Water mist systems and sprinkler systems in England: Fire incident statistics 2018 to 2024

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionResearch

Data shows water mist and sprinkler systems limited fire spread

The UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has published statistics showing the effects of water mist and sprinkler systems on primary fires in England between 2018 and 2024.

The data, released on 26 April 2025, covers incidents where active water mist or sprinkler systems were present at the time of the fire.

According to the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the majority of operational sprinkler and water mist systems either extinguished or controlled fires when they activated.

Performance of water mist and sprinkler systems in containing fires

The UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that most primary fires were either extinguished or controlled when water mist or sprinkler systems operated.

It stated that systems that activated generally had a positive impact in managing the fire.

The organisation added that there remained a minority of cases where systems did not fully contain or extinguish the fire.

System location and impact on fire containment

According to the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, sprinkler and water mist systems located in the room of origin of the fire were more likely to limit fire spread.

It reported that system location played an important role in the outcome of fire incidents.

The organisation explained that systems situated further from the fire’s origin were associated with lower effectiveness in fire control.

Causes of poor outcomes in system performance

The UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that where fire containment was unsuccessful, common factors included fires occurring outside the protected area or faults within the system.

It reported that some outcomes were affected by system coverage limitations.

It added that in a proportion of incidents, the reasons for system failure could not be determined.

Water mist systems and sprinkler systems in England: fire incident statistics 2018 to 2024: Summary

The UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government released fire incident data for England from 2018 to 2024.

The data covered primary fires where water mist or sprinkler systems were installed.

The majority of fires were extinguished or contained when systems operated.

Systems had greater success when located in the room where the fire started.

Unsuccessful outcomes were often linked to system faults or limited coverage.

Some cases did not have a clear cause for system failure.

NFPA expands US electrical inspection network with Colorado chapter

by Featured NewsFire DetectionFire EngineeringResearch

Colorado chapter joins NFPA Electrical Inspection Section

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has confirmed that the Association for Colorado Inspectors is now an Electrical Inspection Section (EIS) Affiliate Chapter.

According to NFPA, the Colorado-based group will support electrical inspection professionals across the state by providing access to training, education, and networking resources.

The NFPA’s EIS Affiliate Chapter network includes regional associations that collaborate with the NFPA to support code enforcement and inspection personnel.

The Colorado chapter is the fourth to join the programme.

NFPA and Colorado inspectors aim to address electrical hazards

The chapter aims to support the state’s electrical enforcement community in applying NFPA 70, also known as the National Electrical Code (NEC), and other safety standards.

Tim McClintock, NFPA regional electrical specialist, said: “NFPA is pleased to welcome its latest EIS Affiliate Chapter.

“Through this relationship, NFPA and the Colorado electrical enforcement community can unite efforts, using our collective voice to help address today’s current and emerging electrical challenges to advance safety in the community.”

McClintock said the chapter “actively supports electrical inspection professionals who are charged with understanding the NEC and how its requirements are applied”.

Chapter members gain access to specialist NFPA membership

Electrical inspectors in Colorado who join the chapter may qualify for membership in the NFPA Electrical Inspection Section.

This membership includes participation in the code development process, training on changes to the NEC, access to inspection-focused products and services, and opportunities to attend related events.

The NFPA said this initiative is part of a wider effort to engage inspection professionals more closely with the code development and enforcement community.

Initiative follows wider NFPA focus on national support

The Association for Colorado Inspectors joins three other US groups with EIS Affiliate Chapter status: the Southwest Ohio Electrical Organization, North Carolina Electrical Inspector Association, and the Kentucky Association of Electrical Inspectors.

Tom Blevins, president of the Association for Colorado Inspectors, said: “The Colorado electrical inspection community is pleased to be working closely with NFPA to meet today’s electrical safety challenges head on, help expand our impact and position the chapter for the future.”

This expansion aligns with NFPA’s recent increase in regional staffing, including the addition of two new electrical specialist roles.

NFPA expands US electrical inspection network with Colorado chapter: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association has named the Association for Colorado Inspectors as an Electrical Inspection Section Affiliate Chapter.

This designation provides Colorado inspectors with access to NFPA resources, including code training, education, and networking.

The chapter is intended to help local inspectors apply NFPA 70 and related codes.

NFPA regional electrical specialist Tim McClintock said the group will serve the unique needs of Colorado’s inspection community while maintaining their independence.

Members of the chapter may be eligible for membership in the NFPA Electrical Inspection Section.

Other existing Affiliate Chapters are based in Ohio, North Carolina, and Kentucky.

The initiative supports NFPA’s broader effort to engage with regional professionals through specialist staff and new chapters across the United States.

Survitec’s Seahaven inflatable system reduces cruise vessel costs and saves space

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeResearchSafetySearch and Rescue

Survitec report shows Seahaven reduces lifeboat space and supports new ship layouts

Survitec has published independent analysis confirming the benefits of its Seahaven inflatable lifeboat system for cruise vessels.

According to Survitec, the review was conducted by Foreship and focused on the system’s impact on deck space, operational efficiency and design flexibility.

The Seahaven Application Study examined how Seahaven can support cruise ship layouts by removing the need for traditional davit-launched lifeboats.

Seahaven allows reallocation of passenger vessel deck space

The study outlines how Seahaven uses less vertical and longitudinal space than conventional lifeboats.

This reduces overhang and improves bridge visibility, especially during transits such as the Panama Canal.

By freeing up this space, operators could reconfigure ship interiors to include more balcony cabins or expanded entertainment areas.

Survitec said this flexibility may increase potential revenue from ticket sales and improve the guest experience.

Capacity and safety compliance testing support SOLAS compatibility

Foreship’s capacity analysis reviewed how Seahaven meets the total number of people on board (POB) across various ship types.

It also compared Seahaven’s deployment mechanisms with traditional systems under SOLAS standards, including deployment at a 20-degree heel.

The report confirmed that medium-sized cruise ships could adopt Seahaven without needing major modifications.

Seahaven system reduces lifeboat complexity and training needs

Seahaven can evacuate up to 1,060 people in under 22 minutes using an automated system.

This eliminates davit-release mechanisms, simplifies life-saving appliance (LSA) management, and reduces crew training and maintenance costs.

The system has passed heavy weather testing in sea states above Beaufort Scale 6.

Claude Sada, Chief Operating Officer at Survitec, said: “Beyond delivering safety performance, Seahaven enables shipowners to optimise their fleets with improved design flexibility, greater operational efficiencies, and enhanced commercial potential.”

System offers multiple deployment configurations

Seahaven can be deployed as a standalone system or as part of hybrid evacuation solutions using Marine Evacuation Systems and tender lifeboats.

According to Survitec, this adaptability makes Seahaven suitable for retrofitting as well as new vessel builds.

Sada added: “Since achieving Lloyd’s Register type approval in 2022, Seahaven has set new benchmarks for maritime safety and vessel optimisation. As the industry continues to prioritise regulatory compliance and passenger experience, adopting Seahaven represents a forward-thinking investment in the future of maritime evacuation systems.”

Seahaven inflatable system reduces cruise vessel costs and saves space: Summary

Survitec has released a study by Foreship validating the design and operational benefits of its Seahaven inflatable lifeboat system.

The system takes up less deck space than traditional lifeboats, which supports improved ship layouts and commercial space use.

Seahaven is compatible with SOLAS deployment rules and evacuates 1,060 people in under 22 minutes.

It integrates well with medium-sized cruise vessels without requiring structural changes.

The white paper outlines several configurations and design models for both new ships and retrofits.

Seahaven supports automation, reduces crew training requirements, and passed testing in Beaufort 6+ conditions.

It can be installed as a standalone solution or part of a hybrid LSA configuration.

Survitec says Seahaven can reduce construction costs and increase revenue opportunities.

Fire and rescue services in England attend 600,000 incidents, fire-related deaths fall in 2024

by Breaking NewsResearchSafety

Total incidents increased while fires decreased

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has published accredited statistics showing that fire and rescue services (FRSs) in England attended 600,185 incidents in the year ending December 2024.

This represents a 1.2% increase from 2023.

The figures show a long-term rise in total incidents, up 20% from 499,934 in 2014.

Fire incidents made up 23% of all attended incidents in 2024, the lowest proportion in a decade.

Fire false alarms accounted for 42% and non-fire incidents made up 35%.

These proportions have shifted significantly since 2014, when fires accounted for 31%, false alarms 44%, and non-fire incidents 26%.

Fire incidents at record low for year-end figures

In 2024, FRSs attended 136,702 fires, a 3.9% decrease from the previous year.

This is the lowest year-end total since current records began.

Primary fires, which include building fires and those with casualties, fell by 2.2% to 61,041.

Building fires, a major subset of primary fires, dropped 2.7% to 38,144.

Fires in high-rise residential buildings (10 or more storeys) fell by 0.9% to 697.

Outdoor fires showed continued sensitivity to weather patterns, with notable peaks during hot, dry summers.

Rise in non-fire incidents including medical and collaboration responses

Non-fire incidents rose to 211,631 in 2024, a 5.2% increase from 2023.

This marks the highest total since 2011 and a 65% rise compared to 2014.

Collaboration incidents, including assisting other agencies, increased by 11% and now account for 34% of non-fire incidents.

Medical incidents decreased by 6.3%, continuing a downward trend since the end of Emergency Medical Response trials in 2017.

Flooding and water rescue incidents rose by 2.2%.

Road traffic collisions increased by 1.5%.

False alarms continued to increase, led by apparatus errors

Fire false alarms reached 251,852 in 2024, up 0.8% from 2023.

This is the highest annual total since 2011.

Apparatus-related false alarms made up the majority, totalling 179,735, a 1.2% increase.

Calls made in good faith rose 0.9% to 66,232.

Malicious false alarms fell by 10% to 5,885, continuing a long-term decline.

Fire-related fatalities declined overall but rose in dwellings

There were 254 fire-related fatalities in 2024, down from 271 the previous year.

Of these, 199 occurred in dwelling fires, an increase of 1.5%.

Non-fatal casualties remained steady at 6,338.

Among these, 2,779 required hospital treatment, a slight increase of 0.5%.

Two fatal fires occurred in high-rise flats, resulting in two deaths, unchanged from the previous year.

Response times increased slightly for primary fires

The average response time for primary fires was 9 minutes and 4 seconds, up two seconds from the previous year.

Response times to dwelling fires increased to 8 minutes and 6 seconds.

For secondary fires, the average response time decreased by six seconds to 9 minutes and 18 seconds.

Other outdoor fires saw the largest response time at 11 minutes and 2 seconds, though this represented a 19-second improvement from 2023.

Long-term trends show shift in emergency response demands

Compared with 2014, total incidents attended have increased by 20%.

Over the same period, fires have decreased by 11%, and non-fire incidents have increased by 65%.

Fire false alarms have risen 15% since 2014, largely driven by apparatus-related triggers.

Medical incidents, once rising during the EMR trials, have fallen 25% since 2019.

Collaboration responses have trebled since 2015, following changes in legislation.

These figures reflect ongoing changes in the role of fire and rescue services beyond firefighting.

Fire and rescue services in England attend 600,000 incidents as fire-related deaths fall in 2024: Summary

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has reported that fire and rescue services in England attended 600,185 incidents in 2024.

This is an increase of 1.2% from the previous year and 20% from 2014.

Fires accounted for 136,702 incidents, a 3.9% decrease from 2023.

Primary fires fell by 2.2%, while secondary fires dropped by 5.1%.

Non-fire incidents increased to 211,631, up 5.2% year-on-year.

Fire false alarms rose 0.8% to 251,852, with most due to apparatus.

There were 254 fire-related fatalities, down 6.3% from 2023.

Dwelling fire deaths rose to 199.

Non-fatal casualties remained stable at 6,338.

Average response time for primary fires was 9 minutes and 4 seconds.

Nightclub fire safety risks: international concerns over pyrotechnic use

by Breaking NewsResearchSafety

Pyrotechnic use in nightclubs leads to repeated global tragedies

A fire at the Pulse nightclub in North Macedonia on 16 March 2025 resulted in 61 deaths.

According to CROSS UK, the incident was reportedly caused by indoor fireworks igniting flammable materials.

The incident is part of a pattern seen over the last 25 years, during which around 1,000 people have died in nightclub fires linked to pyrotechnics in countries including the Netherlands, Romania, Russia, Argentina, the USA, Ecuador, China and Brazil.

CROSS UK stated: “Mass fatalities are still occurring because of the use of pyrotechnics in nightclubs.”

Crowd behaviour, venue design and materials contribute to fire risks

Nightclubs present several specific fire risks.

These include large crowds unfamiliar with the venue layout, impaired judgement due to alcohol, and the use of decorative materials which may not be fire resistant.

The presence of loud music, subdued lighting, and potentially obscured or locked exits adds complexity.

CROSS UK notes that these elements can slow evacuation and increase risk in the event of a fire.

Guidance in the UK recommends that emergency routes be kept clear and well-marked, with sufficient width to allow for safe evacuation.

However, many clubs operate from repurposed buildings which may not be designed with ideal fire safety in mind.

Legislative framework places responsibility on nightclub operators

In England and Wales, nightclub fire safety is governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Similar regulations exist in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

This law requires employers and operators to assess fire risks and take necessary actions.

According to CROSS UK, this framework marked a change from earlier systems, where fire safety was tied to licensing under the Licensing Act 1964.

Now, fire and rescue services do not routinely provide reports for licence renewals, potentially reducing oversight during live performance conditions.

Indoor pyrotechnics identified as a repeat source of ignition

Most nightclub fires linked to pyrotechnics have stemmed from indoor fireworks igniting ceiling or wall materials, such as acoustic foam or decorative items.

CROSS UK warned that: “The use of fireworks indoors, and the presence of combustible materials that allowed the fire to spread rapidly, producing smoke and heat,” were consistent features in past events.

Overcrowding, inaccessible exits, and lack of trained evacuation staff are also recurring issues identified in historical nightclub fires.

UK guidance available but requires clear implementation

The UK Government’s Guide to fire safety in small and medium places of assembly provides instructions tailored to nightclubs and similar venues.

CROSS UK advises Responsible Persons to become familiar with this guidance.

Key points include material requirements, layout considerations, and staff training.

It is critical that guidance is clearly understood and followed by those managing clubs, particularly when planning events involving additional risks.

Fire safety responsibilities extend to venue managers and users

CROSS UK recommends restricting indoor pyrotechnics to licensed and approved professionals.

The organisation also advises that capacity limits be enforced, exits remain unobstructed, and staff be trained in fire safety protocols.

The group also encourages venue patrons to be aware of exit locations and to report safety concerns.

In the event of a fire, immediate evacuation is strongly advised.

Greater attention needed for people with accessibility needs

CROSS UK raised concerns about the safety of clubgoers with physical disabilities.

Evacuation procedures often do not account for individuals who require assistance, magnifying the risk in emergency situations.

These considerations are part of wider fire safety responsibilities and should be integrated into venue risk assessments and emergency plans.

Cultural shift needed to prevent complacency

The Pulse nightclub fire illustrates the need for consistent attention to fire safety standards.

CROSS UK warns against assuming such incidents “couldn’t happen here.”

CROSS UK added: “We must all remain vigilant and robust in protecting these crowded spaces.”

Nightclub fire safety risks: international concerns over pyrotechnic use: Summary

A fire at the Pulse nightclub in North Macedonia on 16 March 2025 killed 61 people.

CROSS UK attributes the fire to indoor fireworks igniting flammable materials.

This incident follows a global pattern, with around 1,000 people having died in similar nightclub fires over the last 25 years.

Key factors in these incidents include pyrotechnic use, combustible decorations, overcrowding, and blocked exits.

UK nightclubs are subject to fire safety legislation through the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

This places responsibility for fire risk management on venue operators.

CROSS UK advises restricting indoor pyrotechnics, improving exit access, training staff, and increasing awareness among patrons.

The organisation also recommends reviewing evacuation plans for people with physical challenges.

UK Government guidance is available for nightclubs but requires full and clear implementation to be effective.

Common office fire safety risks and how to prevent them

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Spy Alarms highlights overlooked office fire safety risks in the UK

Spy Alarms has shared guidance on frequently overlooked fire safety risks in office environments, focusing on simple but effective precautions.

Glenn Flannery, Group Commercial Director at Spy Alarms, identified several hazards that may go unnoticed in UK workplaces, including blocked exits, unsupervised kitchen appliances, neglected electrical systems, and poor storage of flammable materials.

According to Flannery, regular checks and basic safety habits can prevent fires and improve safety for employees.

Blocked exits and escape routes

Blocked emergency exits remain a critical concern in many offices.

Flannery said: “In an emergency, time is critical. Office storage areas, clutter, and even misplaced furniture can obstruct these vital escape routes.”

He added: “Regularly inspect hallways, exits, and stairwells to ensure that nothing is blocking fire doors or escape routes. This simple step can save lives in the event of an emergency.”

Ensuring exits are unobstructed allows for quicker evacuation during emergencies and can be addressed with routine checks.

Fire risks in office kitchens

Unattended cooking in workplace kitchens is a frequent cause of fire.

Flannery advised: “Never leave food cooking on the stove or in the oven unsupervised. Additionally, flammable materials like towels, paper, and food packaging should be kept away from heat sources.”

Implementing basic safety practices—such as switching off appliances after use—can lower the chance of kitchen-related fire incidents.

Electrical system maintenance

Aging or overloaded electrical systems are another source of concern in office settings.

Flannery said: “Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords, and always replace any frayed or damaged wiring immediately.”

He also said: “If your office is in an older building, it’s especially important to schedule a professional electrical inspection to ensure that your wiring is up to modern safety standards.”

Regular electrical inspections and timely repairs can reduce the likelihood of electrical fires.

Safe storage of flammable materials

Inadequate storage of materials that can catch fire easily also presents a hazard.

Flannery explained: “Offices often store flammable materials like cleaning products, paper, ink, and other supplies in unsafe locations.”

He added: “When stored near heat sources such as heaters, appliances, or even light fixtures, these materials can significantly increase the likelihood of a fire breaking out.

“Therefore, it’s critical to store flammable items in safe, designated areas that are well away from heat sources.”

Separating flammable supplies from potential ignition sources is a key preventative measure.

Office fire safety risks highlighted by Spy Alarms: Summary

Spy Alarms has issued a reminder to UK offices on the importance of basic fire safety precautions.

Blocked emergency exits, unsafe kitchen practices, poorly maintained electrical systems, and improper storage of flammable materials were identified as key risks.

Glenn Flannery advised that offices should conduct routine checks to keep escape routes clear.

He warned against leaving cooking unattended and recommended storing flammable supplies away from heat sources.

Flannery also said that electrical systems should be inspected regularly, particularly in older buildings.

He emphasised that even small changes—such as closing internal doors at night—can limit fire spread and allow more time for safe evacuation.

UK businesses prioritise security systems over fire safety measures, study finds

by Breaking NewsResearch

Most UK businesses choose security over fire protection

New research published by Spy Alarms has found that most businesses in the United Kingdom prioritise investment in security systems over fire safety measures.

According to the company, 59% of businesses reported spending on CCTV, intruder alerts and access control.

In contrast, only 39% reported investing in fire safety systems.

Spy Alarms stated that the average cost of a fire to a business is £78,000.

This figure does not include potential health impacts, emotional consequences or legal implications.

Financial concerns and lack of awareness drive low fire safety uptake

Spy Alarms reported three primary reasons for the gap in investment between security and fire safety: financial constraints, lack of awareness and limited internal processes.

The company said that many businesses deprioritise fire safety due to cost, despite the risk of severe consequences.

It also noted that new business owners may not be aware of legal responsibilities regarding fire protection.

A further issue is that some companies do not have processes in place for ongoing fire safety maintenance and training, making it difficult to implement or sustain protective systems.

Industrial, food and retail sectors face highest risk

Data shared by Spy Alarms and attributed to UK government sources outlined which business types are more likely to experience fires.

Industrial businesses were found to be most at risk, accounting for 24% of fire incidents.

Food and drink premises represented 19%, followed by retail at 17%.

Hotels and hospitals were recorded at 8% and 7% respectively.

Fire system specialist calls for better planning and perspective

Andrew Fowler, Fire System Specialist at Spy Alarms, said it is essential for businesses to have robust and properly maintained fire systems in place.

Fowler said: “As we’ve all become aware of in recent years, a well-thought-out fire plan, including sufficient and maintained systems, extinguishers and an evacuation plan supported by training, are absolute non-negotiables.”

He added: “While costs may be a concern, we offer site visits to determine the most suitable systems for our customers, from a set-up and budget perspective.

“It’s crucial to put expenses for these systems into perspective by comparing them to other operational costs and considering the potential losses and consequences of a fire incident.”

UK businesses prioritise security systems over fire safety measures, study finds: Summary

Spy Alarms has published research showing that 59% of UK businesses invest in security systems, while only 39% invest in fire safety.

The average financial cost of a fire incident is £78,000.

The company cited cost concerns, lack of awareness and weak internal processes as the main reasons for low uptake in fire safety.

Industrial, food and drink, and retail sectors were identified as the most at risk.

Government data cited by Spy Alarms showed that 24% of fires occur in industrial businesses, 19% in food and drink, and 17% in retail.

Andrew Fowler from Spy Alarms said fire plans and equipment are non-negotiable and must be maintained and supported by staff training.

Arson charge rates in the UK: Data reveals widespread justice gaps

by Featured NewsResearch

Charge rates for arson remain low across UK police forces

Fewer than 1 in 20 arson offences in the UK resulted in charges being issued, according to findings published by Legal Expert.

The data, gathered through Freedom of Information requests sent to 36 police forces, recorded 65,053 arson offences between January 2022 and December 2024.

Across the 21 forces that provided arrest data, only 16% of incidents led to an arrest.

Just 4.83% of cases led to a suspect being charged.

Wiltshire Police had the highest conversion rate, charging suspects in 10.5% of 381 reported cases.

Essex Police recorded 3,212 arson investigations but issued only two charges.

Investigations were frequently closed without suspects being identified.

Twelve forces reported that 69% of their cases had outcomes listed as ‘Investigation complete – no suspect identified’.

In South Yorkshire, this applied to four out of every five incidents, leaving over 2,500 cases without any suspects named.

Urban centres report highest arson case numbers

Larger cities recorded the greatest number of arson incidents, with Metropolitan Police reporting 6,411 cases in Greater London between 2022 and 2024.

Greenwich was the most affected borough, with West Thamesmead ward experiencing the highest number of incidents across the city.

Other cities with high arson reports included Leeds (1,407 cases), Bradford (1,169), Sheffield (1,131) and Manchester (1,133).

In the West Midlands, 4,089 cases were recorded.

Birmingham neighbourhoods Sparkbrook, Washwood Heath and Lozells & East Handsworth were named as hotspots.

Belfast recorded 898 incidents and Bristol 844.

Bristol accounted for roughly half of all arson cases reported to Avon & Somerset Police in 2023.

Offender data shows high involvement of young people and repeat suspects

Data shared by 30 forces indicated that 34% of arson suspects were under the age of 18.

Northumbria Police recorded 296 suspects aged 11 to 15.

In Gwent, three in five suspects were minors.

In South Yorkshire, ten investigations were closed because suspects were under the age of criminal responsibility, which in England is ten.

Legal Expert reported that 80% of suspects were male.

Government data cited in the report shows that men are six times more likely to be arrested than women.

Repeat offending was also reported.

Twenty-three forces identified 1,319 people who had been suspected of arson more than once since 2020.

Surrey Police said it had recorded one individual suspected of committing arson 11 times.

Compensation applications rarely result in payments for arson victims

Legal Expert said that between 2022 and 2024, 464 victims of arson applied for compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).

Only 76 claimants received a payout.

The total awarded was £102,260, averaging £1,345.53 per successful claim.

In 2024, just £2,400 had been distributed across 79 applications.

Legal Expert reported that 194 claims were rejected, while over 190 cases remained unresolved.

Legal Expert criminal injury specialist Ellie Lamey said: “It’s incredible that so few people have made a claim when thousands and thousands of arson offences have affected lives around the country.

With charge rates also being low, victims might be wondering how to get some form of justice.

“Victims who have sustained injuries, whether physical or psychological, due to violent crimes like arson have the right to seek compensation, and they don’t have to wait for someone to be charged or convicted of the offence to do so.

“As long as the crime is reported to the police and they cooperate with an investigation, victims can explore their chances of compensation through the CICA.

“We’ve helped many people who didn’t realise just how much they could receive by claiming with the support of an expert.”

Arson charge rates in the UK: Data reveals widespread justice gaps: Summary

Legal Expert collected data from 36 police forces in the UK showing 65,053 arson incidents occurred between January 2022 and December 2024.

Only 4.83% of these incidents resulted in charges.

Twelve forces reported that 69% of investigations were closed without a suspect being identified.

Cities such as London, Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham had the highest number of cases.

Children made up 34% of suspects in forces that provided demographic data.

Eighty percent of suspects were male.

Twenty-three forces reported over 1,300 repeat suspects.

Only 76 out of 464 compensation claims submitted to the CICA were successful.

The average payout for successful claims was £1,345.53.

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service launches 2025 to 2030 risk management plan

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Community plan sets operational direction to 2030

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has confirmed the publication of its first Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) covering the years 2025 to 2030.

According to NIFRS, the plan outlines how the service will allocate its resources based on assessed risk across Northern Ireland, aiming to ensure the right people and equipment are in the right place at the right time.

It replaces all previously issued Integrated Risk Management Plans and will inform future decision-making, resource planning and public engagement.

The CRMP was launched on 1 April 2025 following a public consultation.

NIFRS expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the consultation process and stated that stakeholder engagement will continue at key stages over the next five years.

Strategic priorities set out in CRMP

The CRMP defines six strategic outcomes: service improvement, community protection, operational response, people, governance and performance, and asset management.

NIFRS confirmed it will review its emergency response standards, crewing models, and station locations as part of the Service Improvement Programme.

The plan also includes development of a digital strategy and enhancements to mobilisation protocols, training systems, and data sharing.

NIFRS stated that these actions are underpinned by a Strategic Assessment of Risk, which will be updated annually to inform planning.

The service will use this data to identify hazards, understand who and what is most at risk, and plan its operations accordingly.

Focus on prevention and protection

A new Community Protection Strategy will be implemented as part of the CRMP, with three areas of focus: prevention, protection, and resilience.

For prevention, NIFRS will target individuals and households most at risk through fire safety checks, educational outreach, and support for youth initiatives.

For protection, the plan includes inspections of high-risk premises, enforcement of fire safety legislation, and guidance for building owners and duty holders.

In terms of resilience, NIFRS will continue to develop its capacity to respond to large-scale emergencies, including those involving flooding, hazardous materials, and major transport incidents.

The service will collect and regularly update risk-critical information to support incident response and maintain operational readiness.

Planning for new and emerging risks

The CRMP includes analysis of future risks such as the impact of climate change, increased use of electric vehicles, and renewable energy installations.

NIFRS highlighted the need to adapt its operational response model to meet these challenges, including through collaboration with partners and updates to firefighter training.

The plan outlines investment in training infrastructure, including the Learning and Development College in Cookstown, and confirms that training programmes will be aligned with national operational guidance.

The service noted that although it is not a designated Category 1 or 2 responder under the Civil Contingencies Act, it continues to work within the Northern Ireland Civil Contingencies Framework and with multi-agency groups at both regional and cross-border levels.

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service launches 2025 to 2030 risk management plan: Summary

On 1 April 2025, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) launched its first Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) covering 2025 to 2030.

The plan replaces all previous Integrated Risk Management Plans and sets out how NIFRS will align its resources to meet identified community risks.

The CRMP is based on annual updates to a Strategic Assessment of Risk and defines six strategic outcomes: service improvement, community protection, response, people, governance and performance, and asset management.

NIFRS will review its emergency response standards and crewing models and implement a digital strategy.

A Community Protection Strategy will target fire prevention, legislative compliance, and emergency preparedness.

The CRMP includes analysis of hazards such as climate change and new vehicle technologies.

It also confirms continued collaboration under the Northern Ireland Civil Contingencies Framework and investment in training at the Cookstown Learning and Development College.

Safe waste disposal warning issued by Crusader Fire

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Household waste fire risk prompts warning from Crusader Fire

Crusader Fire has warned that the improper disposal of common household items is contributing to over 30,000 refuse-related fires each year in the UK.

Fire safety specialist Jonny Smith from Crusader Fire listed several items that should not be placed in general waste or recycling bins due to the fire risks they pose.

Among the primary concerns are lithium-ion batteries found in vapes and other electronic devices.

Smith said: “Lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in vapes and electronic devices, are extremely flammable when damaged or crushed.”

Batteries and vapes remain key fire risks in waste facilities

According to Smith, improper disposal of vapes remains a widespread issue in the UK: “With 13.5 million vapes purchased weekly in the UK, 71% of vapes are still being improperly discarded.”

Vapes and other battery-powered items have been linked to over 1,200 fires in the waste industry in the past year, he said.

Smith advised returning vapes to retailers, where disposal is mandatory, and taking electronic items containing batteries—such as phones, laptops, and toothbrushes—to recycling centres or designated collection points.

Paints, chemicals and oils add to combustion hazards

Several everyday products can create fire risks when mixed or compacted in refuse.

Oil-based paints, for example, can release flammable fumes that ignite under pressure.

Smith recommended disposing of leftover paint at hazardous waste facilities or during community collection events.

Household chemicals such as bleach and ammonia can react with other waste materials, while aerosol cans and products labelled flammable or combustible should not be thrown out without following safety procedures.

Smith said: “By following simple steps like detaching the lid and avoiding piercing or flattening the cans, we can make recycling safer and more effective.”

Cylinders, ashes and fireworks require special handling

As seasonal items like gas cylinders and fireworks become more common, so too do associated fire hazards.

Smith noted that camping stove canisters and grill gas tanks should be returned to suppliers or hazardous waste centres.

Used fireworks and ‘duds’ should be soaked in water, drained safely, wrapped in plastic, and then placed in general waste bins.

Ashes and coals, which may still retain heat after a day or more, also pose a risk.

Smith advised making sure they are fully extinguished before disposal.

Cooking oil should be cooled, sealed in a leak-proof container, and recycled through appropriate local channels.

Safe waste disposal warning issued by Crusader Fire: Summary

Crusader Fire has warned that over 30,000 bin fires in the UK each year are linked to the improper disposal of household items.

Lithium-ion batteries in vapes and electronics have caused over 1,200 waste industry fires in the last 12 months.

Vapes should be returned to retailers, while electronic items should be taken to recycling points.

Rechargeable batteries in phones and cameras are also a known risk.

Oil-based paints and household chemicals such as bleach and aerosols can ignite if compacted or mixed.

Empty aerosol cans can go in recycling bins, but full cans must be taken to hazardous waste centres.

Gas cylinders from camping and BBQ use must be returned or specially handled.

Ashes and coals must be fully cooled before disposal.

Used cooking oil should be stored safely and taken to recycling points.

Fireworks should be soaked, drained, and safely wrapped before disposal.