Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year 2025 awarded to Washington official

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Recognition for long-term public safety efforts in Washington state

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has reported that Shawneri Guzman has been named the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year.

Guzman is a fire and life safety educator at South County Fire in Washington state.

She will be formally recognised during the Stars at Night Awards gala at the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas on Sunday 15 June.

The NFPA stated that the annual award is presented to one educator based in the United States or Canada who is employed by a fire department or fire marshal’s office and has shown consistent commitment to using NFPA’s educational tools.

The association added that recipients must demonstrate strong community engagement and innovation in addressing fire safety education.

Use of NFPA programmes and digital tools cited in award decision

The NFPA said Guzman was selected due to her continued integration of NFPA education programmes and tools into local initiatives since joining South County Fire in 2017.

It noted that she has applied NFPA resources to expand public awareness on topics including cooking safety, escape planning and older adult fire prevention.

According to the NFPA, Guzman also uses CRAIG 1300, a community risk assessment platform developed by NFPA, to analyse local demographics and design targeted public outreach.

The association stated that her approach to data-informed safety planning has contributed to improved community understanding of fire risks and preventative measures.

Additional safety initiatives and community impact

The NFPA reported that Guzman supports a wide range of injury prevention efforts beyond fire safety.

It said these include child passenger safety and advocacy for working smoke alarms in homes at the point of sale, including her involvement in the passing of the Gibby Act in Washington.

The association also noted her support for refugee communities through inclusive safety education.

Upcoming recognition at NFPA Conference and Expo

According to the NFPA, Guzman will be recognised at its annual Stars at Night Awards gala.

The event will be held on Sunday 15 June in Las Vegas as part of the 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo.

The NFPA added that the gala serves to honour professionals who have made measurable contributions to fire and life safety across North America.

Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year 2025 awarded to Washington official: Summary

Shawneri Guzman has been named the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year.

The announcement was made by the National Fire Protection Association.

Guzman is employed by South County Fire in Washington state.

She will receive the award at the Stars at Night Awards gala on 15 June.

The gala will take place during the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

The NFPA said the award recognises educators using its resources to improve fire safety.

It said Guzman integrates NFPA programmes into her department and local community.

She uses CRAIG 1300 to develop risk-informed outreach strategies.

The NFPA stated that she promotes smoke alarm use, cooking safety and education for older adults.

It also highlighted her work on child injury prevention and smoke alarm legislation.

She was involved in the passage of the Gibby Act in Washington.

The association said she supports refugee communities through her outreach.

The NFPA described her as having over 20 years of safety education experience.

She joined South County Fire in 2017.

NFPA expands electrical inspection network with Kentucky chapter

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Kentucky joins growing NFPA affiliate network in the United States

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has reported that the Kentucky Association of Electrical Inspectors has joined its Electrical Inspection Section (EIS) as an Affiliate Chapter.

According to the NFPA, the new chapter will provide training, education, and networking support to electrical inspection professionals in Kentucky.

The NFPA explained that the affiliate model aims to unify efforts across the inspection community and strengthen engagement with the National Electrical Code and other standards.

NFPA highlights role of inspection chapters in advancing electrical safety

Tim McClintock, NFPA regional electrical specialist, said: “NFPA is pleased to welcome its latest EIS Affiliate Chapter.”

McClintock continued: “Through this relationship, NFPA and the Kentucky electrical enforcement community can unite efforts, using our collective voice to help address today’s current and emerging electrical challenges to advance safety in the community.”

McClintock added: “A strong electrical inspection program plays a vital role in safety and compliance with NFPA 70, National Electrical Code and other codes, helping safeguard people and property from electrical-related hazards.”

He said: “The new NFPA EIS Affiliate Chapter actively supports electrical inspection professionals who are charged with understanding the NEC and how its requirements are applied, and is aimed at both meeting their unique needs, as well as preserving the independent voices of those engaged in electrical inspections.”

Kentucky chapter joins other U.S. state inspection bodies

The NFPA stated that the Kentucky Association of Electrical Inspectors joins similar affiliate chapters established in Colorado, Southwest Ohio, and North Carolina.

The organisation noted that this expansion is part of a broader initiative to engage with electrical safety communities across the country.

It also confirmed that two new regional electrical specialist positions have recently been added to support this nationwide effort.

Kentucky chapter representative affirms value of collaboration

Dennis Steier, secretary for the Kentucky Association of Electrical Inspectors, said: “Electrical inspection is a key component to advancing safety in the community, ensuring compliance with the National Electrical Code and an effective electrical system of safety.”

Steier added: “The Kentucky electrical inspection community is pleased to be working closely with NFPA to meet today’s electrical safety challenges head on, help expand our impact, and position the chapter for the future.”

NFPA expands resources to support electrical safety professionals

The NFPA stated that it continues to support the electrical inspection and enforcement community with access to training programmes, information resources, and technical expertise.

It added that those interested in learning more about NFPA Electrical Inspection Membership and how to establish an affiliate chapter can visit its website.

The NFPA also confirmed its role as the developer of the National Electrical Code and related safety codes and guidelines.

NFPA expands electrical inspection network with Kentucky chapter: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announced that the Kentucky Association of Electrical Inspectors has become an Electrical Inspection Section Affiliate Chapter.

The new chapter will serve electrical inspection professionals in Kentucky with training, education, and networking support.

Tim McClintock, NFPA regional electrical specialist, said the chapter will help address electrical safety challenges and support NEC compliance.

McClintock stated that strong inspection programmes are important for protecting people and property from electrical hazards.

The Kentucky chapter joins affiliate chapters in Colorado, Southwest Ohio, and North Carolina.

The NFPA said this is part of a wider national strategy to support local inspection communities.

Dennis Steier of the Kentucky Association of Electrical Inspectors said the partnership will help expand the chapter’s impact.

The NFPA continues to provide training and resources to support the electrical enforcement community.

It remains the developer of the National Electrical Code and related guidance.

Pfannenberg to showcase NFPA-compliant fire alarms for industrial use

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Fire alarm systems designed for industrial use to be featured in Las Vegas

Pfannenberg has announced it will exhibit its range of fire protection signalling devices at the 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo.

The company confirmed it will attend the event in Las Vegas, Nevada, from 16 to 18 June, where it will showcase alarms built to comply with NFPA 72 standards.

Pfannenberg manufactures audible alarms, visual alarms and combined units intended for industrial settings.

Pfannenberg highlights NFPA 72 compliance and performance enhancements

Pfannenberg stated that its PATROL and PYRA product ranges are UL listed and fully compliant with NFPA 72 requirements for fire signalling devices.

The company explained that its sounders feature the T3 tone, meeting the 10dB offset requirement for Private Mode and 15dB for Public Mode, which are specified in NFPA 72 guidelines.

It added that its systems exceed the NFPA 72 18.5.5.6 “Performance based alternatives” requirements, and that the sizing exceeds the minimums set in Table 6-4.4.1 for 0.4l/m² coverage.

Integration with digital tools enables system planning and coverage mapping

Pfannenberg said its products support Building Information Modeling (BIM) integration to assist in designing alarm systems with 3D accuracy.

It also noted the availability of proprietary software that allows users to calculate alarm coverage using three-dimensional mapping tools.

According to the company, this improves efficiency in alarm system layout while helping to reduce unnecessary costs.

Product range includes alarms for harsh environments

Pfannenberg will showcase its PATROL PA X Series at the NFPA Expo, which includes devices offering sound outputs from 100 dB to 122 dB.

The manufacturer said the units are suitable for spaces with high ambient noise or intense lighting, with visibility maintained through smoke due to the high flash energy strobe lights.

It stated that the alarms can produce between 5 to 15 Joules of flash energy, with up to 70% light emission retained after 8 million flashes.

Jacob Vernon, Product Manager – Audible and Visual Signaling at Pfannenberg, said:
“Pfannenberg is continually innovating and improving fire protection alarms, striving to ensure their effectiveness and compliance with the latest safety protocols for industrial and warehouse spaces.”

Vernon added:
“By leveraging cutting-edge technology and industry best practices, Pfannenberg’s comprehensive approach to fire prevention aims to safeguard lives and protect assets in the face of fire hazards.”

Pfannenberg showcases NFPA-compliant fire alarms for industrial use: Summary

Pfannenberg will exhibit its fire protection signalling devices at the 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The company’s alarms are designed for industrial applications and comply with NFPA 72 standards.

The PATROL and PYRA product ranges are UL listed and meet both Public and Private Mode sound offset requirements.

Pfannenberg stated its devices exceed NFPA 72 sizing requirements and support performance-based alternatives.

Its products can be integrated with BIM software for 3D planning of alarm systems.

Pfannenberg offers 3D coverage software to help design effective alarm layouts and reduce cost.

Alarms in the PATROL PA X Series emit sound levels from 100 dB to 122 dB.

Visual alarms feature high-intensity strobes ranging from 5 to 15 Joules.

The units are designed for visibility in environments with smoke and bright light.

Pfannenberg will present these products at Booth #139 at the NFPA Conference.

NFPA expands US electrical inspection network with Colorado chapter

by Featured NewsFire DetectionFire EngineeringResearch

Colorado chapter joins NFPA Electrical Inspection Section

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has confirmed that the Association for Colorado Inspectors is now an Electrical Inspection Section (EIS) Affiliate Chapter.

According to NFPA, the Colorado-based group will support electrical inspection professionals across the state by providing access to training, education, and networking resources.

The NFPA’s EIS Affiliate Chapter network includes regional associations that collaborate with the NFPA to support code enforcement and inspection personnel.

The Colorado chapter is the fourth to join the programme.

NFPA and Colorado inspectors aim to address electrical hazards

The chapter aims to support the state’s electrical enforcement community in applying NFPA 70, also known as the National Electrical Code (NEC), and other safety standards.

Tim McClintock, NFPA regional electrical specialist, said: “NFPA is pleased to welcome its latest EIS Affiliate Chapter.

“Through this relationship, NFPA and the Colorado electrical enforcement community can unite efforts, using our collective voice to help address today’s current and emerging electrical challenges to advance safety in the community.”

McClintock said the chapter “actively supports electrical inspection professionals who are charged with understanding the NEC and how its requirements are applied”.

Chapter members gain access to specialist NFPA membership

Electrical inspectors in Colorado who join the chapter may qualify for membership in the NFPA Electrical Inspection Section.

This membership includes participation in the code development process, training on changes to the NEC, access to inspection-focused products and services, and opportunities to attend related events.

The NFPA said this initiative is part of a wider effort to engage inspection professionals more closely with the code development and enforcement community.

Initiative follows wider NFPA focus on national support

The Association for Colorado Inspectors joins three other US groups with EIS Affiliate Chapter status: the Southwest Ohio Electrical Organization, North Carolina Electrical Inspector Association, and the Kentucky Association of Electrical Inspectors.

Tom Blevins, president of the Association for Colorado Inspectors, said: “The Colorado electrical inspection community is pleased to be working closely with NFPA to meet today’s electrical safety challenges head on, help expand our impact and position the chapter for the future.”

This expansion aligns with NFPA’s recent increase in regional staffing, including the addition of two new electrical specialist roles.

NFPA expands US electrical inspection network with Colorado chapter: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association has named the Association for Colorado Inspectors as an Electrical Inspection Section Affiliate Chapter.

This designation provides Colorado inspectors with access to NFPA resources, including code training, education, and networking.

The chapter is intended to help local inspectors apply NFPA 70 and related codes.

NFPA regional electrical specialist Tim McClintock said the group will serve the unique needs of Colorado’s inspection community while maintaining their independence.

Members of the chapter may be eligible for membership in the NFPA Electrical Inspection Section.

Other existing Affiliate Chapters are based in Ohio, North Carolina, and Kentucky.

The initiative supports NFPA’s broader effort to engage with regional professionals through specialist staff and new chapters across the United States.

NFPA 2025 Conference & Expo to take place in Las Vegas this June

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

NFPA announces 2025 Conference & Expo dates for United States

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has confirmed it will host its annual Conference & Expo from 16 to 18 June 2025.

The event will be held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

According to NFPA, the three-day conference will include more than 130 educational sessions covering topics in fire, electrical, and life safety.

Sessions will address code compliance, emergency response, public education, industrial hazards, and fire protection systems.

Conference to feature 400+ exhibitors and presentations

The NFPA Expo will host over 400 exhibiting organisations.

Exhibitors will showcase products and services designed to support compliance with existing codes and standards.

These include applications for building design, facility operations, fire protection systems, and safety equipment.

NFPA stated that three Specialty Theatres will operate throughout the conference, delivering presentations on applied technologies in fire and life safety.

These sessions will include content related to emergency response, facility maintenance, hazardous materials, pyrotechnics, and fire service training.

Keynote speaker and regional sessions announced

Keller Rinaudo Cliffton, CEO of Zipline, will deliver the keynote address at the opening general session.

This will be Cliffton’s second time speaking at the event, having previously presented in 2018.

NFPA stated that he will discuss the current impact of Zipline’s autonomous delivery system, which now supports more than 4,000 organisations.

Sessions within the Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE) track will examine the role of community risk reduction and public health.

Eight sessions focused on Latin America will also be held to discuss issues specific to the region’s fire and safety sector.

Technical Meeting scheduled for June 19–20

NFPA has scheduled its Technical Meeting to take place on 19 and 20 June 2025.

The meeting will provide a forum for NFPA members and the public to debate certified amending motions (CAMs).

NFPA confirmed that the Motions Committee will publish the final CAM agenda and confirm the meeting schedule by 20 May.

Voting on CAMs will be limited to individuals who have been continuously active NFPA members since 21 December 2024 and are registered for the 2025 Technical Session.

NFPA 2025 Conference & Expo to take place in Las Vegas this June: Summary

NFPA has announced that its 2025 Conference & Expo will be held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas from 16 to 18 June.

The event will feature more than 130 educational sessions and over 400 exhibitors.

Three NFPA Specialty Theatres will host presentations on fire and life safety technology applications.

Keller Rinaudo Cliffton of Zipline will serve as keynote speaker.

SOPE and Latin America-focused sessions will also be included.

NFPA’s Technical Meeting is scheduled for 19 to 20 June.

Eligibility to vote on certified amending motions is restricted to those who have maintained active NFPA membership since 21 December 2024 and are registered for the 2025 session.

Final meeting details and the full CAM agenda will be released by 20 May.

NFPA highlights fire sprinkler awareness and retrofit gaps during Home Fire Sprinkler Week 2025

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

Campaign to promote fire sprinkler awareness returns in May 2025

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has reported that Home Fire Sprinkler Week 2025 will take place from 11 to 17 May, with a renewed digital campaign aimed at informing the public about the benefits of home fire sprinklers.

According to NFPA, fire departments and safety advocates across North America will take part in the initiative through online messaging and local events.

The goal is to raise public understanding of how home fire sprinklers reduce fatalities, injuries and property loss.

The NFPA reported that home fires are responsible for over 80 percent of civilian deaths in structure fires.

Modern construction methods, synthetic furnishings and lithium-ion batteries contribute to fires that burn faster and hotter, leaving little time for escape.

Sprinkler systems offer early response and reduced damage

The NFPA has stated that home fire sprinklers can activate in less than two minutes and often control or extinguish fires before emergency responders arrive.

Only the sprinkler closest to the heat source activates, using less water than fire hoses.

The Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC), which works in partnership with the NFPA, will lead the digital outreach.

Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach and Advocacy and president of HFSC, said: “Home Fire Sprinkler Week is a great opportunity for us to bring together our digital voices and amplify the message of the tremendous benefits of fire sprinklers across our continent.”

Each day of the campaign will include different themes distributed through social media and websites.

The themes include how fast fires spread, costs to communities without sprinklers and the ease of living with sprinkler systems.

Outreach and resources to support local engagement

The NFPA said that fire departments and other participants are encouraged to hold public outreach events, including live demonstrations and community displays.

Free resources will be made available through the HFSC Studio to help design educational materials.

Available tools include social media templates, flyers, videos and proclamations for use during the campaign week.

According to NFPA, the materials are designed to require minimal effort and to maximise reach through online sharing.

Visitors can find daily content and media resources on the Home Fire Sprinkler Week section of the HFSC website.

Residential high-rises in Chicago remain unsprinklered

In a related post, Lorraine Carli from NFPA commented on the continued lack of sprinklers in residential high-rise buildings in Chicago.

On 25 January 2023, a fire in the Harper Square high-rise killed one resident and displaced more than 200 others.

The building did not have a sprinkler system installed.

This fire was the first of 17 fires in unsprinklered residential high-rises in the city during 2023, Carli reported.

Ken and Rita Harris, long-time residents of the building, described the personal and financial impacts of the fire during a media briefing on its second anniversary.

They reported that over 80 residents are still waiting to return home.

Local policies have not mandated residential retrofits

Following a 2003 fire in the Cook County Administration Building that killed six people, Chicago required sprinklers in unsprinklered commercial high-rises.

However, the same requirement was not extended to residential buildings.

Carli stated that more than 600 residential high-rises in Chicago remain without sprinkler protection.

According to Harper Square residents, the cost of post-fire recovery has already exceeded $20 million.

She questioned the decision to omit residential buildings from retrofit requirements: “What is the cost of not protecting these buildings?”

Minneapolis adopted a full retrofit approach after fatal fire

In contrast, Carli pointed to the response of Minneapolis officials following a 2019 high-rise fire that killed six people.

Local, state and federal funding was used to retrofit all 42 public housing high-rises in the city.

The final retrofit was completed in August 2024.

Carli noted that sprinkler systems are often easier to install in high-rises than assumed because standpipes and fire pumps are typically already present.

Erik Hoffer, executive director of the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board, participated in the Chicago media event and supported the call for renewed attention to fire safety in high-rises.

Campaign seeks to shift public understanding and policy

The NFPA and HFSC aim to increase public awareness of the role fire sprinklers can play in both new and existing buildings.

According to Carli, modern homebuyers are more informed and are likely to favour homes with sprinkler protection once they understand the technology.

She said: “The campaign is simple and really works well. Today’s homebuyers are savvy about safety and when they learn about fire sprinklers, they want them.”

The HFSC is providing digital content, including virtual reality tools, to assist communities and advocates in communicating the benefits of sprinkler installation.

Events and outreach planned across North America

Throughout Home Fire Sprinkler Week, daily content will be distributed online and through community partners to support education about sprinklers.

Fire services across North America are expected to take part in outreach events to demonstrate how sprinkler systems operate and why they are effective.

Further information and resources are available on the HFSC website, including the daily themes and downloadable content.

NFPA highlights fire sprinkler awareness and retrofit gaps during Home Fire Sprinkler Week 2025: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association has announced that Home Fire Sprinkler Week 2025 will take place from 11 to 17 May.

The campaign, led in partnership with the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, promotes awareness of the role fire sprinklers play in reducing deaths, injuries and property loss in home fires.

Modern home fires burn faster and more intensely due to materials and construction methods.

Sprinkler systems activate quickly and can suppress fires using less water than hoses.

The HFSC is providing digital resources and outreach tools to support the campaign.

In a related commentary, Lorraine Carli highlighted that over 600 residential high-rises in Chicago remain without sprinkler systems.

She referenced the Harper Square fire, which killed one person in 2023, and stated that post-fire costs have already exceeded $20 million.

Chicago currently mandates sprinklers for commercial but not residential high-rises.

Minneapolis has completed retrofits for all public housing high-rises after a fatal 2019 fire.

Daily themes, educational materials and resources are available on the HFSC website.

NFPA expands DER training for fire departments across the United States

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsTraining

New field training launched for distributed energy resource safety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced the launch of the second phase of its Distributed Energy Resources Safety Training (DERST) initiative.

According to NFPA, this phase introduces field familiarisation training for firefighters dealing with distributed energy resources (DER), including battery energy storage systems and solar farms.

The programme is being delivered in partnership with Vector Solutions and the US Department of Energy, with coordination from the North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD).

The new content builds on an earlier training series that focused on classroom-based instruction and interactive simulations of battery and electric vehicle fire scenarios.

Training supports on-site response to DER incidents

The second phase provides a practical component to supplement previous theoretical modules.

The training includes field exercises designed to help fire departments apply previously learned concepts during walkthroughs at target hazard locations.

Installations covered include lithium-ion battery sites, solar panel farms, energy storage facilities and electric vehicle storage areas.

Andrew Klock, senior manager of education and development at NFPA, said: “As more distributed energy resources are deployed nationwide, the fire service needs to be properly prepared to respond to them safely and effectively.”

Interactive online tools included in new materials

To assist with the new training, an online guide offers an interactive experience to help sharpen logistical and reasoning skills in live response environments.

The platform provides access to scenario training and verbal field exercises, which are designed for use during on-scene familiarisation drills.

Klock added: “Drawing on their knowledge obtained from prerequisite online and classroom training and simulation exercises, firefighters can now face virtual hazard scenarios as a team on their smart devices, while performing a field familiarization evolution of a DER facility.”

Training access and tracking provided through dedicated portal

Vector Solutions has released a DER Custom Activity through its TargetSolutions training management system.

This allows for the assignment, tracking and reporting of DER training by participating departments using the platform.

NFPA confirmed that access to the training materials is available at no cost to members of the fire and responder community through the NAFTD.

The training can be accessed via the official programme website at www.DERSTFG.org.

NFPA expands DER training for fire departments across the United States: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in partnership with Vector Solutions and the US Department of Energy, has launched a new phase of its Distributed Energy Resources Safety Training (DERST).

The training is coordinated with the North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD) and introduces field-based exercises focused on distributed energy resources (DER).

These exercises support fire departments in responding to incidents involving installations such as battery storage systems, solar farms and electric vehicle storage areas.

The programme includes an online interactive guide designed to support verbal field exercises and scenario-based learning.

Access to the training is free for the fire and responder community and available via the NAFTD website.

Vector Solutions has also developed a DER Custom Activity on its TargetSolutions platform to facilitate assignment and progress tracking.

Wildfire Mitigation Awards 2025 recipients announced across four US states

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Five awarded for wildfire mitigation leadership and impact

Five individuals and organisations have been named recipients of the 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Awards.

The awardees were selected for their leadership in wildfire prevention efforts across Colorado, Hawai’i, Idaho and Florida.

The awards recognise community-level action, technical innovation, and collaboration in reducing wildfire risk.

Community-led and nonprofit efforts recognised in Colorado and Hawai’i

Aaron Johnson from Ridgway, Colorado, has been recognised for developing the Wildfire Ready Home certification programme.

The programme integrates data and guidance from insurance providers, local governments, and fire agencies to support homeowners in reducing wildfire risk.

Johnson also provides wildfire assessment training to homeowners’ associations and fire departments.

The Hawai’i Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO), operating across the state for 25 years, provided support after the August 2023 Lahaina fires.

In 2024, HWMO reached over 10,000 residents with workshops, assessments, campaigns, and projects.

Public sector wildfire mitigation efforts in Idaho and Florida

Tyre Holfeltz of the Idaho Department of Lands received the award for his work in helping counties update Community Wildfire Protection Plans and for developing vegetation management partnerships with utility companies.

He contributed to the development of a geospatial database and served in the national Grant Accomplishment Reporting Portal working group.

In Florida, Aleese Maples of the Chipola Forestry Center facilitated 206 mitigation projects across seven counties after Hurricane Michael.

She designed the contractor bidding and procurement process that resulted in 1,847 acres of defensible space near homes.

Volunteer-driven model in Colorado receives national recognition

The NoFloCo Fire Mitigation Posse, led by founder Don Moore in Teller County, Colorado, has been awarded for its volunteer-based approach to wildfire mitigation.

The group uses non-mechanised methods to keep costs down and reduce environmental impact.

Volunteers are recognised with symbolic awards, such as a purple hard hat for repeated participation, and community meals follow each event.

The group was nominated by one of its own volunteers.

Additional mentions and upcoming awards ceremony

The Wildfire Mitigation Awards Committee also highlighted several efforts outside the primary awardees.

These included 103 mitigation projects recorded in a virtual dashboard by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and a community-focused “WUI Summit” held in South Carolina by the State Forestry Commission.

The 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Awards will be presented at the Wildland-Urban Interface Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, on 28 March 2025.

NFPA, NASF, IAFC and the USDA Forest Service will also host a virtual meeting between award recipients and partner organisations prior to the event.

The nomination period for the 2026 awards is expected to open in summer 2025.

Wildfire Mitigation Awards 2025 recipients announced across four US states: Summary

NFPA has announced five recipients of the 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Awards.

The awardees are Aaron Johnson (Colorado), Hawai’i Wildfire Management Organization, Tyre Holfeltz (Idaho), Aleese Maples (Florida), and NoFloCo Fire Mitigation Posse with Don Moore (Colorado).

The awards highlight local action, public sector programmes, nonprofit leadership, and volunteer-based models.

Each awardee was cited for measurable wildfire risk reduction and technical contribution.

Additional mentions were made of efforts in California and South Carolina.

The awards will be presented at the Wildland-Urban Interface Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, on 28 March 2025.

The programme was founded in 2014 by NASF, IAFC, NFPA, and USDA Forest Service.

The 2026 nominations open in summer 2025.

All information was reported by NFPA.

NFPA and UpCodes settle copyright lawsuit with licensing agreement

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

NFPA and UpCodes resolve copyright dispute

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has settled its lawsuit against UpCodes, Inc., which alleged copyright infringement.

The case, filed as National Fire Protection Association, Inc. v. UpCodes, Inc. et al. No. 2:21-cv-05262-SPG-E, was resolved on mutually agreed terms.

As part of the settlement, NFPA has granted UpCodes a license to use certain NFPA codes and standards under agreed conditions.

NFPA comments on the resolution

Jim Pauley, NFPA president and CEO, said: “We are pleased to put this lawsuit behind us and that the parties have reached a resolution.”

He added that NFPA remains committed to its mission of advancing fire and life safety through the development and dissemination of its copyrighted codes and standards.

Licensing agreement details remain undisclosed

The specific terms of the agreement between NFPA and UpCodes have not been publicly disclosed.

However, the settlement includes a licensing arrangement allowing UpCodes to use some NFPA codes.

UpCodes, a platform that provides access to building codes and regulations, has not issued a public statement on the settlement.

NFPA appoints Fernando Escalante to lead international business development in Latin America

by Featured NewsPeople

Escalante to oversee NFPA growth and partnerships in Latin America

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Fernando Escalante as its new manager of International Business Development for Latin America.

Escalante will be responsible for expanding NFPA’s presence in the region, working with key stakeholders across the fire, electrical, and life safety sectors.

His role includes strengthening partnerships and increasing engagement with government agencies, industry associations, and private sector organisations.

Industry experience and NFPA expertise

Escalante has a background in electrical engineering and nearly two decades of leadership experience with Schneider Electric.

His previous roles included managing regional projects and developing business growth strategies through partnerships.

In addition to his corporate experience, Escalante has served as an instructor for NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC), providing training on NFPA standards and their implementation.

His knowledge of electrical safety regulations and industry best practices aligns with NFPA’s efforts to enhance fire and life safety in Latin America.

Leadership perspective on safety and collaboration

Olga Caledonia, director of International Business Development at NFPA, said: “Fernando’s extensive industry knowledge and leadership in the Latin American market will be instrumental in advancing the NFPA mission.

“We are excited to have him lead our international business development efforts in the region, helping to foster collaboration and drive the use of NFPA standards and resources.”

Escalante stated that he looks forward to working with industry leaders across Latin America to enhance fire, electrical, and life safety standards.

He emphasised the importance of NFPA’s role in supporting safety initiatives worldwide.

Focus on engagement and regional initiatives

Based in Costa Rica, Escalante will work closely with government bodies and industry professionals to support training and the implementation of NFPA standards.

His responsibilities include expanding educational initiatives and collaborating on fire safety regulations.

NFPA continues to develop its presence in Latin America by engaging with local stakeholders to promote the adoption of its safety standards.

The organisation provides resources and training to support fire protection, electrical safety, and risk reduction efforts.

NFPA appoints Fernando Escalante to lead international business development in Latin America: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Fernando Escalante as manager of International Business Development for Latin America.

His role includes expanding NFPA’s partnerships and presence in the region, working with key stakeholders in fire, electrical, and life safety.

Escalante has extensive industry experience, having worked for nearly two decades with Schneider Electric and served as an instructor for NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC).

NFPA director Olga Caledonia said his leadership would help drive collaboration and increase the use of NFPA standards.

Based in Costa Rica, Escalante will work with government agencies, industry associations, and private sector organisations to support fire and life safety initiatives.

His appointment is part of NFPA’s broader efforts to promote training and improve safety standards across Latin America.