Prosol UK fire blanket passes new EV fire safety standard

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Fire Cloak passes DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 test in UK

Prosol UK has reported that its Fire Cloak EV fire limitation blanket has passed all requirements of the DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 testing framework.

The company said the DIN standard was published in Germany in November 2024 and is the first regulated specification focused on fire blankets for electric vehicles.

According to Prosol UK, the certification confirms that Fire Cloak has met detailed requirements for loop strap design, flame resistance, strength testing, and thermal resistance up to 1,000°C.

The company stated that it has advocated for the creation of such a standard and welcomed the chance to test its product against the defined benchmarks.

DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 standard requirements

Prosol UK explained that the DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 introduces strict criteria for the design, performance and usability of fire blankets intended for EV incidents.

According to the company, requirements include clearly marked loop straps, mechanical stability testing, centreline identification, and performance validation at high temperatures.

The standard also requires fire blankets to be PFAS-free, include batch tracking and be usable on wet or dry vehicles by no more than two people within 30 seconds.

It stated that certification must include documented and visual evidence of all test outcomes and expert opinions confirming product suitability for EV use.

Fire Cloak tested in multiple fire resistance scenarios

The company noted that it had already conducted various third-party fire resistance tests prior to the DIN standard’s release.

Prosol UK listed several tests in which the Fire Cloak passed, including BS 476 Parts 6 and 7 (achieving Class 0), ASTM D6413, NFPA 701, and FMVSS 302.

It added that the Fire Cloak withstood 1,000°C for 90 minutes during an indicative furnace test based on BS476 Part 22 and achieved A2, s1, d0 under EN ISO 13501-1:2018.

Standard aims to improve safety in EV fire situations

According to Prosol UK, the purpose of DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 is to provide assurance to responders, technicians and the public when dealing with lithium-ion battery incidents.

The company said that standardised testing helps build trust in product performance and improves the quality of emergency tools available on the market.

It also stated that it will continue to work with safety experts and regulators to share knowledge and improve safety outcomes in EV-related fire incidents.

Fire blanket passes DIN SPEC 91489 testing for EV fire safety: Summary

Prosol UK announced its Fire Cloak EV fire blanket has passed DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11.

The DIN standard is the first regulated test for EV fire blankets.

It includes strict requirements for strap placement, flame resistance, strength, and usability.

Fire Cloak met all criteria, including thermal resistance up to 1,000°C.

Tests include EN ISO 13501-1, FMVSS 302, and BS476 Part 22.

Prosol UK conducted additional third-party testing prior to certification.

DIN approval requires physical testing and documentation of all results.

The company stated it supports efforts to improve safety in lithium-ion battery fires.

DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 was developed in Germany and released in November 2024.

Prosol UK confirmed it will continue engaging with regulators and industry experts.

Mayplas Thermafire A2 Soffit achieves A2 fire classification

by Featured NewsPassiveProducts

New soffit product meets UK fire safety standard

Mayplas has announced that its recently launched Thermafire A2 Soffit has achieved an A2-s1,d0 Reaction to Fire classification under BS EN 13501-1.

The company stated that the slab, designed to provide both thermal and acoustic insulation, is suitable for use within the soffit at the party wall junction and other areas of construction.

According to Mayplas, the product was introduced in March 2025 and has now been confirmed to meet the A2 classification for limited combustibility.

Insulation performance supports UK building regulations

The company said the Thermafire A2 Soffit is available in various densities and in both 100mm and 150mm thicknesses.

It added that these options allow flexibility in meeting thermal performance requirements set out in Approved Document L.

Mayplas noted that the product is compatible with both masonry and timber frame constructions.

Acoustic properties and installation features

Mayplas reported that the product also addresses sound transmission in line with Approved Document E.

According to the company, standard 600mm x 600mm slabs can be cut on site to fit soffit voids.

It explained that the soffit can be secured to timber trusses or masonry blocks using the correct fixings, which Mayplas is able to supply.

Fire performance and market application

Michael Hunter, Technical Director at Mayplas, said the classification supports wider use in construction: “Achieving an A2-s1, d0 Reaction to Fire classification for our Thermafire soffit product is proving very useful.

“The test results open up new applications which we look forward to exploring with our housebuilder customers and with the construction industry more broadly.”

Mayplas stated that the foil facing of the product acts as a vapour barrier and prevents fibre migration.

The company confirmed the product is suitable for timber-based substrates and can be used with or without a cavity.

Mayplas Thermafire A2 Soffit achieves A2 fire classification: Summary

Mayplas has launched the Thermafire A2 Soffit.

The product was released in March 2025.

The company has confirmed that it has achieved A2-s1,d0 classification under BS EN 13501-1.

Mayplas stated the soffit provides thermal and acoustic insulation at party wall junctions.

It is available in multiple densities and in thicknesses of 100mm and 150mm.

The company said the product complies with Approved Documents L and E.

Slabs can be cut to size on site to fit soffit voids.

The product is foil faced to create a vapour barrier and stop fibre migration.

It can be used with masonry and timber frame builds.

Mayplas is based in Bury, Greater Manchester.

It is a member of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection and the Structural Timber Association.

Class A2 fire rated vapour control system launched by Glidevale Protect

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsPassiveProductsSafety

Internal air and vapour control product targets UK high-rise market

Glidevale Protect has launched a Class A2 fire rated internal air and vapour control layer for use in internal walls, ceilings, and floors.

According to Glidevale Protect, the new Protect FrameFoil FR membrane and complementary Protect FR Foil sealing tape are designed to be used alongside its existing FrameSafe FR external breather membranes.

The company stated that the new system provides a fire rated, airtight, and thermally efficient solution for both residential and commercial buildings, especially those over 11 metres in height and covered by the Building Safety Act in the United Kingdom.

Designed for use across construction types

Glidevale Protect explained that the Protect FrameFoil FR system is suitable for internal application in steel, masonry, and timber-framed buildings.

It added that the system has been independently fire tested both as a free-hanging membrane and in application over A1 and A2 substrates, achieving a Class A2-s1, d0 reaction to fire rating.

According to the company, this rating exceeds the requirements of Building Regulations Approved Document B in England and Technical Guidance Document B in Ireland.

Contributes to thermal performance and airtightness

The company stated that Protect FrameFoil FR features a woven glass fibre construction with an aluminium foil surface.

Glidevale Protect reported that the membrane delivers an aged thermal resistance (R-value) of 0.64 m²K/W when used facing into a still air cavity.

It said this helps enhance thermal efficiency and overall building energy performance.

Product aimed at compliance and offsite efficiency

Glidevale Protect highlighted that the system is intended for use across traditional and offsite construction methods.

John Mellor, Head of Marketing at Glidevale Protect, said: “FrameFoil FR is another exciting addition to our fire rated solution offering, designed to meet the increasing demands of regulatory compliance and building performance as well as helping to deliver airtightness, vapour control and thermal efficiency.”

He continued: “Combined with our Class A2 fire rated external wall membranes, we can provide specifiers, contractors, and developers with a fully independently fire tested wall membrane system solution.”

Mellor added: “This can be installed across all development heights, helping to build healthy solutions with fire rated materials that can provide added reassurance for specification.”

Class A2 fire rated vapour control system launched by Glidevale Protect: Summary

Glidevale Protect has launched a new Class A2 fire rated internal air and vapour control layer called Protect FrameFoil FR.

The product is designed for internal walls, ceilings, and floors in multi-occupancy buildings.

It is intended for use in steel, masonry, and timber-framed structures.

Glidevale Protect has also introduced Protect FR Foil tape to seal membrane laps.

The system has achieved a Class A2-s1, d0 fire rating.

Fire tests were conducted with both free-hanging membranes and fixed system applications.

The company stated that this rating exceeds UK and Irish building regulation requirements.

The system includes a woven glass fibre structure and an aluminium foil surface.

It delivers an aged thermal resistance of 0.64 m²K/W.

It is designed to support airtightness and improve energy efficiency.

Glidevale Protect developed the solution for both offsite and traditional construction.

The product is aimed at supporting compliance with the Building Safety Act in the UK.

It is targeted for use in projects over 11 metres in height.

The product is part of a wider system including external wall membranes.

Glidevale Protect said it allows full wall membrane system specification with fire rated components.

REV Group opens registration for 2025 emergency vehicle training event

by EventsFeatured NewsTrainingVehicles

Registration opens for Fire Truck Training Conference in the United States

REV Group has announced that registration is now open for its 2025 Fire Truck Training Conference (FTTC), scheduled to take place from 21 to 26 September at the Lansing Center in Lansing, Michigan.

According to REV Group, the FTTC is one of the largest combined symposiums in the United States focused on training and certifying emergency vehicle technicians who maintain fire apparatus and ambulances.

The company confirmed that over 400 participants from the United States, Canada and Latin America are expected to attend the event, which will include new training content in fleet management, leadership and ambulance maintenance.

REV Fire Group expands training scope with new 2025 sessions

REV Fire Group, a division of REV Group, reported that this year’s event will build on the previous format by expanding hands-on courses beyond fire trucks to include ambulance-specific maintenance and operations.

The company stated that more than 50 technical courses will be offered, covering brake systems, roll-up doors, electrical components, pressure governors and pumps.

Component classes will also allow attendees to consult directly with suppliers on troubleshooting and repair techniques.

Awards and certifications to be featured at the 2025 conference

REV Group stated that the FTTC event also provides a platform to recognise the work of emergency vehicle technicians through two awards.

The William F. Foster Award, named after the event’s founder who passed away earlier this year, will be presented.

In addition, Firehouse Magazine’s Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) of the Year Award will be given to a technician selected by a panel of EVTs and fire chiefs.

The company added that attendees will have two opportunities during the week to sit for their EVT certification exams.

Event background and sponsorship confirmed by organisers

According to REV Group, the FTTC was originally established by Spartan Fire Chassis in the 1990s.

It is now sponsored by manufacturers within the REV Specialty Vehicles Segment, including Spartan Fire Chassis, E-ONE, KME, Ferrara, Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal, Ladder Tower, AEV, Horton, Leader, Road Rescue and Wheeled Coach, as well as other industry suppliers.

Chris McClung, vice president of REV Fire Group, said: “We are proud to host this important industry-wide event that was founded on the principle that keeping fire apparatus and ambulances up and running, regardless of the manufacturer or brand, is important to protect all our communities.”

REV Group opens registration for 2025 emergency vehicle training event: Summary

REV Group has opened registration for the 2025 Fire Truck Training Conference.

The event will take place from 21 to 26 September in Lansing, Michigan.

It is expected to host over 400 participants from North and Latin America.

The conference includes training on both fire trucks and ambulances.

New sessions include Fleet Management, Leadership and Ambulance Maintenance.

More than 50 technical courses will be available during the event.

Attendees can consult directly with suppliers in dedicated Component Classes.

Two awards will be presented: the William F. Foster Award and EVT of the Year.

Firehouse Magazine oversees the selection of the EVT of the Year.

Two opportunities to complete EVT certification exams will be available.

The conference was founded by Spartan Fire Chassis in the 1990s.

It is now sponsored by REV Specialty Vehicles and other suppliers.

Early registration discounts run from 1 May to 30 June.

More information is available at http://firetrucktraining.com.

Online fire stopping selector launched by FSi Promat to support installers

by Featured NewsProducts

FSi Promat develops Quick Selector tool for easier fire stopping compliance

FSi Promat has released a new online tool designed to help installers quickly identify appropriate fire stopping products.

According to FSi Promat, the tool, called Quick Selector, offers fast access to technical data to support accurate product selection and installation in line with fire safety regulations.

The digital tool is aimed at helping installers identify products suitable for reinstating compartmentation. It includes details on test standards, product performance, and relevant third-party documentation to support compliant use.

Tool provides searchable technical database with visual guidance

The Quick Selector functions as a searchable database of installation guidance and product information.

Users can search by product, application type or standard detail, including uses in flexible, rigid and load bearing walls. Each entry includes illustrations and installation descriptions.

Additional documentation such as technical data sheets, safety data sheets and declarations of performance are also accessible directly from the platform via embedded links.

Designed to support traceability and the golden thread of information

The company stated that the tool aligns with the broader need for traceability in construction and supports the golden thread of information referenced in UK building safety legislation.

Emma Taylor, Marketing Manager at FSi Promat, said: “Having easy access to tested solutions – and being able to search this – will support installers in ensuring fire stopping is being used in the correct way and has certification that supports use in a wide range of scenarios.”

She added: “This also supports the need for ease of access to information in line with the traceability needed to support the golden thread of information.”

Coverage applies to majority of installation scenarios

FSi Promat reported that the new tool is expected to meet the needs of most common fire stopping projects.

Taylor said: “While there are countless scenarios in which fire stopping may be required, the tool provides comprehensive access to data and will meet around 90 per cent of project demands, while FSi Promat will be able to offer support for projects that fall outside of that scope.”

She also noted: “We are keen to support installers wherever we can, and we believe this will be an asset to installers looking for up-to-date, reliable data to ensure installation is in line with the tested solution.”

Online fire stopping selector launched by FSi Promat to support installers: Summary

FSi Promat has launched a web-based tool called Quick Selector to support installers in selecting fire stopping products.

The tool provides searchable access to test standards, application details and supporting documentation. It includes illustrations and descriptions of correct installation for various wall types.

All associated documents such as technical data sheets and declarations of performance are also available through embedded links.

FSi Promat stated that the tool will support around 90 per cent of installation scenarios. The company will offer additional guidance for cases outside the scope of the tool.

Emma Taylor of FSi Promat said the tool improves access to tested and certified fire stopping information and supports traceability in line with building safety requirements in the UK.

Fomtec Enviro MIL approved by US Navy for fluorine-free fire foam standard

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsFire Suppression

US Navy confirms approval of Fomtec Enviro MIL under MIL-PRF-32725(2)

Dafo Fomtec AB has received documentation from the United States Department of the Navy confirming that its fluorine-free foam concentrate, Enviro MIL, meets the requirements of type 3 under the MIL-PRF-32725(2) specification.

The update was received on 1 April and certifies that Enviro MIL conforms to the standard for fluorine-free fire extinguishing agents intended for land-based, freshwater applications.

Fomtec stated that Enviro MIL will be added to the Qualified Products List QPL-32725.

The foam will be available in 5, 55 and 265 US gallon containers once the list is officially updated.

Fomtec maintains supply of AFFF foam under legacy US military standard

While expanding its fluorine-free product line, Fomtec confirmed it continues to produce and distribute aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) concentrates that meet the older MIL-PRF-84385F specification.

Fomtec said that its AFFF 3M is fully compatible with other concentrates made to the same US military standard.

This compatibility allows users to mix and use the foam with other approved brands without affecting performance.

Fomtec added that it will continue supplying its high performance PFAS-containing foams as long as it is legally permitted to do so.

Product availability for both freshwater and saltwater users

Fomtec noted that the fluorine-free Enviro MIL foam is formulated for use in land-based, freshwater scenarios.

For end users operating in saltwater environments, or those not yet able to switch to fluorine-free solutions, Fomtec will continue providing legacy AFFF products to meet operational needs.

The company said this dual offering ensures availability for a wide range of fire suppression scenarios, depending on specific site requirements and legal regulations.

Contact information for MIL-SPEC foam enquiries

Fomtec invited interested parties with specific requirements related to MIL-SPEC foam concentrates to make direct contact for more information.

The company advised that all product-related queries, including requests for Enviro MIL and AFFF foam concentrates, can be directed to: info@fomtec.com.

Fomtec Enviro MIL approved by US Navy for fluorine-free fire foam standard: Summary

On 1 April, Dafo Fomtec AB received confirmation from the US Department of the Navy that its Enviro MIL fluorine-free foam concentrate complies with type 3 of MIL-PRF-32725(2), applicable to land-based, freshwater fire suppression.

The Qualified Products List QPL-32725 will be updated to reflect this approval and will list Enviro MIL in 5, 55 and 265 gallon sizes.

Fomtec also confirmed it continues to manufacture AFFF 3M to MIL-PRF-84385F standard.

The company stated that AFFF 3M remains fully compatible with other concentrates certified to the same specification.

Production and supply of PFAS-based foam concentrates will continue while legally permitted.

The announcement said that Enviro MIL is intended for freshwater use, while legacy AFFF products remain available for users operating in saltwater environments or not ready to transition.

For enquiries related to MIL-SPEC foams, contact can be made via info@fomtec.com.

MOBOTIX thermal cameras gain extended RIPCI approval for fire detection in Spain

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Extended RIPCI approval for MOBOTIX thermal systems in Spain

MOBOTIX has received an expanded “Technical Evaluation of Suitability” (Evaluación Técnica de Idoneidad) from Applus, a certification body recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Industry.

According to MOBOTIX, the approval is part of Spain’s Fire Protection Systems Regulation (Reglamento de Instalaciones de Protección Contra Incendios / RIPCI) and now includes additional hardware beyond the company’s existing certified thermal sensors.

The extension covers new interface boxes — the Mx-4IOA-Box and Mx-NPAA-Box — as well as the full range of M73 Thermal Radiometry (TR) sensors.

New certification supports broader project applications

MOBOTIX stated that the expanded RIPCI certification enables broader use of its systems in large-scale or complex fire protection environments.

Christian Cabirol, CTO of MOBOTIX AG, said: “With this extended certification, we are underlining our innovative strength and our strong position in the Spanish market.”

He added: “Our technology proves its strength precisely where conventional fire alarm systems reach their limits — for example in extensive outdoor areas or large halls.”

System integration and performance confirmed

The certification confirms that MOBOTIX thermal cameras can be integrated with existing fire alarm systems, and that they comply with insurance requirements and building codes.

Each thermal sensor can support up to 20 detection zones, which MOBOTIX said allows for precise configuration to match individual fire risks.

The systems are designed to detect temperature anomalies before visible smoke or flames appear.

Market drivers include regulatory and insurance standards

According to MOBOTIX, increasing regulatory demands and expectations from insurers are contributing to market growth for thermal detection systems.

The company referenced market forecasts predicting global fire protection spending could reach USD 150 billion by 2030.

Thomas Lausten, CEO of MOBOTIX AG, said: “Our certificates and the continuous expansion of our portfolio are proof of our commitment to always being one step ahead.”

He added: “In a fire, every second counts. Our mission is to help our customers protect lives and property — with technologies that are reliable and forward-looking.”

MOBOTIX thermal cameras gain extended RIPCI approval for fire detection in Spain: Summary

MOBOTIX has received expanded certification under Spain’s Fire Protection Systems Regulation (RIPCI), issued by Applus and recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Industry.

The certification covers the company’s new Mx-4IOA-Box, Mx-NPAA-Box, and all M73 Thermal Radiometry sensors.

The RIPCI certification confirms compliance with Spanish fire safety standards and allows integration into existing fire alarm infrastructure.

Each thermal sensor supports up to 20 configurable detection zones.

MOBOTIX stated that the updated approval supports its presence in complex applications such as outdoor areas and large industrial spaces.

The company said that increasing demand for fire detection systems is driven by regulations and insurance requirements, and that the global fire protection market may reach USD 150 billion by 2030.

Ci Global launches safety smart sockets to tackle electrical fire risks

by Featured NewsProductsSafety

UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia approve Ci Global’s safety smart sockets

Ci Global has announced the launch of its first safety smart sockets, Ci One and Ci Max.

These patented devices are designed to detect overheating electrical faults and automatically cut power before a fire can start.

The sockets are fully certified for use in the UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, with further approvals expected in other markets.

The development follows concerns over electrical faults being a leading cause of residential and commercial fires worldwide.

Anthony Parfitt, Founder and Chairman of Ci Global, developed the technology following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.

Parfitt said: “If this technology had been in place at Grenfell, the fire could have been stopped before it started. No other socket can claim to prevent fires in this way.”

Fire prevention beyond legislative measures

The UK government has introduced new building safety reforms in response to the Grenfell Inquiry.

However, Parfitt argues that these measures focus on accountability rather than prevention.

“The new regulations are an important step forward, but they focus on accountability after the risks have already been built into homes,” said Parfitt.

“True prevention means stopping electrical fires before they start, not just managing their aftermath.”

Ci Global is advocating for changes in fire safety legislation to include preventive measures like smart sockets in all buildings.

Addressing electrical fire risks at the source

Electrical faults remain a persistent fire risk, particularly due to overloaded sockets, faulty chargers, and substandard electrical devices.

These issues can lead to fires while residents are asleep, making early intervention critical.

“To stop electrical fires, we need to prevent them at the source,” said Parfitt.

“The Ci smart safety socket is designed to do just that – stop electrical fires before they can even start.”

The safety smart sockets have built-in thermal monitoring technology, allowing real-time detection of overheating. This system automatically shuts off power to prevent ignition.

Expanding safety features beyond fire prevention

Ci One and Ci Max provide additional safety features beyond fire prevention.

The sockets can detect hazards such as water leaks, mould, gas leaks, and even seismic activity.

The technology also reduces energy consumption by powering down standby devices when not in use.

A proof-of-concept trial was conducted at a seven-story high-rise in London, demonstrating the socket’s capabilities to industry stakeholders, including global property developers and insurance representatives.

Ci Global has committed a portion of future profits to installing smart sockets in UK social housing and is seeking government support for wider adoption.

Ci Global launches safety smart sockets to tackle electrical fire risks: Summary

Ci Global has introduced its first safety smart sockets, Ci One and Ci Max, designed to prevent electrical fires by detecting overheating and cutting power before a fire starts.

The sockets are certified for use in the UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, with additional approvals expected.

Founder Anthony Parfitt developed the technology following the Grenfell Tower fire and is advocating for fire prevention measures beyond current legislation.

Ci Global is seeking government support to install smart sockets in social housing.

The sockets also detect additional hazards, including water leaks, gas leaks, and seismic activity.

A London high-rise trial demonstrated their effectiveness, attracting interest from industry professionals.

The company has pledged future profits toward expanding access to the technology.

Switlik Survival Products introduces Tac-X Tactical Air Crew Vest for helicopter operators

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsPPEProductsSearch and Rescue

Switlik Survival Products introduces new flotation vest

Switlik Survival Products has announced the launch of the Tac-X Tactical Air Crew Vest, a flotation system designed for helicopter pilots and technical crews.

The vest is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and incorporates ergonomic and durable features to support a range of missions.

The Tac-X is based on Switlik’s X-Back design, which is already in use by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).

This version is FAA-approved and offers similar features to the USCG Aviation Aircrew Life Vest.

Key features of the Tac-X vest

The Tac-X is manufactured in the United States using flame-resistant 1000 Denier FR Nylon.

It is MOLLE-compatible and includes COBRA® hardware to enhance adaptability for different operational needs.

The vest features a twin-chamber inflatable flotation system providing over 35 lbs of buoyancy.

It is designed with a lightweight, low-profile structure to reduce interference with helmets.

Additional safety features include a built-in locator light, an emergency whistle, and two oral inflation tubes.

The dual-opening zipper and integrated grab handle support rescue operations.

Designed for multiple mission types

The Tac-X vest is built for various rotary wing operations, including law enforcement, military, search and rescue, and firefighting.

It is also suited for border patrol, wildlife service, utilities, and aerial photography.

The vest is intended to improve safety and efficiency for helicopter operators working in demanding conditions.

Its modular design allows for customisation based on mission requirements.

Switlik Survival Products’ focus on aviation safety

Switlik Survival Products stated that the Tac-X is part of its commitment to advancing safety for aviation personnel.

The company’s Vice President of Sales, Anthony Florio, said: “Switlik is honored to contribute to aviation safety with our next-generation X-Back design, which was tested and qualified by the U.S. Coast Guard.”

He added: “The Tac-X combines these advancements with FAA-approved flotation capabilities, offering rotary wing operators unparalleled protection and comfort.”

FAA-approved Tac-X vest launched for helicopter air crews: Summary

Switlik Survival Products has introduced the Tac-X Tactical Air Crew Vest, an FAA-approved flotation system designed for helicopter pilots and technical crews.

The vest features the company’s X-Back design, which is already in use by the US Coast Guard.

The Tac-X is constructed from flame-resistant 1000 Denier FR Nylon, is MOLLE-compatible, and includes COBRA® hardware.

It provides over 35 lbs of buoyancy through a twin-chamber inflatable system.

Other features include a built-in locator light, an emergency whistle, two oral inflation tubes, a dual-opening zipper, and an integrated grab handle.

The vest is designed for use across multiple sectors, including law enforcement, military, search and rescue, border patrol, and aerial photography.

Switlik Survival Products stated that the Tac-X combines safety and comfort for rotary wing operators.

Anthony Florio, Vice President of Sales, said the vest builds on the company’s work with the US Coast Guard while providing an FAA-approved flotation option for helicopter crews.

New lightweight LU-REQON1 device enhances visual intelligence for public safety teams from LiveU

by Featured NewsProductsSafety

LiveU launches portable tactical video encoder for mission-critical operations

According to LiveU, the LU-REQON1 tactical video encoder was launched on 4 December 2024.

The lightweight device, weighing less than 2 lbs, is designed for real-time video and data transmission in public safety and law enforcement operations.

The encoder can transmit video from various IP sources, including cameras, drones, and unmanned ground vehicles, to command centres, field responders, and smart devices.

It enables high-quality visual intelligence sharing to create a comprehensive Common Operating Picture for tactical missions.

Joseph Yaker, Director of Public Sector at LiveU, said: “Real-time video intelligence backed by LiveU’s groundbreaking bonding technology has transformed the way public safety professionals conduct their operations by improving mission performance, safety, and outcomes.”

Key features of LU-REQON1 include bonded IP connectivity

The LU-REQON1 integrates seamlessly with existing video management systems and UAV fleets.

Its bonded IP and cellular connectivity ensure secure and reliable transmissions, even in challenging environments such as congested urban areas or remote rural locations.

The device uses LiveU Reliable Transport (LRT™), an IP protocol that bonds up to six IP connections to maintain resilience.

It supports IP and HDMI video inputs and can serve as a DataBridge, providing bonded hotspot data connectivity for tasks like large file transfers and mapping.

Kevin Cresswell, International Defence & Security Expert, highlighted the device’s role in enhancing operational effectiveness: “The LU-REQON1 securely shares high-quality visual intelligence with team members, no matter their location, allowing experts to remotely assess any situation, improving situational awareness in complex operations.”

LU-REQON1 supports diverse mission scenarios

Designed for applications including overwatch, ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), search and rescue, and decontamination operations, the LU-REQON1 provides rapid deployment capabilities.

It helps first responders access critical visual data to improve coordination and decision-making.

The encoder is part of LiveU’s broader Situational Awareness Solution, which offers agencies a turnkey package to upgrade their visual intelligence infrastructure.

This includes tools for sharing live feeds, controlling PTZ cameras remotely, and maintaining reliable connectivity.

LiveU expands accessibility with situational awareness package

The LiveU Situational Awareness Solution simplifies implementation by bundling essential components for enhancing video intelligence.

This package aims to help agencies fast-track their upgrades and improve their operational capabilities.

The solution enables secure live feed sharing across agencies and teams, allowing organisations to adapt quickly to mission demands.

LiveU emphasises the value of this system for improving outcomes in public safety and emergency response scenarios.

LiveU introduces LU-REQON1 tactical video encoder for public safety applications: summary

LiveU’s LU-REQON1 tactical video encoder is a lightweight, portable device designed for transmitting real-time video and data in public safety and law enforcement operations.

The unit features bonded IP connectivity, enabling resilient communication in congested or remote areas.

It integrates with existing infrastructure and supports a range of mission scenarios.

Part of LiveU’s Situational Awareness Solution, the LU-REQON1 helps agencies enhance their visual intelligence capabilities for improved situational awareness and operational efficiency.