News

NEWS

EDITOR’s Comment

As wildfires continue to rage around the world in one of the hottest summers on record, you will notice that we don't have a wildfire feature in this issue. That's because our expert contributors are out in the field responding to some of the most violent and intense fires ever seen. I want to highlight what an amazing job they are doing and thank them for their efforts, about which you will no doubt read in more detail in a forthcoming issue. I would also like to welcome two new faces to Fire & Rescue who will be managing additional business development going forward. Brenda Homewood formerly worked on oil and gas magazines and will be focusing mainly on Europe, while Rick Markley, a paid on-call firefighter who serves on the board of directors of the International Fire Relief Mission, a humanitarian-aid organisation that delivers fire and EMS equipment to firefighters in developing countries, will focus on the US and Canada. Finally, this issue continues our campaign for improving firefighter health, this time with a focus on instructors. Repeated fire exposures mean instructors are at a greater risk of ill health but new research has highlighted the benefits of pre-cooling in reducing the physiological strain caused by frequent exposure to live fires. As ever, however, it is up to fire services and firefighters to take these recommendations on board and adopt the latest thinking into operational procedures.

Ann-Marie Knegt, editor

‘Sticky science’ saves London school from fire

London Fire Brigade has become the first brigade in Europe to use a new glutinous liquid to prevent building damage from fire.

LFB crews used PVStop when they were called to a fire at a school in Twickenham. The substance prevented serious damage to the roof by stopping the fire from spreading to the solar panels.

PVStop is a black liquid coating designed to cover solar panels like a liquid tarpaulin. It is sprayed onto panels using an extinguisher or from the head of an aerial appliance. After trialling the coating last year, LFB used it for the first time at the Twickenham school fire.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters attended the fire, which is thought to have been caused by an electrical fault in an extractor fan. There were no reports of injuries.

Operational policy watch manager George Mahoney said the fire started on the ground floor and spread into the roof void, where the school had solar panels installed. ‘Incidents involving solar panels can be especially dangerous as it’s difficult to isolate the electrical current they generate if they are damaged or involved in a fire,’ he explained. ‘PVStop works by blocking the sunlight that powers them so the process of converting light into electricity is stopped. The panels are then de-energised and the risk of electrocution is greatly reduced so crews can get closer and prevent fire spreading from a roof to the rest of the building. A combination of science and the quick thinking of firefighters saved this school from significant damage.'

PVStop is environmentally friendly and non-toxic. Its use by LFB was the first time it has been used operationally in Europe. It is manufactured in Australia, where it has also been used once. It has now been distributed to eleven of LFB’s aerial appliances.

peli dual-beam safety light with auto sensor

A safety torch with dual beam and an automatic light sensor is the latest addition to Peli Products’ range of lighting solutions for hazardous working conditions.

The Peli 3345Z0 automatically adjusts its brightness level to its surroundings. The sensor measures the ambient light and automatically adjusts the output, providing a low level of brightness at close range but instantly adjusting to full brightness when focusing at long distance.

ATEX Zone 0 (Cat 1) certified, the 3345Z0 is an LED light that provides both spot and flood beams. It delivers up to 267 lumens with both beams, or 115 lumens in flood mode and 207 as a spot beam. The dual beam means it is possible to simultaneously illuminate objects at close and long range, and the automatically adjusting brightness levels regulate power output, improving its energy efficiency and helping to achieve a run time of up to 13 hours.

IPX7 ingress protection means the torch can be used in inclement weather. It can be used in either hand-held mode or attached to a safety vest.

Nightstick dual tech Light Cuts Through Smoke

Nightstick has added four models to its Dual-Light technology range that offer firefighters and industrial workers improved visibility in hazardous locations by combining a 45-degree floodlight with a 90-degree adjustable smoke-cutting beam.

The new Intrant Class 1 Division 1, ATEX-approved, intrinsically-safe right-angle lights illuminate the user’s feet while walking in addition to providing an adjustable, sharp, 200-lumen LED smoke-cutting light beam to help reduce the possibility of slips, trips, and falls.

The flashlight has a 401-metre ultra-tight beam that is ideal for cutting through smoke and lighting up objects at a distance. The user can select a brightness setting of either 200, 110, or 60 lumens.

The floodlight can be set to either 100 or 40 lumens, and also has a survival-mode setting of 20 lumens that provides sufficient emergency situation lighting for a runtime of 33 hours.

There are four models in the range, all of which are Culus, ATEX, and IECEX certified as intrinsically safe, and are IP-67 rated dustproof and waterproof. Two models, Intrant XPP-5566, are powered by three AA batteries and come in either green or red. The two Intrant XPR-5568 models are powered using a rechargeable lithium-ion pack and include a low-profile charging base, AC and DC charging cords, and AA battery carrier for backup power. They also come in a choice of green or red. All models have a sturdy stainless-steel clip for attachment.

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Dafo creates separate vehicle fire detection and suppression business

Dafo Brand AB has separated its vehicle fire detection and suppression operations from its core fire safety equipment business to enable it to more closely focus on the long-term continuous development of the vehicle operation.

Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection AB began operating on 1 July 2018 and supplies fire detection and suppression systems for buses and coaches, mining and construction

equipment, forestry and waste handling equipment, and material and cargo handling. Business unit manager Johan Balstad explained that the move will make it easier for the new business to acquire the skills, resources, and capital it needs to develop to meet the growth in global demand and its customers’ requirements. The US operations will run through subsidiary Dafo US, strengthening the company's position in North America.

Women in the fire service

Officers and support staff from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service attended the Women in Fire Service National Training and Development weekend held at the UK Fire Service College in June.

Women in the Fire Service is an organisation dedicated to developing a culture of equality of opportunity for women in the fire service and aims to support all women in achieving their full potential.

More than 210 delegates from 25 UK fire and rescue services as well as international delegates attended the 2018 event, for which the theme was ‘Building confidence for a stronger future’. Speakers included Dany Cotton, Commissioner of London Fire Brigade, and Moira Cameron, Yeoman Warder of the Tower of London, the UK’s first female beefeater.

In addition to the speakers, the event included practical sessions such as fire behaviour, urban search and rescue, incident command, and first aid. There was also a fitness for women session that covered disciplines such as body balance, yoga and pilates, and a range of sessions covering issues such as reducing stress and sleeping well, authentic conversations, and public speaking.

Both men and women attended the event, as delegates and instructors. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mark Andrews was at the event promoting He For She, an initiative inviting people around the world to stand together to create gender equality.

Mark said: ‘It was a great chance to highlight the important issue of gender equality through the He For She campaign, which seeks to encourage us all to take steps to do more for equality. It was great to see so many colleagues – both male and female – bringing equality to life and getting involved in the weekend. Those I spoke to took a great deal of learning and confidence from the experience.’

A number of East Sussex FRS staff attended the event. Many commented on the supportive and inclusive atmosphere as well as the informative and inspiring presentations and practical sessions. Burwash Firefighter Antonia Price, attending for the second year in a row, added that the event provides a great confidence boost. ‘Yet again I come away feeling like I can do anything I put my mind to.’

Rosenbauer launches two new aerial products

A hydraulic platform that can carry up to five people to the ground from a height of 60 metres is among the new products just launched by Rosenbauer.

The multifunctional B60 platform has been specially developed for industrial fire service applications including firefighting, rescues at height, and technical operations. It has a payload of 500kg thanks to lightweight construction and an optimised cage, which provides both front and rear access and space for heavy-duty stretchers. A rescue ladder with rung-levelling adjustment running along the telescopic boom sets provides a second rescue route option.

The platform’s firefighting capabilities include the delivery of 3,800lpm of water from the cage turret, which is permanently connected to the telescopic waterway. The aerial appliance, cage, and turret can all be remotely controlled in case it is necessary to operate the platform unmanned.

The B60 has a five-part telescopic main boom and a two-part cage boom. The secondary element of the cage boom can be telescopically extended and retracted, and the rescue cage moved up or down through 180°.

The platform uses a hydraulic horizontal-vertical jacking system for stability with jacks that can be adjusted and extended up to nine metres. Other safety features include an automatic return function for the rescue cage and the ability to store different cage positions and automatically reposition back to them, as well as a safety lighting system.

Also new from Rosenbauer is the L32A-XS 3.0 aerial ladder with lowerable cage boom. This third-generation iteration combines the advantages of an articulated ladder with an expanded working range – up to 150cm more horizontal reach.

Ideal for limited-space applications, the XS 3.0 requires only 6.15m distance to the ladder object in order to be able to elevate continuously along the facade. It has a road width of 9.50m. The first units are already in use in Frankfurt and Fulda.

‘The XS combines many advantages in one device that otherwise could only be achieved through several different concepts,’ said Sven Lindenfelser, aerials product manager at Rosenbauer. This includes the design of the cage boom, which has a pivot point offset inwards on the ladder set so that it bends away earlier than the cage boom of a conventional articulated ladder.

The L32A-XS 3.0 also features a new controller that provides ten times the computing power of its predecessor and maximum connectivity (via five CAN buses) and flexibility through freely programmable inputs and outputs. This means it can be equipped with the latest floodlight and camera systems and automatic functions. It can also be equipped with firefighting equipment and rescue

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nEws

eXpoprotection 2018: the biggest edition yet

cameras on light towers

Expoprotection 2018 returns to Paris, France, from 6-8 November 2018 with almost 750 exhibitors in two key sectors: occupational and industrial risks, and security and firefighting.

The three-day exhibition aims to highlight innovation and best practice in risk prevention and help visitors identifty the right suppliers and solutions for their current and future requirements. Expert Villages in each sector will focus on solutions to specific issues facing businesses in these areas.

Suppliers from more than 30 countries are represented in the occupational and industrial risk sector, covering workwear, PPE, and industrial risk prevention. Exhibitors include 3M, Cepovett, Lafont, Honeywell, Mure & Peyrot, Armor Lux, Caterpillar, Haws, and Timberland Pro.

Showcasing their products in the security and firefighting sector are companies such as Andrieu Extincteur, Desautel, Eurofeu, Finsecur, and R Pons.

The show also aims to highlight current and future societal issues such as the change in scope of private security, increased cooperation between public and private sector operators, and balancing the demands of personal freedom and security. The programme includes more than 100 talks and workshops across four content streams: future trends and innovation, training and careers, sharing experience, and regulations.

Finally, the expert jury for the Expoprotection Awards will shine a light on some of the most innovative new products, and the event will also seek to highlight the disruptive start ups unveiling their exciting ideas at the show for the first time.

For more information and to view the full line-up for the presentations and workshops, visit the event website on www.expoprotection.com.

Command Light has partnered with vehicle camera system suppliers to add cameras to its light towers to improve scene visibility for firefighters.

The company has worked with Intec, Safety Vision, and Zone Defense to mount their camera systems on its light towers to give operational crews 360-degree vehicle camera views at height.

The addition of cameras to light towers means incident commanders have the ability to survey both fire and kerb-side activity from the pump panel; record firefighter actions for review and training, if opting for this feature; and ensure the safety of their crews as they move in and around the apparatus.

Intec Video Systems has provided two high-end camera options – the CVC500AH or the VSC510, which features a motorised 23X optical zoom lens for detailed viewing, and can switch from colour to black and white images to enhance details.

Command Light has also partnered with Safety Vision and Zone Defense to offer fire departments two vehicle camera system options, popular on mobile command units. Paired with select Command Light towers, these cameras are designed to provide 360-degree viewing angles at a reasonable price point.

‘Our CL Series tower is able to reach up to 11 feet and has the ability to overhang the side of vehicles, making this one of the most adjustable vehicle cameras,’ said Command Light’s Roger Weinmeister. ‘When you pair that with our new eight-head tower, crews can capture every angle and illuminate it with 240,000 lumens.’

nfpa certification for argus tics

The Argus thermal imaging camera range from Avon Protection has achieved NFPA1801:2018 certification.

The latest version of the NFPA Standard on Thermal Imagers for the Fire Service includes limitations on cameras with visible light sensors, a battery run-time of at least two hours while capturing video, a refresh rate of at least 25Hz, and new battery locking mechanism requirements.

The Argus TIC range includes the Mi-TIC E, Mi-TIC E L, Mi-TIC 320 and Mi-TIC S models. The range certification includes the introduction of the Ignis engine to all Mi-TIC cameras, which offers sensor and lens improvements for clearer scene detail. These improve the identification of critical background details such as exits, obstacles, and casualties, even in the presence of a fully-developed fire.

Richard Tweddle, Avon’s thermal imaging product manager said: ‘We have redesigned, redeveloped and redefined thermal imaging and we continue to meet the needs of our customers to ensure they remain safe in the most demanding of environments.’

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bronto launches combined first response unit

A new first response unit from Bronto Skylift combines a fire truck, aerial platform, and a rescue ladder in a compact and manoeuvrable format for quick response times. The first five units are already in use in Asia, with eight more in the pipeline.

The F28ALR has a working height of 28 metres and an outreach of 20 metres. It can accommodate a large crew and has substantial locker space for equipment. And, according to Bronto, it has the shortest transportation length in the 28-metre class. Combined with variable jacking, this makes it ideal for use in confined spaces and narrow city streets.

The platform’s water system can discharge water at 3,500lpm. The pump is located at the back of the platform to allow for quick access even in the transport position and to leave plenty of space for equipment storage. This means the F28ALR can also be used as a

regular fire truck/pumper. The primary water and foam tanks can be adjusted to local requirements and any commercial pump can be fitted on the platform.

The rescue cage has a 350kg capacity and can be equipped with integrated outlets for water, breathing air, hydraulics, and electricity. It can also be equipped with other accessories such as a stretcher or a detachable winch to provide additional assistance in demanding rescue operations. The cage comes with heavy-duty EN795-compliant safety harness attachment points as standard.

The F28ALR first response unit uses Bronto’s 5+ control system, which features touchscreens, simple navigation, and a modifiable main menu. It is designed to provide precise, smooth and stable movements even in extreme operating conditions to allow firefighters to concentrate on firefighting and rescue operations

Rosenbauer Tigon industrial off-road fire truck

A flexible, off-road capable, large-tank fire truck designed specifically for industrial use has been launched by Rosenbauer.

The Tigon combines concentrated extinguishing power with a robust, lightweight construction, 700hp engine, and an off-road chassis to create a vehicle that can cope with high payloads over even the most extreme terrain, such as deserts, tundra or Arctic conditions.

The Tigon has a chassis from Czech manufacturer Tatra that is based on a robust central tube frame that ensures optimal distribution of any forces it

is subjected to. The tubular construction envelops non-constructively loaded vehicle elements and protects moving drive components from damage.

The differential gears are also protected within the tubular frame and can be locked individually. The semi-axles are freely movably mounted, and the wide tyres are equipped with a pressure system that adapts to the condition of the ground.

The Tigon can be fitted with built-in pumps with capacities up to 13,000lpm; proportioning systems that can deliver up to 1,200lpm of foam compound and mix foam into the complete pump output; and water turrets for combined extinguishing compound output of up to 15,000lpm.

In the standard 8x8 version, the Tigon carries 12,500 litres of extinguishing agent. It is also equipped with a power take-off drive to enable the use of firefighting equipment while driving.

The Tigon can also be equipped with a high-pressure pump for rapid attack or a powder extinguishing system. The extinguishing agents are deployed by fast assault and/or high-performance turrets. Turrets with specially developed Chemcore nozzles are available for the combined application of water and powder.

The vehicle can be operated via illuminated keypads and small display or it can be installed with the Rosenbauer LCS 2.0 control system, which works via a modern Can bus and 10-inch touchscreen display.

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aebi-schmidT uk fiRe debuT

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A new fire truck will be introduced to the UK market at the Emergency Services Show on 19-20 September at the NEC in Birmingham.

Aebi-Schmidt’s MT750 fire truck, which is used extensively across Europe, will be the focus of the company's stand at the 2018 show. ‘We are sure it will attract a lot of attention from many of the UK’s 52 regional fire and rescue services, thanks to its slim profile, extreme manoeuvrability, off-road capabilities and can-do attitude,’ said Martin Foster, Aebi-Schmidt’s key account manager.

The Aebi MT750 features a 156bhp, six-cylinder VM turbo diesel engine, which is compliant with the latest Euro VIc emissions. The vehicle has a top speed of 56mph and generates a maximum torque of 500Nm. The fire truck is already a strong seller in mainland Europe where it was launched three years ago, and is especially popular in Spain, Italy, and France, although it also has a strong following in Germany and Croatia. Most customers are in small town, city, or municipality fire departments or in civil protection. However, its versatility and off-road capabilities mean that the MT750 is also a favoured tool for fighting forest fires, handling pollution or dangerous goods issues, or as an emergency motorway service vehicle.

The MT750 fire truck is particularly suited for use on the small, narrow streets of old towns and cities where access is limited and where conventionally-sized fire engines struggle as they are unable to operate efficiently in narrow openings. The Aebi fire truck is also used regularly for fighting wildfires as it brings an extremely valuable off-road capability thanks to optional four-wheel drive, which allows it to tackle even the toughest of terrains and working conditions.

The vehicle comes as a single cab variant with seating for two or three operatives, or in a double crew cab configuration, which provides seating for up to six firefighters.

Foster sees numerous applications for the MT750 fire truck in the UK, especially for fire and rescue services that operate in remote areas where access is often an issue and where heath or moorland fires are a common occurrence.

‘The MT750 is a highly flexible, manoeuvrable, and versatile piece of equipment. This is the first time we have brought it to the UK, but it has been an outstanding performer on mainland Europe for the last three years,' added Foster.

‘We expect it to make a favourable impression with those services for which off-road capabilities are paramount in dealing with fire outbreaks in remote areas, or those that need to work in narrow or confined spaces. We are very much looking forward to showcasing it at this year’s Emergency Services Show at the NEC in September.'

dubai panTheR conTRacT

Dubai Airports has placed an order with Rosenbauer International for 22 Panther 8x8 airport firefighting vehicles and three turntable ladder vehicles for use at Dubai International Airport.

Dubai International is the world’s busiest airport for passenger numbers and passenger volumes continue to grow. The airport has had Rosenbauer vehicles since the end of the 1980s, with a fleet of ten currently in use. The decision to enter an exclusive partnership with Rosenbauer across Dubai International and Dubai World Central was taken after an extensive procurement exercise. The agreement also includes a service contract over several years.

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