NFPA, South Africa’s FFA non profit company sign memorandum of understanding
NFPA, South Africa’s FFA non profit company sign memorandum of understanding
27 March 2013
published by www.fireengineering.com
USA/South Africa — As risk from wildland fires to people and property continues to be a growing problem around the world, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a recognized leader on fire and life safety, has announced a formalized relationship with FFA Non Profit Company, a registered public benefit organization in South Africa that works with public and private sectors, and donor and government agencies to address wildfire safety concerns in the wildland/urban interface (WUI). The two organizations have built up a working relationship around wildfire safety issues since 2006, and will support each otherâ??s missions to further protect people and property at risk from fires.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by both organizations will serve as the framework of cooperation between NFPA and FFA Non Profit Company and relates to the delivery of WUI education and wildland fire risk mitigation programs.
“NFPA joins much of the international community as concerns increase about how to protect lives and property when wildland fires occur where people live,” said James M. Shannon, NFPAâ??s president. “Joining together with FFA Non Profit Company to expand the outreach of wildland fire safety information and initiatives throughout South Africa is a great opportunity to collaborate on a common goal — reducing the losses associated with wildfire.”
Through the Firewise Communities/USA, and Fire Adapted Communities programs, education, trainings, conferences and workshops, NFPA continues to advance its safety mission to protect lives and reduce injuries and property loss due to wildfire. NFPA will support FFA Non Profit Company in its efforts to further develop their FireWise Programme, similar in scope to the Firewise Communities/USA program.
“We look forward to working with NFPA to meet the challenges of wildland/urban interface fires,” said Val Charlton, FFA Non Profit Company managing director. “South Africa is a developing nation with a high level of poverty and a rural population that lives in high-risk wildfire areas. Working with NFPA and others in the international community allows us to openly share research, best practices and important lessons in our efforts to create safer, more fire-adapted communities.”
