Suffolk Fire and Rescue launches new fire control room

by CommunicationsFeatured News

New fire control room begins operations in Suffolk

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has launched a new fire control room in Ipswich, aimed at strengthening emergency call handling and response across the county.

According to Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, the facility was completed within 18 months and replaces a legacy system that had been deemed unreliable.

The control room includes cloud-based technologies designed to improve call management, data handling and regional collaboration.

It was developed in partnership with Motorola Solutions and will serve as part of a wider control hub with fire services in Hertfordshire and Norfolk.

Suffolk County Council said the project involved creating a new contact centre, hiring a new team and implementing locally configured systems tailored to Suffolk’s needs.

Regional collaboration and resilience features introduced

The control room forms part of a tri-service network linking Suffolk, Hertfordshire and Norfolk fire services.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service stated that this network will support mutual assistance across the three counties, particularly during peak demand such as periods of high call volumes or major incidents.

The service added that the new system is designed to enable improved management of large-scale emergencies, including floods and wildfires.

It also includes the ability for control staff to securely access systems remotely, supporting mobile command centres and flexible staffing arrangements.

According to the fire service, recorded data and incident logs will now be stored and organised more efficiently, improving the accuracy and traceability of emergency response data.

Council outlines reasons for investment

Suffolk County Council confirmed the decision to build a new fire control room was made in 2023 due to reliability concerns with the previous setup.

The council explained that the earlier system no longer provided sufficient resilience and could not guarantee continued effective service delivery.

The investment formed part of a wider strategy to bring fire control capabilities back into Suffolk and ensure future readiness.

Councillor Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Protection at Suffolk County Council, said:

“This is an incredible achievement – it demonstrates our commitment to innovation and protecting Suffolk’s residents with the very best emergency response services.

“Delivering this in just 18 months is a testament to what’s possible when teams collaborate with a clear vision and shared purpose.”

Technology provided by Motorola Solutions

Motorola Solutions was selected to deliver the core dispatch and communications systems for the new control room.

The company’s Guardian Suite software underpins the cloud-enabled system, which supports call handling, dispatch, and integrated communications.

Fergus Mayne, UK and Ireland Country Manager at Motorola Solutions, said:

“Demand on the fire and rescue service has evolved over the years.

“Our cloud-hosted Guardian Suite of computer-aided dispatch and integrated communication control system software benefits the three fire and rescue services by bringing all communications together into a robust and efficient environment, supporting faster, more coordinated emergency responses.”

Jon Lacey, Chief Fire Officer of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“This project is about making sure every call for help is answered with speed, precision, and care. Bringing services back into the county was a decisive move to put Suffolk’s residents and public value at the heart of emergency response.

“The new control room features advanced dispatch technology, upgraded communications systems, and enhanced data sharing capabilities – ensuring faster, smarter coordination during emergencies.

“I’m immensely proud of everyone who played a part in delivering this project successfully.”

Fire Minister welcomes service upgrade

Alex Norris, Minister for Fire, said:

“This new control room marks a major step forward for fire and rescue in Suffolk, improving the effectiveness and co-ordination of emergency responses across the county.

“I want to thank everyone involved for their hard work and dedication in delivering this project. It is a clear example of how investment and innovation in our fire services can lead to meaningful improvements in public safety.”

The minister joined council and service representatives for an official ceremony in Ipswich to mark the launch of the control room.

A plaque was unveiled as part of the event, which included attendance from emergency services partners and local officials.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue launches new fire control room: Summary

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has opened a new fire control room in Ipswich.

The launch was reported by Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service.

The project was completed in 18 months.

The facility includes cloud-enabled technology provided by Motorola Solutions.

The control room replaces a previous system deemed no longer reliable.

It enables remote access, improved data handling, and regional collaboration.

The system is part of a tri-service hub with Hertfordshire and Norfolk.

Councillor Steve Wiles said the delivery showed effective team collaboration.

Chief Fire Officer Jon Lacey said the system supports faster, smarter emergency response.

Fergus Mayne said the Guardian Suite enables integrated communication and dispatch.

Fire Minister Alex Norris said the new control room improves emergency response in Suffolk.

The launch event took place in Ipswich with partners and local officials.

Johnson Controls launches Hygood IGS-300 for fire suppression in critical facilities

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

System designed for global use and UK compliance

Johnson Controls has announced the release of the Hygood Inert Gas System 300 (IGS-300), a fire suppression solution designed to support critical infrastructure and asset protection.

According to the company, the system has been developed to simplify installation and improve performance while maintaining compliance with international safety standards.

Johnson Controls stated that the Hygood IGS-300 is intended for use in a wide range of building types, including data centres, control rooms, medical sites, laboratories, and heritage facilities.

Features include pressure control, acoustic protection, and flexible layout

The manufacturer reported that the IGS-300 incorporates regulated flow technology operating at 60 bar.

It said this feature helps to reduce pressure spikes, simplify pipework requirements, and lower the need for large overpressure vents.

According to Johnson Controls, acoustic nozzles have been integrated to minimise noise disruption during discharge, reducing the risk of damage to sensitive electronic equipment.

The company added that the system allows for flexible layouts, including multiple rows of containers and longer pipe runs, which can support better use of available space.

Certification and compatibility with recognised fire safety standards

Johnson Controls explained that the Hygood IGS-300 has received certifications including UL Listed, FM Approved and EN 12094 compliance (CE and UKCA).

It added that this allows the system to align with globally recognised fire protection standards such as NFPA 2001, EN 15004 and ISO 14520.

These approvals are designed to assist specifiers and engineers working across multiple jurisdictions and regulatory frameworks.

The company stated that this certification support enhances the system’s suitability for international and UK-based projects.

Installation and maintenance efficiency through simplified assembly

Johnson Controls reported that the Hygood IGS-300 includes several design features intended to improve ease of use and reduce labour.

The company said the system includes simplified actuation and streamlined container assembly with standardised components and removable pressure gauges.

It added that a master container actuation feature removes the need for a pilot container, supporting a more compact configuration.

According to Johnson Controls, the system is available globally through authorised distributors, with regional recharging offered through its service locations.

Johnson Controls launches Hygood IGS-300 for fire suppression in critical facilities: Summary

Johnson Controls has introduced the Hygood Inert Gas System 300 (IGS-300).

The system supports fire suppression in locations such as data centres, museums, laboratories and telecom sites.

It uses inert gases INERGEN or IG-55.

It features regulated flow at 60 bar to reduce pressure spikes.

The system includes acoustic nozzles to protect sensitive equipment.

It allows flexible layouts, including up to four rows of containers.

It is certified UL Listed, FM Approved and EN 12094 Compliant.

It complies with NFPA 2001, EN 15004 and ISO 14520.

It removes the need for a pilot container with master actuation.

It offers simplified assembly with removable gauges and standardised components.

It is available via global distributors.

Recharging is available through regional service centres.

Four UK fire services adopt shared control room technology

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsProjects

Shared control room solution for improved response

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (FRS), Shropshire FRS, Cleveland Fire Brigade, and County Durham and Darlington FRS have collaborated to implement a new shared Control Room Solution (CRS), as reported by Motorola Solutions.

The CRS integrates workflows from call handling to dispatch, creating a unified response system.

Each control room can operate independently or as part of a collaborative services hub, ensuring scalability during peak demand.

The solution aims to standardise data and processes, enabling control room staff to respond faster and more effectively to incidents.

Enhanced collaboration during emergencies

Jon Pryce, Chief Fire Officer at Hereford and Worcester FRS, highlighted the importance of the control room’s role in emergency response.

He said: “By creating this new multi-agency hub, our four fire services can manage incidents together when they need to, such as in spate conditions, when a control room may need to cover a large amount of incoming 999 calls.”

The shared platform facilitates joint management of high-demand scenarios, maximising staff capabilities and leveraging advanced technology to support frontline responders.

Standardisation to streamline operations

Fergus Mayne, UK and Ireland country manager for Motorola Solutions, explained the benefits of the shared infrastructure: “By adopting this innovative approach, fire and rescue services can enhance capabilities, improve service delivery and minimise costs by sharing the same underlying infrastructure.”

The hub solution ensures seamless information exchange during joint operations while increasing scalability to handle varying demand levels, contributing to quicker response times.

Platform features and coverage

The deployment includes an Integrated Communication Control System (ICCS), computer-aided dispatch (CAD), and data recording capabilities.

These features enhance the resilience and effectiveness of incident response across the four FRSs, which collectively operate 77 fire stations and serve a population of 2.5 million.

The CRS will enable fire services to manage incidents collaboratively while maintaining independent operational capabilities.

Four UK fire services adopt shared control room technology: Summary

Hereford and Worcester FRS, Shropshire FRS, Cleveland Fire Brigade, and County Durham and Darlington FRS have introduced a shared Control Room Solution provided by Motorola Solutions.

The platform integrates workflows, standardises data, and supports independent and joint operations across the services.

The solution, featuring ICCS, CAD, and data recording systems, enhances incident response and operational resilience.

Covering 77 fire stations and a population of 2.5 million, the collaboration ensures improved service delivery, scalability, and cost efficiency during emergencies.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service announces seven-year Motorola Solutions contract for cloud-based control room technology

by Breaking NewsCommunications
Left to right: Deputy Chief Officer Andy Watt, Motorola Solutions Country Manager for UK and Ireland Fergus Mayne, Area Commander for Operations Control Jacqui MacDonald, Motorola Solutions Account Director for Scotland & Northern Ireland Gregor MacKenzie and Area Commander for Service Development Derek Wilson

SFRS adopts new control room technology with Motorola Solutions

Motorola Solutions has announced a seven-year contract with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) to implement a cloud-hosted control room system across Scotland.

The new control room solution (CRS) is expected to be operational in all SFRS control centres, enhancing collaboration and reducing emergency response times, according to Motorola Solutions.

Andy Watt, Assistant Chief Officer at SFRS, highlighted the alignment of this implementation with both the service’s digital strategy and the Scottish Government’s Cloud First policy.

Watt said: “Installing a cloud-hosted, single command and control system has been a strategic priority for our Fire and Rescue Service.”

Enhancing emergency response and cybersecurity

The CRS will support SFRS in coordinating responses to large-scale incidents, including those requiring multiple fire stations and resources, across its 356 fire stations in Scotland.

The system is expected to improve response capabilities during spate conditions, which are periods of high incident volumes, and reduce cybersecurity risks associated with operational data.

The contract is also intended to offer a streamlined experience for control room operators, consolidating command functions into a single, unified system.

This approach, according to Watt, will “reinforce our commitment to providing a modern experience for our control room operators.”

Meeting the needs of Scotland’s fire and rescue operations

SFRS, which manages responses to various emergencies across Scotland, will use the CRS to manage incidents such as fires, road traffic accidents, and water rescues.

The service operates three main control centres in Edinburgh, Dundee, and Johnstone, coordinating thousands of incidents annually across the nation.

Fergus Mayne, Motorola Solutions’ country manager for the UK and Ireland, described the partnership’s goals: “Scottish Fire and Rescue Service respond to a wide range of complex incidents on a daily basis.

Our control room solution is helping SFRS to improve its operational efficiency and safeguard communities across Scotland.”

Long-standing partnership with Scotland’s public safety agencies

Motorola Solutions has provided services to Scotland’s emergency organisations for several years.

The company’s technologies, including the Airwave national emergency services network and TETRA radios, are widely used by public safety agencies in Scotland to support emergency response operations.

Motorola Solutions also supplies the Pronto Digital Policing Application and body cameras, which assist emergency responders in safeguarding communities.

The CRS contract represents a continued collaboration with SFRS, strengthening the technology used in critical emergency response systems across Scotland.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service announces seven-year Motorola Solutions contract for cloud-based control room technology: Summary

Motorola Solutions has secured a seven-year contract with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) to implement a cloud-hosted control room solution across Scotland’s operational centres.

The system is designed to enhance response coordination, particularly during high-demand periods, and to support cybersecurity measures for operational data.

According to SFRS, the contract aligns with their digital strategy and the Scottish Government’s Cloud First policy.

The CRS will consolidate command functions across SFRS’s three main control centres, improving operational efficiency for emergency response.

Motorola Solutions’ country manager for the UK and Ireland, Fergus Mayne, noted that the system aims to support SFRS’s mission of safeguarding communities.

The company, already a long-standing technology partner to Scotland’s emergency agencies, also supplies tools like the Airwave network and TETRA radios used by public safety organisations throughout the country.

Vancouver Fire Department responded to over 65,000 calls across 2022

by Featured News

Vancouver’s fire department recorded a busy as their chief has said the service responded to more than 65,000 calls throughout the year, representing an 18 per cent rise from 2019 pre-pandemic call volumes, according to Global News.

Vancouver is one of the country’s busiest fire departments per capita, responding to 92 incidents per 1,000 residents. By comparison, Calgary fire crews attended an average of 55 calls per 1,000 residents in 2022.

After having responded to nearly 7,000 overdose calls, by mid-2022, Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services had to cut back on the types of medical calls it was responding to: “Despite that, we still saw an increase in calls,” Vancouver fire chief Karen Fry said. “So those higher acuity calls, such as cardiac arrests and overdoses, we still continue to see an increase in these types of incidents.”

Outdoor fires, including fires involving rubbish, buildings and alleyways, have skyrocketed in the past year — with an almost 70 per cent increase since 2019.

“We’ve seen a lot of increase (of fires), especially in the areas where some of our homeless individuals and most vulnerable are living,” Fry said. “We see a lot in the Granville strip area as well as the Downtown Eastside area.”

Growth plans

As part of the department’s growth plan, the service is asking for an additional 55 personnel by the end of the year. “Anytime we are not meeting our staffing levels — its compromising safety,” Fry told Global News.

“Those numbers were put there for a reason and it’s something we still need as a city in our to do our job and to protect our community as best we can.”