IFE launches new firefighter safety database

The database is the innovation of the IFE’s International General Assembly which comprises representatives from each of the Institution’s 42 international branches. The IFE developed the database alongside the National Operational Learning (NOL) arm of the UK’s National Operational Guidance (NOG) with the aim of providing information, gathered from around the world, on incidents where firefighters died or where their safety was seriously compromised. By sharing this information, IFE hopes to greatly reduce casualty rates at future incidents.

The database launch formed part of the IFE’s centennial year opening event, held in its birthplace of Leicester this afternoon. Hosted by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service and attended by some of the UK’s most distinguished figures in the fire and rescue sector, the event concluded with the unveiling of a centenary plaque by City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby. Sir Peter also started the IFE’s centenary torch relay in which the torch will travel to IFE branches around the globe throughout 2018, tracked in an online journal on the IFE website.

Sir Peter said: “It is a pleasure to welcome the IFE back to its birthplace as it launches its centenary year celebrations. With its commitment to enhancing professional standards and technical competence, not least through its internationally-acclaimed fire-related qualifications, the IFE in 2018 has vindicated the hopes and aspirations of its founding fathers; which are as vitally important today as they were 100 years ago.”

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service chief fire officer Rick Taylor commented: “Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service were delighted with the Institution of Fire Engineers’ decision to celebrate its 100th anniversary with us here in Leicester – the birth place of IFE, where it all began in 1918.

“This is a fantastic achievement, and the IFE should be proud of everything they have accomplished for all fire and rescue services in the UK during this time. The new centenary plaque, kindly unveiled by Sir Peter Soulsby, will be displayed for many years to come and will showcase the achievements of the IFE to anyone that visits Central Fire and Rescue Station. We hope the event was thoroughly enjoyed by all.”

IFE CEO Dr Graham Cory added: “A hundred years ago, the Institution’s founders, including the then Chief Officer of Leicester Fire Brigade, formed the IFE with the purpose of promoting the science and practice of fire engineering. To mark the occasion with the launch of the Firefighter Safety Database emphasises our commitment to increasing understanding and therefore professional competence.

“The database represents an invaluable learning resource, containing information on incidents where firefighters either lost their lives or where their safety was seriously compromised. Through sharing this information, we hope to significantly reduce casualty rates at future incidents.”

The Firefighter Safety Database can be viewed on the IFE’s website www.ife.org.uk/Firefighter-Safety.

The Institution will be continuing its centenary celebrations throughout the year with events held around the globe, concluding with its annual International Conference and Centenary Ball in Edinburgh on 31 October – 1 November 2018. To read more about the IFE’s centenary visit www.ife.org.uk/centenary.