Training programme from JEM Systems targets public safety DAS work

by Featured NewsFire DetectionTraining

JEM Systems training programme focuses on public safety communications

JEM Systems has partnered with DAS University to deliver a training programme focused on Public Safety Distributed Antenna Systems and Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems for fire alarm integrators and low-voltage professionals.

JEM Systems stated that the programme combines theoretical instruction with practical training for professionals working with in-building communication systems used by emergency responders.

The training is intended for professionals involved in the design, installation and maintenance of Public Safety DAS and ERCES systems.

These systems are used to improve radio communication for emergency responders inside buildings where signal coverage may otherwise be limited.

The learning pathway combines classroom-based instruction with practical exercises and real-world scenarios.

Technical content and delivery structure

DAS University provides online training courses and certification programmes focused on Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and emergency communication technologies.

The programme includes technical modules on system architecture and components.

It also covers compliance requirements linked to NFPA 1225, the International Fire Code (IFC) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations.

Participants receive instruction on site surveys, link budget analysis and coverage testing procedures used to verify system performance.

Additional content addresses system commissioning, troubleshooting and coordination with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), including documentation for compliance and inspection.

Instructors and practical exercises

The training programme includes input from professionals with experience in the design, testing and deployment of DAS and ERCES systems.

Among those referenced in DAS University’s wider training programmes are Tom Warfield, Mike Brownson and David Adams, who have experience in compliance, systems integration and signal testing for communication infrastructure.

Instruction for the programme delivered through the partnership with JEM Systems is led by Nicolas Fornari and Jason Leopoldo, who the company describes as having field experience with ERCES system integration.

JEM Systems stated that the programme includes hands-on exercises using equipment and deployment scenarios intended to reflect installation and commissioning conditions.

The ERCES Master Integrator training programme is delivered through DAS University’s learning platform with live instruction provided through the partnership, and participants are offered an introductory access period before the full curriculum begins.

Argon launches configurable multi-gas training simulator for hazardous environment scenarios

by Featured NewsProductsTraining

Argon introduces Generic MultiGAS-SIM training tool

Argon has launched the Generic MultiGAS-SIM, a customisable multi-gas training simulator designed to support realistic hazardous materials training scenarios.

The simulator allows instructors to select the number and type of simulated sensors and design a user interface that resembles operational equipment.

The simulator is intended for use by firefighters, technical rescue teams, HazMat responders and industrial workers operating in confined or hazardous environments.

Simulator supports multiple gas types and operational configurations

The Generic MultiGAS-SIM can replicate the behaviour of up to six different simulated sensors, including oxygen (O2) and lower explosive limit (LEL) sensors.

Activation thresholds can be set according to local training standards.

Argon reported that the system is compatible with its existing simulation technology and is designed to integrate into existing training programmes.

Integrated with Argon’s vapour and wide-area simulation tools

The simulator operates in conjunction with Argon’s Long Range Vapour Source (LRVS) emitters, which can be detected at distances up to 30 metres.

These sources can be used indoors or outdoors and programmed to simulate a range of hazardous substances and scenarios, including oxygen depletion.

The system is also compatible with Argon’s PlumeSIM wide-area training platform, allowing it to be used alongside chemical warfare agent and toxic industrial chemical simulation tools.

Company states global applicability and positive feedback

Argon’s founder and Managing Director, Steven Pike, said: “Our engineering team have created a superb training asset which will benefit many thousands of responders and industrial facilities worldwide to help ensure they understand the critical procedures associated with readings that can be obtained when operating within a hazardous environment.

“Customer response to the effectiveness and ease of use of the simulator has been extremely encouraging and we look forward to great success with MultiGAS-SIM”.

According to Argon, the system provides practical training for complex operational environments without environmental impact or the use of live agents.

The simulator is intended to support safety-focused education by enabling hands-on instruction under controlled conditions.

Customisable multi-gas simulator enhances hazardous materials training: Summary

Argon has launched the Generic MultiGAS-SIM, a configurable simulator for hazardous materials training.

It supports up to six types of simulated sensors and can be adapted to match local operational equipment.

The system integrates with Argon’s Long Range Vapour Source emitters and the PlumeSIM platform.

It is intended for use by HazMat teams, firefighters and industrial personnel.

Detection signals from emitters are effective up to 30 metres.

Scenarios including oxygen depletion can be simulated for realistic training.

Argon stated that the simulator is designed for practical, hands-on training that reflects real operational conditions.

Argon Managing Director Steven Pike described the customer feedback as encouraging.

The simulator is part of Argon’s suite of CBRN and HazMat training technologies.

Andrew Cooper, Managing Director, of Global HSE Group, discusses training and fire protection 

by Breaking NewsTraining

Can you provide an overview of Global HSE Group‘s journey?  

Global HSE Group was formed in 2006 and has grown into a leading provider of fire safety services and consultancy with an incredible multi-disciplinary team.  

From 2009 onwards we started to build a team, but the real growth came post Grenfell. Unfortunately, I would argue that the writing was on the wall for that event.  

This was when I recognised that creating a multi-disciplinary team would be something that is unique to Global and our ecosystem of talent is unmatched. We have a system in place to develop our teams and educate them to a high standard as I feel the industry is experiencing a real lack of competence skill sets. 

Currently, we have Global Passive Fire, Global Technical Services, Building Environments, Health and Safety, Ceasefire Doors and our newest in the group- Global Academy. 

Andrew Cooper

Our core values of commitment, integrity, teamwork and excellence run through our colleagues and business, ensuring we provide the best service to our clients. 

How does your “do it right” ethos shape its approach to customer relationships and project delivery? 

Interdependence has always been a key thing for me when hiring, because we want the right people in the right roles, who are able to see the wider context of the work they’re doing.  

Ultimately, with the number of employees that we now have, you’ve got to be able to trust them. Their confidence, skill set and competency levels projects out to our clients and we’re proud that our work and client satisfaction levels speak for themselves.  

Culturally, we aim to “do it right” and our core belief is that we will always go the extra mile to make sure things are right. We support clients from a variety of sectors, work with multi-site operators who have large portfolios and well-known brands. 

What challenges does the Group face in achieving fire safety compliance? 

Now, the sector and the requirements from government and compliance are changing rapidly, post Grenfell. Over the last three years, with Global Academy, we’ve been developing qualifications that we believe will fit these changes. 

A challenge we have faced is recruitment, but we overcame this by searching nationwide and have colleagues based all over the UK to ensure we’re recruiting the top talent for the business and our clients. 

Andrew Cooper

Whilst we attract people to the team with our ethos, I think there is a real gap in the market especially for those in construction. That’s partly why we’ve developed our new qualification, the Level 4 Fire Safety Design. 

How does your expertise in passive fire protection contribute to enhancing safety standards in the industries you serve? 

Whilst my experience with Global HSE Group goes back 20 years, the eco-system of talent we have created probably amounts to several 100 years’ worth of knowledge.  

If we are delivering training and setting the bar, it’s imperative that we do things right. So, we use software to manage and control the processes that control our quality control and everything is logged under three different third-party schemes.  

The extensive experience we have gained in the last 20 years is fundamental to how we approach projects, because we have learnt a lot- including how things were done wrong. This means that when we’re creating qualifications, we’re confident that the content fills the gap needed in the industry and raises the standard of operatives. 

What are Global HSE Group’s plans for expansion in the near future? 

We’re expanding into smoke control and AOV, within the Global Building Environments and the MEP team as well as doing CFD modelling.  

Other areas of expansion will be into London; we currently have a team of employees on the contracting side there, but the technical team will be moving into a new office based in London.

We have colleagues based in all corners of the UK to ensure we have the right people and we’ll continue this recruitment strategy. 

Andrew Cooper

Following recent engagement in the Middle East we are looking to expand into the region as well as Asia, with our training and technical services offerings. The new training qualification we have just written, the Fire Safety and Design has been deliberately written for both UK standard but also international, to accommodate to the requirements in the Middle East and Asia. 

This article was originally published in the April 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

NFCC Career Pathways provides guidance for UK fire service careers

by Breaking NewsPeopleTraining

NFCC introduces new tool to support fire and rescue service careers

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has announced the launch of NFCC Career Pathways, a new resource designed to help individuals understand and access careers in the United Kingdom’s fire and rescue service.

According to the NFCC, the platform aims to provide clarity about the variety of roles available in the sector, from operational to support functions.

It is designed to benefit those looking to start their careers, change direction, or develop their current roles.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said: “The NFCC Career Pathways are about giving our people real clarity and making sure everyone can see the opportunities open to them, whether that’s progressing within their current role or transforming their career by moving into a completely new area of their service.”

Resource designed for current and prospective fire service employees

The Career Pathways initiative provides role-specific information and tools tailored for individuals at different stages of their careers.

This includes information for newcomers, personal development planning tools, and leadership development resources.

According to the NFCC, the structure recognises that career development is not always linear. It promotes lateral movement and upskilling, encouraging users to explore options based on their own interests and abilities.

The tool also directs users to their local fire and rescue service for the most relevant and accurate information about employment opportunities.

Leadership and sector-wide input shaped the project

NFCC said the Career Pathways pages were developed in collaboration with fire and rescue professionals across the UK and with input from external stakeholders unfamiliar with the sector.

Wayne Bowcock, NFCC Leadership Development Strategic Lead and Chief Fire Officer for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “This work has been shaped by colleagues from across the sector, and with the advice of external stakeholders with limited or no experience of the Fire and Rescue Sector.”

He added: “It reflects a shared commitment to making career development more transparent, accessible, and inclusive.”

Online platform showcases real-life career journeys

The online resource includes first-hand accounts from individuals working in various parts of the UK fire and rescue service. These career journeys aim to give insight into progression opportunities and the variety of roles within the sector.

NFCC stated that the inclusion of real-life stories reflects the organisation’s emphasis on representation and diversity.

The stories demonstrate how people from different backgrounds have contributed to the sector in different ways.

The NFCC said the platform will evolve in response to sector needs and is intended to serve both new recruits and existing staff.

NFCC Career Pathways provides guidance for UK fire service careers: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched NFCC Career Pathways, a resource designed to provide information about careers in the United Kingdom’s fire and rescue service.

The platform includes tools and guidance for both new recruits and current employees. It covers entry-level roles, departmental overviews, personal development planning, and leadership development.

It also features personal career stories to highlight the diversity of roles and individuals in the service.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said the resource aims to bring clarity and flexibility to career planning.

Wayne Bowcock of the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the project reflects a shared commitment to improving transparency and accessibility in career development.

The resource has been developed with sector-wide input and directs users to their local fire and rescue service for job-related information.

The platform is designed to evolve based on the needs of the sector.

ICCROM announces Europe-wide READY course for cultural heritage protection

by Featured NewsHeritageTraining

Training programme focuses on protecting heritage in times of crisis

ICCROM has announced the launch of the first track of its READY project, a year-long training course on protecting heritage during disasters and emergencies.

According to ICCROM, the programme will begin in May 2025 and run until February 2026.

It aims to support professionals who work with cultural heritage, including those involved in disaster response, civil protection, and climate adaptation.

The initiative is supported by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture and involves several technical partners across Europe.

The training will focus on collections, living traditions, and practices that are at risk due to extreme weather, climate change, and armed conflicts.

Programme to combine online and in-person sessions

ICCROM stated that the READY training is divided into four parts.

The first phase will consist of four weeks of online orientation sessions, running from late May to late June 2025.

This will be followed by a 15-day in-person training course starting after 15 July 2025 in Riga, Latvia.

Participants will then return to their home countries for the third phase, implementing field projects between August 2025 and February 2026.

The final phase will include an international online meeting to present the outcomes of these projects.

Applicants from Creative Europe countries invited to apply

The course is open to professionals from European and non-European countries participating in the Creative Europe programme.

ICCROM said the programme is aimed at people working in museums, libraries, archives, and other cultural institutions, as well as community leaders and emergency response professionals.

Applications must be submitted online before 20 April 2025.

Participants will carry out field projects in their own regions

During the third phase of the course, participants will design and carry out practical projects to enhance heritage management in their own countries.

These projects are intended to apply the knowledge and methods taught during the earlier parts of the course.

ICCROM described the training as a way to improve both local and regional preparedness for emergencies affecting cultural heritage.

ICCROM announces Europe-wide READY course for cultural heritage protection: Summary

ICCROM has launched the first training track of its READY project on protecting cultural heritage during disasters and crises.

The course runs from May 2025 to February 2026 and includes online and in-person learning phases.

It is supported by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture.

The course will begin with online sessions in late May 2025, followed by a 15-day in-person workshop in Riga, Latvia.

From August 2025 to February 2026, participants will implement field projects in their home countries.

The programme concludes with an online international meeting.

The initiative is open to applicants from countries involved in the Creative Europe programme.

Professionals working in cultural institutions, as well as those in disaster response and climate adaptation roles, are eligible to apply.

Applications must be submitted before 20 April 2025.

GQA Level 3 Diploma in Fire Door Inspection launched in UK by Fire Door Maintenance

by Breaking NewsFire DoorsTraining

New UK fire door inspection diploma launched by Fire Door Maintenance

Fire Door Maintenance has launched the GQA Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets in the UK.

As reported by Fire Door Maintenance, the qualification certifies that individuals have the skills and knowledge to carry out non-invasive inspections of fire-resistant doors.

The qualification was developed with awarding body GQA Qualifications and construction training provider National Skills Centre.

Practical training and assessment structure

The diploma is made up of 12 units and 313 guided learning hours.

According to Fire Door Maintenance, this represents eight additional units and 305 more guided learning hours than the next nearest equivalent.

Training is delivered through FDM’s practical training centre, where candidates inspect six different types of fire-resistant doors.

FDM said the centre is the first of its kind in the UK.

Assessment can be completed on site, or through practical and video evidence demonstrating real-world application of the training.

Compliance and industry legislation requirements

The course covers practical inspection procedures and associated legal requirements.

Topics include identifying different types of fire-resistant doors and components, understanding the responsibilities of a fire door inspector, and maintaining Continuing Professional Development.

Nicola John, Managing Director of Fire Door Maintenance, said: “By collaborating with the construction industry to create our new diploma, we’re providing holistic training and assessments that include all the topics fire door inspectors need to know — including legislation, which other courses and qualifications don’t cover.”

She added: “It’s very robust for two reasons: it needs to satisfy the 2022 Building Safety Act, and we need to raise industry safety standards.”

Industry collaboration and qualification impact

The diploma launch was marked at Fire Door Maintenance’s headquarters in Bury.

Attendees were shown around the training centre and given an overview of available qualifications.

Fire Door Maintenance reported that over 700 professionals have completed training at the centre since it opened.

Martin Sadler, External Quality Advisor and Technical Officer at GQA Qualifications, said: “The Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets is a new approach to how qualifications are delivered and assessed in the market, and it’s just what the industry needs.”

Debra Green, Business Owner of National Skills Centre, added: “This is the comprehensive qualification the construction industry was missing.

“With this diploma, we’re changing the culture around how we demonstrate competence for inspectors, which will create a safer, more knowledgeable construction workforce.”

GQA Level 3 Diploma in Fire Door Inspection launched in UK by Fire Door Maintenance: Summary

Fire Door Maintenance has launched the GQA Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets in the UK.

The 65-credit qualification includes 12 units and 313 guided learning hours.

It was developed with GQA Qualifications and the National Skills Centre.

Training takes place in FDM’s practical training centre, with assessments either on site or through submitted evidence.

The course content includes inspection of different fire door types, compliance with legislation and continued professional development.

Fire Door Maintenance said the training centre has taught over 700 professionals in its first 13 months.

Nicola John from FDM stated the qualification supports compliance with the 2022 Building Safety Act.

Martin Sadler from GQA and Debra Green from National Skills Centre commented on the diploma’s potential to raise competence in fire door inspection and enhance safety standards in construction.

TOA UK MD Ian Bridgewater receives ISCVE Fellowship recognition

by Featured NewsPeopleTraining

ISCVE Board awards Fellowship to TOA UK’s Ian Bridgewater

TOA Corporation has reported that Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director of TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, has been made a Fellow of the Institute of Sound, Communication and Visual Engineers (ISCVE).

The announcement was made at ISCVE’s recent AGM, conference and exhibition.

According to TOA Corporation, the Institute’s Board selected Bridgewater for Fellowship in recognition of his service to the audio and AV industry.

Bridgewater has worked at TOA for more than 30 years.

He started as an engineer and later became Technical Director before being appointed Managing Director in 2024.

Industry service highlighted in ISCVE recognition

Bridgewater responded to the news of his Fellowship by saying: “I am truly humbled and delighted to become a Fellow of ISCVE.

“It was a real surprise and not something I was expecting at all.

“Receiving it is a real honour and I am thrilled to be able to continue to fly the flag for audio and the AV industry as a whole.”

The ISCVE Board stated that the decision to award the Fellowship was based on Bridgewater’s long-standing commitment to the sector and his contribution to the Institute.

ISCVE Board praises long service and industry impact

Ros Wigmore, Business Manager of ISCVE, commented on the award: “Ian is a worthy recipient of the Fellowship.

“The Board were so pleased to be able to celebrate his achievements and his long service to both the Institute and the industry.”

The Fellowship is one of the highest forms of recognition awarded by ISCVE.

It acknowledges individuals who have shown dedication and long-term involvement in professional audio, communication, and visual engineering.

Recognition specific to UK audio and AV sectors

The Fellowship was awarded during the Institute’s UK-based event, making the recognition specific to the British audio and AV industry.

TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd is a provider of voice alarm, public address, and audio communications systems across the country.

Bridgewater’s role as Managing Director is based in the UK and his service has been primarily within the domestic market.

Ian Bridgewater receives ISCVE Fellowship recognition: Summary

Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director of TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, has been awarded a Fellowship by the Institute of Sound, Communication and Visual Engineers.

The announcement was made at ISCVE’s AGM, conference and exhibition.

Bridgewater has served at TOA for more than 30 years in roles including engineer, Technical Director, and, from 2024, Managing Director.

He stated that the recognition was unexpected and expressed gratitude for the honour.

The ISCVE Board awarded the Fellowship for Bridgewater’s service to the audio and AV industry.

Ros Wigmore, ISCVE Business Manager, stated that the Board was pleased to acknowledge his contributions.

The award relates to his work in the UK audio sector.

The recognition was given by ISCVE in the UK.

Bridgewater’s work at TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd continues.

NFPA expands DER training for fire departments across the United States

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsTraining

New field training launched for distributed energy resource safety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced the launch of the second phase of its Distributed Energy Resources Safety Training (DERST) initiative.

According to NFPA, this phase introduces field familiarisation training for firefighters dealing with distributed energy resources (DER), including battery energy storage systems and solar farms.

The programme is being delivered in partnership with Vector Solutions and the US Department of Energy, with coordination from the North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD).

The new content builds on an earlier training series that focused on classroom-based instruction and interactive simulations of battery and electric vehicle fire scenarios.

Training supports on-site response to DER incidents

The second phase provides a practical component to supplement previous theoretical modules.

The training includes field exercises designed to help fire departments apply previously learned concepts during walkthroughs at target hazard locations.

Installations covered include lithium-ion battery sites, solar panel farms, energy storage facilities and electric vehicle storage areas.

Andrew Klock, senior manager of education and development at NFPA, said: “As more distributed energy resources are deployed nationwide, the fire service needs to be properly prepared to respond to them safely and effectively.”

Interactive online tools included in new materials

To assist with the new training, an online guide offers an interactive experience to help sharpen logistical and reasoning skills in live response environments.

The platform provides access to scenario training and verbal field exercises, which are designed for use during on-scene familiarisation drills.

Klock added: “Drawing on their knowledge obtained from prerequisite online and classroom training and simulation exercises, firefighters can now face virtual hazard scenarios as a team on their smart devices, while performing a field familiarization evolution of a DER facility.”

Training access and tracking provided through dedicated portal

Vector Solutions has released a DER Custom Activity through its TargetSolutions training management system.

This allows for the assignment, tracking and reporting of DER training by participating departments using the platform.

NFPA confirmed that access to the training materials is available at no cost to members of the fire and responder community through the NAFTD.

The training can be accessed via the official programme website at www.DERSTFG.org.

NFPA expands DER training for fire departments across the United States: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in partnership with Vector Solutions and the US Department of Energy, has launched a new phase of its Distributed Energy Resources Safety Training (DERST).

The training is coordinated with the North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD) and introduces field-based exercises focused on distributed energy resources (DER).

These exercises support fire departments in responding to incidents involving installations such as battery storage systems, solar farms and electric vehicle storage areas.

The programme includes an online interactive guide designed to support verbal field exercises and scenario-based learning.

Access to the training is free for the fire and responder community and available via the NAFTD website.

Vector Solutions has also developed a DER Custom Activity on its TargetSolutions platform to facilitate assignment and progress tracking.

Industrial Foam School firefighting training to begin in May 2025

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionTraining

Industrial Foam School programme opens for industrial and municipal firefighters

Perimeter Solutions has announced the launch of the Industrial Foam School, a new training programme designed for industrial firefighters, hazardous materials teams and municipal firefighters working in or alongside industrial facilities.

According to Perimeter Solutions, the first session will be held at the Delaware State Fire Academy in Dover, Delaware, on 28–29 May 2025.

The two-day course provides technical instruction and practical training focused on the use of fluorine-free firefighting foam products.

Participants will receive instruction on foam application methods, incident preplanning and the handling of foam in industrial fire settings.

Fluorine-free foam products to be used in practical exercises

Participants will use Perimeter Solutions’ fluorine-free foam solutions during hands-on training, where permitted.

These include SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3, SOLBERG VERSAGARD AS-100 and SOLBERG RE-HEALING 3×3 SP-100.

Mark Siem, Chemist and Manager of Business Development at Perimeter Solutions, said: “Firefighting foam plays a critical role in combating fires, helping to reduce the amount of time firefighters spend on scene, which ultimately improves both firefighter and community safety.”

He added: “The Perimeter Solutions Industrial Foam School will equip firefighters with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively use today’s advanced fluorine-free firefighting foams.”

Further sessions scheduled in Canada and the United States

Perimeter Solutions has confirmed two further training sessions in October 2025.

The first will take place at Lambton College in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada on 9–10 October.

The second will be held at The Fire Academy of the South in Jacksonville, Florida, on 28–29 October.

Each session will be limited to 30 participants.

Registration and contact details for interested participants

The cost to attend the Delaware State Fire Academy session is $599 per person.

Perimeter Solutions has stated that additional sessions will be scheduled across the United States and Canada in 2025 and 2026.

Interested participants or departments can contact Mark Siem at info@perimeter-solutions.com to register or request a tailored session at their own facility.

Further information is available at www.perimeter-solutions.com.

Industrial Foam School firefighting training to begin in May 2025: Summary

Perimeter Solutions has announced the launch of the Industrial Foam School, a two-day training course for industrial and municipal firefighters.

The first session will be held at the Delaware State Fire Academy in the United States on 28–29 May 2025.

The course includes both classroom instruction and, where permitted, hands-on experience using fluorine-free firefighting foams.

Products used during the training will include SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3, SOLBERG VERSAGARD AS-100 and SOLBERG RE-HEALING 3×3 SP-100.

Two further sessions are scheduled for October 2025 in Sarnia, Ontario and Jacksonville, Florida.

Each session will be limited to 30 participants.

The cost for the Delaware training is $599 per person.

Firefighters or departments interested in participating or organising a local session can contact Mark Siem at Perimeter Solutions.

Additional sessions are expected to be announced for 2025 and 2026.

Fire training school in Maestrazgo region awaits action on 2021 funding proposal

by Featured NewsTraining

Proposal for Maestrazgo fire training school reintroduced by Socialist Parliamentary Group

The Socialist Parliamentary Group in the Cortes of Aragon has submitted a non-legislative motion calling on the Government of Aragon to resume work on a proposed fire prevention and civil protection training school in La Iglesuela del Cid, located in the Maestrazgo region.

As reported by La Comarca, the group has also announced plans to raise a question about the project’s current status with Minister Bermúdez de Castro during the next plenary session.

The project was included in the 2021 Teruel Investment Fund (FITE) with an allocation of €125,000.

The original proposal was put forward by La Iglesuela del Cid Town Hall, which claims to have received no response from the Government of Aragon about the state of the project.

The funds were expected to be spent between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2024.

Local officials express concern over project delays

Mayor of La Iglesuela del Cid Fernando Safont stated that the Town Hall attempted to follow up on the project in 2023 due to lack of progress.

Safont said: “They haven’t answered us. We requested a meeting with the Minister of the Presidency and we still haven’t heard from them.”

Safont said that the municipality submitted a grant request in July 2021 and was later visited by representatives of the Government of Aragon to assess the proposed site.

He added: “Everything seemed fine to them.”

He also noted: “The FITE is intended to generate development and achieve social cohesion, growth and social well-being for the inhabitants of the area.

“El Maestrazgo is the most sparsely populated region in the province of Teruel, and the training school would be, among the many things that can be achieved here, a turning point.”

Regional leaders seek revival in future funding cycles

The president of the Maestrazgo region also criticised delays and the lack of implementation of funds that had been committed to the area.

He said that if the fire training school had been built, it could have helped counteract the effects of the closure of the Marie Claire branch in Vilafranca.

He called for the initiative to be included in future FITE calls.

The Socialist group said the project had been reviewed and approved by the Aragonese Executive’s Audit Service and met the criteria of a “tractor” project.

The group also highlighted that in December 2023, the current Government of Aragon reaffirmed the project’s place in the 2021 FITE framework during discussions with the Government of Spain.

Project intended to support fire and civil protection training in rural Aragon

The training school proposal aims to improve practical training opportunities for emergency response services and citizens in fire prevention and civil protection, with an emphasis on forest fire management.

Member of Parliament Ángel Peralta stated: “To meet this training need, we need to work in territorial areas with physical characteristics suitable for the activities covered by the Catalogue of Civil Protection Regulations.

“And La Iglesuela del Cid and the Maestrazgo meet these requirements.”

The facility would be equipped to support forest fire simulation exercises and forest management training.

It would use nearby public forests for practical activities due to their location, accessibility and terrain.

Peralta said: “The public forests of La Iglesuela del Cid are not only located very close to the town centre, which facilitates the transport of materials and personnel to burning areas or other practical exercises, but they also boast a diverse network of forest trails, plant formations and optimal topography for practical training in sustainable forest management.”

The FITE funds are intended for adapting a building for theoretical and practical training purposes.

Fire training school in Maestrazgo region awaits action on 2021 funding proposal: Summary

The Socialist Parliamentary Group in Aragon has submitted a motion to restart a stalled fire prevention and civil protection training school project in La Iglesuela del Cid.

The initiative was allocated €125,000 through the 2021 Teruel Investment Fund.

Local authorities report no progress or government communication since the grant’s approval.

The mayor and regional president have requested its reinstatement in future FITE calls.

The proposed school would provide training in emergency response and forest fire prevention, using local public forests for practical sessions.

The Government of Aragon approved the project again in December 2023, but implementation remains pending.

The facility is intended to serve as a regional centre for fire prevention and civil protection training.