Florida wildfires
THE GOVERNOR of Florida declared a state of emergency in mid-May as a series of wildfires caused damage and disruption across the US state. The largest fire, a 3,000-acre blaze in Brevard County, destroyed at least two homes and led to the closure of major highways. In Daytona Beach, authorities ordered the evacuation of some 500 homes, with officials warning that burning embers could fly more than a mile from the blaze. The state of emergency means Florida could use federal funds and ensures more joined-up arrangements for dealing with the fires.
Water mist code
A NEW voluntary code of practice on water mist systems is now available. Written by the Fire Industry Association (FIA), the code provides guidance and information to specifiers and end-users on water mist systems, which are increasingly being used in a wide range of commercial applications. It will also allow fire safety companies to deliver systems that are designed and installed to best practice. Although the code is voluntary, the FIA sees it becoming the industry standard.
The code of practice is available free from website: www.fia.uk.com
Arson sentence
A MAN from Kent has been sentenced to serve a minimum of eight years in prison after being found guilty of manslaughter and numerous offences of arson. Maidstone Crown Court heard that Stuart Willard, 22, set nine fires in Tonbridge between August 2005 and January 2007 – including a flat fire which led to the death of John Skilton. Describing him as a dangerous man, Judge Andrew Patience sentenced Mr Willard to an indeterminate custodial sentence of at least eight years for manslaughter, and a total of seven years for the arson offences to run concurrently.
Fire statistics
REDUCTIONS IN the number of dwelling fires and primary fires are among the key figures outlined in the latest UK Fire Statistics Monitor. According to the figures, which cover the 12-month period up to 31 March 2007, the number of primary fires fell by 5% on the previous year, to 156,800 – the lowest total since 1983. Dwelling fires hit a 30-year low – there were 55,000 in the period, 4% less than in the previous year. Dwelling fire deaths fell by 4% to 324, while vehicle fires dropped by 9% to 57,500.
The Fire Statistics Monitor is available at: www.communities.gov.uk
University blaze
A HIGH-RISE building at Delft Technical University in the Netherlands was badly damaged by fire on 13 May. The incident happened when water leaking from a pipe caused a short circuit in a coffee machine on the seventh floor. The blaze spread upwards through the 13-storey building – part of the Faculty of Architecture – and reportedly led to the partial collapse of one wing. All of the occupants evacuated safely and 185 firefighters tackled the fire.
IFSM conference
THE INSTITUTE of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM) is holding a one-day conference on 29 July. The event will take place at the Mini Plant building in Oxford. It will feature presentations on various subjects, including fire safety in healthcare, the use of infrared thermography to prevent auto-ignition, corporate manslaughter, and directional sound technology. Five hours continuing professional development is available for attendance. IFSM and JOIFF members can attend for £50 each; the fee for non-members is £75.
More details are available from website: www.ifsm.org.uk or e-mail: bob@flamerisk.co.uk
Fire & Rescue show
THE ORGANISERS of the Fire & Rescue 2008 show – taking place on 27-29 August in Liverpool – have been providing more details about the event. The key issues being discussed at the conference include operational doctrine, comprehensive area assessments, flooding, health and safety, fire insurance, and diversity. Speakers will include Sir Michael Pitt, US metro chief president Bill Stewart, director of the British Infantry Brigadier Richard Dennis, and Ann Jones of the Welsh Assembly. A series of practical workshops will also feature at the show.
More details are available at: www.fireandrescueexpo.com
Award for US chief
THE US Branch of the Institution of Fire Engineers reports that one of its members, chief fire officer John Buckman GIFireE, has received the Governor’s Award for outstanding service and contribution to the state of Indiana. Presented by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, the award recognises his work, particularly in implementing a state-funded fire training system in Indiana. Chief Buckman also developed a curriculum and training materials which have led to more prospective firefighters passing the state’s mandatory tests.
Dorset funding
DORSET Fire and Rescue Service is set to receive £300,000 of government funding as it gears up for the London 2012 Olympics. The money will provide the brigade with the resources to plan and prepare for the Olympic sailing events, being staged at Weymouth Bay. The sailing is likely to be the most high-profile event outside London during the Games, with 61 teams and 400 athletes competing. The brigade will play a central role in managing the safety and security of competitors, officials and spectators.
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