First European Fire Detection Forum launched by Euralarm during VdS-FireSafety Cologne 2026

by Breaking NewsEventsEventsFire Detection

Euralarm has launched the first European Fire Detection Forum, a conference dedicated to the future of fire detection and electronic fire safety in Europe. The event will take place on 2 December 2026 in Cologne, Germany, as part of the VdS-FireSafety Cologne.

Euralarm says the integration of the European Fire Detection Forum into the VdS-FireSafety Cologne will bring value by creating a European platform to examine both current developments and the future direction of electronic fire detection.

The inaugural edition will be held under the theme: “Fire safety in a changing world and the changing world of fire safety – From reaction to prediction: the next paradigm of electronic fire safety.” Looking at the pipeline of developments and technologies to support earlier detection and reduction of nuisance alarms.

“Fire safety is entering a period of profound transformation,” said Peter Mita, President of Euralarm. “New technologies are creating opportunities to detect fires earlier, reduce unwanted alarms and improve building safety. At the same time, society faces new risks and increasing expectations regarding sustainability and digitalisation.

“With the European Fire Detection Forum, Euralarm is creating a platform where industry experts, regulators and end users can discuss these developments and help shape the future of fire safety in Europe.”

As fire risks evolve and digital technologies transform the built environment, fire detection systems are facing new challenges and opportunities. Advances in connectivity, artificial intelligence, sensor fusion, sustainability and predictive maintenance are reshaping the role of fire detection within modern fire safety strategies. At the same time, changing regulations, new building technologies and emerging risks such as lithium-ion battery fires require fresh approaches and closer cooperation across the sector.

The European Fire Detection Forum will provide a dedicated platform for manufacturers, installers, system integrators, fire safety professionals, regulators, insurers and policymakers to discuss these developments and explore the future direction of the industry.

The programme will feature keynote presentations, expert panels and technical sessions covering topics such as:

  • Emerging and future fire detection technologies and solutions
  • Artificial intelligence and sensor fusion
  • Reducing false alarms and improving system reliability
  • Sustainability in fire detection
  • Early detection of lithium-ion battery incidents
  • Digitalisation and remote services
  • The future regulatory and standards framework for fire detection in Europe

Ingeborg Schlosser, Divisional Director of Vds, said: “The cooperation with the VdS-FireSafety Colognereflects a shared commitment to fostering knowledge exchange and supporting innovation throughout the fire safety community.

“By combining the European perspective of Euralarm with the strong market presence and reputation of VdS, the event aims to become a leading forum for discussing the future of fire detection technologies and their role in protecting people, property and the environment.”

Euralarm publishes White Paper on Fire safety in a connected world

by Safety

The European fire safety industry is at a turning point, Euralarm explained in its latest White Paper.

Digitalisation, remote connectivity and cybersecurity are converging to redefine how buildings are protected and maintained.

White Paper

Euralarm’s new White Paper on fire safety in a connected world covers integrating detection, remote services and cybersecurity.

According to the company, this white paper outlines how fire detection systems are transforming into intelligent, connected infrastructures and what this means for service providers, building operators and policymakers across.

Digital transformation

Across the continent, false alarms remain a significant burden: studies such as Euralarm’s 2022 False Alarm Study show that in some countries the false fire alarm ratio of FDAS (Fire Detection and Alarm Systems) is over 85% Unnecessary activations disrupt business continuity, erode confidence in fire protection systems and potentially waste emergency resources.

At the same time, climate change, energy efficiency targets and a shrinking pool of skilled labour are reshaping building operations and maintenance practices.

Digital transformation offers powerful answers.

Euralarm stated that through smart connectivity, cloud-based monitoring and data analytics, fire detection systems can now provide real-time insights, enabling remote diagnosis, predictive maintenance and data-driven decision-making.

These capabilities reduce downtime, improve safety and support sustainability goals by cutting travel and optimising resource use.

However, with connectivity comes a new responsibility: cybersecurity.

As fire systems are more often connected via the internet, they must be protected from digital threats that could compromise safety or availability.

Standards

According to Euralarm, Standards such as EN 50710:2021 (for remote services), CLC/TS 50136-10 (for Remote Access Infrastructure), IEC 62443 (for industrial OT cybersecurity) and ISO/IEC 27001 (for IT information security management) provide the framework for building and operating secure systems that are designed to protect information, assets and operations from unauthorised access, damage or disruption.

Such secure systems that follow Security by Design and Security by Default principles ensure that fire protection remains reliable, even in the connected era.

Sustainable buildings

By integrating fire detection, remote services and cybersecurity, European stakeholders can achieve safer, more resilient and more sustainable buildings.

Interconnected digital fire safety is already emerging as the new operating model and is expected to become standard practice across many new and modernised buildings during the second half of this decade, as connectivity, remote services and cybersecurity requirements become embedded in building operations and European regulatory frameworks.

Those who act now will lead the market transformation, delivering smarter protection and stronger trust in the systems that safeguard lives and assets.

Euralarm publishes new guidance to support lockdown procedures

by Breaking NewsEvacuationSafety

Euralarm has published new guidance on the use of Fire Detection and Alarm systems to support lockdown and invacuation procedures.

The company said that this marks an important step forward in the evolution of multi-hazard safety strategies across Europe.

Advanced risk landscapes

Traditionally, FD&A systems have been designed and implemented to ensure safe and rapid evacuation in the event of fire.

However, today’s risk landscape increasingly requires buildings to respond effectively to a broader range of threats, including intruders, violent incidents, external hazards or environmental risks.

This new guidance demonstrates how existing FD&A infrastructures can be used to support both evacuation and lockdown scenarios in a safe, compliant and coordinated manner.

Guidance document

According to Euralarm, the document emphasises that while integration is possible and often beneficial, fire safety must always remain the highest priority. Any use of FD&A systems for non-fire purposes must ensure that fire detection, alarm transmission and evacuation signalling are never compromised.

Clear differentiation between signals is essential with distinct tones, messages and procedures to avoid confusion among building occupants.

A key principle highlighted in the guidance is that lockdown signalling can share FD&A infrastructure – leveraging its reliability, monitoring and resilience – provided that the system is carefully engineered. Fire alarm signals must remain clearly distinguishable and cannot be masked, delayed or overridden by other alerts .

The guidance also explores how different European countries are addressing this topic.

While there is no harmonised EU regulation, national frameworks increasingly support a multi-hazard approach.

Examples include the Netherlands, where evacuation alarm systems are explicitly intended for “fire or other emergencies,” and recent updates in the United Kingdom that allow fire alarm sounders to be used for lockdown with distinct signalling.

Beyond regulatory context, the document provides practical engineering and design recommendations.

These include conducting thorough risk assessments, defining clear cause-and-effect logic, ensuring signal intelligibility and establishing priority hierarchies between evacuation and lockdown functions.

The importance of integrating these strategies into the overall fire protection concept and gaining approval from the relevant authorities is also strongly emphasised, Euralarm added.

The guidance further highlights the importance of human factors. In emergency situations, occupants must be able to quickly understand what action to take.

This requires clear, intelligible messaging, regular training, and well-rehearsed procedures. Whether evacuating a building or securing it, the effectiveness of the response depends not only on technology, but also on preparedness.

Increased complexity and risks

Euralarm said that as buildings become more complex and risks more diverse, integrated emergency communication systems are becoming increasingly important.

This new guidance provides a harmonised framework to help stakeholders design and implement systems that support both evacuation and lockdown strategies without compromising safety or compliance.

With this publication, Euralarm continues to support its members and the wider industry in adapting to evolving safety challenges, promoting best practice and enhancing the protection of people and property across Europe.

Euralarm requests longer transition periods for life safety systems

by Featured NewsFire DetectionIndustry CommentSafety

Euralarm warns of safety gaps in Digital Networks Act

Euralarm published a position paper in April 2026 addressing Article 5.4 of the proposed Digital Networks Act (DNA) to highlight concerns regarding network technology migration timelines for life-safety services.

The trade association stated that the currently proposed two-year notice period for decommissioning existing network technologies is insufficient for the fire and security sectors.

Millions of installed devices across Europe including fire alarm transmission systems and social alarms rely on public electronic communications networks to transmit emergency signals.

These life-safety systems are being impacted as network operators progressively phase out older technologies in favour of modern alternatives.

Euralarm noted that transitions often require physical hardware replacement and product redesign alongside on-site installation and certification.

Completing these large-scale migrations within the suggested two-year window is described as operationally unrealistic.

Proposed seven year transition for Euralarm members

Euralarm calls for Article 5.4 to require notification at least seven years in advance when network changes lead to the discontinuation of services on existing devices.

A seven-year transition window allows industry providers to develop and certify replacement technologies while scaling manufacturing and supply chains.

The association explained: “Euralarm has published a position paper on Article 5.4 of the proposed Digital Networks Act (DNA), welcoming the objective of improving transparency around network technology migrations while warning that the currently proposed two-year notice period is insufficient for life-safety services.”

“Fire safety, security and social alarm systems across Europe rely heavily on public electronic communications networks to transmit emergency signals.”

“Millions of installed devices – including fire alarm transmission systems, intruder alarms and telecare equipment for elderly and vulnerable citizens – depend on existing network technologies that are progressively being phased out.”

This timeframe supports the organisation of equipment replacement programmes and coordination of installations with building owners.

The extended period is intended to maintain uninterrupted services for vulnerable users and protect critical safety systems.

EU policymakers are urged to clarify the final text of the Digital Networks Act to ensure life-safety services are considered.

VdS joins Euralarm as associate member in Extinguishing, Fire, Security and Services

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Euralarm adds VdS as associate member

Euralarm has welcomed VdS as a new associate member in Zug, Switzerland, in March 2026.

VdS will become a member of its Extinguishing, Fire, Security and Services Sections.

VdS services and areas of work

VdS described its work as covering fire protection, security, cyber security and natural hazard prevention.

Its services include risk assessments, testing and certification, inspection services, information systems for natural hazards and a training programme.

The institute also publishes guidelines that it said set international safety and security standards.

How Euralarm described member benefits and section roles

Euralarm said companies joining the association gain insight into other European markets and opportunities, alongside access to EU policy expertise and connections with technical and political experts and potential business partners.

It added that membership enables organisations to gain expertise on standardisation and support and direct standardisation and legislative processes.

The association outlined its four sections as Extinguishing, Fire, Services and Security, with VdS joining all sections.

Euralarm fact sheet explains Cyber Resilience Act product classification for fire safety manufacturers

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Euralarm fact sheet on CRA categories

A new fact sheet sets out how electronic fire safety and security products are classified under the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), published in November 2024.

Euralarm said the document is intended to help manufacturers understand categorisation and conformity assessment obligations before products can be placed on the EU market.

The fact sheet describes the CRA product categories as “default,” Important Class I, Important Class II, and Critical.

It explains that the essential cybersecurity requirements apply equally to all in-scope products with digital elements.

It also explains that Important and Critical products are subject to stricter conformity assessment procedures.

The document sets out why correct categorisation matters for deciding whether self-assessment is permitted or whether a notified body is required.

Examples used to classify fire safety and security products

In the fact sheet, Euralarm provides structured examples focused on electronic fire safety and security products where interpretation can raise practical questions.

The examples include smart home products with security functionalities, identity management systems and privileged access management products, and hardware devices with security boxes.

The document also uses examples including intrusion detection systems, fire detection control panels, access control systems, biometric readers, and cloud-based alarm management software.

It explains when a product’s core functionality determines its categorisation.

It states that most electronic fire safety and physical security products are expected to fall within the “default” category and may rely on self-assessment where compliance with the CRA essential requirements can be demonstrated.

It also states that embedding security-related components such as microcontrollers with security functions or cryptographic capabilities does not automatically make a product “Important” or “Critical” where its core functionality does not meet the criteria defined in the Implementing Regulation.

Standards and conformity assessment routes

Euralarm noted that future harmonised standards under development may support manufacturers in demonstrating conformity under the CRA.

The fact sheet references EN 62443-4-x and other horizontal standards as examples that may support presumption of conformity where applicable.

The publication is presented as part of Euralarm’s ongoing work to support the fire safety and security industry in adapting to European regulatory requirements.

Euralarm issues Battery Regulation guidance on classifying safety system standby batteries

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Battery Regulation guidance for safety systems

An updated position paper has set out how standby batteries used in fire, life safety and security systems should be classified under the EU Battery Regulation.

Euralarm published the document on Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 for Market Surveillance Authorities and industry stakeholders.

The paper says the Regulation categorises batteries by intended design and use, rather than by chemistry.

It states that batteries used as secondary or standby power sources in fire and security control panels, power supply units and alarm transmitters should be considered industrial batteries by design and intended use, including batteries that weigh less than 5 kg.

Industrial classification and regulatory scope

In its position paper, Euralarm sets out its interpretation of industrial use for standby and secondary power batteries in fire, life safety and security panels.

It links this interpretation to recital 15, which it reads as covering batteries used for emergency power, energy distribution and communication infrastructure.

It describes standby or secondary batteries in fire alarm panels as functioning as emergency power sources that distribute stored electrical energy during power failures.

It says this use aligns with the Regulation’s understanding of industrial batteries.

It also points to guidance from the European WEEE Registers Network, which classifies batteries for alarm systems in business-to-business contexts as industrial.

It cites the harmonised standard EN 54-4 for fire detection and alarm system power supply units as relevant to how these batteries are specified and used.

It adds that the German Federal Ministry for the Environment supports this interpretation of industrial use.

On this basis, it states these standby batteries are not subject to the substance restrictions in Article 6(1) and Annex I number 3 that apply to portable batteries.

Installed base, replacement cycles and availability

The position paper discusses the impact on existing fire and security systems across Europe.

It notes that systems can remain in service for several decades, with backup batteries typically replaced every four to seven years.

It states that continued availability of the specified battery types is needed to maintain certified performance, reliability and safety for existing installations.

It also acknowledges that demand for smaller batteries could decline, with potential impacts on price and supply.

The document frames its guidance around maintaining market availability and consistent interpretation for safety-critical applications.

Euralarm outlines precautionary measures for critical infrastructure facilities

by Featured NewsSafety

Critical infrastructure guidance published by Euralarm

Euralarm has released a new guidance document on precautionary measures for protecting installations and facilities, providing practical direction to strengthen the physical protection and resilience of critical infrastructure across Europe.

The organisation said the document aims to illustrate the importance and basic requirements for physical security and safety, highlighting growing threat levels and the increasing interdependencies between infrastructure sectors.

European societies depend on interconnected systems including energy and water supply, healthcare, transport and communications, where recent incidents and evolving threat scenarios have shown vulnerability to targeted attacks, natural disasters and technical failures.

The guidance frames protection as a shared responsibility involving public authorities, security agencies, private operators and specialised security service providers.

Measures highlighted for physical protection and resilience planning

The document places regular risk analysis and resilience planning at the centre of infrastructure protection, enabling early identification of vulnerabilities, prevention of potential threats and improved recovery from disruptive events.

It outlines the need for an integrated security strategy combining structural, technical and organisational measures.

Physical security solutions such as perimeter protection, access control, intrusion and fire detection and video surveillance are presented alongside cyber security measures as part of a layered approach tailored to individual risk profiles.

This combined model is intended to create comprehensive protection across highly interdependent infrastructure systems.

Link to European resilience requirements

The guidance builds on the objectives of the European Directive on the Resilience of Critical Entities (CER/RCE), which establishes minimum standards for the protection of critical infrastructures.

It highlights cross-sector physical security arrangements designed to complement cyber and IT security, forming a coordinated and integrated framework.

While national implementation timelines may differ, the document states that proactive protective measures are necessary and prudent to mitigate foreseeable risks.

The guidance is intended as a practical reference for policymakers, infrastructure operators and security professionals involved in protecting vital facilities.

Euralarm publishes guidance on protecting Europe’s critical installations

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Euralarm releases new precautionary guidance

Euralarm has released a new guidance document on precautionary measures for protecting vital installations and facilities across Europe.

The organisation said the document is intended to provide practical direction to strengthen the physical protection and resilience of critical infrastructures.

It described the guidance as a reference for policymakers, infrastructure operators and security professionals involved in protecting vital facilities.

Euralarm said the document aims to illustrate the importance of physical security and safety, along with basic requirements, in the field of critical infrastructure.

Focus on interdependence and shared responsibility

Euralarm said European societies rely on interdependent systems including energy and water supply, healthcare, transport and communications.

It said incidents and evolving threat scenarios have shown how vulnerable vital installations can be to targeted attacks, natural disasters and technical failures.

The guidance states that continued functionality is essential for social stability, public safety and economic security.

Euralarm said the document frames critical infrastructure security as a shared responsibility involving public authorities, security agencies, private operators and specialist security service providers.

Alignment with EU resilience requirements

Euralarm said the guidance builds on the European Directive on the Resilience of Critical Entities (CER/RCE), which establishes minimum standards for protecting critical infrastructures.

It said the document promotes cross-sector physical security arrangements that complement cyber and IT security measures.

The guidance notes that national implementation timelines may vary.

Euralarm said the document calls for proactive protective measures to mitigate risks associated with changing threat scenarios.

Risk analysis and layered protective measures

Euralarm said the guidance places risk analysis and resilience planning at the centre of protection for critical infrastructures.

It said these processes help operators identify vulnerabilities early, prevent threats and improve the ability to withstand and recover from disruptive events.

The guidance sets out an integrative security strategy combining structural, technical and organisational measures.

Euralarm said physical security measures cited in the document include perimeter protection, access control, intrusion and fire detection and video surveillance.

It said the approach is intended to create a protective shield tailored to each infrastructure’s risk profile.

Integrating fire detection into critical infrastructure security

The guidance describes fire detection and fire alarm systems as part of a coordinated security concept for critical infrastructure resilience.

It sets expectations for system design based on documented risk analysis, including special fire detection technologies where point detectors are unsuitable.

Examples included aspirating smoke detection for transformer rooms and critical plant, linear smoke detection for large volumes and targeted monitoring of cabinets, junction boxes and power supply equipment.

The document also addresses system interaction, including interfaces between fire alarms, access control and emergency management systems to support evacuation, containment and coordinated response.

It highlights the need for resilient alarm transmission, redundant power supplies and assured connectivity to alarm receiving centres and emergency responders.

It also links fire detection and alarm systems to cybersecurity considerations where products rely on IP networks, remote access and software-based components.

Euralarm announces upcoming webinars and round table on fire and perimeter protection

by EventsFeatured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Euralarm to host data centre fire protection webinar and perimeter security round table

Euralarm will host two key events this November focusing on fire protection for data centres and the future of perimeter security in Europe.

The organisation confirmed that a free webinar on Tuesday 18 November 2025 will explore best practices for selecting fire protection systems in data centres, followed by a Perimeter Round Table on Tuesday 25 November 2025 during its Section Meetings in Athens.

Both sessions are designed to bring together professionals from across the fire and security industries to share knowledge, discuss standards and support innovation across critical infrastructure protection.

Webinar to focus on fire protection for data centres

According to Euralarm, the 18 November webinar will provide expert guidance on how to select appropriate fire protection systems for data centres.

The organisation said the session will address key regulatory requirements and standards that apply to data centre fire safety design.

Attendees will learn how to match fire protection solutions to their specific operational needs and risk profiles.

The agenda will include a comparative overview of available technologies, such as sprinkler systems, water mist, gaseous systems and oxygen reduction.

Euralarm explained that the session will also cover operational strategies for prevention, detection, intervention and recovery.

The organisation added that participants will gain practical insights into business continuity and rapid reinstatement after a fire incident.

The webinar is open to data centre managers, IT professionals, facility managers and fire safety consultants seeking to enhance their understanding of system selection and compliance.

Round table to explore future of perimeter protection

Euralarm confirmed that its Perimeter Round Table will take place on 25 November in Athens, offering both in-person and online participation.

The organisation stated that the session will gather stakeholders from across the security industry to discuss challenges and opportunities in perimeter protection.

Euralarm noted that as technology advances and threats become more complex, perimeter protection is becoming a vital component of safeguarding people, property and infrastructure.

The event aims to bring together manufacturers, integrators and sales organisations involved in perimeter protection technologies to define common priorities and a roadmap for development.

According to Euralarm, the round table will encourage open dialogue and collaboration among industry experts and decision-makers committed to strengthening perimeter protection through innovation and harmonisation.

The organisation invited all interested parties involved in securing critical infrastructure and outdoor environments to join the discussion and contribute to shaping the future of the perimeter business.

Collaboration and innovation at the core of both events

Euralarm stated that both November events are part of its wider effort to promote collaboration across the European fire and security industries.

By offering open forums and free expert-led sessions, the organisation said it seeks to advance best practice, regulatory understanding and technical excellence.

Through these initiatives, Euralarm continues to engage with diverse industry groups to improve safety and resilience across multiple sectors.

Why these events matter for safety and security professionals

The upcoming Euralarm webinar and round table are relevant for professionals involved in data centre fire safety, perimeter protection and critical infrastructure security.

For fire engineers, facility managers and system designers, the webinar offers insight into compliance and system selection for data centres – environments where downtime and damage can have major operational and financial consequences.

Security specialists, manufacturers and integrators attending the round table will benefit from updates on technological trends and collaborative approaches to enhancing perimeter protection standards in Europe.

Both sessions present opportunities for industry professionals to contribute to collective learning, strengthen cross-sector cooperation and align practices with evolving safety requirements.

This article was informed by information