FEMA reopens National Fire Academy and training campuses across the United States

by Breaking NewsTraining

In-person FEMA training to resume following review of federal cost policy

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has confirmed that in-person instruction will resume at three of its national training facilities beginning in early June.

According to Industry reports, FEMA’s review concluded that selected courses at the National Fire Academy (NFA), the Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP), and the National Disaster and Emergency Management University (NDEMU) are necessary for supporting national preparedness.

These programmes had been paused in March 2025 after Executive Order 14222 mandated cost reductions across federal agencies.

The order required that government contracts and travel be justified through new transparency systems to ensure spending aligned with the administration’s Department of Government Efficiency initiative.

National training centres to reopen in Alabama and Maryland

The affected sites include the CDP in Anniston, Alabama, and two campuses located in Emmitsburg, Maryland: the NFA and NDEMU.

FEMA stated that after a full review, it had “determined certain courses provide effective training to enhance national readiness for state, local, tribal and territorial emergency managers, first responders and local leaders.”

These institutions will resume delivery of courses such as incident command for medical services, fire alarm system reviews, and decision-making tools for emergency planning.

The National Fire Academy currently lists vacancies for several of its upcoming sessions starting in June 2025.

Training freeze followed cost-cutting directive from executive order

Training activities were suspended following Executive Order 14222, issued in February 2025 by President Trump. The order required each federal agency to review discretionary spending on contracts, grants, travel and training.

According to the executive order, agencies were directed to justify all payments and contracts via an internal technological system.

Non-essential travel, including to training sites, was temporarily suspended unless specifically approved through written justification procedures.

FEMA subsequently limited programme authorisations, and NFA courses were excluded from travel approvals under the guidance that they did not meet the threshold of “mission-critical” operations.

Fire service advocates and lawmakers opposed the suspension

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) reported that it had urged congressional representatives to support the reinstatement of in-person training programmes.

According to the IAFC, the return of NFA sessions beginning 2 June follows pressure from fire service leaders and members of Congress.

During a Senate appropriations hearing in May 2025, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said efforts were underway to restore funding and programme access.

She noted her department’s aim to support firefighter development and national disaster readiness.

FEMA reopens National Fire Academy and training campuses across the United States: Summary

FEMA will restart in-person courses at three national training centres in early June 2025.

These include the National Fire Academy and National Disaster and Emergency Management University in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and the Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Alabama.

Training was suspended in March 2025 under Executive Order 14222.

The order required federal agencies to reduce costs and justify travel and programme spending.

FEMA and the U.S. Fire Administration conducted a review of emergency training programmes.

The agencies concluded that selected courses remain critical for state and local emergency preparedness.

Applications for upcoming NFA courses are currently open.

The International Association of Fire Chiefs welcomed the return of in-person instruction.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that reinstating training access was a departmental priority.

Courses will begin as early as 2 June 2025.

FEMA announces 2025 funding to support trained firefighters

by Featured NewsTraining

Grant funding to increase firefighter staffing and safety opens in the United States

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has reported the availability of $396 million in grant funding for United States fire departments and firefighter organisations under two federal programmes.

FEMA stated the Fiscal Year 2024 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programme will provide $360 million to support the recruitment and retention of trained firefighters.

An additional $36 million will be distributed under the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant programme to support community fire prevention initiatives and research focused on firefighter safety and health.

SAFER programme to support recruitment of firefighters

FEMA reported that the SAFER programme is designed to help fire departments increase or maintain the number of trained firefighters in their communities.

The agency said the grants may be used to help departments meet minimum industry staffing standards and ensure 24-hour personnel coverage, in addition to supporting traditional fire service operations.

FEMA stated that since 2005, the SAFER programme has distributed approximately $5.2 billion in grants to fire departments and firefighter organisations.

FP&S programme to support prevention and health research

FEMA explained that the FP&S programme funds initiatives that enhance fire prevention and safety for both firefighters and the public.

According to FEMA, eligible applicants include local and Tribal governments, fire departments, academic institutions, and nonprofit organisations. Projects supported include public fire safety education and research on behavioural, social, and occupational health issues.

The agency noted that since its inception in 2002, the FP&S programme has awarded nearly $900 million in grants.

Previous recipients report impact of funding

FEMA cited the Medway Fire Department in Massachusetts as an example of SAFER programme impact. The department received $741,443 to hire four new firefighters.

Chief Jeff Lynch said: “Due to the presence of a firefighter hired using SAFER funding, the department was able to respond with additional personnel to a house fire on March 20, 2019.”

He added: “Firefighters rescued the family dog and contained the fire in time to save the home and their belongings.”

FEMA also noted that the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association has received over $3.5 million in FP&S funding since 2016. The organisation used the funds to develop ResponderSafety.com and training programmes addressing firefighter risks on roadways.

Application timeline and guidance

FEMA stated that the application period for both SAFER and FP&S grants opens on 23 May 2025 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time and closes on 3 July 2025 at 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

Technical assistance documents and funding opportunity details are available on www.grants.gov and the FEMA website.

Applicants can also find guidance and information on upcoming webinars via the FEMA website.

FEMA announces 2025 funding to support trained firefighters: Summary

FEMA has announced $396 million in grant funding for United States fire departments and firefighter organisations.

$360 million will be available through the SAFER programme to support the hiring and retention of trained firefighters.

$36 million will be available through the FP&S programme for fire prevention and safety research.

The application period for both programmes opens on 23 May 2025 and closes on 3 July 2025.

The Medway Fire Department and Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association have previously received funding from these programmes.

FEMA said SAFER grants help departments maintain staffing and response capabilities.

FP&S grants support research and educational initiatives to improve firefighter safety.

Since 2005, SAFER has awarded $5.2 billion in grants.

Since 2002, FP&S has distributed nearly $900 million.

Application guidance and resources are available on the FEMA website and www.grants.gov.

Thai Nguyen boosts grassroots fire prevention training and support

by Featured NewsTraining

Community teams respond to fire prevention challenges in Vietnam

Thai Nguyen Province has strengthened its approach to fire prevention by expanding its grassroots firefighting teams, according to a report by Thái Nguyen.

Authorities said that 2,119 grassroots fire prevention and extinguishing teams are now in place across the province, comprising nearly 24,000 trained members.

The decision comes as data from the first four months of 2025 show 37 fires and explosions, resulting in three deaths, one injury and property losses totalling 1.31 billion VND.

The Provincial Police stated that human error, electrical faults, and limited safety provisions at facilities were among the main causes.

Local agencies, businesses and residential areas have been working with the Fire Prevention and Rescue Police Department to expand and professionalise community-based firefighting capacity.

Grassroots units trained and equipped for early response

The Fire Prevention and Rescue Police Department of Thai Nguyen has coordinated training programmes for all grassroots teams to enhance their ability to respond quickly to incidents.

Lieutenant Colonel Phan Thanh Son, head of the department, said: “In training grassroots fire prevention and fighting forces, we always strive to strengthen and improve the quality of this team’s activities, contributing to the gradual socialization of fire prevention and fighting work and promoting the ‘Everyone participates in fire prevention and fighting’ movement.”

Authorities explained that many incidents have been contained early by local teams before professional fire services arrived, limiting further spread and damage.

Grassroots members are trained in how to use hoses, fire extinguishers and initial fire suppression strategies, and are encouraged to monitor and report unsafe practices in homes and businesses.

Fire prevention part of workplace and market safety strategy

Businesses in Thai Nguyen have created their own internal teams to address fire prevention risks.

Ms. Chu Thi Oanh, director of Trung Tin Investment and Development Joint Stock Company, said: “The company has established a grassroots fire prevention team with more than 10 members in each market under its management.”

She continued: “Each year, members receive training in professional skills and the use of hoses, extinguishers, and other equipment; and instructions on how to handle initial fire and explosion situations before professional firefighters arrive.”

In residential areas where homes are often combined with commercial activity, teams work closely with the local police to assess fire risks and issue reminders.

Mr. Bui Gia Khoi, a team member from Hoang Van Thu Ward, said: “We periodically and unexpectedly coordinate with the Neighborhood Police to verify and disseminate fire prevention and suppression efforts in homes… At the same time, we criticize and remind violators.”

Thai Nguyen to continue grassroots fire strategy during hot season

Authorities said the expansion of grassroots fire teams is part of a wider campaign to prepare for increased fire risks during the summer months.

Lieutenant Colonel Phan Thanh Son added: “Reality has also shown that many fires occurred before professional firefighters had yet arrived at the scene, but grassroots firefighting teams coordinated with local people to handle the situation promptly, preventing the fire from spreading or becoming larger.”

The Provincial Police stated that collaboration across local government, agencies and the public is central to early detection and response.

Ongoing plans include additional training sessions, access to equipment and allocation of funds to strengthen capabilities.

The goal is to ensure that grassroots teams can act quickly and support formal firefighting units in reducing damage and saving lives.

Thai Nguyen boosts grassroots fire prevention training and support: Summary

Thái Nguyen has reported that grassroots fire prevention teams in the province now include nearly 24,000 members.

Authorities recorded 37 fire and explosion incidents in the first four months of 2025.

These incidents resulted in three deaths, one injury and 1.31 billion VND in property damage.

The Provincial Police identified human error and electrical issues as the main causes.

Officials stated that many fires have been controlled before emergency services arrived.

Community fire prevention teams are based in residential areas, schools and businesses.

Training includes the use of extinguishers, hoses and safe handling of fire risks.

Lieutenant Colonel Phan Thanh Son said more training and resources will be provided.

The province plans to expand these teams during the summer to reduce risk.

Local businesses are also investing in internal fire prevention units.

Ziegler supplies new HLF 10 pumpers to fire training school in Germany

by Featured NewsProjectsTrainingVehicles

State firefighting school in Germany adds two new HLF 10 pumpers

According to Ziegler, the State School for Fire and Disaster Protection (LSBK) in Malchow, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has commissioned two new HLF 10 vehicles to support its training programmes.

The vehicles, manufactured by Ziegler, replace two earlier units that had also been supplied by the company.

Ziegler stated that the new vehicles underwent a detailed three-day acceptance test and inspection to meet the training centre’s technical requirements.

Training support for regional fire services

The manufacturer confirmed that the new pumpers will be used to train fire departments across Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

Ziegler explained that the LSBK applies stringent requirements for usability, resilience and technical capability when selecting operational vehicles.

It said the decision to procure the new models reflects ongoing collaboration with the State School and long-term reliance on Ziegler products.

Technical features of the HLF 10 vehicles

Ziegler reported that both vehicles are based on the Daimler Truck Atego 1530 AF 4×4 chassis with a 220 kW engine and a 3,860 mm wheelbase.

Each unit has a gross vehicle weight of 14,000 kg and features the ALPAS superstructure combined with a Z-Cab crew cabin configured for one driver and eight personnel.

Firefighting equipment includes a Ziegler FPN 10-1000-1H centrifugal pump and a 1,000-litre water tank.

Equipment adapted for instructional use

The company highlighted that the vehicles were fitted with tools and systems specifically chosen for training purposes.

This includes hydraulic rescue equipment, a HICafs extinguisher, submersible pump, LED light mast, foam equipment and storage for forestry tools.

The layout also includes safety features such as a reversing camera, UDS system, and a rear warning LED device, in addition to integrated breathing apparatus stations and hygiene modules.

Ziegler supplies new HLF 10 pumpers to fire training school in Germany: Summary

Ziegler has delivered two HLF 10 vehicles to the State School for Fire and Disaster Protection in Malchow, Germany.

The vehicles replace older Ziegler units and will be used for firefighter training across Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

Ziegler said the vehicles passed a three-day acceptance test before being commissioned.

Each HLF 10 is based on a Daimler Truck Atego 1530 AF 4×4 chassis with a 220 kW engine.

The vehicles feature the ALPAS structure, Z-Cab for 1+8 crew, and a 1,000-litre water tank.

Firefighting systems include a Ziegler FPN 10-1000-1H pump and the latest Z-Control interface.

Additional equipment includes hydraulic tools, ladders, lighting, foam systems, forestry tools and hygiene stations.

Ziegler stated the setup was adapted to meet the specific needs of a firefighting school.

Free HSE tool supports UK stress risk assessments

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyTraining

HSE introduces stress risk assessment resource for UK businesses

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a free online training module to help UK employers assess and manage the risk of work-related stress.

The new tool, announced to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week from 12 to 18 May, forms part of HSE’s Working Minds campaign.

The agency explained that the module offers step-by-step instructions for conducting workplace stress risk assessments, identifying causes and applying practical solutions.

According to HSE, around half of all work-related ill health in Great Britain is linked to stress, depression or anxiety.

The training aims to improve understanding among employers, particularly in small and medium-sized organisations, about their legal obligations and methods to support employee mental health.

Training designed to support legal compliance and business performance

Kayleigh Roberts, from HSE’s Engagement and Policy Division, said: “Preventing work-related stress isn’t just the right thing to do for your workers—it’s also a legal requirement.

“Our new online learning module aims to make it easier for businesses, particularly small to medium organisations to understand their obligations and what they need to do on a practical level.”

She continued: “This isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about embedding good practices into everyday business operations.

“By taking a proactive approach, employers can improve productivity, reduce sickness absence, and retain their valued workers.

“The module provides all the practical templates, tools and resources needed to get started or to review existing practices.”

HSE stated that the module aligns with existing guidance and aims to improve consistency in how stress risks are assessed and addressed across different sectors.

Six key areas of concern identified in workplace stress

HSE explained that work-related stress often arises when certain aspects of a role are not properly managed. It highlighted six categories where issues typically emerge: demands, control, support, relationships, role and change.

According to the agency, failing to properly manage these six areas can contribute to poor mental health outcomes and workplace dissatisfaction.

The module aims to provide structured guidance to address each of these areas through risk assessment and intervention.

The organisation said the tool has been designed to complement existing HSE guidance and is intended for use across multiple sectors.

Working Minds campaign encourages proactive routine

The new resource complements HSE’s broader Working Minds campaign, which promotes a five-step model to managing workplace stress known as the ‘5Rs’.

According to HSE, these are: Reach out and have conversations, Recognise the signs and causes of stress, Respond to risks by agreeing action points, Reflect on the actions taken and Make it Routine to check in regularly.

The agency said this approach supports early identification and response, helping employers to normalise conversations around mental health and improve long-term wellbeing in the workplace.

Employers can register for the online module via the Working Minds website.

Free HSE tool supports UK stress risk assessments: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive has launched a free online module for assessing work-related stress.

The tool is part of HSE’s Working Minds campaign and was released during Mental Health Awareness Week.

HSE reported that around half of work-related ill health is due to stress, depression or anxiety.

The module offers step-by-step advice, templates and tools for employers.

Kayleigh Roberts from HSE said the tool aims to help small to medium businesses meet legal obligations.

The module outlines how to identify and address six stress-related workplace risks.

The tool follows the Working Minds campaign’s ‘5Rs’ model.

Employers can register for the training through the Working Minds website.

Equipping tomorrow’s responders: Rethinking firefighter training for Saudi’s Smart Cities

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsTraining

Gary Barthram, Aviation Emergency Services Area Manager at Serco Middle East, explores how firefighter training must evolve to meet Saudi Arabia’s next-generation urban challenges

Preparing for a new kind of city

We often speak about Saudi Arabia’s giga projects as symbols of the future. As these visionary developments move from blueprint to reality, they raise a vital question: are we preparing our emergency responders for the cities they’ll soon be protecting?

What kind of training is required for a vertical city without conventional roads? How do we prepare firefighters to respond across remote islands, subterranean transport systems, and AI-managed buildings? What does readiness look like in an environment where risks can emerge from both physical hazards and digital systems?

These are not speculative questions. Saudi’s giga cities, such as NEOM and Qiddiya, are already taking shape and with their construction comes a unique set of challenges that are unlike any other. For fire and rescue teams, this means operating in a high-tech, hyperconnected ecosystem where traditional approaches simply will not be enough.

When old tools no longer apply

Saudi Arabia’s emergency services are growing in sophistication. Cities of the future bring with them fundamentally different types of operations. that demands new tools, new thinking and above all, new training. For example, fires may be triggered by integrated systems rather than accidents. Evacuations may need to happen vertically. Access routes may rely on drones or marine craft, rather than conventional roadways. These aren’t edge cases, they are the new normal.

The role of the firefighter in Saudi will therefore also shift. They’ll need to navigate live building data, deploy decision-making tools powered by AI, and operate within environments designed to be intelligent and reactive. Digital twins will support planning and real-time simulation. IoT-enabled systems will provide instant alerts for gas leaks or structural faults. Firefighters will be part of an intelligent network, not just first responders.

Simulating danger without real risk

However, these tools are only as effective as the people trained to use them. At present, immersive technologies such as VR and AR are not yet widespread in emergency services training across the Kingdom, but immersive training offers the chance to bridge the gap and allows teams to train for scenarios that are too dangerous or complex to replicate in the real world. Custom-built digital environments can simulate everything from high-rise evacuations in The Line to island-based emergencies requiring marine or aerial deployment.

Already, VR-based training is proven to improve retention by up to 70 percent compared to traditional classroom methods. Digital twin-based modelling can reduce response times by 30 to 40 percent. These tools don’t just deliver better training; they create safer, more prepared responders from day one.

Bridging gaps with immersive learning

While Saudi Arabia continues to invest in civil defence infrastructure, some gaps remain in digital infrastructure training, high-rise and confined-space operations, and data-driven risk management. There’s a clear opportunity to both expand the use of immersive technologies and introduce more specialist tracks, from managing cyber-physical incidents to handling hazardous materials that are linked to advanced industrial developments like the Green Hydrogen Plant.

We still need to go further. Entirely new frameworks, tailored to Saudis transforming topography and technology, should be developed. That includes simulation environments for underground mobility systems, vertical megastructures, and autonomous transport systems, all of which require new response techniques.

Learning globally, applying locally

Global experience can support this journey. Models from defence, aviation, and critical infrastructure management offer valuable insights. Lessons from the UK, Australia, and the UAE can help shape simulation frameworks, AI-assisted incident planning, and long-term training centre design.

However, the goal must not be to replicate others, it must be to build a Saudi-led model. International partnerships should focus on capability transfer, mentorship, and co-development, always with localisation in mind. As outlined in Vision 2030, the development of national expertise is not just a policy priority, it is essential to sustainable progress.

This is about more than operational readiness. It’s about national resilience, building a workforce trained to world-class standards, embedded in the infrastructure of tomorrow’s cities.

A new benchmark for readiness

Ultimately, safety in Saudi and its new cities will not be defined by the number of emergency responders deployed, but by how well they are trained, equipped, and integrated into the city’s wider intelligence network. A smart city isn’t truly smart if it can’t manage risk. For Saudi to be a global leader in innovation, it must also set a global benchmark for preparedness.

Investing in future-fit fire and rescue training isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s foundational – and it sends a clear message: that Saudi Arabia is not only building the most ambitious cities and therefore country in the world, it’s also investing in the people who will keep it safe.

Forest fire prevention in Guatemala: IUCN expands training and equipment support

by Featured NewsTrainingWildland Fire

Wildfire firefighting programmes supported across Guatemala

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has reported a series of actions to support wildfire firefighting and forest protection in Guatemala.

According to IUCN, four ongoing initiatives in the country have helped prevent and combat wildfires during the 2023–2024 season.

The IUCN cited data from Guatemala’s National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), which recorded 2,635 wildfire incidents during the 2023–2024 season, affecting 193,940 hectares.

This marks an increase from the 790 incidents reported in the 2021–2022 period.

Training and resources deployed to prevent forest fires

The IUCN explained that the Resilient Plateau national project and three regional programmes are contributing to wildfire prevention efforts.

These are the EbA LAC project, the Biodiversity Program Linking the Central American Landscape, and the Protection of Natural Resources in the Mayan Jungle II.

The organisation said these projects are funded by the Green Climate Fund, the Korea International Cooperation Agency, and multiple German government agencies.

According to the IUCN, these efforts include training firefighters and rangers, sharing knowledge between forest professionals, and supplying equipment and personal protective gear.

In 2024, Costa Rica’s National System of Conservation Areas certified seven individuals in Guatemala through USAID’s forest firefighter protocol.

These individuals represented three IUCN member groups in the country: the National Council of Protected Areas, the Defenders of Nature Foundation, and the Foundation for Eco-Development and Conservation.

Combat measures implemented during 2023–2024 season

The IUCN reported that it contracted helicopter flight hours in Totonicapán, Tecpán, Cerro San Gil and Sierra de las Minas to support wildfire response.

Additional support included the delivery of protective gear and supplies to forestry crews, such as boots, goggles, masks and fire extinguishers.

The IUCN added that four brigades in Chimaltenango and two in Quiché were reinforced through these measures.

A partnership with Rafael Landívar University led to the launch of the Territory and Climate Observatory, which includes a fire early warning system.

The organisation stated that its 2024 investment in fire prevention and control projects in Guatemala exceeded USD 110,000.

Forest recovery and regional cooperation underway

IUCN stated that more than 10,000 hectares of forest were protected through preventive work in the western highlands.

Six fire brigades were strengthened, with additional units established in Paquí and Chicaxtún.

Over 40 individuals were trained in fire prevention, control and response.

In 2024, a tri-national agreement was reached between Belize, Mexico and Guatemala for joint fire control actions in the Selva Maya.

The IUCN reported that 45 percent of its Guatemala membership is involved in forest fire-related actions.

This includes government institutions, environmental organisations, and community associations.

Restoration efforts and 2025 investment plan

IUCN stated that it supported the delivery of 236,000 forest plants in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture for post-fire restoration.

The organisation said that nearly 95 hectares in Izabal, Zacapa, Alta and Baja Verapaz are set for restoration, and 21 hectares in the Punta de Manabique reserve received forestry incentives.

IUCN Guatemala also held workshops for municipal foresters and helped maintain firebreaks in degraded areas.

For 2025, the IUCN plans to invest more than USD 200,000 in fire management measures.

The organisation confirmed it is participating in Guatemala’s 2025 “Wake Up, Act, Protect” campaign aimed at raising public awareness on fire prevention and forest conservation.

Forest fire prevention in Guatemala: Summary

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has reported its support for wildfire prevention and response across Guatemala.

According to the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), the 2023–2024 wildfire season resulted in 2,635 fires.

The IUCN is delivering four initiatives in Guatemala focused on fire prevention, training, equipment and restoration.

The organisation has funded training for forestry crews and supplied gear including protective clothing and tools.

Helicopter services were used in several regions to support fire control.

A new early warning system was developed in partnership with Rafael Landívar University.

The IUCN reported investing more than USD 110,000 in forest fire activities in 2024.

Over 10,000 hectares were protected through patrols and incentive programmes.

New fire brigades were formed and over 40 people were trained.

Restoration plans include delivering 236,000 plants and restoring more than 100 hectares.

In 2025, over USD 200,000 is planned for additional fire management investment.

The IUCN is also taking part in Guatemala’s “Wake Up, Act, Protect 2025” campaign.

SIBCA opens UAE fire safety training centre approved by NFPA

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsTraining

New training centre in Abu Dhabi joins NFPA network

SIBCA has reported that it has launched a fire and life safety training centre in Abu Dhabi that has been approved under the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) network.

The facility, known as the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Center, is designed to offer NFPA-certified courses for fire and safety professionals based in the United Arab Emirates.

SIBCA said the centre will provide instruction on fire protection systems, electrical hazards, industrial safety planning and building compliance measures.

NFPA and SIBCA collaborate on safety education initiative

According to SIBCA, the launch event included attendance from Ibrahim Lari, Chairman and CEO of SIBCA, and senior figures from NFPA including Michael Brunzell, Vice President of Global Business Development, and Eng. Dana Kamal, MENA Director of International Business Development.

The company stated that the facility is intended to support the UAE’s goal of strengthening technical knowledge among safety personnel through internationally accredited training.

Ibrahim Lari, Chairman and CEO of SIBCA, said: “We are honored to launch Trainovation, a significant milestone in our ongoing mission and commitment to strengthen the capabilities of fire and life safety professionals across the UAE and region.

“I extend my sincere thanks to our partners at NFPA for designing the programs and Abu Dhabi Civil Defence for their continued support.

“Through world-class training, we aim to build a safer future for our communities by equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to protect lives and strengthen resilience across the nation.”

Centre to deliver NFPA-approved courses aligned to UAE codes

SIBCA explained that the centre’s course offerings are designed to meet both NFPA international standards and national safety regulations in the UAE.

Training will be delivered by approved instructors and include theoretical and hands-on elements. The curriculum is expected to support both public and private sector responders in adapting to local building codes and safety protocols.

Michael Brunzell, Vice President of Global Business Development at NFPA, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Center to the NFPA network of approved training facilities.

“As cities expand and industries grow more complex, the need for skilled fire and life safety professionals becomes increasingly essential.

“This new center in Abu Dhabi has been set to become a key resource for delivering high-caliber, customized training across the region.

“We applaud SIBCA’s commitment to raising the bar in safety education and are proud to support their efforts in fostering safer, more resilient communities.”

Fire safety capacity building tied to UAE national strategy

SIBCA noted that the new training centre has been established during a time when the UAE is increasing investment in emergency preparedness and building safety education.

The company added that Trainovation aims to build technical capacity among professionals involved in infrastructure, engineering and emergency response roles across the UAE.

SIBCA said the location of the facility in Abu Dhabi aligns with broader government objectives to enhance emergency services readiness through certified and standardised training.

SIBCA opens UAE fire safety training centre approved by NFPA: Summary

SIBCA has launched a fire and safety training centre in Abu Dhabi.

The facility is part of the National Fire Protection Association’s approved network.

It is named the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Center.

The courses will follow NFPA standards and UAE regulations.

The centre will train safety professionals in multiple sectors.

Ibrahim Lari, Chairman and CEO of SIBCA, spoke at the launch.

Michael Brunzell, Vice President at NFPA, also attended the event.

SIBCA said training will cover electrical risks and building safety.

The company stated that the centre will use certified instructors.

The facility supports national goals for emergency preparedness in the UAE.

REV Group opens registration for 2025 emergency vehicle training event

by EventsFeatured NewsTrainingVehicles

Registration opens for Fire Truck Training Conference in the United States

REV Group has announced that registration is now open for its 2025 Fire Truck Training Conference (FTTC), scheduled to take place from 21 to 26 September at the Lansing Center in Lansing, Michigan.

According to REV Group, the FTTC is one of the largest combined symposiums in the United States focused on training and certifying emergency vehicle technicians who maintain fire apparatus and ambulances.

The company confirmed that over 400 participants from the United States, Canada and Latin America are expected to attend the event, which will include new training content in fleet management, leadership and ambulance maintenance.

REV Fire Group expands training scope with new 2025 sessions

REV Fire Group, a division of REV Group, reported that this year’s event will build on the previous format by expanding hands-on courses beyond fire trucks to include ambulance-specific maintenance and operations.

The company stated that more than 50 technical courses will be offered, covering brake systems, roll-up doors, electrical components, pressure governors and pumps.

Component classes will also allow attendees to consult directly with suppliers on troubleshooting and repair techniques.

Awards and certifications to be featured at the 2025 conference

REV Group stated that the FTTC event also provides a platform to recognise the work of emergency vehicle technicians through two awards.

The William F. Foster Award, named after the event’s founder who passed away earlier this year, will be presented.

In addition, Firehouse Magazine’s Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) of the Year Award will be given to a technician selected by a panel of EVTs and fire chiefs.

The company added that attendees will have two opportunities during the week to sit for their EVT certification exams.

Event background and sponsorship confirmed by organisers

According to REV Group, the FTTC was originally established by Spartan Fire Chassis in the 1990s.

It is now sponsored by manufacturers within the REV Specialty Vehicles Segment, including Spartan Fire Chassis, E-ONE, KME, Ferrara, Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal, Ladder Tower, AEV, Horton, Leader, Road Rescue and Wheeled Coach, as well as other industry suppliers.

Chris McClung, vice president of REV Fire Group, said: “We are proud to host this important industry-wide event that was founded on the principle that keeping fire apparatus and ambulances up and running, regardless of the manufacturer or brand, is important to protect all our communities.”

REV Group opens registration for 2025 emergency vehicle training event: Summary

REV Group has opened registration for the 2025 Fire Truck Training Conference.

The event will take place from 21 to 26 September in Lansing, Michigan.

It is expected to host over 400 participants from North and Latin America.

The conference includes training on both fire trucks and ambulances.

New sessions include Fleet Management, Leadership and Ambulance Maintenance.

More than 50 technical courses will be available during the event.

Attendees can consult directly with suppliers in dedicated Component Classes.

Two awards will be presented: the William F. Foster Award and EVT of the Year.

Firehouse Magazine oversees the selection of the EVT of the Year.

Two opportunities to complete EVT certification exams will be available.

The conference was founded by Spartan Fire Chassis in the 1990s.

It is now sponsored by REV Specialty Vehicles and other suppliers.

Early registration discounts run from 1 May to 30 June.

More information is available at http://firetrucktraining.com.

NEBOSH construction qualification backed by 90% of learners in latest survey

by ConstructionFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafetyTraining

Construction sector saw 51 deaths in Great Britain in 2023/4

A recent NEBOSH survey has reported that 90% of learners would recommend its Health and Safety Management for Construction qualification.

The survey findings relate to one of the highest-risk sectors in the UK, with the Health and Safety Executive reporting 51 construction-related fatalities in Great Britain during the 2023/4 period. This represents 37% of all workplace deaths in that year.

The qualification is available in two versions: a UK variant aligned with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations and an international version based on International Labour Organization guidance.

Learners report improved hazard identification

NEBOSH said the majority of respondents indicated the training helped them improve their ability to recognise and assess hazards on construction sites.

In the 2024 survey, 94% of UK respondents and 100% of international respondents said their ability to identify risks had improved after completing the course.

The organisation explained that the training aims to help learners develop systems of work, take part in incident investigations, and manage contractor relationships more effectively.

Qualification revised for 2025 to reflect industry feedback

According to NEBOSH, the qualification has been updated for 2025 following learner input and guidance from construction safety professionals.

The refreshed syllabus includes new topics such as fatigue and inspectors’ enforcement powers, which the organisation said were included to reflect ongoing safety challenges in the sector.

NEBOSH stated that learners are also trained to influence safety culture and challenge unsafe behaviours in the workplace.

UK course recognised by national construction safety scheme

NEBOSH confirmed that the UK version of the qualification remains recognised by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).

It noted that those who complete the course are eligible to apply for the CSCS Academically Qualified Person card.

The qualification is categorised as a Level 7 under the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.

Learners describe training as relevant and in-depth

Michael Smith, Response Supervisor – Housing Repairs for South Holland District Council, said: “I found the whole course extremely interesting; the study and work-based scenarios were good and worthwhile.

“I thought the content of the course was pitched correctly, and the syllabus covered it [the topic] in great depth.

“Having gained the qualification, I am now in a position where I feel that I can make a positive impact within the workplace.”

NEBOSH construction qualification backed by 90% of learners in latest survey: Summary

NEBOSH has reported that nine in ten learners would recommend its Health and Safety Management for Construction qualification.

The 2023/4 period saw 51 fatalities in the UK construction sector, according to the Health and Safety Executive.

The qualification is available in UK and international formats.

It is aligned with UK CDM regulations and ILO guidance respectively.

NEBOSH stated that the course helps learners identify hazards, advise on legislation, and manage contractors.

The 2025 version includes updates on fatigue and inspectors’ powers.

100% of international and 94% of UK learners said their ability to identify risks improved.

CSCS recognises the qualification for its Academically Qualified Person card.

Michael Smith of South Holland District Council described the course content as worthwhile and in-depth.

The qualification is classed as Level 7 in the SCQF framework.