so we pride ourselves in this addition because we know it’s important to offer a wide variety of tools to get the job done.”

Three custom MSA Helmets up for grabs

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

MSA and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) are working together to provide the most innovative and up-to-date technology to help first responders improve their health and safety. To that ilk, MSA will give out three volunteer firefighters, that are NVFC members, a personalized MSA Cairns XF1 Fire Helmet in 2022.

The jet-style design of the Cairns XF1 Fire Helmet reduces snag hazards, provides a personalized fit, and houses its own integrated light module. Plus, the soft goods are removable, washable, and replaceable, helping firefighters align with cancer awareness programs as written by the Firefighter Cancer Support Network.

To be eligible to enter, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be an active volunteer firefighter in the U.S.
  • Be a member of the NVFC. Learn about member benefits and join at www.nvfc.org/join.
  • One entry allowed per member each entry period; prior winners are not eligible to renter.
  • Recipient agrees that his/her name, details from entry, and photo may be used in media by MSA and the NVFC for the purposes of promoting the donation

NVFC members will have three opportunities to enter to win an XF1 helmet in 2022. The first entry period is now open through April 30. Click here to enter.

A total of three volunteer firefighters that are also NVFC members at their time of entry will be randomly selected to each receive one MSA Cairns XF1 Fire Helmet in 2022. One firefighter will be awarded one helmet from each entry period. Winners will be announced the month following each entry period. Winners will be contacted directly before the public announcement is made.

The XF1 helmet is a light and easy to clean, and does not cause snags. The helmet also comes with a personalised fit and integrated accessories.

Johnson Controls acquires UK’s Xcell Misting

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Johnson Controls has acquired Xcell Misting Ltd, an expert fire protection company that designs and installs fire suppression and detection systems. Xcell Misting Ltd specializes in water mist technologies.

The acquisition will benefit Johnson Controls’ customers from Xcell’s expertise within fire protection and security, with access to the latest fire suppression technologies. Xcell Misting operates in a multitude of different sectors that include food, technology, data centers, high-hazard and gas turbines, car plants, residential, and waste management.

Xcell is headquartered in Norfolk, UK and employs fire professionals, engineers, installers and managers to design and deploy fire protection systems across the UK, along with providing support 24/7.

Sarah Dixon, general manager fire suppression UK and Ireland, Johnson Controls said: “Xcell Misting’s specialist watermist capabilities will allow us to maximise on our watermist opportunities, and in turn expand our current suppression offering to our customers.

“With a well-deserved reputation for the strong levels of customer care and expertise, we look forward to working with Xcell Misting Ltd’s talented team and welcoming them to the Johnson Controls family.”

In addition, Xcell Misting’s owners Kevin Musk, Andy Cooke and Deborah Bingham said: “This is a fantastic moment for all, including our employees who will to be part of a larger group with its associated opportunities and our customers who will continue to benefit from the best quality products and the best service at the best price. Xcell Misting will continue to thrive within Johnson Controls and the envisaged growth will be one that we can all be proud of as we move forward together.”

National Fire Chiefs Council launches online procurement hub

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched a Hub that features all current information on the NFCC National Fire Commercial Transformation Programme [NFCTP] as well as a host of resources for Fire Procurement and Commercial staff within the Fire and Rescue Services as well as being invaluable to those supplying to the sector.

The Team that forms the NFCTP was originally established in 2016 in response to the Fire Minister’s reform agenda. Chaired by Chief Sponsor Ann Millington [CEO of Kent FRS], it comprises six CFO/CEO category sponsors and six category leads from across the sector, the FIA reported.

Early views indicate that this is a vital resource that our Fire and Rescue and indeed other suppliers should explore and it may be found here.

Evac+Chair releases 900H Power evacuation chair

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Evac+Chair is the original manufacturer and global leader in emergency evacuation chairs for the mobility impaired. With 40 years’ experience in the design, Evac+Chair is trusted and relied upon in emergency situations to assist in saving people’s lives.  

There are 14.1 million disabled people living in the UK, and it is imperative that all commercial buildings provide a safe means of evacuation for everyone. In addition, temporary mobility impairments, such as a sporting injury, pregnancy or even a panic attack brought about by an emergency evacuation, will impede an individual’s ability to self-evacuate. Having an evacuation chair in a commercial building is vital to ensure everyone can be safely evacuated in the event of a fire, or other emergency.  

An Evac+Chair will provide a safe means of escape for the mobility impaired individual and protect everyone.  In the event of an emergency, should a mobility impaired person attempt to evacuate without assistance, they could impede the entire evacuation, putting their lives and the lives of others at risk.   

Independent research carried out by the University of Greenwich concluded that we provide the safest, quickest means of escape for the mobility impaired, compared with other types of evacuation products. Whilst the design of the Evac+Chair has been unaltered over the last 40 years, it has been enhanced, in terms of passenger safety and comfort. In addition, the range has expanded to provide products that suit different types of staircases and accommodate heavier payload passengers.  

Evac+Chair recently introduced its new range – the 900H Power – a 24V, Lithium-Ion battery operated, motorised evacuation chair. Designed for one-person operation its powered belt track system reduces manual handling and facilitates a smooth, safe and quick method of upward or downward evacuation.  

One full battery charge provides enough power to last for 150 flights of stairs, giving complete peace of mind that the mobility impaired can be evacuated upwards or downwards in an emergency. The easy-to-use control pad enables the user to control the speed and direction (upward or downward) of the evacuation chair and the head support, arm and foot rests provide assistance and comfort to the passenger. With a payload capacity of 160kg, the 900H Power can evacuate bariatric passengers with ease and the ascending control handles, enable a second person to assist.  

Evac+Chair manufactures a wide range of evacuation chairs that are suitable for all commercial environments including offices, hotels, schools, sports stadia, retail outlets, healthcare and factories, each chair has a unique set of features that make it more suitable for certain environments.  

Evac+Chair offer complimentary, no obligation evacuation assessments to ensure the correct evacuation chair is selected. Consultants assess the staircase/s that will be used in an emergency evacuation – taking into account the direction of the evacuation (upward/downward), width and angle of the staircase. They will gain an understanding of any personnel requirements that either the passenger or operator may have, enabling the consultant to recommend the most suitable Evac+Chair for the premises.  

Evac+Chair firmly believe that it is vital that all operators undertake training. Offering an ‘Operator Training Course’ and ‘Key Training Masterclass’, Evac+Chair training courses are designed to ensure delegates have the knowledge, practical experience and confidence to competently deploy and operate the evacuation chair. The ‘Key Trainer Masterclass’ is suitable for larger organisations/premises who require multiple persons to be trained and certifies the delegate to train others. Evac+Chair courses certify a delegate for three years, after which it is recommended that all delegates refresh their knowledge and practical experience.  

As a Class 1 Medical Device, an Evac+Chair should be regularly serviced and maintained to ensure its safe operation. This requirement is included within the PUWER Regulation (Provision and Use of Works Equipment Regulations 1988 – UK only). To help their customers meet this legal requirement Evac+Chair offer a 1, 3 and 5-year maintenance contracts. This includes full call out cover, genuine replacement parts that no other third party can supply and labour. Giving complete peace of mind that in the event of an emergency everyone can be evacuated.  

The light of a firefighter

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Derek Box, Industrial Division Marketing Manager, Nightstick tells us the importance of new innovations in lighting technology for firefighters to combat smoky situations

What emerging technologies will today’s fire service need to be aware of? 

Multi-function and dual light torches are becoming a must-have feature for firefighters, especially volunteers who often pay for their own equipment. If you can combine a traditional angle light with a floodlight that illuminates trip hazards and then give it a 90° rotating head that becomes a standard torch, you’ve got three lights in one package. Similarly, if you combine a side mount helmet light that has a tight, focused beam and add a soft area floodlight, you give the firefighter more options, and more options give more time. More time can mean the difference between life and death. At the FDIC show in April 2022, Nightstick will be showcasing our extensive lineup of dual-light portable LED lights specifically designed for firefighters. 

What is the best light for a firefighter? 

The short answer is, one you bring with you. When firefighters arrive on scene, the situation is fast-paced and sometimes chaotic. They need their hands free to pull hoses, swing axes, climb ladders, operate extraction equipment, and do many other critical tasks. Often the only lighting they have immediately available is what is strapped to their bunker gear, such as angle lights and helmet lights. These lights must provide excellent visibility and adapt to the situation. A blinding 600-lumen spotlight on their helmet is not helpful if they are examining a trapped motorist. The ability to switch over to a soft area floodlight with the push of a button while wearing gloves is an excellent example of adapting to the situation. Another essential consideration is runtime. Often the initial danger is under control within the first hour, but finishing the job can take several hours. It’s critical to have the runtime necessary to complete the job. 

What is the best way to combat smoke visibility on scene? 

A tight beam pattern is vital to cutting through smoky areas without having the blinding glare of a bright unfocused high-lumen torch bouncing back at you. The design and engineering for a tight smoke cutting beam pattern is much different for portable firefighting equipment than standard torches designed to illuminate a large area. For safety and coordination amongst firefighters, it’s crucial to have “follow me” lights on the back of their lighting equipment. The most visible color to the human eye is in the center of the spectrum at 550 nanometers (green). Many manufacturers use wavelengths on the edge of the visible spectrum, such as 700 nanometers, because they are cheaper to produce. A green light is up to 4 times more visible in low light situations and far superior. 

What’s the impact of technology on fire pumps?

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Chris Ferrara, CEO and President, US Fire Pump talks IoT in the world of fire pumps, with a major rise in uptick of services

In today’s world the increasing of new technologies seems never ending, and quite overwhelming at times. We start the process of adopting new technologies and seemingly it’s out of date before it’s even implemented. 

However, paraphrasing the 36th American President Lyndon B Johnson, ‘you can get crushed if you’re not prepared for the new technologies available or even for the acceptance of adopting new technologies.’ When it comes to technological adoption you must start somewhere, or risk falling behind.   

At US Fire Pump our team was often requested to provide a mobile temporary pump solution with the technology to mimic stationary or fixed firewater pumps. At the time this technology, packaged in a true mobile firewater pump, didn’t exist. Our engineering team didn’t scoff at the idea, even as they found the process of development to be no short order. In fact, hearing the repeated need from customers, only strengthened their resolve to create a solution. 

Professionals that have worked with mobile fire pumps as compared to fixed fire pumps know that their requirements differ greatly. Finding a suitable adaptation to these requirements, in a temporary mobile package, was the first task for our team. Fixed pumps have the luxury of control rooms, fire control panels and many other redundant safety systems in place, and usually all in a controlled environment.  

However, what we were being asked to achieve was a mobile system without the liberty of any of the above controls in place. Our team was able to engineer a smart system for mobile use, thanks to which these smart fire pumps can be used in your next turnaround, unplanned outage, or as a temporary replacement for fixed fire water pumps. 

Our smart systems have since been installed in petrochemical facilities, private health institutions and State facilities throughout the United States.  

To be a market leader and innovator you must have forward thought mindset. To do so, you must find or develop new technologies to make that road easier to navigate.  

US Fire Pump’s in-house engineers and experts can assist with pre planning for outages, or at a moment’s notice for emergency unplanned outages and events. Our rental fleet of fire and ancillary equipment is the largest on the globe and our smart technology is ready for dispatch 24/7. 

Tell us a bit more about smart technologies and how it has made its way into pumps.  
The ability for mobile pumps to mimic fixed pumps in temporary situations has been a big change. In what seems like never-ending supply chain issues and parts shortages, more and more fixed fire pumps are being taken out of service for extended periods of time. How do you replace these and keep facilities on-line? With temporary solutions like our mobile fire pumps. Adding smart pumping technology to these mitigates the need for firewatch personnel and acts in accordance with the fixed firewater pumps, albeit in a temporary solution.   

How does the Submersible Response Truck address market requirements?  
The idea behind Submersible Response Truck was to address areas with water shortage, and for a myriad of reasons there are many use case scenarios. For the industrial sector it can be that your fire water supply has been temporarily, or by accident, nullified. For the municipal sector, particularly rural settings with no hydrant systems but plenty of water in the surrounding area, it allows the SRT to have the submersible pumps deployed to any static water source for water supply. This, depending on the water source, can sustain water supply for much longer than your average tanker. 

Tell us about US Fire Pumps research and development efforts?  
US Fire Pump will always be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology. We welcome ideas from First Responders who work in the field daily. Not to forget our own Emergency Response Team members. In addition, we have a team of dedicated engineers who are tasked with developing innovation and technologies for the fire service sector. I’ve always felt that old problems need new technologies for solutions.  

Tell us why equipment rental is gaining popularity?  
We have seen many our rental customers use this programme to fill ‘stop gap’ methods for repairs and unplanned outages. Quite often there isn’t sufficient capital to support purchase of new equipment, especially during fluctuating economic scenarios. The benefit of renting means unallocated funds can go towards temporary replacement of other critical equipment. We also offer long term lease that gives customers a chance to test new gear on site.  

Do you have market expansion on your mind? 
Absolutely, the company’s pumps and fire equipment have been used by customers all around the world. We have also advised customers on emergency responses across the globe and have a large international presence. As for further expansion geographically, we are assessing different markets. US Fire Pumps is ready to go places.   

MSA donates $400,000 in safety equipment to Ukraine firefighters

by Breathing ApparatusFeatured NewsFirefighting EquipmentPPEProducts

MSA Safety Incorporated, the global company that develops and manufactures sophisticated safety solutions, has pledged a donation of more than $400,000 of safety equipment to Ukrainian firefighters.

This donation is made in partnership with Fire Aid, a UK-based non-profit organization that facilitates the donation of fire and rescue equipment around the world.

The donation comprises a wide range of fire safety equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus, fire helmets, firefighter protective apparel, fire boots, fire gloves, and safety goggles.

Bob Leenen, president for MSA International said: “For more than a century, MSA has been dedicated to one singular mission: helping to ensure that men and women may work in safety, and that they, their families, and their communities may live in health throughout the world. For our 4,800 global associates, the devastation being faced by people in Ukraine reminds all of us of the importance of that mission.”

Founded in 2014, Fire Aid is an association of charities and services with a mutual interest in providing ethical and sustainable donations of fire and rescue equipment, as well as training services, in more than 50 countries around the world.

The non-profit organization has a long-standing experience in coordinating humanitarian aid projects, facilitating product donations, and supporting the volunteer efforts of firefighters around the world to help train more than 5,000 firefighters residing in countries in need.

Fire Aid has a history of helping support firefighters in Ukraine, commented Claire Hoyland, Fire Aid Coordinator. “Because of our relationship with Ukranian first responders, we appreciate the donation of this equipment by MSA Safety. It will go a long way in helping protect emergency workers as they help to protect civilian lives,” Hoyland said.

Stephanie Sciullo, chief legal officer and VP of corporate social responsibility and public affairs for MSA, noted that in addition to the product donation, the company is also providing support through other humanitarian efforts, like the International Red Cross. “In the spirit of our mission, we are extending our support to those in need through multiple humanitarian efforts to help ease the burden so many are facing.”