Advancing equality, diversity and inclusion in the Fire Service: a call for urgency and comprehensive action
In this short and insightful analysis, Professor Jagtar Singh OBE delves into the persistent challenges surrounding cultural change and equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) within the Fire Service (FRS). Despite a multitude…
Unmanned systems used in search and rescue
Here at Unmanned Systems Consultancy our goal is to make military-spec technology available in the world of commercial public rescue. This is achieved by integrating sophisticated technology to support rescuers when they evaluate, locate and save, helping to speed up…
The devastating impact of suicide and a call to action
Suicide is a tragedy that leaves a lasting impact on families, loved ones and colleagues. In 2021, the Asian Fire Service (AFS) recognized this profound impact and embarked on a crucial study. We aimed to identify the latest research and…
Reputational risks in fatal and serious fires
Reputational risk is something that is often linked to commercial and global organisations but is now a key factor in how public services are managed, including fire and rescue services (FRS). Having worked in both fire and rescue services and…
Thatcham Research helps Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service practise safe EV extrication
Thatcham Research recently welcomed Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) to its Berkshire HQ to enhance its crews’ incident response approach to modern vehicles. The Thatcham Research crash team provided and prepared a modern vehicle, previously used for research…
Protecting firefighters and the environment: ECT2’s cleanout solution for PFAS in firefighting foam
The toxic legacy of AFFF Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has been a vital tool for international fire services, particularly in combating fuel and oil fires. It is used as a powerful fire suppressant specifically designed to tackle flammable liquid…
Strengthening resilience – NFPA 1660 Disaster Preparedness: Planning and Implementation
This article is the second of a four-part series that discusses the key elements of NFPA 1660 (2024) Standard for Emergency, Continuity, and Crisis Management: Preparedness, Response, and Recovery. The first article in the series introduced the significant consolidation of…
International Fire Training Centre launches new Electric Vehicle fire training course
The UK’s first dedicated Electric Vehicle (EV) fire course, which will provide emergency responders with practical training in managing EV involved fires combined with critical safety awareness, has been developed at the International Fire Training Centre (IFTC), managed and operated…
Visual perception
Visual perception refers to the mind’s ability to process and make sense of what the eyes see. Our perception of the displayed image on a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC), will affect our ability to interpret information for making quick and…
The importance of underground rescue training in Australia and the growing demand for competent specialist responders
Australia’s vast and diverse landscape is home to a myriad of industries, each contributing significantly to the nation’s economy. Among these, mining is a cornerstone, with Australia being one of the world’s leading producers of minerals such as coal, gold…
Mobile extinguishing systems for the oil and petrochemical industry
Recently, FireDos published an article focused on the ‘Use of foam for fire fighting in tank farms of the oil- and petrochemical industry’. In that publication the focus was put on common tank farm configurations, laws and regulations, typical incidents,…
Hazardous-materials transportation – high-hazard rail
Railroad accidents have shown that high-hazard transportation situations can be risky and devastating. However, the global supply chain relies on rail transit to move commodities long distances through populated areas. This article will look at past hazardous-materials disasters and discuss…
Data, not opinions: gathering data for real-world firefighting applications
At Fomtec, our mantra is ‘Data, Not Opinions’. We recognize our ongoing responsibility to the industry to provide accurate, data-driven information. The Enviro Programme recently completed its 3,000th fire test, and we are committed to continuing our rigorous testing efforts.…
The importance of underground rescue training in Australia and the growing demand for competent specialist responders
Australia’s vast and diverse landscape is home to a myriad of industries, each contributing significantly to the nation’s economy. Among these, mining is a cornerstone, with Australia being one of the world’s leading producers of minerals such as coal, gold…
What constitutes NFPA 22 compliance and equivalency?
How to Correctly Assess Corrugated Bolted Steel Water Storage Tanks with a Flexible Membrane Liner for Fire Protection SYNOPSIS When it comes to fire protection, the safety and reliability of a functional water storage tank are of utmost importance. These…
Training to meet the current and changing needs of firefighters
‘Training is the process of learning the skills that you need for a particular job or activity.’1 For the modern firefighter, is skills acquisition enough to meet the needs of their role and professional identity? I would argue not. Firefighters…
Reflecting safety: best practices for turnout gear trim maintenance
Reflective trim on firefighter turnout gear is more than just an added feature; it is a critical component mandated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to ensure the safety and effectiveness of firefighters on the front line. This essential…
Firefighter cancer update – prevention is better than cure
In April 2024, workmates of Ollie Hatfield, a loving husband and father of three, ran 10km in full gear1 in memory of Ollie and hundreds of other firefighters whose lives had been affected by cancer. Ollie was only 39 years…
Fire authorities adopt early thermal runaway detection technology
For backup power systems, a de facto industry standard is increasingly being installed in battery energy storage systems to help tame the dangers of thermal runaway. At data centers across the United States, demand for battery energy storage systems (BESS)…
Protecting the world’s forests from Wildfires with AI
Every year, billions of dollars are spent on fighting wildfires, protecting the trees, natural habitats, infrastructure and, of course, people. By using AI to enhance wildfire detection, we can significantly lower wildfire risks by enabling us to detect and extinguish…
