Following on from a recent news item by SS Systems on council CCTV systems, another local authority has been in the news regarding the effectiveness of closed circuit television systems. Eastleigh Council has recently reviewed its aging CCTV system amid cost and effectiveness concerns. Eastleigh Borough Council's public realm Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system was viewed to be no longer meeting modern standards, offering "limited public protection" and being unsustainable to operate, according to a report presented to local authority councillors. The report concluded that the current system requires decommissioning due to its outdated technology and high operating costs.

A restaurant owner on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, has been fined after an inspection by Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service uncovered severe breaches of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, putting employees at significant risk.

Norfolk Fire Service responded to a significant fire at a discount tyre company in Saddlebow, near King's Lynn, involving tyres and industrial equipment. Fire crews from King’s Lynn, Fakenham, Terrington, Massingham, Heacham, and Downham Market were dispatched to the scene on High Road, utilising a thermal imaging camera to identify hot spots. Residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the smoke.

Fire risk assessment is fundamental to effective fire safety management, ensuring that fire hazards are identified, evaluated, and mitigated to protect people and property. While regulations may differ, fire risk assessments are legally required for most businesses and organisations. These assessments are not just for compliance but are essential for creating a safer environment, reducing fire risks, and potentially saving lives. Having SS Systems as your commercial partner will play a critical role in maintaining these safety standards by helping record and track fire safety activities and equipment maintenance over time.

E-bike fires are becoming increasingly common, prompting urgent calls for action to prevent more tragedies. Concerns range from the dangers of conversion kits to devastating incidents, with fire safety authorities pushing for stricter regulations and enhanced safety standards to protect lives. Here’s a look at efforts to address this growing risk.

Plans to reduce CCTV monitoring in Shrewsbury are expected to gain approval from Shropshire Council's cabinet. Under these new measures, cameras in the town centre would remain operational, but 24/7 monitoring would be discontinued. This move is part of efforts to address a £62.5 million shortfall in the current financial year's council budget.

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has updated its guidance note to improve the safety and efficiency of handling pressurised container assemblies used in fixed firefighting systems. This revised guidance reflects the latest industry best practices and is aimed at professionals involved in the transportation, installation, maintenance, and removal of these essential safety components.

The Fire Standards Board has reached a significant milestone with the release of two new Standards, completing its initial suite. The Digital and Cyber Fire Standard and the Procurement and Commercial Fire Standard are now available on the Fire Standards Board’s website, following consultations with the fire and rescue sector and broader stakeholders. Like previous standards, these aim to drive continuous improvement and service delivery across England’s fire and rescue services (FRSs).

In late September 2024, multiple fire crews responded to a major blaze at a pedicab storage unit and workshop in Southwark, London. The fire is believed to have been triggered by the catastrophic failure of multiple lithium batteries. London Fire Brigade (LFB) received 21 calls about the fire on Union Street and deployed six fire engines and approximately 40 firefighters, with crews from Dowgate, Dockhead, Whitechapel, and nearby stations attending.

Is your business fire-safe? Fires can spread rapidly, causing severe damage to property and putting employees in danger. Adopting strong fire safety practices is essential for protecting your workplace. These Top 10 Fire Safety Tips for Businesses outline practical steps every company should follow, from performing regular fire risk assessments to ensuring staff are trained in evacuation procedures.