Specialist cable supplier AEI Cables has said that safety must remain the top priority for the electrical supply chain despite current economic challenges.
ICE investigation leads to 30 arrests at North Carolina fire equipment firm
Federal ICE operation targets alleged identity theft at Kings Mountain site
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has reported that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) executed a federal search warrant on 25 June at Buckeye Fire Equipment Company in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, as part of an active criminal investigation.
The investigation centres on allegations of aggravated identity theft and other potential federal crimes.
ICE confirmed that 30 individuals were arrested onsite during the operation.
ICE stated that the arrests stemmed from suspected use of fraudulent documentation to employ people not authorised to work in the United States.
The company, which manufactures fire protection equipment, has not issued a statement.
Authorities say investigation remains active and further arrests are possible
According to ICE spokesperson Lindsay Williams, additional arrests may follow as the investigation continues.
Williams said during a press conference that questioning of employees was ongoing as of Wednesday evening.
Officials stated that some of the approximately 300 employees at the site had already undergone processing and were permitted to return home.
Homeland Security Investigations said the federal search was linked to documents that may have been used to secure employment for unauthorised workers.
It was not confirmed whether the documents were supplied by the company or external parties.
Kings Mountain Police Department confirmed they assisted with the federal warrant and would address any potential state charges if they arise.
HSI says operation part of broader effort to protect identity systems
Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge at HSI Charlotte, said: “This operation underscores HSI’s unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity of our nation’s financial and identification systems.
“Identity fraud is not a victimless crime — it fuels a range of criminal activity and puts innocent people at risk.
“Working alongside our law enforcement partners, HSI will continue to pursue those who exploit these systems for personal gain and hold them accountable under federal law.”
HSI stated that the operation posed no threat to public safety.
Social media posts and local media coverage confirmed the presence of law enforcement at the Kings Road site, including video footage from inside a warehouse.
Charlotte region sees heightened ICE activity in recent months
The Carolina Migrant Network previously reported a rise in ICE enforcement actions in the Charlotte area, including near schools and public institutions.
In May, the group said ICE encounters had become more frequent, noting arrests outside an elementary and middle school and the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.
Parents from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools district raised concerns about the psychological impact on children, referring to the incidents as “deeply disturbing.”
The organisation also stated that ICE agents were focusing on detaining men and that their operations appeared random.
Charlotte is home to a large Latino population.
Previous federal case unrelated to current search, ICE says
Media reports noted that a family member of Buckeye Fire Equipment Company’s leadership had been sentenced to federal prison in 2018 for tax-related offences.
There is no indication that this earlier case is connected to the current investigation.
ICE has not confirmed any formal charges for the individuals arrested as of 27 June.
Williams reiterated that the operation was part of an active federal investigation and that the agency would provide further updates as more information becomes available.
ICE operation leads to arrests at North Carolina fire equipment company: Summary
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported that 30 people were arrested on 25 June at Buckeye Fire Equipment Company.
The operation was carried out by Homeland Security Investigations.
A federal search warrant was executed at the company’s site in Kings Mountain, North Carolina.
The investigation relates to suspected identity theft and other possible federal offences.
ICE said fraudulent documents were allegedly used to employ unauthorised workers.
The company has not issued a public response.
Local police assisted with the federal warrant.
An ICE spokesperson said more arrests may follow.
Employees were questioned and some were allowed to leave after screening.
The business had approximately 300 employees onsite during the operation.
ICE said there was no risk to public safety.
Increased ICE activity has been reported in the Charlotte area in recent months.
Concerns have been raised by local advocacy groups and school communities.
There is no confirmed link between this operation and a prior tax case involving a family member of the firm’s leadership.
No charges have been formally announced.
ICE said the investigation remains ongoing.
UK fire equipment manufacturer Delta Fire receives two King’s Awards for Enterprise
Delta Fire wins national recognition for innovation and environmental achievement
Delta Fire has received two King’s Awards for Enterprise in recognition of its work in innovation and sustainable development, according to Delta Fire.
The Norwich-based company is one of only two businesses in the UK to receive two King’s Awards in 2025.
Delta Fire manufactures bespoke firefighting equipment and supplies products to over 100 countries and most UK fire and rescue services.
Sustainable manufacturing facility reaches net-zero energy status
Delta Fire reported that it achieved net-zero energy use at its Broadland Business Park facility in Norwich earlier this year.
The company opened the £5.5 million site in July 2023 and has begun building a further 975sqm extension costing over £1 million to support growth into international markets.
It explained that the facility is powered by 648 solar panels generating 260MWh of green energy annually, with heating and cooling provided by air source heat pumps.
Excess energy is stored in a 300kWh battery system, and surplus is returned to the grid. Rainwater is also collected and reused for ground maintenance.
The company stated that it is planning to install up to three helical wind turbines to support power generation through the remaining months of the year.
Equipment development focuses on new fire risks
Delta Fire said that its innovation has been guided by emerging fire risks such as those in high-rise buildings, wildfires and electric vehicles.
The company developed the Attack Pro nozzle, which features a stainless-steel turbine and a 180-degree spray pattern of fine droplets.
It also recently introduced the Hydro Wall hose, designed to help firefighters respond to wildfires, which it said are increasing in frequency due to climate change.
Delta Fire stated that its products are used in sectors including aviation, petrochemicals, renewable energy, defence and marine industries.
King’s Awards received during 35th anniversary year
Delta Fire Managing Director and Founder Ian Gardner said the awards come at a time when the company is marking several milestones.
Ian Gardner said: “We would have been absolutely delighted to achieve just one King’s Award, but to be recognised for two is just phenomenal.”
Ian Gardner continued: “It’s my fifth decade working in the fire industry and our 35th year in business in Norwich, so it couldn’t have come at a better time. It feels a wonderful recognition of what has been a lifetime of work.”
Ian Gardner added: “Delta Fire has grown beyond my wildest dreams, from just me, designing and building a few products in a small workshop, to a world class international business sustainably manufacturing state-of-the-art fire nozzles, all manufactured using advanced automated machines and robotics, which are all powered by solar energy.”
Ian Gardner also said: “These awards build on the strong foundations and accumulated efforts of many talented, skilled and hardworking Delta Fire team members, some of whom have been with Delta Fire for more than 25 years and many with over 15 years service. It is because of their hard work that we are honoured and recognised today.”
Ian Gardner concluded: “I want to thank our team, my family and all our customers for supporting us every step of the way.”
Delta Fire reported that its sustainability efforts also include planting 3,000 trees in Tanzania, which it said has offset over 450 tonnes of CO2.
Third-generation leadership supports award recognition
Delta Fire noted that Jordon King, part of the senior management team and grandson of Ian Gardner, was responsible for submitting the company’s application for several awards.
Jordon King said: “I joined the family business seven years ago after completing my degree at the University of Nottingham. I was struck by my grandfather’s commitment to innovation and sustainable development, which is the backbone of Delta Fire.”
Jordon King added: “It’s been a great privilege to join the Delta Fire team, who are the ones that have earned this double King’s Award. My hope and aim is to help continue this journey to make Delta Fire an outstanding sustainable world leader in fire suppression products.”
Jerome Mayhew, MP for Broadland and Fakenham, commented on the award win.
Jerome Mayhew said: “Not only is it a first for Norfolk, Delta Fire has also made it extra special for our county by achieving it in sustainable high-tech manufacturing – a sector that we want to encourage in Norfolk.”
Jerome Mayhew added: “The Delta Fire team, and the founding family, have achieved something really special. Their investment in the skills of Norfolk people, in jobs, innovation and our environment is brilliant for the area, and I’m looking forward to seeing what Delta Fire does next.”
UK fire equipment manufacturer Delta Fire receives two King’s Awards for Enterprise: Summary
Delta Fire has received two King’s Awards for Enterprise.
The business is based in Norwich, UK.
The company was awarded in the categories of innovation and sustainable development.
It is one of only two companies to win in two categories in 2025.
Delta Fire manufactures firefighting equipment and exports to over 100 countries.
The company supplies most UK fire and rescue services.
Delta Fire opened a £5.5 million facility in Norwich in 2023.
It is extending the site with a further £1 million investment.
The site is powered by solar panels and uses air source heat pumps.
Excess energy is stored and sent back to the grid.
Plans are in place to install wind turbines.
The business reported that it has achieved net-zero energy use.
Delta Fire has introduced products such as the Attack Pro nozzle and Hydro Wall hose.
These were developed in response to high-rise, wildfire and EV fire risks.
The company also plants trees in Tanzania to offset emissions.
Ian Gardner is the founder and managing director of Delta Fire.
Jordon King, his grandson, is part of the senior management team.
Jerome Mayhew MP praised the award and Delta Fire’s contribution to the region.
FBU announce call for Israel to release fire engine donated to Palestine
The Fire Brigades Union has announced that 20 MPs have signed an open letter calling for Israeli authorities to release a fire engine donated to Palestinian firefighters.
Fire Brigades Union members in Scotland donated a fire engine last year, packed with firefighting kit, equipment and medical supplies and arranged delivery to the port of Ashdod to be transported to Nablus in the West Bank.
It has been impounded by Israeli customs at the port since July 2024 despite having the necessary paperwork.
In November, firefighters and supporters held a demonstration outside the London embassy to demand the release of the fire engine.
The letter, signed by firefighters, trade unionists and MPs, calls for the immediate release of the fire engine so that it can be safely delivered to aid firefighters in Nablus.
The full statement
The full statement from the MPs and trade unionists reads: “As firefighters and fire and rescue service workers, members of the Fire Brigades Union, other trade unionists, Members of Parliament and campaigners for justice and human rights, we are calling for safe release of the fire engine sent by FBU Scotland to aid Palestinian firefighters – but impounded by the Israeli authorities.
“This appliance, packed with firefighting kit, personal protective equipment, breathing apparatus, cutting tools and medical supplies, was sent for use by the Palestinian fire and rescue service in Nablus, in the West Bank. It has been held in the Israeli port of Ashdod since July 2024.
“In November London firefighters and supporters demonstrated outside the Israeli embassy to demand its release. We add our voices to this call, so that the fire engine can be used for its intended purpose, to help firefighters in Palestine save lives.”
Call for Israel to release fire engine donated to Palestine announced by FBU: Summary
20 MPs have signed an open letter calling for Israeli authorities to release a fire engine donated to Palestinian firefighters, announce the FBU.
The statement explains how the fire engine needs to be used for its intended purpose, to help firefighters in Palestine save lives.
Holmatro launches next-gen Pentheon Series
Holmatro has announced the introduction of its next-gen Pentheon Series, representing a significant step forward in rescue tools technology.
The series builds upon the original Pentheon features, known for their speed, control, and battery management, which have been influential since 2020.
The latest release promises to further enhance these capabilities, offering unmatched performance and usability, alongside advanced connectivity and serviceability.
Unparalleled speed enhances rescue efficiency
The next-gen Pentheon Series introduces a dual-mode operation.
It features a reduced speed training/demo mode, ensuring safety during training, and a high-speed Pentheon mode for rapid extrication in rescue situations.
This dual approach promises to accelerate rescue operations while maintaining safety.
Consistent performance over lifespan
A notable advancement in the new series is the assurance of maximum power throughout the tool’s lifespan.
Thanks to electronic motor control and pressure monitoring, these tools maintain consistent performance, a critical factor in emergency rescue operations.
Advanced safety features
Safety is a paramount concern in rescue missions.
The next-gen tools address this with LED indicators providing real-time feedback on battery and tool status, including temperature and service alerts, ensuring that the tools are always operation-ready.
Enhanced communication capabilities
The series boasts a quieter drive system, facilitating better communication among rescue teams.
This feature is essential in coordinating rescue efforts and reducing patient stress at the scene.
State-of-the-Art Connectivity
Incorporating Bluetooth connectivity and the MyHolmatro app, the next-gen series transforms mobile devices into diagnostic tools.
This allows first responders to monitor their equipment’s condition in real-time, ensuring readiness for any situation.
Simplified Maintenance for Reliability
The next-gen series prioritises serviceability.
With the MyHolmatro app’s automated Pentheon Self Check, maintenance becomes effortless, enhancing the reliability and uptime of the tools.
IFSJ Comment
The launch of Holmatro’s next-gen Pentheon Series marks a significant milestone in the evolution of rescue operations technology.
By blending speed, safety, and smart connectivity, these tools not only enhance the efficiency of rescue missions but also prioritise the safety of both rescuers and victims.
The dual-mode operation, encompassing training and operational needs, reflects a thoughtful approach to real-world rescue scenarios.
The series’ emphasis on consistent performance and advanced safety features aligns with the critical needs of first responders, ensuring that they are equipped with reliable and efficient tools.
The integration of Bluetooth and the MyHolmatro app represents a forward-thinking move in rescue operations, offering real-time insights and simplifying maintenance.
Overall, the next-gen Pentheon Series embodies a significant step forward in rescue operations, offering groundbreaking tools that are set to redefine standards in emergency response.
USB-rechargeable Syclone Jr introduced by Streamlight
Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, has launched the Syclone® Jr., an ultra-compact rechargeable work light that fits in tight spaces for a variety of identification and repair uses.
Hands-free or hanging, the body of the light can rotate 360 degrees in its U-shaped magnetic base and can be easily adjusted with one hand.
Weighing just 56.7g and delivering up to 210 lumens and 8.5 hours of run time, it also provides the convenience and cost savings of USB rechargeability.
The new light features both high and low beams and uses a cool white LED for maximum illumination. The light can stand on its weighted base, which also includes magnets for attaching to metal surfaces for hands-free lighting. A folding hook to hang the light is also provided for added versatility.
On the high setting, the new light delivers 210 lumens, 1,550 candela, and a 3.75 hour run time. On low, it provides 85 lumens and 600 candela, with a run time of 8.5 hours.
Featuring a lithium-ion 1000 mAh cell, the Syclone Jr. offers battery charging by pulling open the rubber USB cover and plugging the charge cord into the light’s micro-USB port.
Charge times vary depending on the voltage the USB source provides. The light also can be recharged in 4.5 hours with an AC wall charger.
The Syclone Jr. features tough thermoplastic construction with an elastomer button, and an acrylic, gasket-sealed lens. It has an IPX4-rated design for water-resistant operation and is impact-resistant tested to 2 metres.
Streamlight Chief Revenue Officer Michael F. Dineen commnted: “The Syclone Jr. is small but mighty, with a rotating body that aims light where it is needed, even in the tightest spaces.
“First responders, auto technicians, industrial workers and DIYers alike will reach for it whenever they need a task light that can stand on its own, attach to metal surfaces, or function as a hanging light. And because it uses a USB rechargeable battery, it offers among the lowest operating costs of any area light of its type and size.”
Dräger launches closed-circuit breathing apparatus BG ProAir
Dräger has launched the Dräger BG ProAir, a closed-circuit breathing apparatus with innovative features to protect emergency responders during longer deployments such as in tunnelling and mining rescue operations.
The breathing appartus’ positive pressure breathing closed circuit prevents toxic substances from entering the breathing system. Both inhalation and exhalation are optimised by cooling and enriching the air with oxygen before inhaling, and CO2 being absorbed when exhaling. It also gives even distribution of the breathing apparatus’ weight enhances comfort and ergonomics.
Oxygen is supplied according to the wearer’s personal workload, allowing more than four hours duration at low breathing rates, and the new cooling concept also makes breathing easier and more natural, allowing the emergency responder to manage the incident at a lower work rate.
It is further enhanced by smart onboard electronics, which include a low-pressure sensor. The integrated low-pressure sensor warns when there is a lack of oxygen to ensure safe breathing. The sensor also provides a low-pressure leak test of the breathing system.
The BG ProAir’s housing features highly visible reflectors and a buddy light system that alerts other emergency responders to their team members’ vital information, such as cylinder pressure, and operating time.
User data is visible on the high-contrast, full colour display even in the difficult environments such as darkness, bright sunlight or smoke. An integrated Bluetooth module also provides a short-range connection to work with external devices such as gas detectors as well as a PC connection to download data and perform configuration.
The BG ProAir’s integrated data telemetry and RFID assists the user in multiple scenarios such as entry control management and absorber status tracking. In addition to time calculations such as time to whistle, Dräger has also integrated recognised features such as PASS, ADSU and temperature readings.
Liz Millward, Marketing Manager at Dräger Safety UK, said the BG ProAir is the culmination of proven manufacturing and design experience: “Dräger’s BG ProAir is evidence of our commitment to continual improvement. It delivers new functionality that has the potential to save lives and will improve wearer comfort, especially important when attending the most challenging, longer-duration incidents where heat, high-humidity, tight spaces and poor visibility are typical.”
UL receives accreditation to certify pressure equipment in EU and UK
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) has been accredited to certify pressure equipment used in the EU and UK market.
The UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking is a new UK product marking used for goods placed on the market in Great Britain. It covers most goods that previously required the CE marking.
After an initial transition phase, most products introduced to Great Britain’s market previously required CE marking must: Have the UKCA marking, be accompanied by compliance documentation and be in compliance with the relevant regulation for Great Britain.
As of January 2021, the UKCA marking applies also to pressure equipment and will require a certificate from an UK Approved Body.
UL International (UK) Ltd received accreditation from UKAS and expanded its UK Approved Body scope to cover Pressure Equipment Regulations in the UK (Approved Body Number: 0843) – the equivalent of the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) in the EU.
UL said the accreditation has enhanced its portfolio and enables its experts to evaluate and certify products to UK-specific requirements that help ensure safer use of pressure equipment.
UL can now also help customers to have continuity of third-party services for access to any market in Europe, Great Britain and Northern Ireland through its accredited Notified and Approved Bodies.
The company commented: “We have the global reach and expertise to support market access needs during every step of the Brexit transition by combining testing and certification, global scope and localized knowledge with real-time market expertise.”
Armstrong to host webinar on the ‘Benefits of Remote Connectivity of HVAC Equipment’
With the advent of built-in intelligence and edge computing, remote connectivity to intelligent equipment adds value such as virtual asset management, objective data measurement for improved understanding, improved on site safety and improved long-term occupant comfort.
Join Armstrong’s webinar on the ‘Benefits of Remote Connectivity in HVAC Systems and Equipment’ on August 26th, for detailed explanations of how this advanced capability will make a difference to all installations.
SA Fire Protection launch the ‘Robot-TINO’ for firefighters
SA Fire Protection, Italian manufacturer of fixed firefighting systems and equipment, have recently developed a highly customisable emergency response unit named the “Robot-TINO” for firefighters. The Robot-TINO allows fire fighters to get closer than ever to the fire while remaining at a safe distance.
The Robot-TINO was specifically designed for fighting fires in industrial process areas, tunnels and storage terminals, but it can also be used for terrorist incidents, urban areas, and whenever firefighters need to deal with hazardous substances or extreme temperatures. The unit is protected against heat radiation with a cooling system which allows the Robot-TINO to get closer to the fire origin to suppress it with higher probability of success. In this regard, the fire brigades are better equipped to deal with fires while keeping the risks to firefighters at a minimum.
In terms of manoeuvrability, the Robot-TINO gives the user complete flexibility to adjust direction (left/ right; forward/ backward) and height (up/ down movements & tilt). In addition to the high-visibility LED headlights and blinkers the Robot-TINO comes with, the unit can be fitted with cameras or sensors which can be used as a means of gathering intel when assessing the risks in inaccessible or dangerous areas, as well as assisting in search and rescue operations.
Due to its robust and durable design, the Robot-TINO can enable emergency responders to perform their duties better and more safely. Furthermore, this remote-controlled solution including the firefighting monitor can be installed with other accessories to allow complete operation from a remote location. Depending on what is required, it is possible to fit the Robot-TINO with a wide variety of accessories to suit the needs of the fire brigade such as monitors, dry chemicals, foam, gas detectors or Infrared camera systems. All options available can be tailored and adapted to the specific application and requirements of the Emergency Response Team.
With robotics already playing a key role in firefighting, it is the duty of manufacturers like SA Fire Protection to ensure that there are reliable solutions available to meet the needs of modern firefighters while keeping them as safe as possible.