The Fire Service Scoop: NVFC, Nutella Giveaway; UL Research Institutes' Technical Report and Fire Service Updates

The Fire Service Scoop NFPA's Sparky the Fire Dog's birthday, NVFC and Nutella's 2026 Stacks for Giving Back Program and other news from around the fire service.
March 20, 2026
2 min read

Here is a look at updates around the fire service including SVI Trucks new Sourcewell contract that enables public safety agencies to acquire fire apparatus, NFPA’s Sparky the Fire Dog’s birthday and UL Research Institutes new technical report for residential home size-ups and search and rescue operations that includes three new tactical considerations.

Below is a roundup of recent news headlines:

SVI Trucks Receives Sourcewell Contract

  • SVI Trucks has obtained a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract, enabling public safety agencies across North America to acquire firefighting and emergency vehicles.

NVFC, Pearl Milling Company Partner for 2026 Nutella Stacks for Giving Back Program

  • Nutella's "Stacks for Giving Back" program is collaborating with NVFC and Pearl Milling Company to provide grants and pancake kits to U.S. volunteer fire departments, enhancing fundraising efforts to purchase and acquire their equipment.

Go. Rapid Response Exhibiting at FDIC International 2026

  • The GO. Rapid Response, a lightweight and adaptable trailer, will be at FDIC International 2026, showcasing its versatility for fire and rescue teams.

UL Research Institutes Releases New Technical Report for Residential Home Size-up and Search & Rescue Operations Project

  • The new report from UL Research Institute's Fire Safety Research Institute expands on results of initial nine tactical considerations and gives three new search and rescue tactical considerations.

NFPA's Sparky the Fire Dog Turns 75

  • Celebrating 75 years of fire safety advocacy, NFPA's Sparky the Fire Dog continues to serve as a friendly guide in promoting life-saving fire prevention tips.

Bullard's New UST LowRider Traditional Fire Helmet

  • The Bullard UST LowRider fire helmet introduces targeted design modifications, including a lower riding height and improved fit, enhancing stability, comfort and safety for firefighters.

Snap-tite Hose Launches Program in Support of Pennsylvania Fire Departments 

  • By launching the PA Proud initiative, Snap-tite aims to bolster Pennsylvania's fire service infrastructure, emphasizing local production, support and cost-effective equipment solutions for fire departments.

Watershield Industries Acquired by HKW

  • Watershield Industries, known for its mission-critical firefighting equipment, joins HKW's portfolio.

OneDose Introduces its Live Patient Record

  • The Live Patient Record by OneDose transforms prehospital care by providing a real-time, comprehensive data trail from dispatch to hospital, ensuring seamless communication.

About the Author

Ryan Baker

Associate Editor

Ryan Baker is a writer and associate editor with prior experiences in online and print production. Ryan is an associate editor for Firehouse with a master's degree in sciences of communication from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He recently completed a year of teaching Intro to Public Speaking at UW-Whitewater, as part of his graduate program. Ryan acquired his bachelor's degree in journalism in 2023 from UW-Whitewater, and operates currently out of Minneapolis, MN. Baker, also writes freelances for the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) in his free time, while also umpiring baseball for various ages across the Twin Cities Metro Area.

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