NVFC announces a call for presentation proposals for the 2024 Training Summit

by AmericasFeatured NewsTraining

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has revealed its plans to organise the annual NVFC Training Summit.

This summit is scheduled for June 21-22, 2024, in Buffalo, NY.

Those interested can find more details and submit their proposals here.

NVFC Training Summit 2024: A platform for learning and networking

As one of the notable events in the fire and emergency services sector, the NVFC Training Summit serves as a hub for idea-sharing, networking, and training on critical industry topics.

For the 2024 edition, the summit will offer breakout sessions across three main tracks: Health, Safety, and Training; Recruitment and Retention; and Leadership.

These 90-minute sessions will address various subjects including effective training, physical health, diversity, equity, inclusion, recruitment strategies, and resource management among others.

How to participate and contribute

The NVFC emphasises the importance of diverse experiences and perspectives from first responders across the country.

To aid potential presenters, the NVFC’s training and education team, namely Rachel Buczynski and Maggie Mojab, will be available for two virtual Q&A drop-in sessions in September.

All applications need to be submitted by October 1, 2023, after which a peer review team will assess the proposals based on several criteria including relevance, quality, and presenter experience.

Notifications to selected presenters will be sent out by November 3, 2023.

Successful applicants can expect travel expenses to be covered by the NVFC.

Furthermore, selected presenters will be offered a stipend. However, it’s worth noting that while teaching teams can apply, only one instructor per course will receive the travel stipend.

It’s also important for potential presenters to remember that all sessions should remain educational in focus, even if they represent a particular organisation or company.

For more information about the summit or the application process, interested parties can reach out to Rachel Buczynski, chief of training and education, directly.

IFSJ Comment

The NVFC Training Summit consistently provides invaluable insights and training opportunities for fire and emergency service professionals.

By opening up a call for presentations, NVFC ensures a diverse range of topics and voices at the forefront of the summit.

This approach not only enhances the quality of the event but also ensures that attendees benefit from the broadest possible spectrum of knowledge and experience in the field.

Presentations on wildland fire behaviour now accessible online

by AmericasFeatured NewsTrainingWildland Fire

The Department of Fire Protection Engineering at the University of Maryland recently concluded its Summer School focused on “Fire Safety Science – Wildland/WUI fire behaviour” from June 5-9, 2023.

In an exciting update for those keen on the topic, all the PowerPoint presentations and video lectures from this event are now available for viewing on the summer school website.

Notable lectures and their esteemed presenters

The programme featured a robust list of lectures delivered by global experts:

  • “Introduction to Wildland and Wildland-Urban-Interface Fires,” presented by Alex Filkov from the University of Melbourne.
  • “Fire behaviour” by Albert Simeoni of Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
  • University of Maryland’s own Stas Stoliarov and Arnaud Trouvé discussing “Ignition and Pyrolysis” and “Combustion” respectively.
  • And many more covering diverse topics from “Flame Spread” to “Technology: Real-Time Fire Forecasting”.

Panel discussion delves into challenges of large outdoor fires

A panel was also convened, which comprised notable figures like Danielle Antonellis of Kindling, USA, Erica Kuligowski from RMIT University, Australia, and Albert Simeoni from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, among others.

These panellists deliberated on the pressing challenges in large outdoor fires, offering invaluable insights into the domain.

IAFSS remarked: “Learn from 20 international experts. Listen to the engineering point of view on wildland/WUI fire behaviour: Join us in trying to develop solutions to these growing fire problems!

“Also, please spread the word on these resources and share this material with fellow students and colleagues!”

IFSJ Comment

As urban areas continue to expand and intertwine with natural landscapes, understanding the science behind these fires becomes imperative.

The University of Maryland’s effort in bringing together global experts to deliberate, discuss, and share knowledge is a commendable step.

We encourage our readership to delve into these resources, as collaborative learning is key in our collective quest to enhance fire safety in such vulnerable terrains.

Korean fire fighting training school set to open in Galle

by Featured NewsTraining

For the first time in South Asia, an internationally accredited fire fighting training school is set to open its doors in Galle, aiming to draw students both locally and abroad, as reported by Daily News.

A collaborative venture for training school excellence

The project is a joint venture between the Association of Firefighters South Korea and Troja international management and consulting services Biyagama.

Their goal is to entice students from neighbouring countries such as India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives for this six-month course.

Previously, the region had missed out on numerous high-paying international job opportunities due to the absence of a recognised fire fighting training institute. This initiative seeks to address that gap.

Dr. Nimal Rohitha Kahagalagewa, Chairman of Troja international management and consulting services, stated: “It is to fill this gap that we joined Association of Firefighters South Korea, one of the largest training schools in Korea.”

They are optimistic about starting the course in September and aim to train 500 firefighters in the initial six months.

Government support and practical training provisions

Director Troja International, Ravindra Gayanath, confirmed that they’ve received the nod and backing from the Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment, Manusha Nanayakkara.

The Minister has even allocated space at the Galle Town Hall premises for the course. Plans to promote this course in the region will commence next month.

In addition to this, the Galle Municipal Council’s fire fighting unit is set to be upgraded, enhancing the practical training aspect of the programme.

Kang yun jin, Chairman of the Association of Firefighters Korea, shed light on their keen interest in the initiative, especially given Sri Lanka’s recent economic challenges.

They believe this school will significantly bolster remittances to the island.

Future prospects and global opportunities

After completing the initial TOPIK2 course in Sri Lanka, students will be offered advanced training in Korea.

More than 450 companies in Korea are prepared to employ these trained professionals with competitive salaries averaging nearly Rs. 700,000.

The qualification will also open doors globally, with its acceptance in regions including Europe, UK, and USA.

Kim Song Chor, Chairman Association of Nursing South Korea, also highlighted a rising demand for caregivers in Korean hospitals.

A similar TOPIK2 course in nursing is anticipated to roll out in Galle by year’s end.

Chor, doubling as the Vice President at the Association of Fire Fighters, announced the introduction of volunteer teachers for these courses and the launch of online platforms.

IFSJ Comment

The establishment of this training school in Galle signals a significant step forward in fire and safety education within South Asia.

By offering internationally recognised certifications and bridging the gap for the region’s professionals, it not only enhances safety standards but also creates employment avenues on a global scale.

The collaboration between major brands and the support from local government entities underline the potential impact of this initiative on the regional and international fire and safety landscape.

BAFE advances competency standards in fire detection and alarm system operations

by Featured NewsFire DetectionTraining

BAFE, the acknowledged authority on fire safety regulations, recently unveiled the latest version of its SP203-1 Scheme Document.

Following an exhaustive evaluation, the BAFE Fire Safety Register has announced the release of Version 8.0 of their BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme Document for the Design, Installation, Commissioning, and Maintenance of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems.

Adjustments in light of evolving fire detection competency measures

Key revisions have been made to factor in recent shifts in competency regulations, including documents like the BSI Flex 8670, which establishes core criteria for building safety within competence frameworks.

This update ensures that the relevant skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours are incorporated into the BAFE SP203-1 Scheme Document.

In light of the newly introduced standards, BAFE has also emphasised the competence requirements for individuals.

Moreover, new additions, such as nominating a Lead Individual for each of the modules – design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance – have been implemented.

These individuals are equipped with advanced competency criteria, essential for overseeing and bolstering the organisation’s management systems concerning fire detection.

Feedback and insights from BAFE leadership

Matt Darville, who chairs the BAFE SP203-1 Monitoring Committee, said: “The review of the document was comprehensive, taking into account both our goals to clarify standards and the insights provided by various members of the Monitoring Committee.

“These revisions to the BAFE SP203-1 Scheme Document are logical, but they heighten the proficiency expectations for everyone in an organisation involved in fire detection and alarm work.

“We believe these standards are attainable and serve as a testament to the optimal demonstration of competency in this field.”

Additionally, Lewis Ramsay, a BAFE Board Director, commented: “BAFE and the SP203-1 Monitoring Committee’s efforts have resulted in a much-improved document.

“Given the fast-evolving nature of the fire industry, staying updated is challenging.

“It’s crucial for those in charge, be it the Responsible Person, Duty Holder, or premises manager, to validate their measures in adhering to fire safety norms.

“BAFE Schemes offer a platform for the industry to showcase their proficiency, with third-party certifications serving as a distinctive marker for those seeking services from organisations committed to life safety.”

The complete BAFE SP203-1 Scheme Document Version 8.0 can be accessed on the BAFE website.

IFSJ Comment

The recent updates by BAFE highlight an evolving landscape in fire safety.

It’s evident that, as the industry grows and changes, there’s a pressing need for stringent competency measures.

This new document, Version 8.0 of the BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme, serves as a beacon for those in the field.

By raising standards and ensuring that individuals and organisations adhere to them, BAFE is setting the tone for a safer future.

We commend these advancements and see them as a pivotal step towards an industry where fire detection and safety are paramount.

ECS unveils new FESS Technical Auditor Certification

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

ECS introduces industry-led standard card for FESS Technical Auditors

The ECS has unveiled an industry-driven standard for Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) Technical Auditors.

With this development, auditors who have achieved both technical and industry qualifications can be issued an ECS card.

Key competencies for the FESS Technical Auditor card

The FESS Technical Auditor card indicates a comprehensive quality standard applicable to all roles, notably those accountable for verifying compliance through third-party certification schemes.

To qualify for the ECS FESS Technical Auditor card, individuals must meet the following requirements:

  • Auditor certification or qualification, e.g., IRCA Auditor
  • Sector qualifications like FESS apprenticeship or Experienced Worker Assessment
  • A minimum experience of 5 years
  • Ongoing continuing professional development (CPD)
  • Health, safety, and environmental awareness

Support from major industry stakeholders

This initiative arose from a recognised need in the industry to ensure technical auditing roles are performed by competent and qualified individuals.

Third-party certification bodies like SSAIB and fire and security training providers such as Zzeus Training have already endorsed it.

Notably, SSAIB will necessitate all its auditors to possess the FESS Technical Auditor ECS card, asserting their adherence to sector technical proficiencies and national auditor prerequisites.

Trevor Jenks, SSAIB Training Manager, said: “At SSAIB, we undertake technical audits to confirm both organisational and individual compliance to the standards. We are pleased to see ECS recognise this crucial occupation within its certification scheme.”

Andy Reakes, Director of Growth and Development at JIB & ECS, highlighted: “The FESS Technical Auditor ECS card is a vital addition to the suite of ECS cards aimed at raising competence and improving industry standards.”

Dr Tom Brookes, of the Fire and Security Association (FSA) and Zzeus Training, mentioned: “At Zzeus Training, we ensure all our staff have the necessary qualifications. I wanted Zzeus to be at the forefront of this development.”

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the FESS Technical Auditor ECS card by the ECS is a significant step for the industry.

Elevating competency standards and ensuring that those responsible for monitoring compliance are themselves held to high standards of proficiency is pivotal.

By addressing long-standing concerns about accountability and competence, this development fosters a safer environment, promotes professionalism, and advances the standards within the sector.

About The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme

The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) is committed to driving and upholding industry standards.

It offers a wide range of certifications designed to ensure that individuals working within the electrical and related sectors are competent and safe in their roles.

The FESS Technical Auditor certification is the latest addition to their suite of offerings, further emphasising their commitment to elevating standards across the industry.

NFCC promotes the Fleur Lombard Bursary for fire and rescue service staff

by Featured NewsTraining

NFCC’s encouragement for fire and rescue service professionals

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is actively encouraging fire and rescue service staff to apply for the Fleur Lombard Bursary.

According to their recent announcement, this bursary intends to advance the education of junior members by granting them bursaries.

Opportunities the bursary offers

The bursary provides an opportunity for them to travel and study fire and rescue service-related issues, either within the UK, Europe, or even worldwide.

Those who are curious about issues impacting their fire and rescue service or wish to enhance their comprehension of these issues should consider applying.

Staff members up to the position of Watch Manager or its corporate equivalent from any UK fire and rescue service can apply for funding that supports a research trip.

The bursary emphasizes self-directed study, and aspirants should showcase at least one of the following objectives:

  • Reducing fires.
  • Minimising death and injury by fire.
  • Preventing damage to property and the environment from fires.
  • Reducing the risk of death or injury to firefighters.
  • And providing career development opportunities from the study.

For further details and the funding application, visit the Avon Fire and Rescue Service’s website.

Memorialising Fleur Lombard

The bursary was established in remembrance of Firefighter Fleur Lombard.

She was tragically the first female firefighter to die on duty during peacetime Britain.

Her untimely demise in 1996 occurred while she combated a supermarket blaze in Staple Hill, Bristol.

In tribute to her valour, she was posthumously honoured with the Queen’s Gallantry Medal and Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation.

Following her death, a trust fund was instituted to honour her dedication, bravery, and professionalism.

Krissy Foster-Pullen, a Station Manager Control at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, shared her experience: “I would encourage anyone with an idea or interest to apply for the bursary. It’s a unique chance to learn about fire and rescue services across the globe.”

IFSJ Comment

The NFCC’s push for applications to the Fleur Lombard Bursary reinforces the global commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the fire and rescue service sector.

Firefighter Fleur Lombard’s legacy, epitomised by this bursary, offers an invaluable opportunity for junior members to gain insights from different firefighting methods, techniques, and cultures around the world.

By doing so, they can introduce innovative ideas and practices to their respective fire and rescue services.

About the NFCC

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is a pivotal organisation in the UK’s fire and rescue service community.

With its primary focus on operational professionalism, effectiveness, and efficiency, the NFCC plays a vital role in driving the highest standards of service delivery, providing robust professional advice, and supporting its member organisations.

Newcastle International Airport’s Training Academy invests in cutting-edge virtual reality for firefighting

by Featured NewsTraining

Newcastle Training Academy embraces virtual reality technology

Newcastle International Airport’s Training Academy has made a groundbreaking move by becoming the first airport in the UK to incorporate FLAIM Trainer, a cutting-edge multi-sensory virtual reality firefighting technology.

The academy, situated on the airport’s grounds, delivers world-class fire and safety-related training programmes that draw attendees from across the world.

Virtual reality: the future of firefighting training

This innovative virtual reality (VR) solution, offered by FLAIM Systems, grants firefighters access to immersive emergency scenarios, complementing their practical training sessions.

The system merges high-quality virtual fire scenes with real-time physical cues, such as heat and noise simulation.

This hybrid training approach allows the academy to augment the firefighting courses on offer.

Trainees benefit from instant feedback and statistical analysis of their performance within this virtual setting.

Moreover, the FLAIM Trainer holds a comprehensive archive of real fire situations, providing thousands of hours of training across over 60 diverse environments.

Graham Reeve, a Fire Training Instructor at the academy, commented: “We pride ourselves on delivering top-tier training in Newcastle.

“We’re consistently seeking out best practices and advanced technology to elevate our course offerings.

“The introduction of FLAIM Trainer not only furnishes a tangible fire training environment but is also safe, user-friendly, and offers invaluable insights into learners’ performance.”

One notable advantage of the FLAIM Trainer is its potential to support the airport’s commendable Net Zero Carbon 2035 strategy by minimising the demand for actual fire scenarios.

Virtual reality supports green initiatives

Graeme Mason, Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer, remarked: “The airport’s venture into this novel virtual reality solution underscores our progressive mindset and dedication to our Net Zero 2035 agenda.

“We’re already advancing on our path to achieve a Net Zero Carbon Airport by 2035.

“Recent developments include the inauguration of a solar farm aimed at powering the airport entirely through sustainable means and the ongoing replacement of all fuel-driven vehicles with electric counterparts on-site.

“I eagerly anticipate the FLAIM Trainer bolstering our steps towards Net Zero 2035.”

Simon Miller, CEO of FLAIM Systems, added: “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Newcastle International Airport, supporting their endeavour to provide top-quality fire and safety training.

“FLAIM offers a safe, cost-efficient method to mimic real-world emergency challenges.

“Our immersive platform pairs perfectly with hands-on training, prepping firefighters to tackle emergencies confidently.

“The added sustainability benefits of virtual training, saving vast amounts of water and reducing carbon emissions, further align with the airport’s sustainability objectives.”

IFSJ Comment

The incorporation of FLAIM Trainer at the Newcastle International Airport’s Training Academy underscores a transformative shift in the realm of firefighter training.

Virtual reality (VR), once thought to be reserved for gaming and entertainment sectors, has been progressively making its mark in diverse industries, and its foray into safety training accentuates its expansive potential.

The hybrid approach of merging tactile, real-world cues with high-fidelity VR ensures that training isn’t just theoretical but emotionally and physically immersive, bridging the gap between simulation and reality.

Additionally, the sustainability advantages this technology brings cannot be understated.

As the world pivots towards greener initiatives, solutions that reduce environmental footprints, such as conserving water and reducing carbon emissions, will be indispensable.

It’s inspiring to witness institutions like Newcastle’s Training Academy lead the way, demonstrating that progress in training methodologies can be symbiotic with sustainability goals.

This move sets a precedent, and we anticipate many other institutions will take cue, heralding a new era of advanced, environmentally-conscious training.

Related: Inside Newcastle International Training Academy

Columbia Southern University collaborates with the IAFC for new development program

by AmericasFeatured NewsTraining

In a recent announcement, the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and Columbia Southern University (CSU) have initiated a transformative partnership. This collaboration aligns with the key goal to “educate” as outlined in the IAFC Board’s Strategic Initiative Plan, which was adopted earlier this year.

A step forward in officer development programs

Through this alliance, CSU has been named the “Officer Development Program (ODP) Educational Partner of the IAFC”.

The two organisations have shown their dedication to offering fire service professionals, both new and experienced, a comprehensive virtual learning platform.

This aims to make education more attainable for all members of the IAFC.

Furthermore, a 15% discount on CSU academic courses has been made available for IAFC members and their immediate families.

Introducing the ODP – Leadership Development Certification Series

Central to this partnership is the introduction of the ODP – Leadership Development Certification Series (LDCS).

This innovative program is tailored to foster forward-thinking leaders capable of addressing the demands of the contemporary fire service. The series merges the expertise of industry leaders from the IAFC with CSU’s esteemed educational pedigree.

This fusion brings together the best of academic knowledge and practical experience.

Course delivery is flexible, available online and in-person at IAFC Fire-Rescue International events and through IAFC Division and State regional programs.

Moreover, after passing an online examination, participants can opt for a 100% online route or a mix of online and onsite courses.

Notably, upon completion, graduates can earn undergraduate college credit hours for the first time.

Building on its predecessor, the ODP Leadership Development Symposium Series (LDCS) emphasises new competency-based standards.

This reinforces the IAFC’s unwavering dedication to uplift training and education within the fire service profession.

With this structured professional growth path, students can enhance their leadership capabilities, decision-making skills, and strategic expertise.

Additionally, they can earn continuing education units, which act as a testament to their professional development pursuits.

A future bright with potential for fire service education

The synergy between IAFC and CSU is poised to reshape fire service education’s future.

The newly introduced Leadership Development Certification and Symposium Series stands as a beacon of excellence.

Its aim is to empower the next wave of fire service leaders, ensuring safer and more resilient communities around the globe.

By coming together, both institutions hope to light the path for progress, envisioning a brighter future for the fire service domain.

IFSJ Comment

The fusion of two prominent entities like IAFC and CSU not only underscores the increasing emphasis on professional development in fire service but also showcases how strategic alliances can enhance accessibility and standards of education.

This collaboration is set to benefit communities at large by cultivating a generation of fire service leaders armed with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

Firefighter training in Kamloops highlights new program for wildland interface response

by Featured NewsTrainingWildland Fire

Kamloops, B.C., recently hosted a pivotal training program for firefighters.

This event was organised just a few weeks after the Government of Canada pledged financial support for the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Responding to the Interface (RTI) program.

Read more about the program here.

Boost in training for firefighters as wildland threat grows

During the period from Aug. 1-4, 50 IAFF members undertook wildland interface response training in two distinct courses.

The introductory sessions comprised a train-the-trainer course for 25 firefighters and a standard course for another 25. This training is part of a $400,000 one-year pilot project managed by Natural Resources Canada.

This new venture symbolises a noteworthy collaboration and an achievement for the IAFF, aiming to enhance both firefighter and public safety given the escalating danger of wildfires in urban interface zones across Canada each annum.

The conception of the RTI pilot initiative followed rigorous advocacy by the IAFF earlier this year.

This move was precipitated by an unusually early and fierce start to the wildfire season, especially in British Columbia, Alberta, and Nova Scotia.

Comprehensive firefighter training program takes inspiration from earlier successes

The RTI program, formulated using the IAFF’s own curriculum and spearheaded by their Master Instructors, aims to equip firefighters to shield urban areas from approaching wildfires.

Its design is inspired by the IAFF’s Canadian Haz-Mat & CBRNE Training Initiative, a project that has proficiently trained over 7,000 first responders since 2009, due in part to funding from the Canadian Government.

Mark Brise from Kamloops Local 913, an RTI Master Instructor, collaborated with other IAFF Master Instructors from California and Texas for the Kamloops training event.

As part of the agreement with Natural Resource Canada, there are plans for 15 more classes, training a total of 325 students, slated to occur by March 2024.

Edward Kelly, General President, regarded these training sessions as a fresh phase in public and firefighter safety in Canada.

He remarked: “We’re grateful to the Canadian Government for endorsing our RTI program. With the rising wildfire threat, ensuring firefighters can safely guard their communities against these specific hazards is crucial.”

In a recent press conference, Jonathan Wilkinson, Environment and Natural Resources Minister, underlined the unprecedented wildfire challenges Canada faces.

He affirmed: “Safety of the public is the federal government’s top concern. That’s why we’re partnering with the IAFF to provide more firefighters and high-quality training opportunities.”

Mike Carter, IAFF 6th District Vice President, who played a key role in organising the Kamloops training, stated: “The need to shield our communities from looming interface fires is crucial.

“We’re grateful to the Government of Canada for financing the IAFF’s RTI training program so firefighters can effectively defend Canadians and their properties.”

IFSJ Comment

Canada is presently undergoing its most devastating wildfire season to date, with an unprecedented 11.5 million hectares already consumed by the flames.

This recent boost in firefighter training in Kamloops, particularly in response to the growing threat of interface wildfires, exemplifies the global urgency to equip our first responders with the necessary skills.

As urban and wild areas increasingly overlap, such proactive training initiatives are crucial in ensuring both public and firefighter safety.

Webinar examines firefighter stress and explosive anger

by EventsFeatured NewsTraining

Firefighter stress and intimate partner aggression: A webinar insight

Today, 9th August at 10am PST (6:00 PM in London), the Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA) is hosting a seminar on firefighter stress and how it can affect marital relationships.

The seminar, titled ‘Firefighter Stress and Explosive Anger: The Impact on Marriage,’ is part of the FSPA 2023 Webinar Series.

The webinar is accessible via this link.

Detailed exploration of clinical practices for firefighter stress

Dr. Erica Birkley will present the seminar, which aims to review research on intimate partner aggression (IPA) perpetration prevalence.

It will focus on processes that predict for whom and under what circumstances IPA is most likely to occur.

The discussion will include best clinical practices for when it is ethical to use couple therapy as a treatment mechanism.

Specifically, adaptations and cultural competence in delivering couple therapy and assessing IPA risk among firefighter/paramedics will be covered.

Legal documentation and reporting requirements, as well as court cases and ethics for psychologists, will be extensively discussed.

A mock clinical case to address firefighter stress and treatment strategies

The training will conclude with a firefighter/paramedic mock clinical case.

Participants will elaborate on their goals for assessment, clinical treatment plan formation, documentation, consultation, and reporting strategies.

This mock example will include dual role considerations and an ethical dilemma to provide more in-depth training and reflection.

Psychologists attending the full session will be awarded 1 CE credit.

The fee for this session is $25.

IFSJ Comment

This seminar from the FSPA brings to the forefront a critical subject that often remains unaddressed.

By focusing on firefighter stress and its consequences on personal relationships, it encourages open dialogue and provides valuable insights into professional treatment strategies.

The offering of a practical case scenario further enhances the understanding of handling such complex issues, making this a relevant and timely topic for our readership.