UK lithium-ion battery fires rise 93% in two years

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Surge in lithium-ion battery fires linked to e-bikes and EVs

UK fire brigades are now responding to more than three lithium-ion battery fires each day, according to QBE.

QBE reported a 93% increase in lithium-ion battery fires between 2022 and 2024 based on Freedom of Information data collected in March 2025.

The insurance company recorded 1,330 lithium-ion battery fires in 2024, up from 690 in 2022.

London accounts for highest number of battery fires

London Fire Brigade responded to 407 lithium-ion battery fires in 2024, which QBE stated was more than four times the next highest region.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service reported 100 battery fires in the same year, while West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded 94.

According to QBE, London also accounted for 49% of all e-bike fires nationally.

E-bike fires double over two-year period

QBE reported that electric bikes were linked to 362 fire incidents in 2024, doubling from 181 in 2022.

The insurer said e-bikes accounted for 27% of all lithium-ion battery fires in 2024.

Adrian Simmonds, practice leader for property risk solutions at QBE Insurance, said:
“Lithium-ion battery fires continue increasing at a worrying pace.

“These fires burn differently, they take longer to tackle, typically need ten times more water to put out and are often more harmful to the surrounding environment.

“People need to understand the risks and how to deal with them.”

Regulation and public awareness called for by QBE

QBE said more education is needed to ensure the public understands safe charging, use and disposal practices.

Simmonds added:
“While QBE supports the adoption of e-transport, we also call for stricter regulation.

“For instance, the UK should stop the sale of rogue e-bikes and other unregulated devices. This could be done in the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, which is going through Parliament.

“In the meantime, consumers should purchase e-bikes and e-scooters from reputable companies, so retailers that show they take quality and compliance seriously with a genuine CE mark.

“Raising awareness around safe charging, use and disposal of lithium-ion batteries is critical to keeping people and property safe.”

Residential buildings most affected by battery fires

QBE stated that residential properties were the most common locations for lithium-ion battery fires.

Other frequently recorded settings were outdoor spaces and commercial buildings.

The insurer said fires involving electric scooters rose by 32% between 2022 and 2024, while electric mobility scooter fires rose by 20% during the same period.

Fires involving electric vehicles rose by 77%, reaching 232 incidents in 2024.

According to QBE, although the number of EVs has more than doubled since 2022, the fire risk remains high due to thermal runaway effects.

UK lithium-ion battery fires rise 93% in two years: Summary

UK fire brigades attended 1,330 lithium-ion battery fires in 2024.

This represents a 93% increase from 2022, according to QBE.

The findings are based on data gathered from Freedom of Information requests to UK fire services.

E-bikes were linked to 362 fires in 2024, double the 2022 figure.

London accounted for 31% of total lithium-ion battery fires.

London also accounted for 49% of all e-bike fires.

Electric vehicle fires increased by 77% between 2022 and 2024.

The most common fire locations were residential properties.

QBE urged stronger regulation and public education on battery safety.

It cited thermal runaway as the key fire risk mechanism.

The Product Regulation and Metrology Bill is under parliamentary review.

The Department for Business and Trade launched the Buy Safe, Be Safe campaign in 2024.

QBE recommended specific safety steps for homes and businesses using lithium-ion batteries.

Survitec warns of 2026 deadline for fire protection rules on RORO and ROPAX ships

by Breaking NewsPorts & MaritimeSafety

New SOLAS rule requires water monitors on vehicle decks

Survitec has reported that amendments to international maritime fire safety regulations will come into force on 1 January 2026, requiring fixed water monitors on weather decks of RORO and ROPAX ships.

The change was approved at the International Maritime Organization’s 107th Maritime Safety Committee session and modifies SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the FSS Code.

The regulatory update responds to the growing number of fires involving vehicle cargo, including incidents with electric vehicles, which have shown the limitations of current fire suppression systems.

Survitec outlines fire risks and design constraints

According to Rafał Kołodziejski, Head of Product Support and Development – Fire Systems at Survitec, the layout of vehicle decks increases the risk of fire escalation.

Kołodziejski said: “The open and expansive nature of vehicle decks means that a fire can escalate very quickly, potentially spreading across the entire length of the ship.

“This incoming regulatory requirement puts a renewed focus on practical fire suppression systems that can be deployed quickly and effectively to extinguish or control a fire in these large, open deck spaces.”

Fixed water monitors are intended to provide targeted coverage beyond what is possible with sprinkler or deluge systems, especially in areas that are hard to retrofit.

Technical specifications for compliance explained

Survitec noted that the new rules will require two fixed water monitors for ships with a breadth of less than 30 metres and four for ships wider than this.

Each monitor must deliver at least 2.0 litres per minute per square metre, with a total minimum flow rate of 1,250 litres per minute.

The company added that options exist for manually operated, self-oscillating, hydraulic, and electrically controlled systems, offering shipowners choices suited to their vessel configurations.

Equipment selection depends on layout and usage

Michał Sadzyński, Product Manager at Survitec, explained that choosing the correct system is dependent on several operational factors.

Sadzyński stated: “Understanding how to interpret and apply the new rules is as important as the technical specification of the equipment itself.

“We can advise customers on the various monitor types that can be implemented to meet the new requirements, including manually operated, self-oscillating, hydraulic, and electrically controlled systems.

“Each type brings different advantages depending on the ship’s configuration, operating conditions, and available firefighting infrastructure.”

He added that material durability and ease of maintenance are important considerations, particularly for ships operating in challenging environments.

Fixed monitors seen as key to faster suppression

Kołodziejski added that early detection remains a critical safety factor, but rapid suppression using fixed monitors provides a necessary secondary defence.

Kołodziejski said: “Prevention is always better than cure, especially where EV fires are concerned.

“Early monitoring and detection of fire remain key safety factors, but fixed water monitors can play a vital role in supporting a rapid, targeted response to contain and suppress fire.”

He also noted: “Many in the industry are still unaware of the upcoming 2026 deadline.

“As the Team Trusted to Protect Lives, we welcome the opportunity to support our customers with this important development.

“While the regulation change represents a technical requirement, it is also a vital step forward in protecting lives and assets at sea.”

Fire safety regulations for RORO and ROPAX ships to change from 2026: Summary

Survitec has reported that new IMO rules for RORO and ROPAX ships will take effect from 1 January 2026.

The regulations will require fixed water monitors on vehicle decks under changes to SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the FSS Code.

The change follows fires involving vehicle cargo, including electric vehicles.

Survitec explained that deck layout affects fire escalation and suppression requirements.

Fixed monitors offer targeted coverage that can be more effective than traditional systems.

Ships under 30 metres wide must install two monitors.

Ships 30 metres or wider must install four monitors.

Each monitor must deliver a flow of at least 2.0 litres per minute per square metre.

Total flow from all monitors must be at least 1,250 litres per minute.

Survitec stated that both manual and remote-controlled options are available.

Environmental conditions, ship design, and water supply all influence equipment selection.

Survitec warned that many operators may be unaware of the deadline.

The company is offering technical advice to help ensure compliance.

EV battery fire risks tackled with new safety tech on Hyundai Glovis ships

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSafety

Hyundai Glovis deploys new fire safety system across EV carrier fleet

Consilium has reported that Hyundai Glovis is installing new onboard safety systems to tackle lithium-ion fire risks on electric vehicle carriers.

The Safety Management Interface Graphics (SMiG) system, developed by Consilium Safety Group, is being rolled out across Hyundai Glovis ships as part of a broader effort to address fire safety in EV shipping.

Hyundai Glovis, responsible for transporting over half of South Korea’s electric vehicle exports, began fitting the SMiG system in 2024.

The company aims to enhance real-time visibility for ship crews by combining data from heat and smoke detectors into a single visual map.

Real-time alerts improve fire response on large-scale cargo ships

The company explained that the system reduces response time by presenting smoke and heat data visually, enabling faster decision-making.

Consilium’s Global Product Manager, Isak Nordberg, said: “Data from across the ships is translated into something visual and actionable.

“It’s designed to give early warnings when every second counts, often giving crews up to four extra minutes.”

During a drill on the 65,000-ton vessel Sunrise, the SMiG system displayed a blinking red dot to mark the fire location in real time, contrasting with older systems that provided only approximate coordinates.

Nordberg stated: “Decisions that once depended on guesswork were now grounded in data.”

Fire detection systems to extend beyond maritime environments

According to Consilium, the long-term ambition for SMiG includes extending the system to land-based locations such as parking facilities and logistics hubs.

Nordberg added: “In a garage, four minutes might not be enough to act. But if we could stretch that to 12, firefighters might have a realistic chance of reaching the location on time.”

He noted that response times on land can be slower due to reliance on external emergency services, making early detection even more important in non-maritime settings.

Cross-sector data sharing identified as a future safety enabler

Consilium has proposed that increased collaboration with vehicle manufacturers could allow access to battery-level temperature data, potentially increasing early detection windows.

Nordberg explained: “Those four minutes of early detection might stretch to 12 if we had that data.”

He concluded: “This is the kind of innovation we must continue pursuing through collaborations to make places safer.”

EV battery fire risks tackled with new safety tech on Hyundai Glovis ships: Summary

Consilium has reported that Hyundai Glovis is rolling out a new safety system for its electric vehicle carrier ships.

The system is called Safety Management Interface Graphics (SMiG).

It compiles smoke and heat data into real-time visual maps for crew use.

It is intended to help identify and respond to lithium-ion battery fires faster.

Hyundai Glovis transports more than 50 percent of South Korea’s EV exports.

Consilium said the SMiG system can provide up to four extra minutes for fire response.

A recent fire drill on the vessel Sunrise demonstrated the system’s real-time capabilities.

The company is exploring potential applications in land-based locations such as garages.

Consilium suggested that access to battery data from vehicle manufacturers could further improve response times.

The manufacturer said that extended early detection windows could allow first responders to reach fire locations more effectively.

Communication in structural safety: CROSS-AUS issues new guidance

by CommunicationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Construction safety gaps outlined in Australia newsletter

CROSS (Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures) has published its latest CROSS-AUS newsletter, which outlines four new Safety Reports focused on structural safety issues in Australia.

According to CROSS, the reports emphasise that communication failures during design, construction, and later modifications of buildings are contributing to recurring structural safety problems.

The newsletter was written by David Donnan, Director of CROSS-AUS.

CROSS stated that designers should account for how structures are built, not just how they perform once complete.

It added that relying on general notes about ‘temporary works by others’ can result in safety risks that are not adequately managed on site.

Temporary works guidance and industry resources

The newsletter highlights the role of temporary works and their associated risks if not properly designed or communicated.

It noted that design professionals frequently separate permanent structure safety from temporary construction phases, despite both requiring oversight.

To support improved practice, CROSS pointed to the work of the Temporary Works Forum in the UK, established in 2010 after several failures.

It added that similar bodies now operate in Australia and New Zealand to offer region-specific guidance.

CROSS also referenced publications from the Institution of Structural Engineers, including the “Temporary Works Toolkit”, which provides structural engineers with best practice documents for temporary works integration.

Issues with proprietary systems and coordination

Two of the reports addressed the use of proprietary flooring systems. CROSS explained that while these systems use precast planks, the design configurations vary, and safe use depends heavily on manufacturer documentation and adherence to erection procedures.

The organisation stated that system stability in temporary phases must be assessed carefully, especially where unbalanced or eccentric loads are expected before full structural interaction is achieved.

Another report outlined the challenges when separate components of a single structure are designed by different engineers.

CROSS noted that failure to understand or communicate component limitations can affect the structure’s overall serviceability and performance.

Structural modifications and site inspections

A further report described the long-term safety implications of modifying and reusing structures.

According to CROSS, documentation of structural changes is essential for understanding how original and new load paths interact.

The report highlighted that load assumptions and building performance requirements can evolve over time.

Without proper records, the risk of instability increases during later modifications or repurposing.

CROSS concluded by stressing the importance of structural engineers being involved during construction.

It advised that on-site inspections, particularly at key stages, can resolve potential misinterpretations early and support safer outcomes.

Communication in structural safety: CROSS-AUS issues new guidance: Summary

CROSS has published a new structural safety newsletter covering four safety reports in Australia.

The newsletter was authored by CROSS-AUS Director David Donnan.

The publication states that poor communication during design and construction contributes to safety risks.

CROSS warned that temporary works are often overlooked or left to others without clear guidance.

It highlighted the Temporary Works Forum and engineering toolkits as helpful resources.

Reports also raised concerns about improper use of proprietary flooring systems.

CROSS noted that understanding design assumptions across different teams is essential.

Structural modifications require detailed documentation to avoid future instability.

CROSS encouraged regular on-site inspections by designers during key construction phases.

FEMA announces 2025 funding to support trained firefighters

by Featured NewsTraining

Grant funding to increase firefighter staffing and safety opens in the United States

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has reported the availability of $396 million in grant funding for United States fire departments and firefighter organisations under two federal programmes.

FEMA stated the Fiscal Year 2024 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programme will provide $360 million to support the recruitment and retention of trained firefighters.

An additional $36 million will be distributed under the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant programme to support community fire prevention initiatives and research focused on firefighter safety and health.

SAFER programme to support recruitment of firefighters

FEMA reported that the SAFER programme is designed to help fire departments increase or maintain the number of trained firefighters in their communities.

The agency said the grants may be used to help departments meet minimum industry staffing standards and ensure 24-hour personnel coverage, in addition to supporting traditional fire service operations.

FEMA stated that since 2005, the SAFER programme has distributed approximately $5.2 billion in grants to fire departments and firefighter organisations.

FP&S programme to support prevention and health research

FEMA explained that the FP&S programme funds initiatives that enhance fire prevention and safety for both firefighters and the public.

According to FEMA, eligible applicants include local and Tribal governments, fire departments, academic institutions, and nonprofit organisations. Projects supported include public fire safety education and research on behavioural, social, and occupational health issues.

The agency noted that since its inception in 2002, the FP&S programme has awarded nearly $900 million in grants.

Previous recipients report impact of funding

FEMA cited the Medway Fire Department in Massachusetts as an example of SAFER programme impact. The department received $741,443 to hire four new firefighters.

Chief Jeff Lynch said: “Due to the presence of a firefighter hired using SAFER funding, the department was able to respond with additional personnel to a house fire on March 20, 2019.”

He added: “Firefighters rescued the family dog and contained the fire in time to save the home and their belongings.”

FEMA also noted that the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association has received over $3.5 million in FP&S funding since 2016. The organisation used the funds to develop ResponderSafety.com and training programmes addressing firefighter risks on roadways.

Application timeline and guidance

FEMA stated that the application period for both SAFER and FP&S grants opens on 23 May 2025 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time and closes on 3 July 2025 at 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

Technical assistance documents and funding opportunity details are available on www.grants.gov and the FEMA website.

Applicants can also find guidance and information on upcoming webinars via the FEMA website.

FEMA announces 2025 funding to support trained firefighters: Summary

FEMA has announced $396 million in grant funding for United States fire departments and firefighter organisations.

$360 million will be available through the SAFER programme to support the hiring and retention of trained firefighters.

$36 million will be available through the FP&S programme for fire prevention and safety research.

The application period for both programmes opens on 23 May 2025 and closes on 3 July 2025.

The Medway Fire Department and Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association have previously received funding from these programmes.

FEMA said SAFER grants help departments maintain staffing and response capabilities.

FP&S grants support research and educational initiatives to improve firefighter safety.

Since 2005, SAFER has awarded $5.2 billion in grants.

Since 2002, FP&S has distributed nearly $900 million.

Application guidance and resources are available on the FEMA website and www.grants.gov.

New centre to improve workplace safety through evidence-based research

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearchSafety

New funding centre focuses on safety evidence

Lloyd’s Register Foundation has launched the Global Safety Evidence Centre with a £15 million investment over 10 years to improve global understanding of safety interventions.

According to Lloyd’s Register Foundation, the new Centre will support research into what works to reduce harm, especially in high-risk sectors and regions where safety evidence is lacking.

The Foundation has also announced a £2 million funding call for occupational safety and health (OSH) projects that address gaps in safety data, intervention effectiveness and evidence use in decision-making.

Reports highlight global safety data shortfalls

The Foundation has said the Centre’s launch follows the publication of two reports by RAND Europe, which identified a shortage of reliable comparative data on safety measures.

The first report reviewed OSH interventions and noted the lack of consistent global evidence on their effectiveness.

The second gathered input from safety professionals in high-risk industries who reported difficulty accessing clear, practical evidence.

Nancy Hey, Director of Evidence and Insight at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, said: “Evidence is critical to improving the safety of people and property; without it, we cannot fully understand the nature and scale of safety challenges faced by people around the world, nor what works to protect them from harm.”

She added: “However, around the world and across industrial sectors, many professionals, policy and decision-makers who need to consider safety do not have access to sufficient high quality evidence; either because it does not yet exist, or because it has not been collated and communicated to them in an understandable and actionable form.”

Applications invited for OSH research projects

The Centre is now accepting expressions of interest from researchers, institutions and safety practitioners worldwide for funding up to £250,000 per project.

Lloyd’s Register Foundation stated that eligible research includes evidence reviews, trials, policy analysis and data projects addressing workplace safety or safety science.

The Foundation encourages applications from its Ocean Centre countries – Brazil, Kenya, Ghana, Bangladesh, India, Philippines and Indonesia – and from organisations that demonstrate collaboration with practitioners and communities.

Martin Cottam, Chair of the Centre’s Expert Advisory Panel and former Chair of the ISO Technical Committee on Occupational Health and Safety Management, said: “As safety practitioners we are presented with a sometimes bewildering range of tools and methods with which to manage safety risks, but often without much evidence to demonstrate their effectiveness, or evidence of the conditions under which they are more or less effective.”

He added: “The work of the Centre will help safety practitioners navigate this landscape, enabling them to be confident in selecting approaches that have been shown to deliver real safety improvement.”

Research themes include workplace risk and safety science

Lloyd’s Register Foundation explained that projects should align with one of two themes: safe work or safety science.

Safe work projects are expected to explore effective safety measures in high-hazard industries and contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 8.8 on safe working environments.

Safety science projects may include research into risk definitions, measurement models, and how safety evidence is used in practice across sectors such as transport, energy and critical infrastructure.

Funding priorities set out in full guidance

According to Lloyd’s Register Foundation, proposals will be assessed on relevance, feasibility, impact and methodological rigour.

Eligible organisations include academic institutions, research centres, and non-profits globally.

Applications will be prioritised if they demonstrate collaboration, offer open access outputs or align with the Foundation’s strategic areas such as safer maritime systems or infrastructure.

The Foundation stated that while funding is available up to £250,000, projects requesting higher amounts must involve multiple regions or types of research.

Centre to focus on practitioner engagement

The Foundation said it is particularly interested in practitioner-led work that reflects local needs and real-world safety practice.

It added that proposals could include mapping practitioner knowledge, comparing qualifications, or working with communities to embed evidence in local safety plans.

Projects may also involve co-designing research agendas with safety professionals, especially in under-researched sectors such as ports, shipyards or search and rescue operations.

Application process includes webinar and phased review

Lloyd’s Register Foundation outlined a three-stage application process beginning with registration through its Flexigrant system.

Expressions of interest are due by 17 September 2025.

A webinar for applicants will be held on 26 June 2025 to provide guidance on the application process and eligibility requirements.

Following initial review, shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit full proposals by 12 December 2025, with projects expected to begin from March 2026.

Centre to publish further reports later in 2025

The Foundation has confirmed that later in 2025, the Centre will publish further reports on the impact of new technologies and climate-related risks.

A forthcoming publication will address how innovations such as artificial intelligence, robotics and virtual reality are affecting workplace safety.

Another report will examine links between occupational safety and health and climate change, a topic the International Labour Organization (ILO) has identified as a research priority.

Joaquim Pintado Nunes, ILO Branch Chief for Occupational Safety and Health and the Working Environment, said: “Lack of data remains one of the biggest challenges to improving workplace safety worldwide — it’s the fourth major gap identified in national OSH systems by ILO Member States.”

He added: “In many regions, research on the scale of the problem is also still scarce. The launch of the Global Safety Evidence Centre marks a vital step forward in closing this gap.”

Lloyd’s Register Foundation funds global safety research centre: Summary

Lloyd’s Register Foundation has announced the Global Safety Evidence Centre.

The Centre is supported by £15 million in funding over 10 years.

It will collate and publish research on what works to improve safety.

A funding call worth £2 million has opened for OSH research proposals.

RAND Europe’s reports found a lack of reliable safety intervention data.

Nancy Hey said many professionals lack access to quality safety evidence.

The Centre aims to close knowledge gaps and improve decision-making.

Martin Cottam said safety professionals need better evidence on effectiveness.

The Centre will release reports on safety and technology later in 2025.

The ILO said the Centre could help close global safety data gaps.

Funding is open to global organisations and prioritises practitioner input.

Applications close 17 September 2025.

Projects are expected to begin from March 2026.

Survitec expands operations to support UAE shipping safety

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSafetySearch and Rescue

Expansion adds liferaft servicing to Fujairah facility

Survitec has announced the expansion of its service station in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

According to Survitec, the facility now includes 1,350 square metres of new capacity.

This development allows the site to operate as a full-service station for liferaft rental and exchange, lifeboat inspections, and marine fire safety servicing.

The upgrade is intended to reduce turnaround times and help customers meet marine compliance requirements in a single location.

Survitec stated that the Fujairah facility will now support its RaftXChange service, which provides a rental and exchange option for liferafts.

The company added that this service helps reduce downtime and improve efficiency for ship operators in the region.

Survitec targets regulatory compliance and customer needs

Beibei Qiu, Executive Managing Director for APAC & MEA at Survitec, said the investment reflects a direct response to rising service needs in the region.

Qiu said: “This is a targeted investment in regional capacity and capability.

“By broadening the scope of our Fujairah operations, we’re responding directly to the growing demand in the Middle East, ensuring we can deliver timely, flexible solutions tailored to the evolving needs of our customers such as RaftXChange, which enhances operational efficiency, reduces vessel downtime, and provides greater flexibility in managing liferaft compliance.”

The organisation added that the enhanced station allows for a single point of service across liferafts, lifeboats, and fire safety systems, helping customers reduce the burden of navigating multiple providers.

Qiu added: “Increasing capacity is just one part of the story.

“Ultimately, this is about giving our customers peace of mind and the confidence that their safety equipment is in expert hands, wherever their vessels operate.”

Facility strengthens shipping support across the Gulf

Survitec said the Fujairah station is located near the Strait of Hormuz and provides access to shipping lanes in the Gulf of Oman and beyond.

The company explained that consolidating multiple marine safety services under one roof improves both cost and operational efficiency for customers.

The facility has received regulatory approval from the UAE Civil Defence and Ministry of Interior.

Survitec reported that this allows it to meet the latest standards in safety and inspection services.

Survitec expands workforce and regional footprint

To support the expanded services, Survitec said it has recruited and certified new technicians.

These personnel are qualified to conduct servicing across liferafts, lifeboats, and marine fire systems.

The company noted that this expansion aligns with its wider strategy to grow in global shipping hubs and improve readiness for regulatory changes.

According to Survitec, the facility was opened at an official event attended by CEO Robert Kledal and Mr. Sharief Al Awardi, Director General of the Fujairah Free Zone.

Kledal said: “The expansion of Fujairah reflects our commitment to long-term investment in regions critical to global shipping.

“By strengthening our operational footprint and technical capabilities, we’re enhancing service delivery for our customers and reinforcing Survitec’s purpose: We Exist to Protect Lives.”

Survitec expands operations to support UAE shipping safety: Summary

Survitec has expanded its service station in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

The expansion adds 1,350 square metres of new operational space.

The facility now offers full-service liferaft rental, lifeboat inspections, and marine fire safety servicing.

Survitec’s RaftXChange service will operate from the expanded station.

The facility is located near the Strait of Hormuz to support regional shipping routes.

It has received regulatory approval from UAE Civil Defence and the Ministry of Interior.

Additional skilled technicians have been recruited and certified by Survitec.

Beibei Qiu and Robert Kledal both attended the facility opening.

The expansion is part of Survitec’s broader growth strategy in global maritime hubs.

The company operates over 400 service centres across 2,000 ports worldwide.

Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act advances in US Congress

by Featured NewsSafetyWildland Fire

House passes Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act of 2025

The United States House of Representatives passed the Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act of 2025 on May 13 by unanimous consent.

The legislation, also known as H.R. 2492, would allow the US Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management to approve the removal of hazard trees and vegetation around electrical transmission corridors on public lands without requiring a corresponding timber sale.

This proposed change aims to streamline vegetation management near electric infrastructure to reduce the risk of wildfires.

Senate to consider related legislation

The House bill now advances to the Senate, where a separate but related version, S. 349, was introduced in January.

While H.R. 2492 covers both the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, the Senate version focuses solely on Forest Service lands.

The Senate Committee on Agriculture has not yet reviewed the bill.

Industry support from the American Public Power Association

The American Public Power Association (APPA) has expressed support for the Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act.

The group said the measure aligns with its Resolution 25-09, titled In Support of Increased Federal Efforts to Address the Growing Threats of Wildfires, which was adopted at the 2025 Legislative Rally in Washington, DC.

The resolution calls on federal land management agencies to speed up the approval process for hazard tree removal and routine vegetation management to mitigate wildfire risks.

Key provisions of the legislation

According to the bill, the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior may grant permission under existing special use permits or easements for the cutting and removal of trees and other vegetation around power lines on National Forest System and Bureau of Land Management lands.

This is conditional on the activity being consistent with existing land and resource management plans and environmental regulations.

The legislation also specifies that if an electrical utility sells any removed material, proceeds must be remitted to the respective Secretary after accounting for transport costs.

However, there is no requirement for any removed material to be sold.

Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act: Summary

The US House has passed the Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act of 2025 by unanimous consent.

The act enables the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to allow tree removal around electrical lines without a timber sale.

It applies to both National Forest System lands and BLM-managed lands.

The Senate will now consider a related version of the bill, which focuses only on Forest Service lands.

The American Public Power Association supports the bill as consistent with its wildfire risk reduction policy.

The bill outlines requirements for compliance with environmental law and management plans.

Utilities may sell removed materials but must return proceeds, minus transport costs, to the federal agency.

There is no requirement for materials to be sold.

The legislation is designed to accelerate vegetation management to improve fire safety near electric infrastructure.

NFPA warns of Chromebook Challenge safety risks

by Featured NewsSafety

Experts warn of device damage and battery fire risk in viral Chromebook Challenge

The NFPA has reported that a social media trend known as the “Chromebook Challenge” has resulted in a number of fire-related incidents in the United States.

According to the NFPA, the trend involves inserting a paperclip or other metal object into a Chromebook USB port, causing a short circuit that can lead to sparking, smoke, or fire.

Brian O’Connor, senior engineer at the NFPA, explained that the presence of lithium-ion batteries increases the danger because the batteries can release toxic gases, ignite or even explode when damaged.

State fire officials confirm multiple incidents across Massachusetts

The State Fire Marshal of Massachusetts, Jon Davine, stated that more than a dozen incidents related to the trend have been reported by local fire departments since early May.

Davine added that he had issued a notification to fire chiefs across the state warning them about the issue.

He said: “We’ve received more than a dozen reports from Massachusetts fire departments of young people engaging in this behavior in less than a week.”

He continued: “There are probably many more that responsible adults haven’t heard of or officially reported.”

Davine added: “No matter how smart your kids or students might be, please impress upon them that the only thing you should place in a computer port is the appropriate cord.”

Safety concerns linked to battery chemistry and circuit abuse

O’Connor explained the technical risks in detail.

He said: “This trend is dangerous because it causes damage that results in a short circuit in the laptop, generating heat, sparks, and smoke that can cause a fire.”

He continued: “It’s important to note that laptops contain lithium-ion batteries, which, when heated too much, can lead to toxic gas generation, fire, and even explosions.”

O’Connor added: “If there is damage done to the laptop then there is an increased risk for that laptop to malfunction.”

He explained: “The malfunction can be minimal and almost unnoticeable, or it can be a major malfunction that can lead to heat generation, sparking, smoke generation, a potential fire and even a potential explosion if the battery is involved.”

Educators, parents and public safety advocates urged to intervene

According to the NFPA, these incidents are part of a broader pattern of hazardous online trends that have led to injuries and damage in the past.

The organisation said previous examples include a 2020 challenge where participants dropped coins onto partially inserted plug prongs, causing electrical fires.

The NFPA said it provides resources for public educators and caregivers to support conversations with students and families about the dangers of engaging in these behaviours.

Foxborough Fire Chief Michael Kelleher, president of the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts, said: “Today’s electronic devices pack a lot of power into small containers, and tampering with them is dangerous.”

He added: “Almost all modern laptops are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which can erupt in sparks and flames when damaged or abused.”

Kelleher continued: “An event like that will injure anyone close by. The fire can easily spread to clothing, bedding, upholstery, and furniture.”

Chromebook Challenge fire risk prompts US safety warnings: Summary

The NFPA has reported that a social media trend called the “Chromebook Challenge” involves inserting metal objects into Chromebook USB ports.

This action can cause short circuits that result in smoke, sparks, or fires.

The NFPA stated that lithium-ion batteries present in these devices increase the risk of toxic gas release, fire, or explosion.

Brian O’Connor of the NFPA provided a technical explanation of the dangers involved.

The State Fire Marshal of Massachusetts confirmed over a dozen reported incidents across the state since early May.

Foxborough Fire Chief Michael Kelleher warned about the risks of tampering with electronic devices.

The NFPA noted that similar trends have caused injuries and damage in the past.

Resources for educators and caregivers are available on the NFPA’s lithium-ion safety webpage.

Alertex IP Bridges enable linked lockdown monitoring across UK school sites

by Featured NewsProductsSafety

Expanded device linking improves school-wide system coverage

Luminite has reported that Alertex IP Bridges can now be linked across a site, enabling remote monitoring and control of an unlimited number of lockdown devices on a school network.

The manufacturer stated that the update was introduced in response to requests from larger educational estates.

Each bridge connects Alertex devices to the local network.

The system identifies which units have been triggered, supports site-wide or individual testing, and reports battery status and signal strength.

The update to the IP Bridge software allows multiple bridges to be joined together without location restrictions.

According to Luminite, this enables trusts to monitor devices and activations across multiple sites, as long as the locations share the same network.

Centralised control and communication functions

Luminite explained that the system uses a master-slave configuration.

The master IP Bridge acts as the control point, with slave bridges relaying data and responding to instructions.

Each bridge works on a designated UHF frequency, which can be adjusted using a BLE terminal app to avoid interference.

Each slave bridge has a fixed IP address and a unique Device ID.

Luminite noted that these are connected through the master unit’s web interface, where individual zones can be named and configured.

The master interface allows full oversight of all devices in the network.

Site-wide alerts and performance tracking

The Alertex system allows text and email alerts to be sent to designated personnel.

This supports timely response to lockdown activations and provides updates on device status.

Low battery levels, weak signal strength, and unit-specific activations can all be reported automatically through the system.

The company stated that this capability is designed to help estates manage multiple buildings or geographically spread campuses.

By linking bridges and integrating alerts, schools can track the performance of all Alertex devices from a single dashboard.

Flexible application for educational trusts

Luminite reported that the software changes are aimed at making the system more applicable for multi-site trusts.

As long as schools are part of the same local network, they can share data from the IP Bridges without being physically connected.

This arrangement enables a single site to monitor lockdown activity or device health for other schools in the trust.

The system continues to operate independently if no slave bridges are installed, but additional zones can be added at any time.

Luminite confirmed that each device continues to operate on secure UHF frequencies to ensure stable communication.

Alertex IP Bridges enable linked lockdown monitoring across UK school sites: Summary

Luminite has reported that Alertex IP Bridges can now be linked across a local network.

The system enables remote monitoring of lockdown devices across large school estates.

It supports an unlimited number of devices when connected via linked bridges.

Bridges can now operate across multiple sites within a trust if they share a network.

Each bridge is assigned a static local IP and a unique Device ID.

A master-slave setup allows centralised control of all connected devices.

The master unit can operate independently for smaller systems.

Frequency settings are managed using a BLE terminal app.

The interface supports naming and zoning of connected devices.

Battery and signal strength status is reported via the bridge.

Text and email notifications can be sent to staff members.

Alerts show which specific device has been activated.

All devices communicate via UHF to prevent interference.

The system dashboard is accessed through the master unit.

The update responds to feedback from larger school estates.

It is currently in use across the United Kingdom.