Derry councillor urges fire safety compliance in sleeping accommodations

by Featured NewsSafety

Councillor pushes for fire safety in sleeping accommodations

“It is crucial that all providers of this type of accommodation comply with legislative requirements”

Sinn Féin Councillor Fergal Leonard

Sinn Féin Councillor Fergal Leonard is advocating for stricter compliance with fire protection and prevention legislation in the increasing number of ‘Designated’ Sleeping Accommodation premises within the Derry City and Strabane District.

As reported by Derry Now, Cllr Leonard has submitted a motion seeking tighter monitoring and enforcement on this issue.

The motion will be debated by the council on Wednesday, 26 June.

Cllr Leonard stated: “With the welcome increasing provision of student accommodation, tourist and visitor overnight accommodation in the City and District, it is crucial that all providers of this type of accommodation comply with legislative requirements with regards to Fire Protection and Fire Prevention.

Regrettably, statistics continue to show that people are most at risk from fire when they are sleeping.

We want to ensure that our students and visitors are as safe as possible from the risk from fire.”

Proposal for initial and regular meetings

Cllr Leonard is proposing that the council establish an initial meeting with the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, Tourist Boards across the island, and the House of Multiple Occupation Unit at Belfast City Council.

The aim is to share information regarding the current numbers and types of sleeping accommodation in the City and District, followed by regular meetings to update on new sleeping accommodation premises.

He emphasised the importance of information sharing to enhance safety measures: “To this end, I am proposing that Council establish an initial meeting with Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, Tourist Boards across the island and the House of Multiple Occupation Unit at Belfast City Council to share information with regards current numbers and types of sleeping accommodation provision in this City and District followed by regular meetings to share information on new sleeping accommodation premises.”

Familiarisation with legislative requirements

In addition to the meetings, Cllr Leonard is also pushing for familiarisation sessions for councillors on the legislative requirements for Sleeping Premises.

This includes the Fire Services Order (NI) 2006, Fire Service Regulations (NI) 2010, and the Houses in Multiple Occupation (NI) Order 2016.

He suggests that these sessions should cover the respective council legislative requirements.

“I am also proposing that Council provide Councillors with familiarisation on Sleeping Premises legislative requirements under the Fire Services Order (NI) 2006, Fire Service Regulations (NI) 2010 and Houses in Multiple Occupation (NI) Order 2016.

“This familiarisation should include respective Council legislative requirements,” said Cllr Leonard.

NIFRS issues countryside fire prevention advice and recruits on-call firefighters

by Featured NewsPeopleWildland Fire

NIFRS advises public on preventing countryside fires

As reported by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), with dryer weather anticipated, the NIFRS is urging the public to help protect the countryside from wildfires.

These fires are often caused by human behaviour and can be prevented.

Last year, NIFRS dealt with numerous fires in the countryside, including a major wildfire incident in Glenarrif that lasted three days.

NIFRS Group Commander Paul Morrow stated: “Every year our Fire & Rescue Service is faced with fires in the countryside that have been devastating to our environment and wildlife, and they ultimately put people’s lives at risk.

The severity of the incidents, like the major gorse fire incident in Co. Antrim last June, take a massive toll on our resources.”

Commander Morrow highlighted the physical and resource strain caused by these incidents: “This puts an added pressure on our Service and our partner agencies who are frequently required to respond alongside us.

It is physically exhausting and demanding work for our Firefighters in extreme, high temperatures as it takes hours, and sometimes even days, to put wildfires out.”

He also stressed the dangers of wildfires: “Wildfires can be unpredictable and spread fast. They are a threat to wildlife, livestock, environment, property and people.

“Very often these fires are started deliberately. Purposely setting a wildfire is a criminal offence. If you see someone intentionally setting a fire, please report it immediately by calling 999.”

The NIFRS has provided several safety tips to help prevent wildfires: extinguish cigarettes properly, avoid using open fires in the countryside, and do not leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland.

They also advise being considerate in parking to avoid blocking emergency vehicle access, keeping children away from fire sources, using barbecues safely, and reporting any suspicious fire activity to the PSNI.

NIFRS recruiting on-call firefighters in 12 fire stations

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is recruiting for on-call firefighters across 12 stations in Northern Ireland, including Ballycastle, Ballynahinch, Comber, Crossmaglen, Donaghadee, Dromore (Co.

Tyrone), Irvinestown, Keady, Newtownhamilton, Newtownstewart, Portadown, and Portstewart.

The recruitment is open to enthusiastic, flexible, and committed individuals who live or work within five minutes of their local fire station.

On-call firefighters are part-time firefighters who respond to emergency incidents, including fires and road traffic collisions.

They also provide safety advice to their local communities.

NIFRS Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer, Brian Stanfield, emphasised the importance of these roles: “Our on-call firefighters are the backbone of our Fire & Rescue Service; we simply could not operate or deliver the service we provide without them.”

Stanfield also highlighted the benefits of joining at this time: “This is a really exciting time to be joining NIFRS as we will soon be moving to our new Learning & Development College in Cookstown, a first-class training facility where our on-call firefighters will train and develop.

“Being a firefighter isn’t a job, it’s a vocation. It’s a demanding and rewarding role and you will be working in the heart of the community in keeping them safe.”

The role requires on-call firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies by making their way to the fire station within five minutes when alerted by pager.

The NIFRS is also calling on local employers to support this initiative by allowing their employees to become on-call firefighters, noting the additional skills and experience these individuals can bring to the workplace.

On-call firefighters receive a retaining fee, emergency call-out payments, and a payment for attending a weekly drill night.

They are trained to the highest standards and participate in 12 days of training each year.

Interested candidates can attend open evenings at each station for more information, with details available on the NIFRS website.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday, 3 June 2024.

IFSJ comment

The NIFRS’s focus on preventing wildfires and recruiting on-call firefighters addresses two crucial aspects of fire safety and community protection.

With the anticipated dry weather, the risk of wildfires increases, making public awareness and adherence to safety guidelines essential.

Commander Morrow’s comments underscore the devastating impact of wildfires on the environment, wildlife, and human safety, as well as the significant strain on firefighting resources.

The proactive measures suggested by NIFRS are practical steps that the public can take to mitigate these risks and protect the countryside.

Simultaneously, the recruitment of on-call firefighters is a strategic move to bolster NIFRS’s capacity to respond to emergencies.

On-call firefighters play a vital role in maintaining community safety, and their ability to respond promptly to incidents is crucial.

The new Learning & Development College in Cookstown promises to enhance training and development for these firefighters, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the role.

Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Brian Stanfield’s appeal to local employers highlights the community-wide benefits of this initiative, fostering a collaborative approach to emergency preparedness and response.

Northern Ireland installs defibrillators at all fire stations to enhance public safety

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Northern Ireland fire service ensures community access to emergency defibrillators

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has completed the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at all its fire stations, ensuring widespread public access to critical life-saving equipment.

As reported by the NIFRS website, this initiative places AEDs at 67 fire stations and the NIFRS headquarters in Lisburn, aiming to provide early intervention in cardiac emergencies.

Studies highlight the effectiveness of prompt defibrillation, suggesting that survival rates can soar above 50% if administered within three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest.

This strategic deployment of AEDs underscores the NIFRS’s commitment to enhancing community safety and emergency responsiveness.

Statements from NIFRS leadership

NIFRS Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings commented on the project: “We are delighted to announce that we have installed defibrillators at all of our Fire Stations.

“Our stations are at the centre of the community which makes them easily accessible to the public and will enhance the availability of initial emergency equipment in the event of a cardiac arrest.

“NIFRS stands as a key pillar in facilitating public use of defibrillators.”

The accessibility of these defibrillators for public use during emergencies is further augmented by their inclusion in ‘The Circuit’.

This integration allows Ambulance Control at the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) to direct individuals to the nearest available defibrillator.

Government and healthcare sector support

Health Minister Robin Swann praised the initiative: “This is very welcome news for communities right across Northern Ireland.

“We know that every second counts when someone has a cardiac arrest and getting prompt access to a defibrillator, alongside CPR, will give them the best chance of survival.

“That’s why the investment by the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service is so important.”

Similarly, Jay Colville, Chairperson of the NIFRS Board, emphasized the service’s commitment: “Our commitment to equipping every Fire Station with a defibrillator is a testament to our dedication to public safety across Northern Ireland and our role as a vital player in the collective effort to save lives during emergencies.”

James Cant, CEO at Resuscitation Council UK, highlighted the ease of use of these devices: “Defibrillators help save lives and anyone can use one. They tell you exactly what to do, no training is needed.

“If someone is having a cardiac arrest, it simply needs to be switched on and it will talk the person through each step – it’s like having an expert in the room.”

IFSJ comment

The deployment of AEDs across all fire stations in Northern Ireland by NIFRS is a significant step in improving public safety and emergency preparedness.

By making these life-saving devices readily available, NIFRS is enhancing its capability to respond to cardiac emergencies.

This initiative serves as an exemplary model for other regions aiming to enhance public health and safety infrastructure.

NIFRS accepts recommendations from an independent inspection

by Featured News

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) acknowledges direction for future improvement

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has responded positively to recommendations made in an independent inspection.

Released today, 7 September, by the Department of Health (DOH), the inspection was carried out by His Majesty’s Fire Service Inspectorate (Scotland).

It aimed to provide an unbiased look into the significant challenges and issues NIFRS has been grappling with.

Inspection offers comprehensive insights into challenges and areas for advancement for NIFRS

The inspection particularly took note of the financial constraints the organisation has faced over the years.

The report mentions: “NIFRS provides an invaluable service to the community it protects” and commends the dedication and hard work of its employees.

The recommendations are intended to guide NIFRS in its enhancement efforts over the upcoming five years.

Yet, the report also conveys that: “the level of improvement required will take time, financial investment and significant political support if they are to be successful.”

Andy Hearn, the Interim Chief Fire & Rescue Officer at NIFRS, expressed his thoughts: “I welcome and fully support the recommendations of the Inspection in supporting change and continuous improvement in NIFRS.

“As the report outlines, with the right strategic direction, political support, and financial commitment, the challenges are in no way insurmountable.”

Recommendations set to shape the organisation’s actions over the next five years

In addition, the report emphasised the universal nature of some of these issues, as similar concerns have been identified in fire sector reports elsewhere.

Drawing from these, NIFRS intends to develop a 5-year action plan with a refreshed focus.

Extending his gratitude, Mr Hearn added: “I would like to thank our employees for their honesty and candour throughout the Inspection.

“Thanks also to the DOH for the investment in this Inspection, which is also an investment in public and Firefighter safety.

“Thank you to the Inspection Team, led by Chief Inspector Robert Scott, and our Board for their support.”

Jay Colville, Chairperson of the NIFRS Board, also commented: “On behalf of the NIFRS Board I welcome the recommendations within the report.

“The recommendations, coupled with other recommendations from various reports within the wider UK fire sector, will provide the blueprint for the future.”

For a deeper insight into the findings, the full report is available on the NIFRS publications page.

IFSJ Comment

The unveiling of recommendations for the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service offers a pivotal moment in the organisation’s journey.

The report not only spotlights the immediate issues NIFRS faces but also provides a roadmap for its future endeavours.

It is noteworthy that these recommendations are grounded in real-world concerns, ensuring that the fire and rescue service remains attuned to the evolving needs of Northern Ireland’s communities.

With this framework, there’s hope for a more efficient, effective, and responsive service that continues to uphold public safety at its core.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service hosts female firefighters “Come and Try Days”

by Featured News

In an effort to boost female representation in the field, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is launching a series of “Come and Try Days” tailored for women considering a career as a firefighter.

For those interested, further details can be found on the official website.

Events designed to encourage more female firefighters

These sessions are scheduled before the commencement of the full-time Firefighter recruitment process in September.

The aim is to offer women a first-hand experience of the profession, provide insights, and answer any queries they might have about becoming a firefighter.

Where and when to participate:

The events will span multiple locations including:

  • LDC Belfast, Boucher Road: Saturday 9 September.
  • Armagh Fire Station: Sunday 10 September.
  • Omagh Fire Station: Saturday 16 September.
  • Ballymena Fire Station: Sunday 17 September.

Individuals who are 17 years old and above can attend. There’s a choice between morning (10 am – 12 pm) and afternoon sessions (2 pm – 4 pm) at each venue.

Due to limited availability, those interested should register here.

Area Commander Suzanne Fleming said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for any woman who has ever thought about a career as a Firefighter.”

She further mentioned: “No two days are ever the same- as an emergency service we attend various types of incidents.”

Reflecting on her experience, she shared: “I joined NIFRS 22 years ago and I have loved every minute of it.”

Currently, a little over 6% of NIFRS Firefighters are women, highlighting the need for more female representation.

Fleming concluded: “These events will give you the opportunity to meet Firefighters and hear first-hand what the job involves. We really look forward to meeting you.”

IFSJ Comment

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service’s initiative to draw more women into the firefighting profession is a noteworthy stride towards inclusivity. Increasing the number of female firefighters not only enriches the force with diverse perspectives but also mirrors the diverse communities they serve. The “Come and Try Days” is a commendable approach to debunk myths and ensure women have all the resources and information they need to make an informed career choice.

About Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS): NIFRS is dedicated to serving and protecting the community from fire-related hazards in Northern Ireland. Their mission goes beyond firefighting; they are also committed to promoting fire safety awareness and education. With a rich history and a commitment to diversity, NIFRS continues its efforts to represent and protect every segment of the community.

Fire safety regulations in Northern Ireland buildings undergo significant consultation

by Featured NewsSafety

Sweeping changes to fire safety regulations proposed

A public consultation has been proposed for enhancing fire safety measures within local building regulations in Northern Ireland.

This information comes via a release on the Northern Ireland government’s Department of Finance website, accessible through this link.

The local Building Regulations’ fire safety provisions play a vital role in maintaining life safety standards for both building occupants and firefighting personnel.

Moreover, these regulations contribute to property protection.

The proposed amendments primarily focus on the safety measures in residential buildings, specifically in multi-residential properties.

The goal is to provide additional assurance and safety measures for residents.

Some changes are also aimed at assisting the Fire and Rescue Service, ensuring they can provide an effective operational response.

The overarching intent of these proposals is to diminish the adverse effects of fire incidents, by saving lives and preventing injuries.

Greater emphasis on fire safety information and automatic suppression systems

The consultation entails a series of changes to Part E (Fire safety) of the Building Regulations, and the accompanying guidelines in Technical Booklet E (Fire safety) (TBE).

One proposal involves introducing a new regulation mandating the provision of adequate fire safety information by the person responsible for the work, to those having fire safety duties in any ‘relevant premises’ as defined under ‘The Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006’.

This requirement will also be applicable to buildings with flats located more than 11m above ground level.

Another significant proposal calls for a new regulation requiring suitable automatic fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers, in certain types of buildings.

These include buildings with flats and purpose-built student accommodations, both having a storey more than 11m above the ground level, and all residential care premises, regardless of storey height.

Subheading: “Improved guidance and changes to technical booklet E for enhanced fire safety”

The proposed changes extend to the Technical Booklet E (Fire safety), which aims to improve fire safety information, provide better guidance on sprinklers, and enhance smoke alarm coverage in all new dwellings.

The booklet will also clarify measures necessary for adequate smoke ventilation from common escape routes in flat-containing buildings.

Moreover, it will incorporate guidance for ‘Facilities and Access for the Fire and Rescue Service’ to help firefighters in search and rescue operations and firefighting.

The Department of Finance held an online information event on Tuesday 18 July to outline these proposals.

The department will review all responses to this consultation received before the closing date, Monday 25 September 2023.

Those interested can respond to the consultation here.

IFSJ Comment

The proposed amendments signify a promising step towards greater fire safety measures in Northern Ireland.

They have the potential to significantly improve life safety standards for residents, firefighting personnel, and properties.

By focusing on critical aspects such as fire safety information dissemination, use of automatic fire suppression systems, and improved guidance in dealing with fire incidents, these changes could set a precedent for fire safety regulation enhancements globally.

Northern Ireland proposes new fire sprinklers for all new high-rise apartments

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsFire Suppression

Introduction of fire sprinklers in new builds over 11 metres

The Northern Ireland government has initiated a public consultation on the proposed changes to local Building Regulations, with a specific emphasis on fire safety measures.

The consultation, which was launched on 3 July 2023 and is set to conclude on 25 September 2023, is aimed at elevating fire safety protocols in buildings.

The proposed amendments will primarily focus on residential buildings, particularly multi-residential ones.

An overview of the fire safety measures proposed

The intended effect of the proposed changes is to mitigate the consequences of fires by saving lives and preventing injuries.

The Department is planning to revise Part E (Fire safety) of the Building Regulations and the accompanying Technical Booklet E (Fire safety).

Under the new proposed amendments, a fresh functional regulation in Part E is to be introduced.

This regulation will necessitate those carrying out the work to provide sufficient fire safety information to the relevant party who has fire safety duties.

This requirement will apply to buildings with flats more than 11m above the ground level.

The role of fire sprinklers in enhancing safety

The new prescriptive regulation in Part E will mandate the installation of suitable automatic fire suppression systems, such as fire sprinklers, in specific types of buildings.

These will encompass buildings containing flats and purpose-built student accommodations with a floor more than 11m above the ground level.

Additionally, all residential care premises will also need to have these systems, regardless of their height.

Several changes to the Technical Booklet E (Fire safety) are also proposed. These will provide guidance on new requirements for fire safety information and the installation of automatic fire suppression systems.

They also aim to increase smoke alarm coverage in all new dwellings and clarify the measures required for adequate smoke ventilation from common escape routes in buildings with flats.

The guidelines will also enhance facilities and access for the Fire and Rescue Service, aiding firefighters in search and rescue operations and firefighting.

An online information event will be held on Tuesday 18 July where the Department will present these proposals.

Those unable to attend can access an anonymised Q&A summary and a voiced-over video presentation on the official consultation page.

Responses to the consultation will be accepted until the closing date, Monday 25 September 2023.

IFSJ Comment

This represents a proactive step towards enhancing fire safety in buildings, particularly residential ones.

The introduction of fire sprinklers and other fire suppression systems in high-rise buildings could significantly reduce the risk of fire-related fatalities and injuries, thus promoting safer living conditions for residents.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service seeks new Chair

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The Department of Health is seeking to appoint a Non-Executive Chair to the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS).

The Board of NIFRS comprises the Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, a Non-Executive Chair and 10 other Non-Executive Members appointed by the Department.  

Peter May, Permanent Secretary at the Department of Health, said: “The role of NIFRS Chair is both challenging and rewarding. This is an exceptional opportunity for a person with effective leadership skills to share their talents and expertise to make a positive difference to the lives of people in Northern Ireland.”

The NIFRS protects and serves the entire population of NI, an area of over 5,500 square miles providing them with a range of fire and rescue services. Under the 2006 Order, the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010, and the Fire and Rescue Services (Emergencies) Order (Northern Ireland) 2011, NIFRS responds to fires, road traffic collisions and other emergencies including chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear incidents, search and rescue incidents, serious flooding and serious transport incidents.

A range of community engagement initiatives are provided to help reduce risk and keep people safe from the dangers of fire and other types of incidents that we respond to.

The organisation has a dedicated Regional Control Centre where all the Fire 999 calls for NI are answered and Fire Crews mobilised to respond. NIFRS has 68 Fire Stations across NI utilising a variety of crewing models using Whole-time, On-Call and Volunteer Firefighters.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 12:00 noon BST Friday 31 March 2023.  Late applications will not be accepted.

34 graduates join Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service

by Featured NewsPeople

34 new wholetime firefighters who have graduated from Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) will begin their careers as wholetime firefighters in Fire Stations across Northern Ireland.

The graduates completed an intensive training programme that allowed them to develop specialist knowledge and a wide range of practical skills, including tactical firefighting; using breathing apparatus; and responding to road traffic collisions and other rescues. They also learnt how to deliver fire prevention and community safety training.

The graduation ceremony was held at the NIFRS Learning and Development Centre, Boucher Road, Belfast, where the graduates were joined by family and loved ones for the celebration.

NIFRS Interim Chief Fire & Rescue Officer, Andy Hearn said: “This is a hugely important day for our 34 trainees as they graduate as Wholetime Firefighters. Our graduates should be extremely proud of getting to this day. They were exceptional in a challenging recruitment process, and then have successfully completed our rigorous Trainee Firefighting Course.

“Thanks to their hard work and the dedication of our Instructors, they are ready to start the next chapter of their career in NIFRS and will now take their places as Wholetime Firefighters on Fire Stations across Northern Ireland.

“Today’s graduates have chosen to become a Firefighter because they believe in serving our community and working with others to make Northern Ireland a safer place. I wish them every success in what is a fulfilling, interesting and worthwhile career.”

Carmel McKinney, OBE, Chairperson of NIFRS added: “On behalf of the NIFRS Board I would like to warmly congratulate each of our new Firefighters graduating today. We want the best people to keep our community safe, and I am confident that today’s graduates are equipped and ready to go out onto Station to serve the people of Northern Ireland.

“The training and development of our people is not something that ends with today’s Graduation Ceremony. I am a firm believer in lifelong learning and today’s graduates will continue their training and development on Station and in our new £ 42.6million Learning & Development Centre just outside Cookstown, throughout their careers.  As a service, we continue to invest in our people and in the safety of everyone in Northern Ireland.

“I wish all of today’s 34 graduates success and happiness in their careers in NIFRS.”