WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Hotel sprinkler retrofits, flammable liquids storage, Halon alternatives and fire risk assessments are just a few of the projects addressed by the Fire Protection Research Foundation.
The group is marking its 25th anniversary here by looking to the future. Fire protection engineers, researchers, manufacturers and others have gathered for a symposium to discuss what issues need to be tackled in the ever-changing society.
"From its birth in 1982, the Foundation has made an enormous contribution to a better technical understanding of fire protection and electrical safety issues in support of NFPA's mission," NFPA President James Shannon told the crowd Monday.
He spent a few moments reviewing some of the issues that the group has addressed including sprinklers, fire detector performance and risk assessment.
"But the purpose of this event is not to look back but to look ahead to the next 25 years ... What are the problems that must be confronted in the next generation ..."
Shannon pointed to global warming saying it has already had a profound effect on fire protection. "Studies have documented a 400 percent increase in the number of wildfires, and a 700 percent increase in the area burned. And, this phenomenon is worldwide from Central Siberia to Australia to Southern Europe and, of course, western North America."
He said global warming also is having an impact on water supplies, suggesting that research is needed to develop new sprinkler technology.
Shannon said the FPRF work is so important that the NFPA has established $6M endowment to make sure that the research will continue.
A change in demographics also will impact the fire protection industry as well as the fire service.
Dr. Kevin McCarthy shared his extensive research on demography, including the projected explosion of the older population.
He said it's essential that planners recognize the importance of demographics in shaping the demand for services, and adjust accordingly.
McCarthy, who recently retired after 33 years as a senior social scientist at RAND, has authored books on demographic trends.
"The labor market is changing, and the fire service needs to be aware of those changes," he said.
Discussing the ever increasing immigrant population, he said it's important that fire safety educators reach out to organizations within those communities to deliver their message. People will generally listen if they understand the ramifications.
Information garnered during the discussions at the symposium will be used by the FPRF to produce a White Paper.
Panelists discussed a myriad of issues ranging from technological changes to increasing funding for the USFA -- the agency created to address the nation's fire problem.
It also was suggested that more FIRE Act grant money be earmarked for research. With all the money doled out to fire departments over the past few years, some said there needs to be more accountability.
Related Stories:
NFPA Foundation Looks 25 Years Ahead
