Kilwinning Community Fire Station’s long-time support team member honoured at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for community contributions

by Featured NewsPeople

Award recognition for support team member Annie Chapman

Annie Chapman, a long-time cook at Kilwinning Community Fire Station, was recently honoured at the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for her contributions to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and her local community.

According to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Chapman has served firefighters and staff throughout Ayrshire for over 21 years, currently working out of the Kilwinning station.

Her contributions, both professionally and through additional community engagement efforts, led to her receiving the Support Team Member of the Year award at this year’s ceremony.

The Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards celebrate the efforts of emergency services personnel who serve local communities.

As part of her role, Chapman has provided meals to support firefighters returning from incidents, while also actively engaging with community initiatives, such as addressing food poverty and supporting elderly neighbours.

Annie Chapman’s community involvement

Beyond her responsibilities at the station, Chapman plays an active role in community events, particularly during the festive season when she dons the role of Mrs Claus at Kilwinning Community Fire Station.

She invites members of the community to participate in seasonal activities, helping foster a welcoming environment for local residents.

This gesture, alongside her support for broader community initiatives, exemplifies the values the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service seeks to uphold.

Area Commander and Local Senior Officer for Ayrshire, Ian McMeekin, praised Chapman’s commitment, noting her dedication to the Kilwinning crews and the community: “Annie is conscientious and dedicated, going above and beyond to provide hot meals for the Kilwinning crews returning from an incident.

“Her kindness however extends beyond her job description. Whether supporting activities to tackle food poverty, assisting elderly neighbours with health concerns, supporting staff, or contributing to community engagement initiatives at the station, Annie embodies the values of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in everything she does.”

Other award recipients at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards

The awards ceremony also acknowledged other contributions across Ayrshire’s emergency services.

Stewarton Community Fire Station’s on-call firefighters received Team of the Year, recognised for their work in local fire safety and emergency response.

Additionally, firefighter Stephen McAnespie from Dreghorn Community Fire Station was recognised for his work with beehives across Ayrshire’s fire stations, a unique initiative aimed at supporting environmental conservation.

Another individual, Lee Swanston, was commended for his efforts with the Youth Volunteer Scheme, an SFRS programme aimed at engaging young people in emergency services education and community service.

These awards highlight a variety of ways that emergency personnel contribute to the wellbeing of Ayrshire’s communities.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to community values

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s involvement in the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards underscores the organisation’s dedication to recognising personnel who go beyond their professional duties.

The awards honour a range of services, from firefighting and rescue efforts to community education and environmental initiatives.

By celebrating individuals like Chapman, McAnespie, and Swanston, the SFRS and its partners acknowledge the lasting impact of dedicated service on both colleagues and local communities.

Kilwinning Community Fire Station’s Annie Chapman honoured at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for community contributions: Summary

Annie Chapman, a support team member at Kilwinning Community Fire Station, was awarded Support Team Member of the Year at the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards, recognising her 21 years of service with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Chapman’s role extends beyond cooking for the Kilwinning crews; she also engages in numerous community initiatives, from addressing food poverty to seasonal community events.

Area Commander Ian McMeekin praised her dedication, noting her alignment with SFRS values.

Other honourees included Stewarton Community Fire Station as Team of the Year and firefighter Stephen McAnespie for his work with local beehives.

The awards highlight the essential roles played by emergency service personnel in supporting the well-being of Ayrshire communities.

NSW RFS honours youth contributions in firefighting at 2024 Youth Awards

by Featured NewsPeople

Youth Awards: Cadet and volunteer youth contributions celebrated

The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) has honoured its young members through the 2024 RFS Youth Awards, recognising their roles in community safety and volunteer leadership.

The awards ceremony, held at the RFS Headquarters in Sydney Olympic Park, acknowledged young members’ contributions across various categories, as reported by the New South Wales Rural Fire Service.

The awards celebrate participants in the RFS Secondary School Cadet Program and other young volunteers under the age of 25.

The Youth Awards are part of the RFS’s commitment to fostering youth engagement and leadership within its ranks, encouraging a future generation dedicated to community service and emergency response.

Achievements in youth volunteering highlighted

Since its inception in 2009, the RFS Cadet of the Year Award has been presented to young members of the Secondary School Cadet Program who demonstrate a commitment to the values of volunteering, leadership, and community support.

This year, Woojin Shin of Turramurra High School received the Cadet of the Year Award for exemplary participation and leadership in the program.

Other awards recognised youth in various age categories, including Marshall Munn, awarded Young Volunteer of the Year for the 12-15 years category, and Keeley Taylor, recognised as Young Volunteer of the Year in the 16-25 age group.

Both recipients were praised for their dedication to the RFS and active engagement in volunteer activities and training exercises.

Special recognition for 20-year cadet program service

A special award was also introduced this year to honour longstanding commitment to the cadet program.

Terry Job of West Parkes Brigade received this accolade for his two decades of involvement in the Secondary School Cadet Program.

Job’s efforts in mentoring young people have been instrumental in promoting volunteerism and training future RFS members.

Commissioner Rob Rogers commented on Job’s dedication, saying: “Terry’s unwavering commitment and mentorship have made an invaluable impact on both the service and the community.”

Leadership commended by government officials

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib congratulated the young awardees, recognising the value of their involvement in emergency volunteering.

Dib stated: “Congratulations to these exceptional young people who have been recognised for their outstanding accomplishments.”

Commissioner Rogers also highlighted the RFS’s ongoing support for youth programs, noting the importance of mentoring and training.

He emphasised the role of schools in fostering student participation in the cadet program, adding: “I also thank the school communities who offer the opportunity for students to participate in the Secondary School Cadet Program.”

NSW RFS honours youth contributions in firefighting at 2024 Youth Awards: Summary

The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) held its 2024 RFS Youth Awards at the RFS Headquarters in Sydney Olympic Park, celebrating the achievements of young volunteers.

Awards were presented across various categories, including Cadet of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year for ages 12-15, and Young Volunteer of the Year for ages 16-25.

The event also featured a special recognition for long-standing dedication to the RFS Secondary School Cadet Program, awarded to Terry Job of West Parkes Brigade.

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers commended the awardees, praising their contributions to community safety and emergency services across the state.

C-TEC appoints Amos Hill as Southern Business Development Manager for life-safety system sales

by Featured NewsPeople

Southern Business Development Manager appointment at C-TEC

C-TEC has appointed Amos Hill as its new Southern Business Development Manager for System Sales.

With over 25 years in the fire safety industry and an established record in technical sales, Hill brings extensive expertise to the role, as reported by C-TEC.

He will focus on expanding the market reach of C-TEC’s life-safety solutions, including their CAST-powered fire alarm and evacuation systems.

Hill’s responsibilities will include promoting several key systems, such as the HUSH-PRO BS 5839-6 Grade C domestic fire alarm, the EVAC-ALERT BS 8629 evacuation alert system, and the ENVISION Cloud-based IoT fire monitoring system.

His role aims to enhance system specifications and sales across the Southern region, ensuring greater awareness and adoption of C-TEC’s solutions.

Amos Hill’s commitment to fire safety

Amos Hill expressed enthusiasm for his new position at C-TEC, highlighting his dedication to the industry.

Hill said: “I am passionate about fire safety and thrilled to be joining a manufacturer that is continually bringing new innovations to market.

“I love engaging with clients and am looking forward to forming new relationships and enhancing existing ones to achieve further growth and raise awareness of C-TEC’s CAST powered systems.”

Hill’s extensive experience in client engagement is expected to support his efforts in growing the adoption of C-TEC’s systems and solidifying their presence in the industry.

His role will also involve creating stronger ties with current clients while establishing connections with new customers.

C-TEC Sales Director on the new appointment

C-TEC’s Sales Director, Charlotte Manley, has expressed confidence in Hill’s potential to succeed in this role.

Manley stated: “Amos is personable, knowledgeable and extremely well-qualified.

“He has an excellent reputation in the industry and a strong technical sales background.

“I am confident he will be a success in his new role and am delighted to announce this appointment.”

Hill’s strong technical expertise and sales background were key considerations in his appointment.

His industry reputation and ability to connect with clients are seen as assets that will benefit C-TEC’s ongoing business growth in the region.

Contact details for further information

For those interested in learning more about C-TEC’s life-safety systems, Hill is available for direct contact.

The company has also designated contacts for different regions: Hill will manage enquiries in the South, while Andy Turner remains the point of contact for the North.

This division of responsibilities ensures tailored support for clients across regions.

C-TEC appoints Amos Hill as Southern Business Development Manager for life-safety system sales: Summary

C-TEC has appointed Amos Hill as Southern Business Development Manager for System Sales, aiming to expand its CAST-powered life-safety system offerings in the Southern region.

Hill, with over 25 years in the fire safety industry, will oversee the promotion and specification of systems such as the HUSH-PRO domestic fire alarm, the EVAC-ALERT evacuation alert, and the ENVISION IoT fire monitoring solution.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Hill highlighted his dedication to client engagement and growth in C-TEC’s market presence.

Sales Director Charlotte Manley cited Hill’s experience and strong reputation as factors contributing to his appointment.

For Southern enquiries, Hill can be contacted directly, while Andy Turner remains available for Northern region enquiries.

Institution of Fire Engineers names Trent Fearnley as new International President

by Breaking NewsFire EngineeringPeople

Trent Fearnley assumes leadership of the Institution of Fire Engineers

As reported by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), Trent Fearnley has been appointed as the IFE’s new International President.

He takes over from Hayley Burgess, whose appointment last year made history as the first woman to hold the position in the organisation’s 105-year history.

In a statement shared on LinkedIn, Fearnley expressed his gratitude: “Today I am honoured to be announced as the new International President of the Institution of Fire Engineers.

“The Institution is represented in 26 countries, and I am proud to represent the Institution on the world stage.

“I am also supported by the newly elected board member Angela Fearnley and newly elected International General Assembly Leader Jason Hill. NZ is leading the way in fire safety!”

He is supported in his role by newly elected board member Angela Fearnley and Jason Hill, the new Leader of the IFE International General Assembly.

Jason Hill named IFE international general assembly leader

Jason Hill has been appointed as the new Leader of the IFE International General Assembly, a position he will take up in January 2025.

The announcement was made at the IFE’s Annual General Meeting in London.

Hill said: “I am extremely proud to serve as the Leader of the Institution of Fire Engineers International General Assembly from January 2025, as announced at the IFE AGM today in London.

“This role is an important conduit between our 15,000 global members and the International Board of Trustees to ensure we continue to build a profession that enhances public safety and drives innovation for a safer world from fire through Innovation, Communication, Education and Legislation.”

Hill also acknowledged the election of IFE Australia Vice President Angela Fearnley and the installation of Trent Fearnley as International President, noting the strength of New Zealand’s presence in the global fire safety community.

Trent Fearnley’s extensive career in fire safety

With over 25 years of experience in the fire industry, Trent Fearnley has held numerous positions, including fire engineer, technical trainer, specialist fire investigator, and operational fire officer.

Fearnley played a key role in the development of the New Zealand Diploma in Fire Engineering and represents the fire industry on the Vocational Engineering Education in New Zealand Board.

He is also an active member of the New Zealand and Australian Standards committees, representing the IFE in both countries.

His contributions to fire safety were recognised by the Building Officials Institute of New Zealand, awarding him for his commitment to skills development and education.

Leadership transition at the IFE

Trent Fearnley’s appointment marks a transition in leadership for the IFE, as he takes over from Hayley Burgess.

Burgess’s tenure was historic, and her contributions to the IFE’s global reach and inclusivity will continue to shape the organisation.

As the IFE moves forward, its new leadership team, including Fearnley, Jason Hill, and Angela Fearnley, is expected to drive further advancements in fire safety through a focus on education, legislation, and global collaboration.

Institution of Fire Engineers names Trent Fearnley as new International President: Summary

Trent Fearnley has been appointed as the International President of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), succeeding Hayley Burgess, who made history as the first woman to hold the role.

Fearnley is joined by Jason Hill, who has been named the new Leader of the IFE International General Assembly, and Angela Fearnley, newly elected to the IFE International Board.

With over 25 years of experience in fire safety, Trent Fearnley has held various roles across the industry.

The new leadership team aims to advance global fire safety through innovation, education, and legislative efforts.

WAGNER Group names Oliver Morfeld as managing director of WAGNER Fire Safety Pty Ltd

by Breaking NewsPeople

Leadership change at WAGNER Fire Safety Pty Ltd in Australia

As reported by WAGNER, Oliver Morfeld has been appointed as the new Managing Director of WAGNER Fire Safety Pty Ltd, the company’s Australian subsidiary based in Melbourne.

The appointment took effect on 14 October 2024.

Morfeld, who has nearly 30 years of experience in Australia and the Asia Pacific region, brings a wealth of knowledge in technical management to the role.

Steffen Springer, Managing Director of WAGNER Group GmbH, expressed confidence in Morfeld’s ability to contribute to the company’s strategic growth in the Asia-Pacific region, noting his extensive experience in fire protection, automotive, and safety technology.

Strategic focus for WAGNER in the Asia-Pacific region

WAGNER’s decision to appoint Morfeld aligns with the company’s focus on strengthening its presence in the Asia-Pacific market.

According to Springer, the region presents considerable potential for the company’s growth in fire protection solutions.

Morfeld’s leadership is expected to provide significant momentum in this direction.

In his new role, Morfeld will work closely with the existing leadership team to drive business development in Australia.

Springer said: “We see considerable potential in this market and an ideal location for further strengthening our market position in the Asia-Pacific economic region.”

Experienced leadership to guide local subsidiary

Morfeld’s background includes a deep understanding of the local market and a broad expertise in technical industries.

His appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance the company’s operations and provide innovative fire safety solutions tailored to the needs of the Australian market.

Morfeld shared his enthusiasm for the new role, saying: “I am very much looking forward to the challenge of further strengthening WAGNER in Australia and being able to contribute my experience in automotive and safety technology to this process.”

Continued collaboration with existing management

The appointment of Morfeld does not replace the current leadership entirely.

Michael Czoske will continue in his role as the second Managing Director of WAGNER Fire Safety Pty Ltd.

Both Morfeld and Czoske will collaborate on developing the subsidiary’s business strategy and expanding WAGNER’s market presence in Australia.

This dual leadership is expected to enhance operational efficiency and ensure smooth development as the company seeks to capitalise on opportunities in the region.

WAGNER Group names Oliver Morfeld as managing director of WAGNER Fire Safety Pty Ltd: Summary

WAGNER Group has appointed Oliver Morfeld as the new Managing Director of its Australian subsidiary, WAGNER Fire Safety Pty Ltd, effective 14 October 2024.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the Asia-Pacific region, Morfeld will work alongside current Managing Director Michael Czoske to strengthen the company’s market position in Australia.

Morfeld’s background in fire protection and safety technology is expected to support the company’s strategic international growth, with a particular focus on the Asia-Pacific market.

Steffen Springer, Managing Director of WAGNER Group GmbH, highlighted the region’s potential for the company’s continued expansion.

NFPA names Zahi Daher as manager for Saudi Arabia fire safety initiatives

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeople

NFPA strengthens fire safety efforts in Saudi Arabia

As reported by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Zahi Daher has been appointed as the new Manager of International Business Development for Saudi Arabia.

Daher will work closely with Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

His primary role will be to advance the implementation of fire and life safety standards in Saudi Arabia, which is undergoing significant transformation as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative.

Daher brings extensive experience from his previous role at UL Standards & Engagement.

Jim Pauley, NFPA president and CEO, welcomed Daher’s appointment, stating: “His strategic insights, extensive background, and proven track record make him the ideal candidate to lead our efforts in the Kingdom.”

Background and experience of Zahi Daher

Zahi Daher’s career includes substantial experience in fire protection, standards management, and business development.

Before joining NFPA, Daher worked as the regional standards manager for the Middle East and Northern Africa at UL Standards & Engagement, where he developed strategic relationships with governmental bodies, industry associations, and regulators.

Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development, MENA, NFPA, commented on his appointment: “His extensive experience will be invaluable as we engage with local organisations to create a safer environment that aligns with the Kingdom’s growth and Vision 2030.”

NFPA’s ongoing efforts in Saudi Arabia

Daher’s appointment follows the opening of NFPA’s regional office in Riyadh, reflecting the organisation’s increased focus on the region.

Over the years, NFPA has worked with Saudi authorities and safety professionals to support the Kingdom’s fire, electrical, and safety infrastructure, particularly through the Saudi Building Code.

Daher’s role will be to further enhance these efforts, ensuring that fire and life safety measures align with local risks and contribute to the Kingdom’s long-term development.

Daher said: “I am honoured to help NFPA play a role as fire and life safety standards are implemented throughout this process, aligned with local risks and hazards.”

NFPA’s role in Vision 2030

Daher’s work will play a crucial part in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative.

NFPA’s Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem™ framework will be key in improving safety standards across various sectors in the Kingdom.

Daher’s experience in fire protection design, sales management, and engineering makes him uniquely qualified to lead these efforts, which are crucial as the country undergoes rapid development.

Daher holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Beirut Arab University and a master’s in engineering management from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia.

He began his new role on October 1, 2024.

NFPA names Zahi Daher as manager for Saudi Arabia fire safety initiatives: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Zahi Daher as its new Manager of International Business Development for Saudi Arabia.

Daher, who began his role on October 1, will collaborate with local authorities to advance fire and life safety standards.

His appointment follows the opening of NFPA’s regional office in Riyadh.

Daher previously worked at UL Standards & Engagement, where he developed relationships with regulatory bodies across the Middle East.

His role at NFPA will support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by aligning fire safety measures with the Kingdom’s rapid growth.

Potter Global Technologies announces appointment of Roel Vestjens as Chief Executive Officer

by Featured NewsPeople

Roel Vestjens named as new Potter Global Technologies CEO

As reported by Potter Global Technologies, Roel Vestjens has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors.

He succeeds Gerry Connolly, who has served in this position since 2019.

Vestjens joins Potter with a long-standing career across several industrial businesses.

Before joining Potter, he held the position of CEO at Belden, a signal transmission solutions company, where he worked for 17 years.

His earlier career included roles at Royal Philips Electronics and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young.

Experience in leadership and global business growth

Mark Levy and Kevin Layne, Co-Chairmen of the Board at Potter, praised Vestjens’ experience, stating: “We are confident that Roel’s track record and wealth of experience in elevating companies and growing global businesses will be invaluable to supporting Potter’s continued ability to develop new ways to serve our customers and protect lives.”

They also thanked Gerry Connolly for his contributions during his leadership, which helped to secure the company’s success in recent years.

Vestjens, in a statement, noted his enthusiasm for leading the company: “I see substantial potential for continued growth and am delighted to join the team at such an exciting time in the company’s journey.”

Gerry Connolly reflects on tenure

Gerry Connolly, the outgoing CEO, expressed pride in the progress Potter made under his leadership.

He said: “I am incredibly proud of the tremendous growth and milestones that we have collectively achieved over the past several years.”

Connolly also expressed confidence in Vestjens, saying that the company is well-positioned for future success and that he looks forward to supporting Vestjens in the transition.

Board members commend new leadership

Brandon Brahm, Partner at KKR and member of Potter’s Board of Directors, highlighted Vestjens’ leadership qualities, saying: “Roel is a proven leader with a customer-centric mentality.

“We believe his experience and expertise will help Potter accelerate its growth, building on Potter’s over 125-year legacy of product excellence and customer service.”

Brahm also acknowledged Connolly’s efforts in helping Potter reach significant milestones over the last five years and expressed optimism for the company’s future under Vestjens’ leadership.

Potter Global Technologies announces appointment of Roel Vestjens as Chief Executive Officer: Summary

Potter Global Technologies has appointed Roel Vestjens as its new Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors, succeeding Gerry Connolly.

Vestjens brings extensive experience from his previous role as CEO of Belden and positions at Royal Philips Electronics and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young.

Board members have expressed confidence in Vestjens’ ability to lead the company into its next phase, building on its 125-year history.

Connolly, who led the company since 2019, will support Vestjens through the transition and praised the company’s progress during his tenure.

Phil Garrigan, OBE, to succeed Mark Hardingham as NFCC Chair in April 2025

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

New NFCC Chair to take office in April 2025

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has announced that its current Chair, Mark Hardingham, will step down in March 2025 at the conclusion of his four-year term.

The NFCC recently held an election to select Hardingham’s successor, with the process open to all currently serving UK Chief Fire Officers and those who have served in the past two years.

The election, conducted among NFCC members, took place throughout September.

The results of the election were finalised during the NFCC Board of Trustees meeting on Friday 4 October, where it was confirmed that Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, will take on the role of Chair in April 2025.

Phil Garrigan’s career and leadership in Merseyside

Phil Garrigan has been with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service since 1990, serving in various roles across community fire stations.

His work has largely focused on some of Merseyside’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged areas.

Garrigan has consistently emphasised the importance of community engagement in reducing risks, recognising the unique position of trust held by the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS).

He has effectively utilised this trust, along with the professionalism of the Merseyside FRS staff, to address the underlying causes that contribute to fire risks.

In his role as Chief Fire Officer, Garrigan has led the Service to achieve its lowest recorded number of fire-related deaths.

He has also introduced a performance management framework designed to foster continuous improvement across all aspects of the Service.

National roles and strategic contributions

Beyond his work in Merseyside, Phil Garrigan plays a pivotal role in national fire and rescue efforts.

He is currently the Vice Chair of the NFCC and serves as the National Lead for Fire and Rescue Services concerning children and young people.

Additionally, he is a member of the NFCC’s Operations Coordination Committee, where he oversees national resilience capabilities on behalf of the Home Office.

This role includes providing strategic guidance during significant national events, including the UK’s response to COVID-19.

His comprehensive experience gives him a broad understanding of the sector, making him a key figure in national fire and rescue operations.

Garrigan has also been instrumental in shaping the sector’s approach to working with children and young people (CYP).

Under his leadership, the Fire and Rescue Service has transformed the lives of hundreds of young people across the UK.

Mark Hardingham reflects on his time as NFCC Chair

Mark Hardingham, who has served as NFCC Chair since 2021, has overseen various initiatives and developments in the UK fire and rescue sector during his time in office.

His term saw several key reforms and the council’s role in shaping fire safety and response policies nationwide.

Hardingham said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the NFCC. I look forward to supporting Phil as he takes up this important role.”

Phil Garrigan’s leadership approach and community involvement

Garrigan’s leadership has extended beyond firefighting, as he has been deeply involved in governance and community-based initiatives.

Since becoming Chief Fire Officer, he has reformed the governance structure of the Merseyside Service and introduced a People Plan.

This plan reflects his inclusive management style, ensuring that all staff members are involved in decision-making processes.

In addition to his work within the Fire and Rescue Service, Garrigan is committed to youth development.

He serves as a Trustee and Board member for the Hive Youth Zone and Firefit Hub and acts as an Ambassador for the Cash for Kids charity.

Phil Garrigan to succeed Mark Hardingham as NFCC Chair in April 2025: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has confirmed that its current Chair, Mark Hardingham, will step down in March 2025 after completing his term.

Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, has been elected as the new Chair following a vote by NFCC members.

The election results were ratified by the NFCC Board of Trustees on 4 October.

Garrigan will officially take over in April 2025.

He brings extensive experience from his time in Merseyside, where he has focused on community risk reduction and youth engagement.

Garrigan currently serves as the NFCC Vice Chair and is involved in national-level fire and rescue operations.

Firefighter from Tyne and Wear wins gold at World Firefighters Games

by Featured NewsPeople

Tyne and Wear firefighter triumphs at international event

As reported by Tyne & Wear Fire and Rescue, Vicky Haswell, a firefighter from Sunderland, recently returned from the 15th World Firefighters Games in Aalborg, Denmark, with three gold medals.

Haswell, who has served with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) for over 22 years, secured victories in the 400m, 800m, and javelin events.

She is part of the team at Rainton Bridge Community Fire Station and also represents Sunderland Harriers Athletic Club, a club she has been associated with for over 30 years.

Speaking of her success, Haswell said: “I was really proud to wear the colours of the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s sporting team during the World Firefighters Games.”

Vicky Haswell’s sports achievements

Vicky Haswell’s career as a firefighter spans across various stations, including Washington, Sunderland Central, and Farringdon.

She remains active in competitive athletics, and her recent success in Denmark is not her first at international events.

Haswell has previously competed in the World Masters Championships for the GB over-35 team in 2017, and in 2019 at the European Masters Championships in Italy.

Her passion for sport extends beyond her personal achievements.

Haswell highlighted the importance of athletics in fostering friendships and said: “Sport plays such an important role in my life and is something that brings so many people closer together from different clubs, organisations, and other blue light services.”

Support from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue

The TWFRS Sports and Welfare team supported Haswell’s journey to Denmark with a small grant that helped cover her travel expenses.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Stewart Nicholson praised her achievements, saying: “What an amazing achievement by Vicky to bring home three gold medals to Tyne & Wear.

“We value sports and welfare across the Service and encourage our colleagues to pursue team and individual participation.”

The service regularly supports its personnel in engaging with sports activities, recognising their role in promoting well-being within the workforce.

Nicholson added: “Vicky’s hard work and dedication is testament to her desire to do well when representing the Service and Tyne & Wear as a whole.”

Preparing for future competitions

Vicky Haswell’s athletic journey is set to continue as she prepares for the next World Firefighters Games, which will take place in Saudi Arabia in two years.

She will once again represent Tyne and Wear at the international event, continuing her involvement in competitive athletics.

Her son William, also a keen runner, follows in her footsteps.

In recent years, he raised over £2,000 for the Fire Fighters Charity by running two miles a day for a month after the COVID pandemic.

Haswell’s sporting inspirations include prominent figures like Dame Kelly Holmes and Keely Hodgkinson.

Firefighter from Tyne and Wear wins gold at World Firefighters Games: Summary

Vicky Haswell, a firefighter from Tyne and Wear, secured three gold medals in the 15th World Firefighters Games in Denmark.

She won in the 400m, 800m, and javelin events while representing the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS).

Haswell has served with TWFRS for over 22 years and is an active member of Sunderland Harriers Athletic Club.

Supported by a grant from TWFRS, she competed internationally and is preparing for the next World Firefighters Games in Saudi Arabia.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Stewart Nicholson praised Haswell for her dedication and success.

Emergency One announces new Managing Director for UK operations

by Breaking NewsPeopleVehicles

Leadership transition at Emergency One

Emergency One, the UK’s primary manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles, has announced a leadership transition.

Steven Bell has been appointed as Managing Director, effective from October 1, 2024.

This appointment comes after Mike Madsen stepped down from his role as Managing Director following 17 years of leadership.

Madsen will now serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors, continuing his long-standing association with the company.

As reported by Emergency One, Madsen had been with the company for nearly 30 years, beginning as an engineer in 1996 before assuming the role of Managing Director in 2007.

Under his leadership, the company has expanded its reach, supplying over 90% of the UK’s fire and rescue services while also making significant strides in international markets.

Reflections from Madsen on his tenure

Madsen expressed his thoughts on stepping down from his role: “For me, stepping down as Managing Director is a major life change, but the time is right for both the company and myself.”

He shared his pride in Emergency One’s achievements and expressed confidence in Steven Bell’s ability to continue the company’s success.

“I’ll remain fully supportive in my new role as Chairman and will be available to help guide the company in any way I can,” he added.

Madsen’s tenure has been marked by the company’s growth and strategic expansion both domestically and internationally.

His shift to the role of Chairman will allow him to continue offering guidance and support to the organisation during its next phase of development.

Steven Bell’s vision for the future

Steven Bell, who joined Emergency One in 2012 following the acquisition of Clan Tools, became a Director in 2019.

He brings extensive experience from both the fire and rescue services and Emergency One’s internal operations.

As the newly appointed Managing Director, Steven aims to build on the company’s established foundation and lead the next phase of its growth.

Steven stated: “I am honoured to step into the role of Managing Director and to continue the legacy that Mike has built.”

He also highlighted his enthusiasm for working with the company’s employees, partners, and customers as he takes on this leadership role.

Continued focus on innovation in fire and rescue solutions

Emergency One remains dedicated to offering advanced solutions for the fire and rescue sector.

Under Steven Bell’s leadership, the company will continue its focus on innovation, ensuring it maintains its leading position within the industry.

Steven Bell’s new role as Managing Director is expected to further strengthen the company’s offerings and drive its success in both UK and international markets.

His extensive background in the sector positions him to carry forward the company’s commitment to high-quality, cutting-edge fire and rescue solutions.

Emergency One announces new Managing Director for UK operations: Summary

Emergency One, a leading UK manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles, has appointed Steven Bell as Managing Director, effective October 1, 2024.

Mike Madsen, the outgoing Managing Director, is stepping down after 17 years but will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board.

Madsen has been part of Emergency One for nearly three decades, overseeing the company’s expansion within the UK and internationally.

Steven Bell, who joined Emergency One in 2012, takes over with extensive experience in the fire and rescue sector.

Emergency One continues to focus on innovation and growth under the new leadership.