Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service responds to over 2,000 false fire alarms in five years

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

False fire alarms cause strain on fire service resources

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has attended 2,695 false fire alarms over the past five years, according to data obtained by Personal Injury Claims UK.

The report reveals that since April 2019, the service has experienced a consistent number of false alarm incidents, with annual visits ranging between 1,100 and 1,800.

This equates to an average of four false alarms per day, putting pressure on both financial and operational resources.

The highest number of false alarm callouts occurred from 2019 to 2020, when the service responded to 1,734 incidents.

This number dropped to 1,153 the following year, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions.

Recent increases in false alarm callouts

Following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, false fire alarm callouts in Cambridgeshire saw an increase, with the number rising to 1,260 in the 2022/23 period.

The trend continued over the past year, with 1,382 false alarms recorded for 2023/24.

Common causes for these false alarms include faulty or poorly maintained equipment, fumes from cooking, dust from construction, and aerosols near sensors.

The financial impact of these incidents has also fluctuated over time, with costs ranging between £60,000 and £80,000 annually for the fire service.

Fire service addresses false alarm impact

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has detailed the categorisation of false alarms on their website, breaking them into three types: automatic fire alarms, false alarms with good intent, and malicious false alarms.

The service noted: “Of our total incidents, 33.1% were automatic fire alarms, 17.2% were false alarms, good intent.”

The service also highlighted that the rise in fire-related incidents correlates with the growing population in the county.

National impact of false fire alarms

Across the UK, false fire alarms remain a prevalent issue, accounting for 38% of all incidents attended by fire services.

A study conducted by BRE Group estimates the overall cost of false alarms to be approximately £1 billion annually.

If this trend continues, false alarms could pose a risk to both public safety and the effectiveness of emergency services.

Personal Injury Claims UK offers assistance to those affected by fires, including individuals suffering injuries from faulty appliances.

Their services include a 24-hour helpline and online claims support.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service reports over 2,000 false alarm callouts since 2019: Summary

As reported by Personal Injury Claims UK, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 2,695 false fire alarms since April 2019.

The data shows that false alarm incidents have ranged from 1,100 to 1,800 per year, with the highest number occurring in 2019/20.

Costs associated with these incidents have fluctuated between £60,000 and £80,000 annually.

The service categorises false alarms into automatic fire alarms, false alarms with good intent, and malicious alarms.

Nationally, false alarms account for 38% of all fire service incidents, costing the UK around £1 billion annually.

Global automated fire protection system market to reach $228.5 billion by 2034

by Featured NewsResearch

Global automated fire protection system overview and growth forecast

As reported by Future Market Insights, the global automated fire protection system market is expected to grow from USD 106.1 billion in 2024 to USD 228.5 billion by 2034.

This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8%.

Automated fire protection systems, which include fire detection, suppression, and response mechanisms, are seeing increased demand across several sectors.

The market is projected to experience a year-on-year growth rate of 7.3% in 2024, driven by stricter fire safety regulations and the rising need for early fire detection systems.

East Asia is expected to lead the market, with countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea investing heavily in infrastructure projects that require advanced fire protection systems.

The increasing demand for smart fire protection solutions, especially in data centres, is contributing to the growth of the market.

Key industry drivers

One of the main drivers of market growth is the rise in data centres and IT infrastructure globally.

Automated fire protection systems are essential in these environments due to the high risk of fire and the potential financial damage it could cause.

“The growing reliance on digital infrastructure is pushing the demand for smart fire protection systems that offer early detection and quick response,” Future Market Insights stated.

Additionally, regulatory bodies worldwide are implementing stricter fire safety standards, which is expected to drive the market further.

The need for fire safety upgrades in older commercial and residential buildings is also creating new opportunities for market expansion.

Technological advancements in fire detection

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into fire protection systems is another factor contributing to market growth.

Traditional fire detection systems are evolving with AI and ML, improving their ability to detect fires accurately and predict risks before they occur.

AI-powered systems are also more effective at distinguishing real hazards from false alarms.

As reported by Future Market Insights: “AI-based fire detection systems are transforming the industry by reducing false alarms and enhancing the accuracy of fire detection, which is critical in preventing damage and ensuring safety.”

These advancements are particularly important for sectors like manufacturing and energy, where fire hazards pose significant risks.

Regional market insights

East Asia, particularly Japan, South Korea, and China, is expected to dominate the automated fire protection system market by 2034.

The region’s steady economic growth and investments in residential, commercial, and industrial developments are driving demand for advanced fire protection systems.

Japan and South Korea are leading in the development of smart fire protection systems, thanks to their strong technology and innovation sectors.

“East Asia boasts some of the world’s most advanced fire detection and suppression technologies, with countries like Japan and South Korea setting the standard for innovation,” said Future Market Insights.

Global automated fire protection system market to reach $228.5 billion by 2034: Summary

The global automated fire protection system market is projected to grow from USD 106.1 billion in 2024 to USD 228.5 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 8%.

The rise in data centres and stricter fire safety regulations are key factors driving this growth.

East Asia, especially China, Japan, and South Korea, is expected to lead the market, with the region’s economic growth and infrastructure developments playing a significant role.

Technological advancements, such as the integration of AI and machine learning into fire detection systems, are also contributing to market expansion.

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service reports 13,000 false fire alarms over five years

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Over 13,000 false fire alarms recorded in Bedfordshire

As reported by Personal Injury Claims UK, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 13,627 false fire alarms over the past five years.

This investigation highlights the financial and operational strain placed on the service.

The number of false alarms has ranged from 2,393 to 3,048 annually, with an average of 20 incidents daily.

In the first year of the data review, from 2019 to 2020, the service attended the lowest number of false alarms, recording 2,393 incidents.

By 2023/24, the number had risen significantly to 3,048, showing a clear upward trend in false callouts.

Factors contributing to false fire alarms

Several common causes of false fire alarms have been identified.

These include faulty or poorly maintained equipment, lack of user training, cooking fumes, steam from showers, dust from construction work, and aerosols used near sensors.

Personal Injury Claims UK’s investigation revealed that faulty equipment has remained a consistent cause of these false alarms throughout the years.

Despite fluctuations in numbers, faulty alarms have continued to be a leading reason for false callouts in Bedfordshire.

These incidents place a burden on the fire service, diverting critical resources from genuine emergencies.

Impact on emergency services

The increasing number of false fire alarms has prompted Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service to address the issue.

In a statement, the service highlighted the risks posed by unnecessary callouts: “False automatic fire alarms put lives at risk, not just by taking fire crews away from genuine emergencies but by unnecessary travel under blue lights to the false alarm, with the associated risk to other road users.”

The service also emphasised the disruption caused to employers whose on-call firefighters must leave work to respond to false alarms.

These repeated callouts affect the efficiency of the emergency response system.

Nationwide concerns about false alarms

Across the UK, false fire alarms make up the largest proportion of incidents attended by fire services, accounting for 38% of all callouts.

According to the BRE Group, these false alarms cost the country approximately £1 billion each year.

As this trend continues, the safety of individuals and the operational effectiveness of emergency services may be further compromised.

In response, fire services across the country are exploring ways to reduce the number of false alarms.

Reducing these unnecessary callouts could potentially improve response times and resource allocation for genuine emergencies.

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service reports 13,000 false fire alarms over five years: Summary

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has dealt with over 13,000 false fire alarms in the past five years, according to data obtained by Personal Injury Claims UK.

The number of false callouts has risen steadily, with 3,048 incidents reported in 2023/24.

Causes include faulty equipment, steam, cooking fumes, and dust from building work.

The service has raised concerns about the impact on resources and road safety due to unnecessary callouts.

Nationally, false fire alarms account for 38% of all incidents, costing the UK an estimated £1 billion annually.

False fire alarms cost Greater Manchester fire service millions annually

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

False fire alarms increase strain on fire service resources

As reported by Personal Injury Claims UK, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 67,125 false fire alarms since April 2019, equating to between 12,000 and 15,000 incidents per year.

These false alarms place a financial and operational burden on the service, with daily averages exceeding 30 incidents.

In 2023/24 alone, the service responded to 14,696 false alarms, marking an increase from the previous year.

In 2020/21, numbers had dipped due to pandemic restrictions, with 12,338 incidents, but these steadily rose again following the lifting of restrictions.

Costs associated with false alarms

False alarms are not only disruptive but also costly.

According to the figures obtained by Personal Injury Claims UK, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has incurred costs between £5.5 million and £7.5 million annually over the last five years due to false alarm callouts.

Factors contributing to false alarms include faulty or poorly designed equipment, poor maintenance, and environmental factors such as steam, dust, and aerosols activating alarm systems.

Fire service impact and public safety concerns

The fire service warns that responding to false alarms can have serious implications.

As stated by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue: “Fire service attendance at false alarms also means that firefighters are not available to attend real emergency calls and are disrupted from carrying out important training, emergency planning and other key activities.”

In addition to the strain on resources, false alarms can lead to complacency among businesses and the public.

The fire service explained that repeated false alarms may reduce the effectiveness of fire safety systems, as people may become desensitised to the warnings.

Nationwide false alarm trends

The issue of false fire alarms extends beyond Greater Manchester.

Nationwide, they make up 38% of incidents attended by fire services, contributing to a £1 billion annual cost to the UK economy, according to a study by BRE Group.

These false alarms disrupt services and potentially place public safety at risk, especially if emergency resources are diverted away from real emergencies.

The fire service continues to address this challenge by raising awareness of proper alarm maintenance and reducing avoidable triggers.

False fire alarms cost Greater Manchester fire service millions annually: Summary

Since 2019, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 67,125 false fire alarms, costing the service between £5.5 million and £7.5 million annually.

The incidents have increased in recent years, with 14,696 responses recorded in 2023/24.

The fire service attributes these false alarms to factors such as faulty equipment and environmental triggers.

These unnecessary callouts place strain on resources, potentially compromising the ability to respond to genuine emergencies.

Nationally, false alarms account for 38% of fire service callouts, costing the UK economy £1 billion annually.

Digital dynamics in firefighter training

by Breaking NewsResearchTraining

IFSJ explores the transformation of fire and safety training through VR and digital platforms, assessing the global trends driving growth and regional differences in adoption

Fire and rescue services globally are undergoing a transformation in training methodologies, with a growing emphasis on Virtual Reality (VR) and digital training platforms.

Companies like LION Protects EMEA are pioneering this shift, providing interactive and immersive solutions that simulate real-life scenarios for firefighters.

These technological advancements offer a controlled environment where firefighters can safely experience complex situations, enhancing their preparedness without the risks associated with traditional live-fire exercises.

This analysis provides an overview of the fire and safety training market.

Market overview

The global market for fire and safety training has been steadily expanding, driven by technological advancements and a growing awareness of the need for specialised training in complex, high-risk environments.

In 2023, the global market was valued at around $1.5 billion, according to a report by Grand View Research.

With increasing investment in digital training tools, the market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2024 to 2029.

A key driver of this growth is the integration of VR into training programs, which provides an efficient, scalable, and cost-effective method for firefighter training.

As highlighted by Allied Market Research, the ability of digital training platforms to replicate challenging, real-life scenarios, such as industrial fires or high-rise evacuations, has made them an appealing choice for fire departments worldwide.

Strengths and challenges

One of the major strengths of VR and digital training in the fire and safety sector is its capacity to deliver high-quality, realistic simulations without the physical risks associated with live-fire drills.

This allows firefighters to train in a controlled environment, repeating complex scenarios as often as needed, thereby improving their skill set.

Another advantage, noted by MarketsandMarkets, is the cost-efficiency of these digital platforms.

While the initial investment in VR technology can be high, the long-term savings are substantial as they reduce the need for physical consumables, such as fuels and fire-resistant materials used in traditional training.

Additionally, VR training tools enable detailed performance tracking and data collection, allowing fire departments to assess individual and team progress accurately.

The flexibility and scalability of digital platforms also mean that training can be delivered across multiple locations, ensuring consistency in learning outcomes, even in regions with limited access to traditional training facilities.

However, the adoption of VR and digital training platforms is not without its challenges.

One of the primary obstacles is the high upfront cost of acquiring and implementing VR systems, which can be prohibitive for smaller fire departments with limited budgets.

According to Research and Markets, while larger metropolitan fire services may have the resources to invest in cutting-edge technology, rural and smaller departments often struggle to justify the expenditure.

Another challenge is the integration of these new tools with traditional, hands-on training methods.

Some within the industry remain sceptical about the effectiveness of digital training in preparing firefighters for the unpredictable and high-pressure situations they face in real life.

Furthermore, technical limitations, such as the accuracy of scenario simulations and the potential for VR-induced motion sickness, present additional hurdles.

The need for continuous software updates and maintenance also adds to the operational costs, as noted by Emergen Research.

Regional insights

Globally, the adoption of VR and digital training tools varies significantly by region.

In North America, the fire and rescue services have been early adopters of digital training technologies.

As reported by MarketsandMarkets, regulatory bodies in the United States and Canada have encouraged the use of VR platforms to supplement traditional training methods, with many fire departments integrating digital tools to meet evolving safety standards.

In Europe, countries such as the United Kingdom and Germany have also embraced VR training, particularly as part of ongoing professional development for firefighters.

LION Protects EMEA, based in Germany, has been instrumental in driving this trend, offering digital solutions that are now widely used across European fire services.

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the adoption of digital training tools, particularly in China, Japan, and Australia.

This growth is fuelled by government investments in modernising emergency services, as noted by Allied Market Research.

In Japan, the government has introduced initiatives to incorporate VR training into disaster preparedness programs, reflecting a broader shift towards digital training.

In contrast, the Middle East and Africa have been slower to adopt VR technologies, although interest is growing, particularly in countries such as the UAE and South Africa, where there is an increasing recognition of the cost-efficiency and scalability of digital platforms.

Finally, in Latin America, the fire services are beginning to explore the potential of VR, although adoption remains in the early stages due to budget constraints and a lack of infrastructure.

The future of fire and safety training appears to be increasingly digital, with VR and AI technologies playing a central role in shaping how firefighters are prepared for the complex challenges of the modern world.

As the market continues to grow, particularly in emerging regions, digital platforms like those offered by LION Protects EMEA will likely become an integral part of global fire and rescue training programs.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

False fire alarms in Northern Ireland reveal rising financial strain and resource impact

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service sees over 47,000 false alarms in five years

As reported by Personal Injury Claims UK, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has responded to more than 47,000 false fire alarms over the past five years.

Between April 2019 and 2024, the service dealt with a total of 47,090 false alarms.

The investigation highlighted that these callouts have placed a significant strain on both the service’s finances and resources.

On average, NIFRS has responded to 8,000 to 10,000 false alarms annually, which equates to more than 20 incidents daily.

In 2019/2020, NIFRS recorded 9,172 false fire alarms, the third-highest number during the five-year period.

Although this number dropped slightly to 9,106 in 2021 due to the pandemic-related lockdowns, callouts surged again after restrictions were lifted.

In 2023/24, NIFRS experienced a new peak, responding to 10,347 false alarms.

Causes of false fire alarms identified

Common causes of false fire alarms have been identified as faulty or poorly designed equipment, inadequate user training, and lack of maintenance.

Additionally, everyday occurrences such as fumes from cooking, steam from showers, and dust from construction work can also trigger alarms.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service stated: “Most signals from automatic systems are often false alarms, frequently triggered by cooking fumes, dust, or a lack of maintenance, leading to unnecessary call-outs for our fire crews.”

This data has raised concerns over the increasing burden on emergency services and the potential risk posed by repeated false alarms.

Financial cost of false alarms to Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service

The financial impact of false alarms on the NIFRS has been significant.

According to figures obtained by Personal Injury Claims UK, the cost of responding to these callouts has fluctuated between £1.4 million and £1.8 million annually since 2019.

This financial burden has prompted a policy change by NIFRS regarding how it responds to automatic fire alarms.

The service no longer attends automatic fire alarm callouts at occupied commercial premises unless a fire is confirmed.

This policy aims to reduce unnecessary strain on fire crews and resources.

False fire alarms across the UK

False fire alarms represent the largest share of incidents attended by fire services across the UK, comprising 38% of all callouts.

The issue is not unique to Northern Ireland; according to a study by BRE Group, false fire alarms cost the UK approximately £1 billion annually.

The ongoing trend of false alarms presents risks not only to the safety of individuals but also to the efficiency of emergency services.

As such, there is growing concern about the long-term effects if the current patterns continue unchecked.

False fire alarms in Northern Ireland reveal rising financial strain and resource impact: Summary

An investigation by Personal Injury Claims UK has revealed that the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has responded to over 47,000 false fire alarms between April 2019 and 2024.

These callouts have placed a significant burden on the service, both financially and operationally, with annual costs ranging from £1.4 million to £1.8 million.

NIFRS has introduced a policy change to reduce unnecessary responses to automatic fire alarms in commercial premises.

False alarms continue to be a major issue across the UK, accounting for 38% of all incidents attended and costing an estimated £1 billion annually.

ASFP initiates task group to tackle transition to European fire resistance standards in England

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassiveResearch

ASFP task group to address fire door sector changes

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced the formation of Task Group 10 (TG10): Fire Doors, to assist the fire door sector as it transitions to the European test standards and classification system.

As reported by ASFP, this shift follows the removal of national classes for fire resistance in Approved Document B in England.

TG10 aims to support stakeholders across the fire door industry, including manufacturers, installers, and regulators, by developing comprehensive guidance for product testing, certification, installation, and lifecycle management under the new European frameworks.

Impact on UK fire door sector

The UK fire door market is substantial, with millions of fire doors made from various materials being installed throughout the country.

The removal of the British BS 476 standards adds new complexities to product development and the overall management of fire door safety.

TG10 seeks to ease this transition by fostering collaboration among industry experts.

This will be achieved through the creation of new ASFP guidance, providing clarity on how to adapt to the changes and maintain fire door safety under the new regulatory environment.

Focus on guidance and collaboration

TG10’s main goal is to create the new ASFP Colour Book, which will offer detailed guidance on the transition from national fire resistance standards to European classification systems.

It will cover best practices for specifying, installing, maintaining, and managing fire doors under the updated regulations.

Additionally, the guidance will support the implementation of the “Golden Thread” of product information for high-risk buildings, ensuring accurate and comprehensive documentation for fire door systems.

Invitation for industry participation

The ASFP encourages fire safety professionals, academics, manufacturers, and regulators to contribute their knowledge and expertise to TG10.

Stakeholders who meet the ASFP Bylaws criteria will be invited to a launch event scheduled for 30th October 2024 at the ASFP Academy in Coventry.

The event will formally introduce TG10 and outline its objectives for the future of fire door safety in the UK.

For more information or to express interest in joining TG10, individuals can contact Adam Shipstone, ASFP Technical Training Officer, at adam.shipstone@asfp.org.uk.

ASFP initiates task group to tackle transition to European fire resistance standards in England: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has formed Task Group 10 (TG10) to support the fire door sector in transitioning to the European fire resistance standards, as mandated by the recent changes to Approved Document B in England.

TG10 will develop a comprehensive set of guidelines to help stakeholders navigate this transition, focusing on product development, testing, and lifecycle management.

The group will also promote collaboration across the industry and provide specific guidance through the ASFP Colour Book.

The launch event for TG10 will take place on 30th October 2024 at the ASFP Academy in Coventry.

Warringtonfire completes $30 million fire resistance testing lab at Birchwood Park

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringProjectsResearch

Warringtonire fire resistance testing lab set for January 2025 launch

Warringtonfire’s new fire resistance testing laboratory is set to open in January 2025 following the completion of construction at its 101,000 square foot facility at Birchwood Park, Warrington.

As reported by Warringtonfire, the project, which cost $30 million, was completed ahead of schedule, with the site handed over by Tilbury Douglas on 16 September 2024.

The laboratory will open its doors on 2 January 2025, offering advanced fire testing capabilities in a purpose-built facility.

In the final phase of preparation, Warringtonfire is focusing on obtaining UKAS validation and accreditation for its five furnaces and overall operations.

The accreditation process is expected to conclude by the end of November, ensuring the facility will be fully operational for fire testing when it opens.

Expansion creates new job opportunities and enhanced capabilities

As part of the new laboratory’s expansion, Warringtonfire has hired 50 new employees, including maintenance engineers and technical officers.

The maintenance engineers have formed a new team, comprising specialists from a range of disciplines.

This team will support smooth and reliable operations at the new facility.

The new laboratory will allow Warringtonfire to triple the fire resistance testing capacity of its existing Holmesfield Road site, meeting growing demand in the industry.

Warringtonfire’s fire resistance team will transition to the new Birchwood Park laboratory as they prepare for its launch.

Sustainable design and advanced technologies implemented

Sustainability has been a key focus for the new facility, which has incorporated energy-efficient systems and advanced smoke abatement technologies.

These measures contributed to the laboratory receiving a Bronze Award from the Considerate Constructors Scheme, scoring 45 out of 45.

Dafydd Llewelyn-Jones, Senior Project Manager for Warringtonfire, said: “Our new laboratory is poised to address this growing demand by tripling the capacity of our current Holmesfield Road site.

“Furthermore, we have future-proofed our operations with a range of sustainable solutions designed to minimise environmental impact while delivering safety critical services.”

The lab features smoke cleaning systems that ensure minimal environmental impact, and it is ready to transition to using clean hydrogen when local infrastructure permits.

Client confidentiality prioritised with state-of-the-art design

The Birchwood Park facility has been designed with client confidentiality in mind.

The laboratory includes custom-built module spray booths with temperature control, as well as test preparation areas that safeguard intellectual property.

Viewing areas have been created to ensure client privacy during testing.

In anticipation of its opening, Warringtonfire is trialling additional confidentiality measures to further enhance protection.

Dafydd Llewelyn-Jones added: “We want both our clients and colleagues to feel truly at home in our facility.

“It was important for us that the laboratory serves not only as a testing site but also a versatile environment where meetings can be conducted, and where our team can excel.”

Warringtonfire completes $30 million fire resistance testing lab at Birchwood Park: Summary

Warringtonfire has completed the construction of its new fire resistance testing laboratory at Birchwood Park, Warrington.

The $30 million, 101,000 square foot facility will open in January 2025, following UKAS accreditation.

The new laboratory will triple the company’s testing capacity and has already created 50 new jobs.

Designed with sustainability and client confidentiality in mind, the lab features advanced smoke abatement systems and temperature-controlled testing environments.

The site will also support future hydrogen energy use when the infrastructure becomes available.

Warringtonfire aims to address increasing demand for fire resistance testing while minimising environmental impact through these innovations.

Scotland launches satellite emergency mapping service to enhance disaster response

by Featured NewsResearch

University of Stirling scientists develop new flood mapping technology

As reported by The University of Stirling, a new satellite-based emergency mapping service has been launched to improve disaster response across Scotland.

The Satellite Emergency Mapping Service (SEMS), developed by scientists at the University of Stirling in collaboration with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), was unveiled at the Space-Comm Expo in Glasgow on 11 September.

The service will provide real-time, high-resolution satellite imagery to emergency responders to help them manage environmental crises such as floods, wildfires, landslides, and oil spills.

Professor Peter Hunter, Director of the Forth-ERA Digital Environmental Observatory, said: “Our innovative flood mapping service will provide near-time intelligence on the extent of flood waters to support the emergency responders, ultimately helping to protect both critical infrastructure and human life.”

SEMS technology provides real-time data to responders

The SEMS service operates using advanced satellite imaging technology, offering near real-time, high-resolution data to support emergency response.

This allows first responders to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently during environmental emergencies.

Dr Armando Marino, Associate Professor in Earth Observation, explained: “We have used state-of-the-art methods, including artificial intelligence, to develop a sophisticated approach to mapping flood waters from space.

“Our system uses data from a range of radar satellites that can penetrate clouds to provide detailed maps of floods as they happen.”

The SEMS service is available to all responders in Scotland, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing continuous monitoring capabilities.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service embraces new technology

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has expressed strong interest in SEMS.

The Group Commander, Mark Cleland, highlighted the importance of adopting new technologies for disaster response: “Innovation is one of the core values of our fire service.

“We’re extremely interested to see how new technologies can improve the safety of communities and our staff, enhance resilience, and potentially save lives during environmental emergencies.”

SEMS will play a crucial role in enabling faster and more accurate assessments of emergencies, especially when weather or hazardous conditions prevent ground-based evaluations.

International collaboration for disaster relief

SEMS is part of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters, a network of over 270 satellites from 17 Charter members globally.

SEPA is the only Scottish organisation that can activate the Charter, giving emergency responders access to critical satellite data to assess the scope of damage and prioritise response efforts.

The system also contributes to long-term crisis preparedness, allowing for the use of satellite-collected baseline data to model future scenarios and plan more effective response strategies.

Claire Neil, Principal Scientist at SEPA, noted: “The ability to access stable, consistent, near real-time data from space adds an unprecedented layer of precision to our efforts in managing environmental risks.”

Scotland’s space industry takes a step forward

The SEMS initiative is seen as a milestone in Scotland’s space sector, emphasising the country’s growing role in integrating space technology into public services.

The UK Space Agency, represented by Chief of Staff Sarah-Jane Gill, praised the project, saying: “The development and launch of SEMS is a perfect example of how space technology can be used for disaster risk reduction and to support public services.”

Business Minister Richard Lochhead also recognised the importance of SEMS during the Space-Comm Expo: “The launch of SEPA’s Satellite Emergency Mapping Service is the perfect example of how we can innovate, collaborate, and deliver cutting-edge solutions to some of the most serious challenges of our time.”

Scotland launches satellite emergency mapping service: Summary

The University of Stirling, in partnership with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), has launched the Satellite Emergency Mapping Service (SEMS), a satellite-based system providing real-time data for managing environmental crises in Scotland.

Unveiled at the Space-Comm Expo in Glasgow on 11 September, SEMS uses satellite imaging to aid responders in dealing with floods, wildfires, landslides, and other disasters.

The service is available year-round, providing near real-time intelligence to responders.

SEMS is part of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters and has been endorsed by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the UK Space Agency for its potential to enhance disaster response and planning.

Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program Supports Skilled Trade Education and Training in 30 North American Communities

by PeopleProjectsResearchTraining

Program supported 655 scholarships during the 2023-2024 school year and helped students kickstart thousands of careers

Johnson Controls the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, today announced renewed grants to 30 community colleges in North America as part of the companies Community College Partnership Program. Launched in 2021 to help students from historically underrepresented groups prepare for and embark on career paths in sustainable building practices, the program will, for the fourth consecutive year, provide each college a grant to support programming in HVAC, fire, security or digital fields valued up to $100,000.  

“For four years, the Community College Partnership Program has helped forward-thinking community colleges equip thousands of future leaders for successful careers in this growing industry,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “Our collaboration with these innovative institutions creates real job opportunities for students while making real progress in closing the skilled trades gap across North America.”   

Impact of the Community College Partnership Program 

During the 2023-2024 school year, the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program created significant impacts in North American communities:  

  • 3,868 students enrolled in educational programs  
  • 655 scholarships awarded to students  
  • 428 volunteer hours tracked by Johnson Controls team members 

Recipient community colleges are located in areas where the company operates, encouraging Johnson Controls employees to volunteer and share real-world experiences with students. Students have shared their appreciation for the industry exposure and mentorship, which have contributed to their academic success and career readiness. Additionally, participants have reported that the program alleviated financial stress and equipped them with essential workplace skills through coaching sessions, ultimately boosting their confidence in their job search.  

“I have gone from someone who had absolutely zero idea what an energy management controls technician does, to someone who has had the opportunity to get my foot into the industry and continue developing within my career,” said one student in the program. “The Johnson Controls scholarship grant I received when I came into the program helped me financially and served as motivation because it showed that there is a company out there that truly cares for the industry and provides that additional help to motivate individuals to pursue their careers.” 

Through the Community College Partnership Program, Johnson Controls is on track to donate up to $15 million by the end of 2026 to expand access to educational programs in the HVAC, fire, security and digital disciplines. 

To learn more about the program, including for a complete list of grant recipients, visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/corporate-sustainability/community/philanthropy/community-college-partnership