Siemens releases whitepaper on digital revolution in fire safety

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Challenges of traditional fire safety systems

Siemens has published a whitepaper titled “Digital Revolution in Fire Safety,” highlighting the transformative potential of digital technologies in addressing the limitations of traditional fire safety systems.

The whitepaper outlines the current challenges faced by traditional fire safety systems, which include high false alarm rates and the need for continuous updates to keep up with modern building demands.

The whitepaper notes that false alarms make up between 83% and 99% of all fire alarms in countries like Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, and Austria.

These false alarms cause significant disruptions, including unnecessary evacuations and the deployment of emergency services.

Siemens points out that traditional systems often rely on outdated technology and require manual maintenance, which can lead to inefficiencies and increased risks.

Benefits of integrating digital fire safety systems

Siemens’ whitepaper emphasizes the benefits of integrating digital fire safety systems with smart building technologies.

It explains how smart buildings utilize Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance fire safety.

These technologies enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and the reduction of false alarms.

The integration of digital systems allows for remote troubleshooting and maintenance, reducing downtime and optimizing the use of personnel.

The whitepaper also discusses how digital fire safety systems contribute to sustainability by reducing CO2 emissions through efficient resource management and minimizing unnecessary on-site visits by technicians.

Future trends in fire safety technology

The whitepaper provides insights into future trends in fire safety technology.

Siemens envisions a future where buildings are equipped with advanced sensors and AI algorithms that can predict and respond to potential fire hazards before they escalate.

The whitepaper also highlights the importance of cybersecurity in digital fire safety systems, ensuring that these systems are protected against potential cyber-attacks.

Siemens concludes that digital fire safety systems are not just an option but a necessity for modern buildings.

These systems offer enhanced safety, compliance, and efficiency, making them a critical component of future building management.

Strategies for leveraging digital transformation in fire safety

The whitepaper offers strategies for building owners and facilities managers to leverage digital transformation in fire safety.

It suggests implementing smart building technologies that integrate fire safety systems with other building management systems.

This integration enables coordinated responses to emergencies and improves overall building efficiency.

Siemens also recommends adopting cloud-based platforms for centralized monitoring and control of fire safety systems.

These platforms provide building operators with real-time data and analytics, allowing for informed decision-making and proactive maintenance.

NEBOSH survey shows high recommendation for process safety qualification

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

Positive feedback for NEBOSH HSE process safety management certificate

A recent survey by NEBOSH found that 97% of learners would recommend the NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management.

This qualification, developed in collaboration with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), aims to enhance understanding and mitigate health and safety risks in the process industries.

As reported by NEBOSH, the qualification offers a broad understanding of the principles and practices essential for controlling process safety hazards.

Originally launched in 2018, the certificate has been updated for 2024.

Feedback from existing holders indicates high satisfaction, with nine in ten rating it as excellent or good.

Testimonials highlight career impact

Nicola Curtis, Head of Health and Safety at Biffa, shared her experience with the qualification: “When I moved into waste management, process safety became a bigger part of my role, as I was leading a health and safety team supporting the build and management of Energy for Waste (EfW) plants.”

Curtis added: “The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management definitely enhanced my career.

“I started to look at safety at my facilities differently and made it my mission to increase everyone else’s knowledge of process safety.

“It is integral to how my part of Biffa works, so this qualification had a huge impact for me and our operations – it was a win-win for all of us!”

Collaboration between NEBOSH and HSE

Chris Austin, Head of Training and Events at the Health and Safety Executive, commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to collaborate with NEBOSH on the evolution of the Process Safety Management certificate.

“We hope that by combining our strengths, the qualification will continue to significantly help improve understanding and further reduce health and safety risks in the process industries.”

The qualification, available through NEBOSH’s global network of Learning Partners, continues to be a critical resource for professionals seeking to enhance their process safety management skills.

IFSJ comment

The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management has received strong endorsements from learners and industry professionals alike.

With 97% of learners recommending the qualification and nine in ten rating it highly, its impact on improving process safety is evident.

The collaboration between NEBOSH and the Health and Safety Executive ensures the course content is both relevant and robust, addressing the latest industry standards and practices.

Nicola Curtis’s testimony underscores the practical benefits of the qualification in real-world settings, particularly in complex environments like waste management.

Her experience highlights how the certification can elevate safety standards and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Chris Austin’s remarks further affirm the importance of the partnership in developing a qualification that meets the needs of the industry.

The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management serves as a valuable tool for professionals aiming to enhance their knowledge and contribute to safer operational practices.

Rising concerns over e-bike and e-scooter fire risks prompt calls for regulatory reform

by Featured NewsSafety

New Home Office data highlights fire safety challenges with e-bikes and e-scooters

In response to newly released Home Office statistics revealing an increase in fires, fatalities, and injuries associated with e-bikes and e-scooters, leading safety authorities have expressed concern.

Phil Clark, Emerging Energy Technologies Lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), and Lesley Rudd, Chief Executive of Electrical Safety First (ESF), jointly emphasised the need for comprehensive regulatory updates to mitigate these risks.

According to the statement: “NFCC and Electrical Safety First have long been warning of the fire safety risks posed by poorly manufactured or converted e-bikes and e-scooter batteries, and have been calling for urgent regulatory and legislative changes to help keep people safe.

“Through raising awareness of these risks, we are now in a place whereby English fire and rescue services are capturing more of this information, and that will give us a clearer picture as to the scale of that risk.”

The call for enhanced safety standards and regulations

The officials noted that the current data, although conservative, suggests a significant underestimation of the problem.

Highlighting a specific example, they mentioned that “London Fire Brigade’s attendance at 179 incidents in 2023 alone” points to a larger issue.

The rapid advancement of technology, they argue, while beneficial for sustainable transportation, necessitates equally swift legislative and regulatory advancements to ensure consumer safety.

The risks associated with substandard battery and charger manufacturing practices can be severe, potentially resulting in life-threatening accidents.

The statement further outlined the critical need for multi-sectoral cooperation to address these challenges: “Tackling this worrying trend is going to take a multi-partner, multi-pronged approach.

“Industry must step up to the challenge, developing their own appropriate guidance and ensuring products are safe.”

Government’s role in ensuring product safety

The government’s involvement is deemed essential for the introduction of necessary legislative measures and product standards.

Clark and Rudd urged for the implementation of third-party safety certifications for e-bikes and e-scooters before they enter the market, akin to other high-risk products.

They also stressed the importance of regulations aimed at proper disposal methods to prevent battery-related fires in the waste industry.

Concluding their statement, they emphasised the importance of ongoing efforts to combat the sale of sub-standard products online and the use of potentially unsafe e-bike conversion kits by untrained individuals: “With an apparent increase in sub-standard products being sold online, and the emergence of e-bike conversion kits and modifications being undertaken by people without the necessary skills and knowledge, NFCC and Electrical Safety First will continue to work with partners to improve regulations and further raise public awareness in this area, aiming to reduce the risks and ultimately save lives.”

IFSJ Comment

The highlighted concerns and calls for action by NFCC and ESF bring to the forefront the critical need for robust safety measures and stringent regulatory oversight in the rapidly evolving market of e-bikes and e-scooters.

Their proactive approach not only aims to mitigate immediate fire risks but also to establish long-term safety protocols that could potentially save lives.

This issue underscores the importance of collaboration between industry leaders, government agencies, and safety organisations to enhance consumer protection and safety standards.

Lagos State implements new fire safety protocols in markets to prevent future incidents

by Featured NewsSafety

Overview of Lagos’ new safety measures

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has announced a comprehensive initiative to enhance fire safety in the state’s markets.

This action comes in the wake of a devastating fire at the Lagos Island Market.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been actively involved, conducting on-site assessments and directing immediate enhancements to safety protocols.

According to Ololade Agboola, Deputy Director of Public Affairs, the government will enforce stricter building controls and fire safety standards to safeguard public spaces.

Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, detailed the new safety strategies, which include the appointment of Fire Safety Marshals for all market buildings, mandatory fire extinguishers in each shop, and regular inspections of electrical installations.

The plan also calls for the enforcement of storage regulations and the installation of advanced fire detection and suppression technology to prevent future tragedies.

Government and community responses

In response to the frequent fire incidents, Governor Sanwo-Olu has issued directives for stricter compliance with building codes and more vigorous enforcement by the Ministry of Physical Planning and permit agencies.

His Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, conveyed the governor’s determination to address the root causes of these fires, emphasising the need for stricter controls and accountability: “The Physical Planning authorities are going to be having a difficult time with me over this incident. When I’m done with them, they will come on the streets.”

Additionally, the market’s Iyaloja, Alhaja Morufa Allison, recounted the incident, highlighting how the fire escalated due to illegally stored flammable materials.

She appealed to the government for support for those affected, stressing the need for aid to help recover from the losses incurred.

Continued efforts and educational campaigns

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has not only proposed new regulations but has also stepped up its educational efforts.

They have been actively engaging with the community to increase awareness and compliance with fire safety practices.

This proactive approach aims to empower shop owners and traders with the knowledge needed to prevent fires effectively.

Adeseye stressed the critical nature of these initiatives, citing the high incidence of fires in the area this year: “We have already witnessed 11 fire incidents this year, including market and shop fires, which highlight the urgent need for these enhanced safety measures.”

IFSJ Comment

The Lagos State government’s swift action to implement and enforce new fire safety measures in its markets is a commendable step towards mitigating the risk of future fire incidents.

These efforts reflect a broader commitment to public safety and community resilience, essential for protecting lives and livelihoods.

As markets are vital to the economic and social fabric of the city, maintaining stringent safety standards is crucial for their sustainable operation.

The focus on education and compliance ensures that both the authorities and the community are better prepared to handle fire emergencies, ultimately leading to a safer environment for all.

Barnet Council leads UK in massive cladding replacement initiative for housing safety

by Featured NewsSafety

Introduction to the project

Barnet Council has launched an ambitious plan to replace cladding on almost 600 houses within its jurisdiction, marking a significant step towards enhancing building safety standards.

This initiative, worth millions, is hailed as the first of its kind in the UK, aiming to address safety concerns highlighted by a serious house fire in the summer of 2023.

The fire revealed the rapid spread due to the UPVC cladding installed, prompting a thorough investigation by the council.

Investigation findings and actions taken

The investigation unearthed that the cladding, along with timber frame construction and fire stop issues, failed to meet the rigorous post-Grenfell building standards.

As a result, Barnet Council has reached out to all impacted homeowners with detailed plans for the cladding replacement.

This includes a £3.6 million scheme targeting 153 council-owned homes and offers a financial assistance package to 426 freeholders and seven leaseholders to facilitate the cladding replacement process.

National collaboration and financial support

Deputy Council Leader Cllr Ross Houston expressed concerns over the wider implications of this cladding issue, fearing similar risks across the UK.

The council is now engaging with other local authorities and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to devise a national strategy to assist homeowners grappling with the financial burden of replacing outdated cladding.

Houston stated: “The council will cover the cost for replacing cladding on its social housing stock but homeowners will unfortunately need to fund remediation for their own properties.”

Implications for the UK housing safety standards

The affected properties, constructed between the 1930s and 1960s, are primarily timber-framed terraced houses.

This incident has not only sparked a local response but also initiated a broader dialogue on national building safety standards.

The council’s proactive stance and collaborative effort with various stakeholders underscore the urgent need for a cohesive national approach to tackle the cladding crisis.

IFSJ Comment

The initiative by Barnet Council to replace hazardous cladding on nearly 600 houses is a commendable step towards ensuring the safety of its residents.

This project addresses the immediate risks associated with substandard cladding, setting a precedent for local and national authorities to reevaluate and enhance building safety regulations.

By sharing its findings and strategies with other councils and seeking to collaborate with higher government bodies, Barnet Council is spearheading efforts to mitigate a potentially widespread issue across the UK.

This approach highlights the importance of proactive measures and the need for comprehensive strategies to safeguard communities against similar safety hazards.

Sharjah Civil Defence initiates safety campaign in industrial areas

by Middle East - Breaking NewsSafety

Campaign launch for industrial safety compliance in Sharjah

Sharjah Civil Defence has initiated a focused campaign to ensure adherence to safety protocols in industrial facilities.

This campaign, a proactive effort to enhance safety in the industrial sector, commenced its first phase from February 1 to February 8.

Inspectors conducted thorough visits across all facilities located in industrial area 10.

During these inspections, they identified various safety violations and issued warnings to 180 establishments.

These entities were granted a 72-hour period to address and rectify the identified violations.

The violations noted by the inspectors ranged from improper storage practices and the construction of unlicensed housing to a general lack of safety standards.

Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the use of combustible chemicals and gases within these facilities.

Following this initial phase, the campaign is set to continue its efforts in industrial area 6.

Statements from Sharjah Civil Defence Authority

Brigadier Sami Khamis Al Naqbi, the Director-General of Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, elaborated on the campaign’s objectives: “We are committed to enhancing industrial safety and ensuring that all facilities comply with the established safety standards.

“Those establishments that have received warnings are required to visit civil defence service centres after rectifying the violations.”

This directive highlights the authority’s dedication to not only identifying issues but also ensuring they are adequately resolved.

Inspectors will conduct follow-up visits to these locations to verify that the necessary corrective actions have been taken.

Non-compliant companies risk facing legal consequences.

This stringent approach underlines Sharjah Civil Defence’s dedication to maintaining high safety standards across the industrial sector.

Recruitment and expansion plans

In tandem with this safety campaign, Sharjah Civil Defence is also undertaking significant recruitment and expansion initiatives.

Currently, they are in the process of recruiting 297 citizens for various roles, including firefighting and administrative positions.

From a pool of 350 applicants, these candidates will be chosen after comprehensive interviews and tests.

Additionally, 60 firefighters have recently completed their training in Abu Dhabi and joined Sharjah civil defence centres.

The upcoming months will witness the operational launch of two new fire stations, Al Nouf and Maliha, in the first half of 2024, while Al Siyouh fire station is scheduled to be operational by the following year.

The fleet enhancement will include the addition of new hazardous materials transport vehicles, eight first responder vehicles, and an array of new rescue devices and equipment.

Sharjah Civil Defence has also solidified its resource base by signing 13 contracts with nine suppliers.

These agreements, spanning three years, will facilitate the supply of 50 fire and rescue machinery, equipment, and marine parts.

IFSJ Comment

The Sharjah Civil Defence’s comprehensive campaign and expansion strategies reflect a robust commitment to public safety in industrial areas.

By conducting thorough inspections and enforcing stringent compliance measures, the authority demonstrates an unwavering resolve to prevent accidents and enhance overall safety standards.

Moreover, the recruitment of new personnel and the expansion of facilities and equipment underscore a forward-thinking approach to safeguarding the community.

These efforts are vital in creating a safer industrial environment and illustrate Sharjah Civil Defence’s role as a proactive and responsible entity in managing fire and safety risks.

BCGA publishes updated Code of Practice 50 for safe transport of gas cylinders

by Featured NewsSafety

New guidance for emergency services on gas cylinder transport by BCGA

The British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA), in collaboration with the Department for Transport, has released an updated version of Code of Practice 50, titled ‘The Carriage of Gas Cylinders On Vehicles’.

This revision is a thorough update of the previous document, Guidance Note 27, reflecting the latest legal and safety requirements.

Code of Practice 50 is now available for free download, offering comprehensive information on a range of critical aspects, including legal obligations, threshold quantity calculations, compliance with international carriage agreements, and guidelines for roadside inspections.

The updated code also encompasses details on gas-fueled vehicles, fuel labels, personal safety, and recommended actions in case of an incident.

This extensive revision demonstrates the BCGA’s ongoing commitment to safety and best practices in the carriage of gas cylinders.

Expert insights and legal alignment

Jake Lake, Technical Manager of the BCGA, highlighted the significance of the updated code: “Gas cylinders are commonly used and many thousands are transported every day without incident, but to ensure that they are safe for transport there is specific legislation in place, as well as supporting guidance.”

Lake emphasised the alignment of the new Code with the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009, which forms the legal framework for the transport of dangerous goods in Great Britain.

Lake further added: “It was reviewed by the Competent Authority in the Department for Transport and reflects best practice for the carriage of gas cylinders.”

The update, last undertaken in 2017, ensures that the Code remains relevant and resourceful for the emergency services, embodying BCGA’s dedication to mission safety in the compressed gases industry.

BCGA’s role in promoting industry standards

The BCGA, a leading UK membership body for the compressed gases sector, is known for its stringent quality, safety, and environmental standards.

Members of the association contribute their expertise to promote best practices in technical, safety, health, and environmental issues.

The Technical Committee and its subcommittees of the BCGA are instrumental in the development of the association’s extensive and highly regarded library of technical documents, including Codes of Practice and Guidance Notes.

These documents are widely referred to across the industry and related sectors, both nationally and internationally, solidifying BCGA’s role in shaping industry standards.

IFSJ Comment

The British Compressed Gases Association’s release of the revised Code of Practice 50 is a noteworthy development in enhancing safety standards in the transportation of gas cylinders.

This update, embodying current legal frameworks and best practices, is particularly beneficial for the emergency services, ensuring safer handling and transport of gas cylinders.

Such initiatives reflect the industry’s ongoing dedication to safety and compliance, and the BCGA’s role in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility.

The continued development of comprehensive, accessible safety guidance is vital in upholding the highest standards in the compressed gases industry.

Building Safety Regulator offers flexibility in design approvals for high-rise blocks

by Building ManagementSafety

New approach to building control approvals unveiled

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has introduced a nuanced stance on the approval process for designs of high-rise residential buildings, ahead of new regulations set to be implemented in April.

Under these forthcoming rules, the necessity for complete designs at the gateway two stage — a critical juncture replacing the current plan deposit phase — has been reassessed.

Neil Hope-Collins, the Operational Policy Lead for the Higher-Risk Building Control Authority at the BSR, during a webinar, clarified that not all aspects of a building’s design need to be finalised to gain approval.

He stated: “There will legitimately be parts of the design where it is not reasonable to expect the full detail at the outset.”

This adjustment aims to accommodate the evolving nature of building projects, acknowledging that certain details may only be finalised closer to construction due to changes in standards, contractors, or technology.

Industry reactions to the regulator’s clarification

The BSR’s updated guidance has elicited mixed responses from the construction and housing sectors.

Adam Hopkins, a Senior Technical Manager at Peabody, expressed surprise over the regulator’s stance, suggesting it might contrast with previous understandings within the industry.

“This appears to contrast with the past months and years, I’ve participated in and observed conversations between professionals where the debate is about how all this work will get completed before gateway two,” he said.

In contrast, Iain McIlwee, Chief Executive of the Finishes and Interiors Sector, viewed the comments as a potential dilution of regulatory standards, while Jon Pagan, Head of Technical at Kiwa, highlighted the ongoing issues regarding clarity within the new gateway process.

Nevertheless, Andrew Mellor, partner at architect PRP, welcomed the BSR’s approach, calling it “the only sensible approach and will be very welcomed by the industry.”

Building Safety Regulator maintains consistency in its messaging

Despite the varied industry feedback, a spokesperson for the BSR reiterated the regulator’s consistent position on allowing for design approvals with certain requirements.

The spokesperson clarified that the aim has always been to ensure designs, once constructed, comply with all relevant building regulations, even if some details are not finalised at the initial application stage.

“The consistent message from BSR has been that there should be sufficient detail for the regulator to be assured that if built the design will satisfy all applicable requirements of building regulations,” the spokesperson said.

This approach acknowledges the practicalities of design development, especially for projects classified as “higher-risk buildings,” which are at least 18m tall or comprise at least seven storeys with two residential units.

UK to ban disposable vapes amid fire safety and environmental concerns

by Featured NewsSafety

New legislation targets disposable vapes to enhance fire safety

In a landmark move, the UK government has announced a ban on disposable vapes, citing significant fire safety risks alongside environmental concerns.

This decision forms part of a broader initiative to address the surge in youth vaping and protect public health, detailed by the Prime Minister during a visit to a local school on 29 January 2024.

Recent figures have indicated an increase in the number of children using vapes, with usage among 11 to 15-year-olds rising to 9%.

The government’s comprehensive package aims to curb this trend through various measures, including the newly announced ban on disposable vapes, known for their contribution to the rise in youth vaping.

Fire safety risks highlighted

The ban is underpinned by alarming evidence linking disposable vapes to an increase in fires within recycling and waste management facilities.

Gavin Graveson, Veolia Senior Executive Vice President for Northern Europe, underscored the fire safety hazard posed by disposed vapes: “Millions of disposable vapes have been littered causing environmental damage or thrown in bins where they cause weekly fires in recycling and waste trucks as well as treatment facilities.”

This move also aligns with the government’s environmental objectives, addressing the challenge of hard-to-recycle waste and the growing stream of litter from disposable vapes.

Measures to protect youth and environment

In addition to fire safety, the government’s plan includes restrictions on vape flavours and packaging to make them less appealing to children, alongside tougher penalties for illegal sales to minors.

This comprehensive strategy aims not only to safeguard children’s health but also to mitigate the fire risks associated with vape disposal.

The announcement has garnered support from various quarters, including environmental groups and fire safety advocates, who have long voiced concerns over the risks disposable vapes pose to both public safety and the environment.

IFSJ Comment

The UK government’s decision to ban disposable vapes marks a critical step in addressing the intertwined issues of fire safety, public health, and environmental protection.

By targeting the disposal of vapes, which have been identified as a significant fire hazard in waste management processes, the legislation mitigates a known risk to fire safety.

This proactive measure underscores the importance of integrating fire safety considerations into public health and environmental policies, reflecting a holistic approach to safeguarding the community and the environment.

As this legislation moves forward, it will be essential to monitor its implementation and effectiveness in reducing fire incidents, promoting public health, and protecting the environment.

London Fire Brigade urges caution around icy waters as temperatures plunge

by Featured NewsSafety

The dangers of frozen waterways

As London experiences freezing temperatures this week, the London Fire Brigade has issued a stern warning to the public about the hazards of frozen lakes and waterways.

The appeal comes in the wake of tragic incidents, such as the December 2022 event where four children in the West Midlands lost their lives after falling through ice.

Expert advice on ice safety

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Charlie Pugsley, emphasised the deceptive nature of ice: “Even if ice appears thick from the bank, it becomes thinner very quickly.

Keep away from the edge of the open water, especially slippery banks.” Pugsley further explained the dangers of falling into icy water, highlighting the risks of hypothermia and drowning, even for strong swimmers.

Risks to pets and their owners

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) reports that half of the drownings related to ice involve attempts to rescue dogs.

In a notable incident in January 2023, London firefighters rescued a teenager and a dog from an icy pond in Leytonstone.

The importance of keeping dogs on leads near frozen waters was stressed, along with advice against throwing objects onto the ice.

Dr Sam Gaines, an RSPCA Pet Welfare Specialist, advised: “Our advice at the RSPCA is to keep dogs away from frozen ponds, lakes or rivers which can pose a danger and make sure their paws do not get impacted with snow.” Gaines also cautioned against owners attempting to rescue their pets, urging them to call for professional help instead.

Safety guidelines for icy conditions

The London Fire Brigade provided essential guidelines for individuals who find themselves or others in perilous situations on ice:

  • What to Do if You Fall Through Ice: Remain calm, call for help, spread your arms, keep still if you cannot climb out, and seek medical attention immediately after getting out.
  • What to Do if Someone Else Falls Through Ice: Stay on the bank, call for help, keep the victim calm, and wait for emergency services without attempting a personal rescue.

IFSJ Comment

The London Fire Brigade’s warning about the dangers of icy waters is a timely reminder of the perils associated with freezing temperatures.

The incidents cited, including the unfortunate deaths in the West Midlands and the Leytonstone rescue, underline the unpredictable and treacherous nature of frozen water bodies.

The advice and guidelines provided are crucial for public safety and should be heeded to prevent further tragedies.

Such preventive measures and awareness campaigns are vital, especially during the winter months when such incidents are more prevalent.