New Guide Educates Policymakers on the Importance of Firefighter Physicals—and Their Critical Role in Advancing Firefighter Health, Wellness, and Safety
McLean, VA — The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Safety, Health and Survival (SHS) Section announced the release of the Elected Officials Guide to Firefighter Physicals, a new resource designed to help local, state, and federal elected leaders understand the importance of comprehensive medical evaluations for firefighters—and their role in ensuring firefighter health and wellness.
Firefighting is one of the most physically demanding and hazardous professions, with firefighters routinely exposed to extreme heat, toxic environments, and intense physical stress. Sudden cardiac events remain the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service. Regular, standardized firefighter physicals are a proven tool to identify health risks early, reduce preventable injuries and fatalities, and ensure firefighters are medically fit to protect their communities.
The Elected Officials Guide to Firefighter Physicals explains:
- Why firefighter physicals are essential for operational readiness and public safety
- The components of a comprehensive, evidence-based firefighter medical evaluation
- How physicals help reduce long-term healthcare costs and line-of-duty deaths
- The role elected officials play in supporting firefighter health through policy and funding decisions
“This guide was developed to give elected officials clear, practical information about why firefighter physicals are not optional. They are a lifesaving investment,” said Ian Emmons, chair of the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section. “When firefighters are healthy and fit for duty, entire communities benefit through safer, more reliable emergency response.”
The guide also addresses common misconceptions about firefighter physicals, including cost concerns, and outlines how proactive health programs can lead to long-term savings by reducing workers’ compensation claims, disability retirements, and preventable medical emergencies.
By releasing this guide, the IAFC Safety, Health and Survival Section aims to strengthen collaboration between fire service leaders and policymakers, ensuring that decisions affecting firefighter health are informed by data, best practices, and the realities of the job.
The IAFC Safety, Health and Survival Section developed this guide in collaboration with key partners across the fire service and research community, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Science to the Station, the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA), the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), the First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE), the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), and the National Development and Research Institutes (NDRI). Their collective expertise helped ensure this resource reflects the latest science, best practices, and real-world needs of the fire service.
Elected Officials Guide
About the International Association of Fire Chiefs and Safety, Health & Survival Section
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. The
IAFC Safety, Health and Survival Section is dedicated to reducing line-of-duty deaths and injuries through advocacy, education, and evidence-based safety initiatives that protect those who protect others.
About the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)
The
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) represents more than 360,000 professional fire fighters and emergency medical personnel across the United States and Canada. The IAFF is committed to advancing the safety, health, and working conditions of its members while advocating for policies that protect fire fighters and the communities they serve.
About Science to the Station
Science to the Station is a collaborative initiative dedicated to translating the latest research into practical, actionable strategies that improve firefighter health, safety, and performance. The organization connects scientists, fire service leaders, and policymakers to ensure evidence-based solutions reach the front lines.
About the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI)
The
Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that educates members of Congress about the needs and challenges of the fire and emergency services. CFSI works to advance federal policies and programs that enhance public safety and support firefighters nationwide.
About the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA)
The
Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) is a professional organization dedicated to reducing the number of firefighter injuries and line-of-duty deaths. FDSOA provides training, resources, and advocacy to support safety officers and promote a culture of safety throughout the fire service.
About the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF)
The
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) honors America’s fallen fire heroes and supports their families, colleagues, and organizations. The foundation also works to reduce firefighter deaths and injuries through education, training, and the development of safety initiatives.
About the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE)
The
Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is an international professional organization that promotes excellence in fire engineering, fire safety, and emergency response. IFE supports knowledge sharing, professional development, and the advancement of fire science worldwide.
About the First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE)
The
First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE) promotes the health and well-being of first responders by supporting research, education, and best practices. FRCE focuses on reducing occupational illnesses and injuries, including cancer and behavioral health challenges.
About the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC)
The
National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. NVFC provides advocacy, training, and resources to support volunteer responders and strengthen community protection.
About the National Development and Research Institutes (NDRI)
The National Development and Research Institutes (NDRI) is a nonprofit research organization that advances scientific understanding of public health and safety issues. NDRI conducts research and develops evidence-based solutions to address challenges affecting first responders and communities.