The project, powered by UL Research Institutes’ Fire Safety Research Institute, functions through monthly thematic sessions that connect global experts with local agencies. By moving beyond anecdotal evidence, the program seeks to provide a scientific foundation for tactical decision-making in an increasingly complex hazard landscape. The 2026–2028 cycle focuses on eight critical areas, including AI-powered detection, data interoperability, and the specific risks faced by firefighters in low- and middle-income nations.
Global Fire Leaders Launch Specialized Communities to Tackle Safety Risks
Following the 2026 World Fire Congress in London, international fire service leaders have launched a series of sustained Communities of Practice designed to bridge the gap between scientific research and frontline emergency response. The initiative aims to standardize safety protocols across borders for challenges ranging from climate-driven disasters to lithium-ion battery hazards.
Each community is backed by anchor organizations—such as CalFire, the Dubai Civil Defence, and the World Bank—to ensure that findings translate into tangible policy and training. Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, founder of the World Fire Congress, emphasized that the structure allows for the rapid integration of research into international doctrine. Beyond technical hazards, the groups are prioritizing human-centric issues, such as occupational cancer risks, the recruitment of women in firefighting, and the protection of civil defense workers operating in active conflict zones. The next global forum is scheduled for February 2028 in the United Arab Emirates.
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