Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) and the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) have now joined forces in a commitment to work together to safeguard communities from fire risk and enhance safety across the state.
At the first ‘Insurance Industry Forum’ held at the City of Sydney Fire Station, representatives from FRNSW and the ICA came together to discuss key findings from recent research, share best practices and data, and develop actionable strategies to protect communities from fire.
New standards on mobility devices
Commitment is based on an almost 200-year-old relationship with the insurance industry
With the NSW Government yesterday announcing it will impose strict new standards on lithium-ion batteries powered personal mobility devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, this will also form a part of the conversation and be the subject of a dedicated future forum – with both parties noting an increase in lithium-ion battery fires across the state.
This commitment is based on an almost 200-year-old relationship with the insurance industry, which established the first fire brigades in New South Wales back in 1836.
Risk of emerging technology
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, said FRNSW is committed to taking a proactive approach when it comes to public safety, with a focus on the growing risk of emerging technology.
"This partnership with the ICA is not just a continuation of our current efforts, but a rekindling of a collaboration that dates back to the very origins of firefighting in New South Wales," states Commissioner Fewtrell.
Future initiatives between FRNSW and ICA
FRNSW is committed to taking a proactive approach when it comes to public safety
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell continues: "We’re really keen to leverage the combined expertise of both organizations, especially when it comes to building a shared view of current and emerging fire risk and uplifting community education to minimize this risk to better protect people and their assets."
He adds, "This partnership, which establishes a foundation for future initiatives between FRNSW and ICA, will effectively protect lives, property, and the environment."
New era in fire safety and risk reduction
ICA CEO, Andrew Hall, said the partnership heralds a new era in fire safety education and risk reduction, and he’s proud the insurance industry has a seat at the table.
"Insurance companies not only play a critical role in understanding the risk factors policyholders face, they also are integral to helping communities recover from fire-related incidents," Mr Hall said.
new and emerging technologies
Andrew Hall added: "As insurers, we have access to data about how fires start and what the causes are, and this partnership aims to help us better understand how we can utilize this data to drive improved community safety outcomes."
He further states, "This includes new and emerging technologies, such as personal mobility products powered by lithium-ion batteries. We’re seeing a growing number of fires from lithium-ion batteries, which is a real concern."
Risk management practices for LI batteries
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell continues: “Our communities are facing modern fire risks and this partnership will uncover modern solutions. We are committed to reducing fire-related injury and fatality. Together, we are stronger and more capable of facing the challenges ahead."
He concludes, "Because insurers price risk, we can work directly with customers – homeowners, strata committees, and businesses – to start highlighting best risk management practices for LI batteries and recharging of EVs. If we can work in lock-step with authorities like FRNSW, this will be an important step forward to ensuring we have a safer community."
Key representatives from the fire service
The collaboration coincides with the celebration of FRNSW's 140 years of service and is a significant milestone in the agency’s efforts to reduce structure fires and other emergencies.
Key representatives from the fire service, and ICA member companies such as Allianz, Holland, IAG, Munich Re, QBE, Strata Community Insurance and Suncorp will form part of the ongoing Insurance Industry Forum.
