NFCC supports global fire safety initiative

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has welcomed the launch of the “1 Billion Readiness” initiative by Dubai Civil Defence.

The programme, unveiled on 14 January, aims to train 1 billion people worldwide on fire prevention techniques from 2025 to 2027.

NFCC Vice-Chair and Chair-elect Phil Garrigan represented the UK at the event, which included participants from 34 countries and 18 major firefighting organisations.

Garrigan said: “The initiative is a fantastic opportunity for NFCC to contribute to and help shape worldwide fire prevention efforts, enabling us to share information and collectively consider ways of sharing in fire safety information in the future.”

Strengthening international collaboration

The NFCC continues to expand its international engagement through initiatives like this.

In November, Dubai Civil Defence presented the “1 Billion Readiness” initiative to the NFCC’s Prevention Conference, introducing the programme to UK fire and rescue service leaders.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving fire safety education and prevention strategies globally.

UK to host 2026 World Fire Congress

The NFCC will further its role in global fire safety by coordinating the 2026 World Fire Congress in the UK.

The congress provides a platform for nations to address fire-related challenges collaboratively.

The inaugural event, held in the United States in 2024, brought together over 50 countries and resulted in the signing of the World Fire Congress Charter, a commitment to advancing international fire safety initiatives.

NFCC’s role in global fire prevention

The NFCC’s support for the “1 Billion Readiness” initiative underscores its commitment to improving fire safety worldwide.

The initiative aligns with the NFCC’s mission to share knowledge and best practices, equipping communities with essential fire prevention skills.

NFCC welcomes Dubai’s global ‘1 Billion Readiness’ fire safety initiative: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has welcomed the “1 Billion Readiness” initiative launched by Dubai Civil Defence on 14 January.

The programme aims to train 1 billion people globally on fire prevention techniques between 2025 and 2027.

NFCC Vice-Chair Phil Garrigan, representing the UK at the event, highlighted the initiative’s importance for global fire safety collaboration.

The NFCC has been strengthening its international partnerships, including hosting the World Fire Congress in the UK in 2026.

This follows the 2024 congress in the US, which included over 50 countries and led to the signing of the World Fire Congress Charter.

For additional information, visit the Dubai Civil Defence website.