Sungrow undertakes 20MWh burn test to set new safety standards for battery energy storage

by Breaking NewsResearchSafety

Sungrow conducts largest burn test for energy storage systems

In June 2024, Sungrow became the first company to conduct a large-scale burn test on its 10MWh PowerTitan 1.0 battery energy storage system (BESS).

Recently, the company escalated its efforts by investing approximately 4.23 million USD in a 20MWh burn test of the PowerTitan 2.0 liquid-cooled BESS.

According to Sungrow, the test replicated real-world fire conditions at a power plant, overseen by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) experts and over 100 clients.

The results showed no fire propagation during the thermal runaway incident.

Sungrow stated: “This test set a new benchmark for safety through rigorous and extreme testing conditions.”

The 25-hour combustion test demonstrates system durability

The burn test subjected the system to over 25 hours of combustion, exceeding standard industry tests of 4 to 8 hours.

Despite the prolonged exposure, the thermal runaway container maintained structural integrity, and the fire did not spread beyond the unit.

Sungrow attributed this to the PowerTitan 2.0’s advanced explosion venting, flame retardancy, and impact resistance technologies.

The system remained safe for removal even after the test, highlighting its durability under extreme conditions.

Extreme heat containment in closely packed units

The test simulated extreme scenarios by placing fully charged units just 15 cm apart, compared to the standard 3-metre spacing in most plants.

During the trial, temperatures reached 1,385°C—enough to melt steel—but the fire was contained within one unit.

The neighbouring unit, located only 15 cm away, maintained a safe temperature of 40°C.

This validated the BESS’s thermal insulation and fire containment capabilities even in tightly packed configurations.

Fire resistance verified without active firefighting systems

During one phase of the trial, Sungrow disabled all active firefighting systems for the BESS to assess its passive fire protection.

The system performed effectively, containing the fire within the unit and preventing doors from burning through.

Sungrow noted that this demonstrated the PowerTitan 2.0’s robust design, which mitigates risk even in worst-case scenarios.

The results reinforced the system’s ability to autonomously address fire incidents.

Sungrow undertakes 20MWh burn test to set new safety standards for battery energy storage: Summary

Sungrow recently conducted a 20MWh burn test on its PowerTitan 2.0 BESS, investing approximately 4.23 million USD to replicate real-world fire conditions.

This test, overseen by DNV and observed by over 100 clients, lasted over 25 hours.

Key outcomes included no fire propagation during a thermal runaway event, containment of temperatures exceeding 1,385°C, and successful fire resistance without active firefighting systems.

The results demonstrated the system’s structural durability, thermal insulation, and advanced safety features.

Sungrow stated that the test sets a new safety benchmark for the energy storage sector and reinforces the company’s focus on ensuring safety in power plant operations.

Awareness of Building Safety Act rises among building services professionals

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsResearchSafety

Awareness of Building Safety Act increases across building services sector

Research commissioned by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) highlights increasing awareness of the Building Safety Act and its implications across the building services sector.

According to the survey, conducted by AMA Research for BESA, 88% of respondents demonstrated some awareness of the Act, with nearly one-third reporting they were “fully aware.”

BESA members showed higher awareness levels compared to the broader industry, although understanding of roles and responsibilities under the legislation varied depending on building and project type.

The Building Safety Act, introduced in 2022, aims to enhance compliance and accountability across the construction sector.

However, the survey found only 9% of respondents reported making significant changes to align with the legislation.

Mixed impact of legislation on businesses

The research revealed a diverse range of perspectives on the Act’s impact.

While 65% of respondents stated the legislation had been “neither a positive nor a negative factor,” 27% described its effect as positive, and 9% reported negative consequences.

Contractors highlighted compliance challenges and the need for further collaboration with the Building Safety Regulator to meet legislative requirements.

Many organisations also identified a lack of training as a key obstacle to embedding the changes necessary for improving safety standards.

Awareness higher in large firms and high-rise projects

The survey noted higher awareness levels among professionals working on high-rise buildings, new construction projects, and major refurbishments.

Larger firms, in terms of turnover and workforce size, were more likely to demonstrate understanding of the Act compared to smaller organisations.

Rachel Davidson, director of specialist knowledge at BESA, commented: “There is a general perception that the legislation is having a positive impact by driving culture change.

“However, the pace of change is too slow, and there is much work to be done to shift the industry’s focus from speed and cost to quality.”

Training gaps and cultural shifts remain key challenges

BESA emphasised the importance of industry-wide cultural shifts and access to appropriate training.

Davidson highlighted efforts by some firms to use the Act as a framework for improving employee competencies but noted these practices were not widespread.

BESA’s chief executive officer, David Frise, underscored the importance of quality and competence within the sector.

He said: “Changing the mindset of a whole industry to focus on quality rather than price, and ensuring everyone understands their role and responsibilities under the Act, is the only way forward.”

Awareness of Building Safety Act rises among building services professionals: Summary

A BESA-commissioned survey conducted by AMA Research revealed that 88% of respondents in the building services sector are aware of the Building Safety Act, with higher awareness reported among BESA members.

However, understanding of the Act’s requirements varies significantly by project type and company size.

While 65% of contractors reported the Act had a neutral impact, 27% saw positive outcomes, and 9% noted negative effects.

Challenges include compliance, training gaps, and the slow pace of cultural change within the sector.

The findings also highlighted disparities in awareness, with professionals in large organisations and those working on high-rise projects being more informed about the Act.

Industry leaders emphasised the need for quality-focused practices and increased training to meet legislative requirements effectively.

HETAS highlights counterfeit carbon monoxide alarm dangers in UK homes

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearchSafetyTraining

Findings on carbon monoxide alarm usage in UK homes

According to research from HETAS, a not-for-profit promoting safe solid fuel appliance use, almost 10% of UK wood-burning stove owners have never tested their carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, cannot recall doing so, or have left over a year since their last check.

These findings coincide with CO Awareness Week (18–24 November) and advice from UK Fire and Rescue Services urging households to test CO alarms monthly.

Data from the Office for National Statistics reveals that accidental CO exposure causes an average of over 60 deaths annually in the UK, with 45% occurring in homes.

Concerns over counterfeit CO alarms

HETAS has raised alarms over counterfeit CO detectors, often sold through online platforms, which fail to meet British Standard detection requirements.

Consumer group Which? conducted tests on over 1,000 unbranded alarms, discovering many could not detect carbon monoxide or developed faults after initial use.

Alan Young, HETAS Compliance Manager, stressed the importance of buying certified CO alarms: “Counterfeit CO alarms are non-certified, not fit for purpose, and are a cause of growing concern for consumer safety.”

Young advised purchasing from reputable retailers and checking for CE and UKCA marks, compliance with EN 50291-1 standards, and correct design features.

Safe installation and maintenance recommendations

Bruce Allen, CEO of HETAS, highlighted the dangers of improper stove installation and maintenance, which could lead to CO buildup.

He emphasised the role of trained, registered installers and cleaner-burning stoves that meet UK Smoke Control Area standards.

HETAS maintains an online register of certified technicians and appliances.

Allen said: “Using a trained and registered installer who meets appropriate standards is key for your safety, as is having a compliant carbon monoxide alarm fitted in the same room as the appliance.”

He also recommended using Ready to Burn fuels and sweeping chimneys at least every six months.

Advice for homeowners, tenants, and landlords

HETAS underlined the shared responsibility for CO safety.

In the UK, legislation mandates landlords to install and test smoke and CO alarms at the beginning of a tenancy.

Homeowners are also urged to conduct regular testing of CO alarms.

Young added that counterfeit alarms often feature unclear instructions, missing safety labels, and design flaws.

He advised consumers to consult reputable sources, including the HETAS website, for guidance on appliance safety and compliance.

HETAS highlights counterfeit carbon monoxide alarm dangers in UK homes: Summary

HETAS research reveals that nearly one in ten UK households with wood-burning stoves neglect to regularly test their carbon monoxide alarms, posing significant risks.

Counterfeit CO detectors, often sold online, fail to meet safety standards, potentially endangering lives.

HETAS advises purchasing certified alarms with CE and UKCA markings and urges homeowners to test alarms monthly.

Additional recommendations include using trained installers, cleaner-burning stoves, Ready to Burn fuels, and regularly sweeping chimneys.

UK regulations also require landlords to fit and test alarms for tenants.

During CO Awareness Week, HETAS emphasises the importance of vigilance in ensuring the functionality and authenticity of CO alarms in homes.

Faulty electricals spark thousands of house fires in UK: fire services issue festive season safety warnings

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Fire risks heightened during festive season, according to new data

Research by Legal Expert, based on Freedom of Information requests to UK fire services, has linked thousands of house fires to faulty electrical products, with increased risks during the holiday season.

The reports highlight issues with wiring, cooking appliances, and online purchases as common sources of electrical fires across the UK.

Fire services from Cambridgeshire to Greater Manchester are issuing reminders to exercise caution with electrical devices, decorations, and holiday lighting.

According to the Home Office, faulty electrics cause approximately 4,000 house fires annually.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service reports a substantial number of incidents tied to lithium battery-powered devices, such as e-bikes and e-scooters, which can result in dangerous battery explosions.

Station Commander Gareth Boyd said: “Our crews have dealt with an increased number of incidents involving e-bikes, e-scooters, and lithium battery-powered devices.” He advised residents to use original chargers and avoid cheaper alternatives that can lead to thermal runaway incidents.

Essex Fire Service urges verification of online purchases

Essex Fire and Rescue Service has identified counterfeit online purchases as a contributing factor to electrical fire risks.

With over 1,100 electrical fires reported in Essex in the past three years, the service stresses the importance of verifying the safety certifications, such as UKCA or CE marks, of products bought from online retailers.

Head of Prevention Andrea MacAlister said: “Cheap or untested products may save a few pounds initially but can lead to devastating consequences.” She further advised purchasing from reputable sources, particularly during high-sales periods like Black Friday.

The service underscores that counterfeit goods often lack essential safety features, putting buyers at a greater risk.

By choosing verified retailers and avoiding low-cost, uncertified items, consumers can protect themselves and their homes.

East Sussex: electrical supply and kitchen appliances lead fire causes

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 1,300 electrical fires since 2021, with 68% of these occurring in residential properties.

Main causes include problems with electricity supplies and cooking appliances, which accounted for a combined 669 incidents.

The service advised residents to turn off decorative lights and other electrical items when not in use, particularly during the holiday season.

They also issued guidance on battery safety for devices like e-bikes, recommending safe charging practices.

East Sussex Fire advises residents to “switch off fairy lights and unplug them before you go to bed or leave the house,” as improper handling of electrical items can lead to fire incidents.

Warwickshire highlights risks with tumble dryers, dishwashers, and wiring

In Warwickshire, over 210 electrical fires have been reported in the past three years, with wiring, tumble dryers, and dishwashers among the primary causes.

Councilor Andy Crump emphasised the need for fire prevention at the individual level, saying: “Our firefighters are vital in keeping us safe… but it is on us as residents to try and prevent dangerous situations from arising, especially in the home.”

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service advises avoiding overloading sockets and recommends using only one plug per socket when possible.

The service underscores that by adhering to basic electrical safety tips, residents can reduce the risk of fire hazards.

Faulty equipment, cooking, and holiday decorations heighten risks in Greater Manchester

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service handled over 3,700 electrical fires over the past three years, with cooking and faulty equipment among the leading causes.

Cooking incidents alone accounted for 1,002 fires, while faulty equipment and defective electricity supplies led to 1,397 incidents combined.

Head of Prevention Paul Duggan advises caution during the holiday season: “Christmas is an extremely busy time of year for our firefighters… by taking care not to leave candles or cooking unattended, and not overloading plug sockets with Christmas lights and electronic toys.”

The service offers special recommendations for those living in high-rise buildings, encouraging residents to ensure clear escape routes and to be cautious with decoration placement.

Faulty electricals spark warnings for holiday season safety

Legal Expert’s findings underline the importance of electrical safety as the festive season approaches.

Fire services across the UK advise the public to verify product safety standards, avoid overloading sockets, and follow essential fire prevention tips to reduce the risks associated with electrical faults.

These services stress the benefits of purchasing items from reputable sources and observing safety practices, aiming to prevent house fires and promote a safe holiday season.

Faulty electricals spark thousands of house fires in UK: fire services issue festive season safety warnings: Summary

Data from Legal Expert’s recent research, based on UK fire service reports, links thousands of house fires each year to faulty electrical items, highlighting increased risks during the Christmas season.

Electrical faults in items like cooking appliances, lithium batteries, and online counterfeit purchases significantly contribute to fire incidents.

Cambridgeshire and Essex fire services have warned of the dangers of low-quality lithium batteries and counterfeit products, while East Sussex, Warwickshire, and Greater Manchester services stress safe practices with decorations, cooking, and device charging.

The research urges vigilance with electrical products, purchasing only from reputable retailers, and practising fundamental fire safety measures for a secure holiday season.

Public consultation for UK HVACR national occupational standards update open until November 29

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringResearchTraining

HVACR industry urged to engage in public consultation on standards

The UK’s heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) sectors are undergoing a major update to the National Occupational Standards (NOS).

Building Services Engineering (BSE) Skills has initiated a public consultation process, seeking industry feedback to ensure these standards align with current technological advancements and safety regulations, as reported by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).

The consultation invites contributions from employers, employees, and stakeholders within the HVACR sector who possess relevant technical knowledge and experience.

BSE Skills stated that input from those directly involved in the industry would help guarantee that the NOS remains relevant and technically accurate.

Addressing skills shortage through improved standards

A shortage of skilled professionals in the HVACR industry has intensified the need for updated training standards.

BSE Skills emphasized the importance of having NOS that accurately reflect the competencies required for qualifications and apprenticeships, essential for workforce development across the UK.

The last update to these standards occurred in 2019.

This current revision seeks to incorporate recent advancements in technology and regulatory requirements, especially those impacting building safety.

BSE Skills aims for these standards to contribute to the long-term goals of workforce competence and support the UK’s net-zero targets.

Draft standards available for review

The revised standards, now in draft form, were developed following consultations with employers, employees, and training providers across the UK.

These drafts are available for public review on the BSE Skills consultation portal, with a deadline for feedback set for November 29.

Key areas open for feedback include the installation, maintenance, servicing, commissioning, and fault diagnosis of HVACR systems.

Specific categories under review include electrical and mechanical plant systems, such as heat pumps, ventilation systems, and refrigeration equipment.

BSE Skills calls for collaboration in skills development

Formed as a not-for-profit initiative in 2017 by BESA, SELECT, and the Scottish & Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF), BSE Skills represents over 43,000 businesses and approximately 342,000 workers.

The organisation focuses on setting standards for NOS, apprenticeships, and qualifications for the building services engineering sector.

BESA’s director of competence and compliance, Helen Yeulet, encouraged industry professionals to participate, saying: “This is your opportunity to have a say in the training standards which underpin qualifications and apprenticeships in the sector.”

BSE Skills expressed a commitment to working closely with stakeholders to meet the sector’s evolving needs, both now and in the future.

Public consultation for UK HVACR national occupational standards update open until November 29: Summary

A public consultation is underway to revise the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the UK’s HVACR sector.

Organised by BSE Skills, a not-for-profit joint venture, the consultation invites industry professionals to review and provide feedback on draft standards that reflect recent advancements and new regulations.

These standards cover various technical areas, including HVACR equipment installation, maintenance, and fault diagnosis.

The initiative aims to address the industry’s skills shortage by updating training and qualification standards that support apprenticeships across the UK.

The consultation period closes on November 29.

False fire alarms strain Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire fire services with over 30,000 callouts since 2019

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

False fire alarms create strain on resources and safety

New data from Personal Injury Claims UK, based on Freedom of Information requests, shows Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Services have responded to more than 30,000 false alarms since 2019.

According to the findings, these incidents are often linked to faulty equipment and user error, leading to increased demands on fire service budgets and potential risks to public safety.

The false alarms have significantly affected both counties, taking up critical resources that might otherwise be used in genuine emergencies.

The analysis highlights the challenge of managing these calls as operational pressures mount, creating risks that extend beyond the fire service, potentially impacting the community’s overall safety.

False alarms in Northamptonshire

In Northamptonshire, fire services attended 9,740 false alarms over the last five years, averaging nearly five incidents per day.

Annual false alarm callouts fluctuated, peaking in 2019/20 with 2,000 recorded incidents.

Callouts dipped to 1,734 in 2020/21, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, before rising again to 2,123 incidents in 2023/24.

The primary causes of these false alarms include faulty equipment, poor maintenance, and common household activities such as cooking fumes and steam.

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service voiced concerns about the impact of these unnecessary incidents, stating: “Unwanted fire signals have a serious impact on the fire and rescue service, diverting firefighters from other genuine emergencies and potentially life-saving activity.

“It also has the potential for the alarm system to lose credibility, causing people to become complacent in the event of a real fire.”

Nottinghamshire’s experience with false alarms

In Nottinghamshire, 21,561 false alarms were reported over the same period, averaging about 11 incidents daily.

Incident numbers ranged from 3,840 during pandemic lockdowns to a high of 4,983 in 2023/24.

The Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service noted that false alarms are commonly linked to user-related issues, such as improper handling of sensors or insufficient maintenance practices.

A statement from the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service explained: “Attending unnecessary incidents like false alarms is a resource-intensive drain on our organisation and diverts us away from those that may need us most in emergency situations.

“It also impacts on the vital prevention work and training we undertake, whilst increasing the risk to other road users and the environment through increased numbers of fire appliance blue light journeys.”

Impact of false alarms across the UK

According to a study by BRE Group, false alarms account for 38% of all fire service incidents in the UK, costing around £1 billion annually.

In addition to financial strain, frequent false alarms pose operational challenges for fire services, reducing their capacity for prevention efforts and essential training.

If these trends persist, the cumulative effects could compromise public safety, with the need for careful management to ensure that genuine emergencies receive priority.

False alarms strain Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire fire services with over 30,000 callouts since 2019: Summary

New data from Personal Injury Claims UK reveals that Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Services responded to over 30,000 false alarms from 2019 to 2024, primarily due to equipment faults and user error.

Northamptonshire fire services recorded 9,740 false alarms, while Nottinghamshire reported 21,561, with both counties experiencing fluctuations in annual callouts.

The incidents have diverted resources from essential fire service activities and raised concerns over public safety.

False alarms account for a substantial portion of the UK’s fire service callouts, amounting to 38% of all incidents and incurring a national cost of £1 billion annually.

Building work obstructs smoke vent function, CROSS-UK warns

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveResearch

Potential safety issues with inoperable smoke vents

CROSS-UK has issued a Red Safety Alert regarding the risk posed by construction activities rendering Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs) inoperable in buildings.

The alert, aimed at fire safety managers, contractors, and building designers, addresses how AOVs, critical for releasing smoke in emergencies, can become ineffective due to building work.

According to the safety notice, these vents are a component of smoke control systems, essential for facilitating occupant escape and supporting firefighting efforts during a fire.

The alert highlights that AOVs, which can resemble ordinary windows, are sometimes inadvertently obstructed.

Incidents where façade materials block AOVs have been reported to CROSS-UK’s confidential system.

In some cases, AOVs were found masked or rendered inoperable when scaffold poles or cladding adjustments interfered with their operation.

Recent cases of obstructed AOVs during building works

CROSS Safety Report 1347 provides examples where AOVs were left inoperative for months following cladding remediation.

The first case involved improper disconnection of AOVs from their electrical components, while another case noted cladding screws fixed into AOV frames, disrupting functionality.

Report 1380 further noted instances where construction workers unknowingly covered AOVs during façade work, inhibiting their emergency use.

These reports underscore the importance of clear identification and consistent accessibility of AOVs in active construction zones.

In response, CROSS recommends the implementation of signage and better training for workers to recognise and protect these fire safety elements.

Fire risk assessments and interim measures advised

CROSS advises that fire risk assessments be updated before and during construction activities that could affect smoke vent function.

Additional interim control measures, such as temporary markings on AOVs to signal their importance, may mitigate risk.

CROSS also recommends evaluating evacuation strategies, especially for buildings with combustible cladding undergoing remediation, as AOVs play a critical role in smoke control and occupant safety.

Contractors and building managers are encouraged to understand the implications of construction activities on fire safety provisions, with special attention given to the operational status of doors, smoke detectors, and AOVs.

Obstructions such as scaffold poles, stored materials, or temporary coverings can easily disable AOVs, leading to potential hazards in a fire.

Guidance on safety compliance and training

CROSS suggests that contractors, especially those working in high-rise residential buildings, ensure all AOVs are identifiable and accessible throughout building works.

As an additional safeguard, CROSS advises signage indicating the presence and importance of AOVs.

Enhanced training is also encouraged for all construction personnel to increase awareness of AOVs’ role in fire safety.

Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, any high-rise residential buildings with faulty fire safety equipment must report these issues.

CROSS continues to provide information and support to professionals involved in managing fire safety systems.

Building work obstructs smoke vent function, CROSS-UK warns: Summary

In November 2024, CROSS-UK issued a Red Safety Alert concerning construction work that can inadvertently render Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs) inoperable.

AOVs, which often look like regular windows, are essential in smoke control systems to assist in fire evacuation and firefighting.

CROSS-UK reports cases where AOVs were blocked by scaffold poles, cladding adjustments, or masking during building work.

To address this issue, CROSS-UK recommends updating fire risk assessments and employing signage and training to ensure AOVs remain accessible.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service issues Christmas safety advice amid rising electrical fire incidents

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service warns of electrical fire risks

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (SYFR) has responded to nearly 2,000 electrical fires in the past three years, with domestic properties accounting for over 60% of incidents.

Figures, shared by Legal Expert, indicate that cooking is the primary cause of these fires, with faulty electrical equipment and appliances also contributing.

Nationally, approximately 4,000 house fires are caused by faulty electrics each year, as reported by the Home Office.

Ahead of the Christmas season, SYFR issued a safety advisory encouraging residents to exercise caution, particularly in the kitchen, where many household fires begin.

The service stated: “Do not leave cooking unattended. The kitchen is often the centre of activity during the Christmas period, but it’s also where many fires start.”

Breakdown of SYFR’s response to electrical fires

Between 2021 and 2024, SYFR responded to 1,891 electrical fires, with 1,127 occurring in homes and 315 in commercial buildings such as offices.

Cooking incidents represented 354 of these cases, while faulty equipment and appliances accounted for 293 incidents.

Fires resulting from faulty electrical supplies made up 234 cases.

SYFR provided a list of the five most frequent causes of electrical fires in homes, with cookers and ovens identified as the primary cause, leading to 450 fires since 2021.

Wiring, cabling, and plugs, including seasonal items like Christmas lights and everyday items like phone chargers, caused 293 fires.

Changing trends in household fire hazards

SYFR’s analysis also highlighted evolving trends in fire hazards linked to electrical appliances.

Batteries or generators were the third most common cause of electrical fires in 2021–2022, while microwave ovens held this position in 2022–2023.

In the current year, separate hot plates or rings have been the third most common cause, with 28 incidents reported.

SYFR also reported four fatalities and 171 injuries related to electrical fires over the past three years.

Christmas safety advice from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service

In its statement, SYFR urged residents to be cautious with holiday electrical decorations, particularly Christmas lights.

The advisory noted: “Christmas lights add festive charm but can be a potential fire hazard if not used safely.

“Check for damage, use certified lights, don’t overload, and turn off when not in use.”

Legal Expert, a firm with personal injury solicitors specialising in electrical fire claims related to defective products, operates a 24-hour helpline and offers online claims assistance on its website for those affected by such incidents.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service issues Christmas safety advice amid rising electrical fire incidents: Summary

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (SYFR) has responded to 1,891 electrical fires over the last three years, with cooking and faulty appliances as primary causes.

Most incidents occurred in domestic properties, with cookers and ovens cited as the leading source.

Changes in commonly implicated appliances were observed, including batteries in 2021–2022, microwaves in 2022–2023, and hot plates this year.

Ahead of Christmas, SYFR advises residents to use caution with festive decorations, particularly electrical lights, and stresses the importance of not leaving cooking unattended.

Four deaths and 171 injuries were reported from these incidents over the past three years.

Legal Expert, which offers a helpline and online support for claims related to electrical fires, provided these findings.

Kent Fire and Rescue faces resource strain from 13,000 false alarms since 2019

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

False alarms place pressure on Kent Fire and Rescue Service

According to an investigation by Personal Injury Claims UK, Kent Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 13,394 false fire alarms since April 2019.

This repeated activity, averaging seven incidents daily, has strained both financial and operational resources within the service.

Annual false alarm callouts ranged from 2,300 to 3,000 over the five-year period.

Between 2019 and 2020, Kent Fire and Rescue attended 2,760 false alarms, the third-highest annual figure over the past five years.

During the following year, numbers dropped to 2,378 due to COVID-19 restrictions, which temporarily reduced activities and occupancy in buildings.

Following the easing of these restrictions, false alarm numbers rose again, reaching 2,848 in 2022/23 and climbing to 2,975 in 2023/24.

Main causes of false alarms identified

Kent Fire and Rescue Service identified several factors contributing to false fire alarms, including faulty or improperly designed fire equipment, inadequate user training, and lack of equipment maintenance.

Environmental triggers, such as cooking fumes, shower steam, building dust, and aerosol sprays, have also led to accidental activations.

These frequent incidents, labelled as “unwanted fire signals,” divert resources from genuine emergencies, noted a statement on the Kent Fire and Rescue website.

It added: “False alarms…can divert firefighting resources from real fires, erode your confidence in the value and reliability of your automatic fire detection systems, and cause costly interruptions to your business.”

Cost implications of false alarms across the UK

False alarms remain a widespread issue in the UK, constituting 38% of all incidents attended by fire services nationwide.

The financial impact is substantial, with the BRE Group estimating false alarms cost the UK approximately £1 billion annually.

The combination of these costs and resource redirection underscores the operational challenges faced by fire services, particularly if the current trends continue.

For Kent Fire and Rescue Service, reducing these false alarms is essential to maintain efficiency and ensure readiness for genuine emergencies.

“Fortunately, most of these can be eliminated by careful planning,” stated the service.

However, a continued rise in such incidents could affect response times and potentially put lives at risk.

Kent Fire and Rescue faces resource strain from 13,000 false alarms since 2019: Summary

An investigation by Personal Injury Claims UK revealed that Kent Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 13,394 false alarms since 2019, with annual responses ranging from 2,300 to 3,000.

These false alarms, often triggered by faulty equipment, poor maintenance, and environmental factors, create operational and financial burdens.

Nationwide, false alarms make up 38% of fire service calls, costing the UK around £1 billion yearly.

As Kent Fire and Rescue addresses these challenges, false alarms remain a significant concern for public safety and resource management across the UK.

Electric blanket safety warning issued to Nottinghamshire residents as majority fail tests

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearchSafety

Electric blanket safety checks in Nottinghamshire reveal high failure rate

At recent safety events in Nottinghamshire, 60% of electric blankets tested were found to be unsafe, as reported by Nottinghamshire City Council.

Conducted across Cotgrave, Newark, and Retford, the testing events uncovered that out of 282 electric blankets tested, 170 were deemed unsafe, with age being a primary factor in their failure.

Some blankets were found to be over 50 years old, far exceeding the recommended 10-year replacement guideline.

Organised by Nottinghamshire County Council’s Trading Standards team and the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS), the events provided residents whose blankets failed the test with free replacements.

The initiative highlights the council’s ongoing commitment to reducing fire hazards associated with ageing and faulty electric blankets.

Signs of wear and recommended disposal

The Trading Standards team advises anyone with an electric blanket to regularly inspect it for signs of damage, including scorch marks, fraying fabric, exposed wires, and other signs of wear.

Blankets showing these issues should be disposed of at any of the county’s 12 household waste and recycling centres rather than in general waste bins.

Councillor Gordon Wheeler, Deputy Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health, said: “These figures show the reality that we have potentially stopped a number of fires due to unsafe electric blankets in Nottinghamshire.

“However, while the figures offer a sense of relief that these blankets are now longer being used, we know that this is just the tip of the iceberg as there will be other Nottinghamshire residents who use electric blankets who may have an item in the same or worse condition.”

New testing event scheduled for December

In response to the recent findings, Nottinghamshire County Council has scheduled an additional testing event in partnership with Electrical Safety First.

The event will take place on Monday, 2 December, at Ashfield Library, where residents can bring in their electric blankets for safety testing.

If a blanket fails, it will be replaced free of charge. Appointments can be made by calling 0115 804 4555.

Wheeler encouraged residents to attend: “We’re really keen that residents sign up to get their blankets tested at our new date in December.

“I’d like to reassure anyone who may be thinking about attending that they won’t be left without an electric blanket should theirs fail safety testing as our friendly trading standards team will be on hand to issue a brand new one if needs be.”

Fire risk awareness and community engagement

The Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service also highlighted the importance of regular checks on electric blankets to prevent fire risks.

Natasha Neale, NFRS Community Engagement and Partnerships Manager, stated: “Electric blankets can pose a significant fire risk due to their potential of overheating, frayed wires, or loose connections.

“We always recommend that you replace it after ten years, or if it becomes faulty, to minimise the fire risks within your home.”

She added that the testing events provided opportunities for community engagement and raised fire safety awareness among vulnerable residents, generating over 50 Safe and Well Visits.

These visits allow NFRS to promote fire safety across Nottinghamshire, ensuring residents have working smoke alarms.

Neale urged Ashfield district residents to book a December appointment, emphasising the peace of mind that a safe electric blanket can provide.

Electric blanket safety warning issued to Nottinghamshire residents as majority fail tests: Summary

Recent electric blanket testing events across Nottinghamshire revealed that 60% of blankets inspected were unsafe, primarily due to age-related issues.

Organised by Nottinghamshire County Council’s Trading Standards and the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, the events offered residents whose blankets failed the tests a free replacement.

Signs of damage residents should watch for include frayed wires, scorch marks, and other faults, with replacements recommended every ten years.

A further testing event will be held at Ashfield Library on 2 December.

Residents are encouraged to book an appointment, where failed blankets will again be replaced free of charge.