Weekly fire alarm testing is vital to ensure the reliability and readiness of the fire detection and alarm system in protecting life and property. Regular tests confirm that alarm sounders, manual call points, and signalling paths, including connections to any Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), are functioning correctly and that any faults are identified and addressed promptly. Conducting tests at the same time each week also helps occupants recognise the alarm sound and reinforces fire safety awareness, while providing early warning of potential system issues before an actual emergency occurs.

Our intruder alarm systems use the latest technology movement detectors, magnetic contacts, break-glass / vibration detectors and infra-red beam detectors for flexibility and complete protection. Reliability is essential, that’s why all our systems are installed using a range of control panels and detection devices from leading manufacturers’ that are tried and tested solutions. Installed by our experienced engineers in accordance with the latest British and European Standards EN50131.

New figures from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reveal a rise in Home Fire Safety Visits during the year to March 2025, with record support directed towards vulnerable households. The report also tracks progress on smoke alarm ownership, fire safety audits, and enforcement actions. The statistics make for interesting reading with a mixed picture across the country. These findings will guide future prevention work, housing policy, and compliance monitoring across England.

A West Bromwich industrial estate blaze highlights the urgent need for fire risk assessment, fire alarms, fire safety equipment and sprinklers. In July 2025, a major fire ripped through an industrial estate in West Bromwich, destroying four factory units and sparking a large-scale emergency response.

Trying to keep an overview into five minutes will be a challenge, but I shall try my best to do so. We have had many successes throughout the year, but I wanted to just highlight a couple of changes that have had a positive impact on the business and express my commitment that we will continue to improve. Any feedback is gratefully received.

A former waste site Director has been sentenced over illegal practices which lead to a major fire in Lancaster. The blaze, which broke out at Supa Skips in Lancaster in December 2023, was fuelled by abandoned waste and led to weeks of disruption. Cleanup costs exceeded £2 million, according to the Environment Agency (EA).

SS Systems is proud to announce that one of our apprentices has successfully completed his Fire Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship after three years of dedicated training and development. This milestone marks an important step in his career, and we are delighted that he will be continuing his professional journey with us as he builds on his skills and expertise.

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published Version 2 of its Fire Risk Assessors "Standard Scope of Services", setting out clearer expectations for the fire risk assessment process. This long-awaited update provides stronger legislative alignment, improved transparency, and a shared understanding for both assessors and their clients.

The UK Government has taken a major step toward making online shopping safer with the Product Regulation and Metrology Act, which has now received Royal Assent. As part of the broader Plan for Change, the new legislation strengthens consumer protection by holding online marketplaces to the same safety standards as traditional high street retailers.

As Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) become central to the transition to reduced emissions in the UK, a critical question emerges. Are firefighting strategies keeping pace with the rapid rise of this technology? While BESS supports renewable energy integration and strengthens grid resilience, it also introduces new, serious hazards particularly for first responders, people and property.