Professional safety campaign targets inland water risks to reduce accidental drowning

by Featured NewsIndustry CommentSafety

National fire chiefs highlight male accidental drowning risks

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched its annual Be Water Aware campaign to address data showing that over 80% of accidental drowning victims in the UK are male.

Running from 27 April to 3 May, the initiative warns that 1,604 people died in accidental water incidents between 2019 and 2024.

Statistics reveal that approximately half of these individuals did not intend to enter the water.

Slips, trips and falls are cited as leading causes of these fatalities.

Over 50% of these incidents took place in inland waters including rivers, lakes and canals.

Gavin Ellis, NFCC Drowning Prevention lead, said: “Most people would be surprised to hear how many lives are lost simply because people were spending time in and around water.

“These incidents can happen without warning, and something as simple as a slip near the water’s edge can have serious consequences, particularly when cold water shock takes effect.

“We know that males make up the majority of those those who lose their lives in these incidents, which is why it is so important that this message reaches them.

“This is not just about risk-taking behaviour.

“These are often everyday situations that can quickly lead to serious outcomes, which is why it is important to stay alert around water, even in familiar settings.

“As the weather improves, fire services across the country, alongside colleagues in HM Coastguard and the RNLI, can face large numbers of calls to help people in difficulty in water.

“We want people to enjoy being outdoors, but to be mindful of the risks around water, particularly at this time of year.”

Operational data reveals impact of cold water shock

London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported that 40% of its water-related callouts occur between May and August.

The brigade has attended more than 1,500 water incidents in the last five years, with 103 non-suicide drowning fatalities recorded in the capital.

Data indicates that 28% of these incidents are concentrated in the riverside boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Southwark, Lambeth and Richmond.

LFB recently attended a fatal incident in the River Brent where a woman and a boy died despite rescue efforts by crews.

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection Pam Oparaocha said: “Our thoughts are with the family and their loved ones following this tragedy and we ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

“Sadly, over 100 people have died in non-suicide related drownings in London over the last five years, so this Be Water Aware Week we want to remind Londoners about the real and immediate dangers of open water.

“We know that the warmer weather can tempt people to cool off in rivers, reservoirs and lakes, but even in hot weather most inland water in London remains below 16°C, which can cause cold water shock and lead to drowning.

“Many Londoners are not aware that despite its calm surface, open water can have strong currents, hidden debris, slippery edges, and sudden drops in depth – all of which could prove fatal.

“If you are planning to swim outdoors, do so only in designated areas and ensure that lifeguards and safety equipment are present.

“If you see someone else in difficulty, don’t enter the water yourself.

“Call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.”

Safety advice for the public includes following the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Float to Live technique by tilting the head back and maintaining calm breathing.

Southwark firefighters lead Borough Market fire safety outreach

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

Firefighters focus on above-shop fire safety risks

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has reported that Southwark firefighters and Fire Safety Officers held a fire safety awareness event at Borough Market, aimed at residents living above commercial premises and local businesses.

LFB said the focus was prompted by Southwark recording the highest number of residential dwelling fires in London last year.

According to LFB, firefighters set up interactive stalls to address risks linked to lithium-ion batteries, hot weather, and other hazards.

It added that the stalls also promoted the Brigade’s Home Fire Safety Checker and offered information for those living above businesses.

Fire Safety Officers visited around 150 businesses with residential accommodation above in the Borough Market area on the same day.

Firefighters and public engagement

Southwark Borough Commander Daniel Capon said: “This event has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase the positive work being carried out by London Fire Brigade and our partner agencies.

“Our crews engaged with a wide range of residents, offering tailored advice on how to stay safe from fire risks in the home.

“Meanwhile, our Fire Safety Officers worked closely with local businesses, providing guidance on how to protect their premises and the people living above them.

“Unfortunately, we still come across unsafe conditions in some commercial properties that could put lives at risk — particularly those living in flats above shops.

“Events like this are vital in helping us reduce those risks and ensure safer communities.

“We continue to remind business owners of the importance of maintaining proper fire separation between commercial and residential areas.

“This includes keeping shared escape routes clear of obstructions, especially flammable materials, and sealing any gaps that could allow smoke to spread.

“Where possible, residents should have a separate, protected means of escape in case of emergency.

“We’re grateful to Borough Market and Southwark Council for their support in making this event a success. Their collaboration is a great example of how working together can make a real difference in keeping Londoners safe.”

Safety checks and inspection data

LFB said Southwark firefighters have carried out 1,532 Home Fire Safety Visits since 2024.

It added that these visits have reached 3,484 residents, more than 2,200 of whom live in flats.

The Brigade stated that firefighters carry out fire safety checks across London daily.

It said that where concerns are identified, these can be referred to Fire Safety Officers for further action.

Collaborative safety initiatives in other boroughs

LFB’s Area Fire Safety Manager Ben Dewis said: “Recently we hosted a similar initiative at The Glades Shopping Centre in Bromley and saw the positive impact on businesses and the public.

“These events are a great opportunity to work alongside our operational colleagues, sharing fire safety knowledge, upskilling firefighters, and developing our own staff.

“It’s this kind of collaboration that helps us build safer communities across London.”

Borough Market and council support

Borough Market’s Head of Operations, Stephen Shirley, said: “The safety of our traders, visitors and residents is always a top priority for us, so we were pleased to support this day of action.

“It was great to see London Fire Brigade engaging with the public and our community of traders, offering practical advice and raising awareness of key fire safety issues.

“We’re proud to play a part in helping to keep this historic market safe.”

Councillor Sarah King, Cabinet Member for Housing at Southwark Council, said: “We’re proud to have supported this important day of action with the London Fire Brigade at Borough Market. With so many Southwark residents living in homes above shops and other businesses, fire safety advice must reach both business owners and residents alike.

“We are investing £250 million over the next three years to improve the health and safety of our own homes, including significant work on fire and electrical work to bring all our homes up to standard.

“Since the start of 2024, we’ve installed 2,850 smoke alarms and checked the electrical safety of 6,300 homes, and we seek to do the same in all 37,000 of our council homes.”

Fire safety guidance for above-shop residences

LFB advises that shared access between commercial and residential units should be separated by proper fire doors that are kept closed.

The Brigade said escape routes should remain free of stored rubbish or supplies.

It stated that exposed gas or electricity meters under stairs without fire protection can increase risk in a fire.

It added that visible electrical cables and gas pipes in entrance areas can make fires more severe if exposed to heat or flame.

LFB also warned against unprotected smoking or Shisha areas under canopies at the rear of commercial premises due to the risk of fire spread up building exteriors.

It said excessive storage of flammable items, such as tyres or refuse, can also pose hazards in rear areas or gardens.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This initiative highlights the ongoing need for targeted fire safety education in areas where residents live above commercial premises.

It demonstrates how data on incident frequency can guide local engagement and inspection strategies.

The work also underlines the importance of collaboration between operational firefighters, specialist Fire Safety Officers, and partner organisations in addressing local risks.

Such events may serve as a model for other jurisdictions aiming to reach mixed-use property occupants with tailored guidance.

Southwark firefighters lead Borough Market fire safety outreach: Summary

Southwark firefighters and Fire Safety Officers held a community fire safety event at Borough Market.

The London Fire Brigade said the focus was on residents living above commercial premises and local businesses.

Interactive stalls covered risks from lithium-ion batteries, hot weather, and home safety checks.

Fire Safety Officers visited around 150 businesses with residential accommodation above.

Southwark Borough Commander Daniel Capon said the event helped address unsafe conditions in commercial properties.

The Brigade said Southwark recorded the highest number of residential dwelling fires in London last year.

Since 2024, firefighters have carried out 1,532 Home Fire Safety Visits in the borough.

These visits reached 3,484 residents, including over 2,200 living in flats.

Similar initiatives have taken place in other London boroughs.

The Borough Market event was supported by Southwark Council and market management.

Council figures show investment of £250 million in housing safety over three years.

The council has installed 2,850 smoke alarms and checked 6,300 homes since 2024.

LFB provided guidance on fire doors, escape routes, and hazard identification.

The advice covered flammable storage, smoking areas, and exposed utilities.

The Brigade said these measures aim to improve safety in mixed-use buildings.

London Fire Brigade upgrades system with live translation

by CommunicationsFeatured News

New emergency system to improve communication with non-English speakers

The London Fire Brigade will deploy a new emergency response system that includes a live language translation feature, according to UK Authority.

The £20 million contract was signed by the London Fire Commissioner and awarded to NEC Software Solutions.

The contract came into effect in February and will run until July 2027.

Features to support incident coordination and public communication

The updated system will allow the public to contact the fire service using platforms such as WhatsApp and other social media channels.

NEC explained that the system will use real-time data analytics to trace call origins, immediately tagging them as incident-related.

The feature aims to help control room staff avoid dispatching duplicate units and make better deployment decisions during larger emergencies.

The company will partner with Mitel to integrate the new communications features.

Multi-language capabilities to improve access for London residents

UK Authority reported that the system’s translation feature is designed to support people who do not speak English as their first language.

This aims to improve communication during emergency calls and help control room operators respond more accurately and quickly.

The London Fire Brigade said the technology reflects its efforts to support a diverse population with accessible emergency services.

Technology investment intended to support operational performance

Patrick Goulbourne, assistant commissioner at the London Fire Brigade, said: “Having the right technology means we can be there for Londoners when they need us most.

“Our crews work under immense pressure, and it’s vital we give them the best tools possible to help protect our capital city and its people.

“This new technology shows our commitment to improving and modernising our service so we can respond to incidents as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

London Fire Brigade to launch upgraded system with live translation: Summary

The London Fire Brigade has signed a £20 million contract with NEC Software Solutions.

The contract came into effect in February 2025 and will run until July 2027.

The system is expected to be operational in 2026.

It includes a live translation feature to help non-English speakers communicate during emergency calls.

The system will also allow contact through WhatsApp and social media platforms.

Real-time data analytics will trace call origins and help coordinate responses.

The technology is intended to avoid duplicating emergency dispatches.

NEC will work with Mitel to integrate communication functions into the control room.

The system is designed to support both operational efficiency and accessibility.

The London Fire Brigade stated that the investment will modernise its service.

Fire and water safety urged as UK weather improves

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Fire services warn of increased fire risks with improved UK weather

As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), and London Fire Brigade (LFB), the improving UK weather has prompted warnings about fire and water safety.

With rising temperatures, there is an expected increase in outdoor fires and water rescue incidents.

The NFCC advises that small outdoor fires can lead to wildfires, often started by human activities such as using barbecues and campfires in open areas, and improper disposal of cigarettes and glass.

To reduce the risk, the NFCC recommends having campfires and barbecues only in designated areas, never leaving them unattended, and ensuring they are fully extinguished with water.

They also advise against setting off sky lanterns and stress the importance of disposing of smoking materials safely.

The NIFRS emphasises the importance of not starting open fires and acting responsibly by extinguishing cigarettes and taking home litter.

They urge the public to park responsibly to ensure access for emergency services.

Water safety concerns highlighted

London Fire Brigade has attended over 30 water-related incidents this year and is concerned that these numbers may rise with the warmer weather.

Teenage boys are particularly at risk of accidental drowning, especially with the end of the exam season.

During Drowning Prevention Week, the Brigade encouraged local authorities to assess the safety of waterways and ensure life-saving equipment is available.

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention & Protection at LFB, Craig Carter, stated: “Despite the warm weather, London’s waterways are still cold enough to cause cold water shock, affecting a person’s ability to swim and increasing the risk of drowning.”

He advises against jumping into water to cool off and promotes the “float to live” technique to survive cold water shock.

The NFCC and NIFRS both provide similar water safety advice, urging people to avoid drinking alcohol before swimming, to actively supervise children near water, and to call 999 if someone is in trouble.

They also advise telling the person to float on their back and throwing them something that floats.

Outdoor safety tips

The NFCC’s Wildfire Aware campaign aims to reduce wildfire risks by educating the public on fire safety.

They advise keeping barbecues and fire pits away from flammable materials and ensuring ashes are cold before disposal.

They also recommend fitting smoke alarms and fire extinguishers on boats, caravans, and mobile homes.

The NIFRS advises the public to follow their summer safety tips, which include never lighting a candle or any flame inside or near a tent, cooking outside and away from the tent, and storing flammable liquids or gas cylinders safely.

They also stress the importance of having a fire escape plan and fitting smoke alarms in caravans and mobile homes.

London Fire Brigade is working closely with councils to manage open spaces and reduce the risk of wildfires.

They caution against using disposable barbecues in parks and on balconies due to the fire risk and urge proper disposal of smoking materials and rubbish to prevent fires.

Fire safety training initiative ‘Project Kestrel’ launched by London Fire Brigade for security and facilities staff

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

Introduction to Project Kestrel

London Fire Brigade has developed an innovative online training package, named Project Kestrel, aimed at enhancing the fire safety knowledge of security and facilities staff.

This initiative, created in collaboration with the City of London Crime Prevention Association and the Corporation of London, emerged from a multi-agency exercise highlighting the potential to improve the capabilities of security professionals.

Project Kestrel seeks to provide additional confidence to building owners and managers by ensuring their personnel are well-trained in fire safety, security awareness, and emergency response measures.

The significance of Project Kestrel for security officers

With over 115,000 licensed security officers in the London area, Project Kestrel aims to empower those often first on the scene at emergencies with the skills to respond effectively to fire alarms and incidents.

Trained officers will be better prepared to assist in emergencies, ensuring firefighters receive critical information upon their arrival.

James Chapman, London Fire Brigade’s Borough Commander for The City, expressed the project’s value: “This is a great project, giving security officers protecting some of the UK’s most complex and impressive buildings the opportunity to enhance their skill set to help firefighters in the event of an emergency at their building.”

Partnerships and participant feedback

The development and implementation of Project Kestrel highlight the strength of public-private partnerships in enhancing community safety.

Don Randall MBE, Chairman of the City of London Crime Prevention Association, praised the programme: “The current training a security officer receives only touches on the basics of fire awareness which makes Project Kestrel the ideal training programme for frontline security staff to enhance their knowledge.”

Rajeev Pradhan, Director of Operations at Bidvest Noonan, shared positive feedback from participants, noting the comprehensive nature of the training and its flexibility in pacing, which allows for a thorough understanding of fire safety principles.

Participants of Project Kestrel are required to complete six training modules, focusing on safety and security aspects related to fire in the workplace.

The course, which awards 2 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, takes approximately three hours to complete.

An enrolment fee of £25 includes a contribution to the London Fire Brigade’s Fire Cadets programme, among other fundraising initiatives, and supports the Cross-Sector Safety and Security Communications charity.

IFSJ comment

The launch of Project Kestrel by London Fire Brigade, in collaboration with the City of London Crime Prevention Association and the Corporation of London, marks a proactive step towards bolstering fire safety and security skills among security and facilities personnel.

This initiative enhances the preparedness of security staff in the event of a, strengthening the collaborative efforts between public and private sectors to safeguard communities.

By offering comprehensive training that covers all essential aspects of fire safety, Project Kestrel ensures that security officers are not only well-informed but also capable of acting decisively during emergencies.

The programme’s focus on continuous professional development and its support for charitable causes further underscore its commitment to both individual growth and community welfare.

London’s top burns unit raises concerns over lithium battery fires

by Featured NewsSafety

Chelsea and Westminster NHS Hospital burns unit, renowned as the largest unit in the South of England, is appealing to London residents to heed the Brigade’s advice on lithium battery safety following a series of serious burns resulting from e-bike and e-scooter fires.

Avoid blocking escape routes

The key recommendations from the Brigade focus on the importance of not obstructing escape routes with e-bikes and e-scooters.

Additionally, it emphasises the necessity of using the appropriate charger and battery for each vehicle.

Following these guidelines is crucial for minimising the risk of such incidents.

E-bike and e-scooter incidents: A rising concern

Sub Officer David Ardrey from Kensington fire station, after a recent visit to the Burns Unit, stated: “E-bike and e-scooter incidents are increasing, with our teams attending roughly every other day.”

He continued: “The frequency with which London’s premier Burns Unit confronts severe injuries from these fires is alarming.

“Proper storage of e-bikes and e-scooters away from fire escape routes is crucial.

“Often, blocked escape paths force individuals to confront the flames, leading to grave injuries.

“In the event of a fire, the best action is to alert emergency services immediately.”

With a surge in such burn injuries, the Brigade encourages e-bike and e-scooter users to be aware of the potential hazards when purchasing conversion kits online.

Additionally, they caution against the use of mismatched chargers and batteries.

Lithium battery fires: Impact on patients

Isabel Jones, a consultant specialising in Burns and Plastic Surgery at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, shared: “The injuries stemming from e-bike and e-scooter fires present a relatively new challenge.

“These burns are often deep and necessitate surgical intervention.”

She added: “The fast-paced spread of these fires means the injuries we treat are extensive and require prolonged hospital stays.

“The resultant scars can be permanent and severe.

“It is imperative that the public is educated on these risks, including the potential for toxic fumes.”

This year, London has witnessed at least 146 fires related to e-bikes and e-scooters, 121 of which specifically involved e-bikes.

These incidents have resulted in three fatalities and 58 injuries.

Economic pressures have driven some to seek cheaper alternatives, but this can heighten fire risks, especially when lacking the necessary expertise or opting for subpar batteries and incompatible chargers.

A victim’s experience

Roger Mityero, a 41-year-old resident of Tulse Hill, recounted his traumatic experience with an e-bike fire: “I had a mere two minutes to respond. The entire household was at risk from the rapidly spreading fire.

“My immediate response was to relocate the bike and open the front door.

“However, the ensuing explosion severely burned my left arm.”

For comprehensive safety guidelines, visit the Brigade’s ChargeSafe campaign.

IFSJ Comment

The regular incidents of e-bike and e-scooter fires, largely attributed to lithium battery malfunctions, underscores the urgent need for widespread public awareness and adherence to safety protocols.

The devastating consequences of these fires, as highlighted by professionals at the Chelsea and Westminster NHS Hospital burns unit, emphasise the risks associated with overlooking safety guidelines.

As the frequency of these incidents rises, it becomes paramount for users to be vigilant, informed, and proactive in mitigating potential threats.

LFB ‘in serious need of funding’ to tackle building safety crisis

by Featured NewsSafety

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) commissioner Andy Roe has said the fire service is in serious need of funding if it is to effectively tackle the building safety crisis.

At a City Hall Plenary meeting in February, LFB Commissioner Roe said that to inspect just 10% or 20% of London’s approximately 95,000 mid-rise buildings for fire safety defects, the LFB would need to recruit a “significant labour force” of “a couple of hundred” additional specialist fire safety inspecting officers. He also said that there is an £8 million budget gap expected for the LFB in 2022/23.

During Mayor’s Question Time on 19 May, Labour’s London Assembly Fire and Resilience Spokesperson, Anne Clarke AM, entreated the government to support people living in residential blocks of all heights and called for proper funding for the LFB to tackle the building safety scandal, seeking compensation for leaseholders who have already paid out of their own pocket to fix potentially deadly fire risks.

Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), Michael Gove, stated developers will pay for mid-rise buildings between 11 and 18 metres with dangerous cladding, and funding has been provided for 8,500 high rise buildings above 18 meters in London.

Blocks below 11 metres that have been deemed in need of remediation work will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, but the government has stopped short of providing blanket protection under the Building Safety Act as revealed by Housing Minister Stuart Andrew in the Commons last month. In response to a question from Ms Clarke, Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, stated: “I think the height requirement should go, either your building is safe, or it isn’t”.

Ms Clarke said: “Nearly five years on from the Grenfell tragedy it’s completely unacceptable that so many Londoners are living in unsafe homes. Ministers must extend remediation support to all residential buildings with safety defects or combustible cladding. Regardless of height, if leaseholders have already paid, they are owed compensation.

“Londoners are being let down. They’re dealing with this on top of an unprecedented cost of living crisis. It’s disgusting so many have been left to sit with this hanging over their heads. This is a building safety scandal, not just a cladding scandal. The Fire Brigade needs more funding from the government so it can recruit hundreds of specialist fire safety officers to make London safe.”