Jan 01, 0001
Firefighters: Are They the Ones Who Need Saving?
In Tennessee, a health crisis therapist came to talk to students about the emotional side of emergency services. The talk prompted one student, Kira Jones, to write an essay.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Asks for Review of Fire Management and Suppression Draft Resource Types
Comments are due by 5:00 PM ET on December 10. The IAFC requests that its members review these resource typing documents and submit comments.
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Foundation Announces Scholarship Award Recipients for 2021
IAFCF, committed to strengthening future leaders through higher education, announces its 2021 Scholarship award recipients
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Foundation Announces 2021 Fire Explorer Scholarship Recipients
Congratulations to all the winners.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Members Invited to Engage EPA Researchers for a Disaster Waste Management Study
Researchers want to understand how debris and waste are sorted, staged, and transported in disaster contexts, as well as how final disposal and/or recycling decisions are made in the field
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC-VCOS Releases the 2021 Yellow Ribbon Report Update on Responder Behavioral Wellness
The contributors hope that you use this report to assist your public safety personnel in managing the traumatic stresses they are confronting every day.
Jan 01, 0001
Leadership Anxiety
Whatever the specific answer is to help take care of our leaders, it will come in some form of us taking care of each other.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC and TC Energy Mexico Pipeline Training
Training in 2020 was completed in the State of Veracruz and the State of Sinaloa and is presently underway in the State of Hidalgo October 28-29, 2021, and Guanajuato November 4-5, 2021.
Jan 01, 0001
HHS Releases FAQs on HIPAA, COVID-19, and the Workplace
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently released a list of Frequently Asked Questions about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Jan 01, 0001
FHWA, IAFC, and Crash Responder Safety Week
Read about the development of the Traffic Incident Management (TIM) program.
Jan 01, 0001
Resiliency
Our ability to accept the habitat of complex leadership, stay positive during trials, and focus on getting through the particular issue of the day is what resiliency and leadership are all about.
Jan 01, 0001
WUI 2021 is Going Virtual
IAFC has made the difficult decision to cancel the in-person 2021 Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference.
Jan 01, 0001
RSG for Law Enforcement
Video and Flyer available for use
Jan 01, 0001
Nominate Today for 2021 RSG! Program Awards
Award recipients will be invited to the IAFC's Wildland-Urban Interface Conference in Reno on November 15-16, 2021
Jan 01, 0001
HHS Announces Availability of $25.5 billion in COVID-19 Provider Funding
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that $25.5 billion soon will be available to help EMS providers with the costs of providing COVID-19 response.
Jan 01, 0001
Community Emergency Response Team Materials in Six Languages
CERTs are pivotal in building personal and community resilience, so it is essential that all groups feel at ease accessing resources.
Jan 01, 0001
Documentary: Vaccination from the Misinformation Virus
This one-hour documentary helps address vaccine concerns by explaining why vaccines are safe, crucial to community health, and save millions of lives annually.
Jan 01, 0001
Fire Department Exchange is Accepting Applications
Five applicants will be selected to participate.
Jan 01, 0001
Ego and Leadership
This article is a look at how our ego affects leadership, especially in the fire service.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Position on COVID-19 Vaccination of Fire and EMS Personnel
The IAFC is committed to the health and safety of our fire and EMS department personnel.
Jan 01, 0001
How To Get Employees to Take Ownership
When employees take ownership in the workplace, it leads to a culture of accountability and trust. Learn what it means to take ownership at work and how to get your employees involved.
Jan 01, 0001
U.S. EPA Decontamination Conference, Call for Abstracts Open
The EPA is seeking abstracts for this years’ conference and welcomes IAFC members to submit proposals with experiences in decontamination.
Jan 01, 0001
Risky Business
Why risk assessments are essential for firefighter and community safety.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Releases Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Toolkit Documents
Documents apply an all-hazards approach in its concepts, processes, and principles.
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Jan 01, 0001
FRI Chief Chat: 'The Future of the Fire Service is Full of Uncertainty, but That’s OK'
East Hartford, Conn., Fire Chief John Oates encouraged chiefs to embrace several key strategies to lead successful fire departments into the future
Jan 01, 0001
Preventing the Preventable: Renewing Fire Prevention and Life Safety Education as Firefighter Survival Tools
Fire prevention and life safety education have long been recognized as an effective way to establish "fire-safe" behavior among people of all ages and abilities.
Jan 01, 0001
First On Scene: Leaders Reflect On Their 9/11 Experiences, How Public Safety Has Evolved
Chiefs Pfeifer and Schwartz, Commissioner Cassano and FBI Special Agent Combs came together for the first time during Fire-Rescue International 2021
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Releases Guide to Continuity of Government
The guide identifies the major roles of government and how continuity of operations is critical to constitutional government.
Jan 01, 0001
Walking the Walk: How FDs are Setting the Example to Cure ‘Dirty Helmet Syndrome’
Fire service leaders share what works at their departments.
Jan 01, 0001
FireRescue GPO is Now Part of Sourcewell
The IAFC is pleased to continue to support FireRescue GPO through this integration, and Sourcewell is now the sole cooperative purchasing partner of the IAFC.
Jan 01, 0001
One Great Save: San Diego’s Justification and Journey to Acquire the S-70i™ FIREHAWK® Helicopter
You only need one great save to justify every penny of investment I’m about to describe.
Jan 01, 0001
Know the Enemy: Firefighters Must Understand the Basics of Building Construction
Video of Pennsylvania house fire shows how fast a modern residential structure begins to deteriorate.
Jan 01, 0001
Vector Solutions and IAFC’s Volunteer and Combination Officers Section Now Accepting Nominations for the 2021 Training Officer Recognition Award
The award, which is now open for nominations, acknowledges exemplary conduct by a training officer for their innovation and effectiveness when delivering training.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Released Research Findings to Improve Public Messaging for Evacuations and Sheltering-in-Place
This research also includes strategies to help emergency managers understand complexities in individual and household decision-making.
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Jan 01, 0001
Four Important Mental Health Leadership Lessons
We need to make mental illness recognized as a physical illness and a priority in our profession.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Resources for Preparing for Civil Unrest
To help fire departments provide service to their communities and protect their personnel, the IAFC has both compiled and developed some resources.
Jan 01, 0001
The April 2021 Talking TIM Webinar is Here
Learn how local agencies can apply NextGen TIM innovations.
Jan 01, 0001
Webinar: Making a Dynamic Professional Development Program for Fire Leaders
This onversation will help you identify needs, find motivators, and explore the necessary components to establish a successful program for your organization.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Releases NIMS National Qualification System Implementation Objectives Fact Sheet for Public Engagement
FEMA will host two, 30-minute webinars to discuss the draft implementation objectives and answer related questions.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Releases Audit-Related Guidance for Entities Receiving COVID-19 Public Assistance Funds
Fire and EMS chiefs are encouraged to review this document to help them maximize their cost recovery through the FEMA Public Assistance program while meeting all the reporting requirements.
Jan 01, 0001
FireRescue GPO Becomes a Part of Sourcewell
Continue to meet your procurement requirements and save money in the process while purchasing the brands your firefighters rely on every day.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Releases 9 Search & Rescue Resource Typing Documents
These resource typing documents will facilitate the sharing of deployable resource types at all jurisdictional levels.
Jan 01, 0001
3AM Innovations and NextNav Improve First Responder Safety and Situational Awareness with Vertical Location
NextNav announces a new partnership with 3AM Innovations to deliver improved situational awareness for first responders through vertical location.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Updates Core Capabilities Development Sheets with Revised Training Courses
These updated versions include revised suggested training for each core capability.
Jan 01, 0001
Public Consulting Group and The International Association of Fire Chiefs Continue Partnership to Educate the Fire and EMS Community
The IAFC is thrilled to work with PCG as both organizations strive to educate fire and emergency medical services leaders and the first responder community at large.
Jan 01, 0001
Narrowing the ‘Digital Divide’: Funding Tech Projects In Rural Areas For Enhanced Training
How a unique partnership created more reliable connections for fire response and training
Jan 01, 0001
America’s First Responders Deserve Better Support From Federal Government in Preparation for Future Biological Events
Upcoming Commission Meeting to Explore Needs of First Responder Community During Biological Events
Jan 01, 0001
Public Safety Next Generation 9-1-1 Coalition Launches Major Grassroots Campaign
The Coalition is solely motivated by what is needed by public safety professionals as they carry out their missions to save and protect the public every day.
Jan 01, 0001
It All Starts with the Incident Mission: Focus on 3 Concepts to Truly ‘Own’ the Scene
Lessons from U.S. Navy SEALs can help firefighters better focus on life safety, incident stabilization and property conservation.
Jan 01, 0001
Leading Through Uncertainty
Perhaps the most important thing for leaders to do in times of uncertainty is to show up and be present.
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Jan 01, 0001
2021 Fire Service Executive Development Institute Participants Selected
This is the ninth year that the Motorola Solutions Foundation has provided the IAFC with a grant to fund the program.
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Jan 01, 0001
Fire Chiefs Urged to Take Immediate Steps to Check for Microsoft Exchange Vulnerabilities
Fire chiefs are urged to contact their IT departments -- without delay -- to ascertain their departments’ vulnerability.
Jan 01, 0001
Accepting Failure or Faking Perfection? It’s Time to be Realistic About our Success and Failures
We must review our incidents with honesty or we’ll never be able to improve as a fire service.
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Jan 01, 0001
Top Wildfire Management Groups Name 2021 National Wildfire Mitigation Awardees
Individuals and organizations honored for exemplary commitment to community wildfire risk reduction.
Jan 01, 0001
Your Role in Improving EMS Flight Safety
After your call, the operator should assess the risks—such as weather, flight conditions, and which pilot is on duty—to determine if it’s safe to accept the flight.
Jan 01, 0001
HHS Announces ASPR TRACIE Website to Provide Information for Healthcare Practitioners
Fire and EMS chiefs are encouraged to review this website and bookmark it as appropriate.
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Jan 01, 0001
Ending Harassment in the Fire Service is Everyone’s Responsibility
Company officers rHarassment is a systemic issue, meaning it’s not simply an isolated issue between two peopleepresent the intersection of all the department’s policies, training and actions
Jan 01, 0001
FAA Approves AeroLEDs for Part 27 Rotorcraft
This STC covers the installation of the SunSpot™ 36 and 46 Series LEDs on nearly all “Normal” category rotorcraft.
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Jan 01, 0001
City Officials – How Must Your Cities Change in the Future?
Our goal to protect our staff and citizens should be unwavering.
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Jan 01, 0001
Lancaster, California: Response to COVID From the City's Perspective
A look at how the city responded and came out stronger during the pandemic.
Jan 01, 0001
The One Thing!
My journey and my most important advice.
Jan 01, 0001
Congress Passes Legislation to Address Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
This week Congress passed The Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA; H.R. 6395).
Jan 01, 0001
Raising the Bar for Fire Service sUAS (Drone) Pilots
The utilization of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) by U.S. fire departments has grown exponentially over the last six years.
Jan 01, 0001
The Intersection of Need and Demand Equals Opportunity
Things are changing, and the fire service must pay attention.
Jan 01, 0001
A New Way to Educate the Community
COVID-19 gives the fire service a unique opportunity to educate the community on risk reduction.
Jan 01, 0001
Cutting Edge EMS Technology
Healthcare innovation is happening at a pace never before seen; technologies that were once science fiction are now a reality.
Jan 01, 0001
COVID-19 Update
The IAFC, through the task forces and personnel who are keeping their fingers on the pulse of the pandemic.
Jan 01, 0001
A Decade of Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Survival
August marked the 10th anniversary of the International Association of Fire Chiefs' (IAFC) adoption of the Rules of Engagement.
Jan 01, 0001
Community First
When it comes to impactful decisions, always keep in mind my systematic approach.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute Available for Ninth Year
Thanks to the Motorola Solutions Foundation, the program provides new chiefs with tools they need to succeed.
Jan 01, 0001
Risky Business
When developing a risk assessment, your job is to define the characteristics of the response area or overall jurisdiction.
Jan 01, 0001
Executive Leadership in the Fire Service: Observations Part 2
Part Two of a Two-Part Series Discussing Executive Leadership with Dr. Denis Onieal.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Members Pass Amendment to Constitution and Bylaws
IAFC members approve amendment to the IAFC Constitution and Bylaws.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Releases Checklist for Active Shooter Response
Keeping our responders and communities safe requires a full suite of tools.
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Jan 01, 0001
Civil Unrest Lessons Learned
The safety of first responders is paramount during these events.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC’s Coronavirus Task Force Update
The IAFC Coronavirus Task Force was formed to focus the IAFC's efforts on preparing the fire and emergency service to respond to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Jan 01, 0001
Esri Supports Fire & EMS Service Operations in the New Normal
Esri continues its strong partnership with the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
Jan 01, 0001
Livingston County chief named Fire Chief of the Year
Honor goes to Livingston County chief two years in a row
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Jan 01, 0001
2020 Wildfire Mitigation Awardees Announced
Individuals and organizations honored for exemplary commitment to community wildfire risk reduction.
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Jan 01, 0001
Smart Firefighting: Virtual Chat on Data in the Fire Service
How do we capture this data, analyze it without bias, and then use it to make meaningful decisions?
Jan 01, 0001
First 5 Minutes on The Fireground
The Incident Safety Officer’s response, arrival and initial activity are critical.
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Jan 01, 0001
Public Safety Departments Must Hire and Promote Inclusive Employees
You eliminate bias in employment practices by hiring inclusive employees and promoting only inclusive leaders.
Jan 01, 0001
Priority Dispatch and PulsePoint Partner to Help 911 Dispatchers Guide Callers to Closest Lifesaving AED
June 23 Webinar to Highlight Best Practices in Dispatching Citizen Response to Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Jan 01, 0001
COVID-19 and Lessons from the Hanoi Hilton
History is often the best of teachers.
Jan 01, 0001
Social Media and the Fire Department
Proper use of social media can strengthen the mission of the fire service.
Jan 01, 0001
Wildfire Mitigation Awards Nominations Open
Applications Open for the 2021 Wildfire Mitigation Awards
Jan 01, 0001
Good Policies Support A Culture of Trust
Trust between firefighters and their officers, or lack of it, is part of fire department culture.
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Jan 01, 0001
Extraordinary Times Demand Extraordinary Leadership
We will get through this current crisis, and how we come out on the backside will depend on the leadership exhibited at all levels.
Jan 01, 0001
No Data, No Problem
As we gather our incident data for our communities, big or small, accurate data is mandatory.
Jan 01, 0001
Building a Fire Department Sustainability Program Starts with Policy
Fire departments are not businesses, but we don’t have to look far to find examples of private sector management practices adopted into the fire service.
Jan 01, 0001
Expectations Memos: Building Understanding and Rapport
Expectations memos can be a handy tool in building high performing teams and productive employees.
Jan 01, 0001
Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Assistance Available for Indiana Fire Departments
All support is provided free of cost to departments; the program is funded by the FEMA’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants.
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Jan 01, 0001
The Future of Technology Partners for Public Safety: A Case Study on First Due
When the fire service leaders look to acquire and adopt new technologies, we need to ensure we lead through the technology we implement – not be led by it.
Jan 01, 0001
What Does it Take to Become a Fire Chief?
Even if you’re not sure you want to become a fire chief, applying some of the suggestions here will enable you to become better at what you do now, in the future, and as you mentor other members.
Jan 01, 0001
Because We Are Still Here
When an events like a pandemic occur, it should cause us to stop for a second and think about what is truly important.
Jan 01, 0001
The Best of Times
The fire service and EMS world also got turned upside down when COVID-19 showed up in our door step.
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Jan 01, 0001
Leadership in Tough Times
The current crisis with the coronavirus, while scary, doesn’t mean we should abandon our usual leadership practices.
Jan 01, 0001
Chief, Begin Your Day by Asking the Right Questions
There are so many things a chief must decide in a day, so start with simple questions.
Jan 01, 0001
First Due & International Association Of Fire Chiefs Release Community Connect For Covid 19
Community Connect for COVID-19 is designed for the sole mission of improving emergency response and community risk area analysis.
Jan 01, 0001
The IAFC’s Members Can Help US&R Resource Cataloging Initiatives
The assistance of the IAFC membership is requested to ensure that we indeed have developed a comprehensive catalog of search and rescue resources that can be used in a catastrophic event.
Jan 01, 0001
Planning for the Worst
Why having LODD guidelines is essential.
Jan 01, 0001
The FAA Wants Your Input on the Remote ID Proposal
Those in the public safety community are encouraged to participate.
Jan 01, 0001
Essential Hazmat Training Criteria for Responders, Leaders
Do you know your training programs strengths? Weaknesses?
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Goes to New Mexico to Teach Recruitment & Retention
IAFC programs are making a difference world-wide.
Jan 01, 0001
In a Man's World
How good are you at listening to people?
Jan 01, 0001
Critical Information During a Chemical Response
To increase the chemical information available to firefighters requires a combined effort
Jan 01, 0001
What Chiefs Need to Know About Hazmat Preparedness
Chief, are you prepared for a hazmat incident?
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Jan 01, 0001
Lessons Learned from the Misfortunes of Others
Using Case Studies to Aid Professional Development
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC's Fellowship Program Graduates its 17th Cohort
IAFC staff and our partners traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, earlier this month.
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Jan 01, 0001
Crisis Communications and the Role of the PIO
Are you and your PIOs prepared to meet today's challenges?
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Jan 01, 0001
What I Wish I Knew When I Became a Fire Chief
A lesson on relationships.
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Jan 01, 0001
Recruitment and Retention, Not Just a Volunteer Challenge
The challenges with recruiting and retaining firefighters is not limited to volunteer departments.
Jan 01, 0001
DHS Releases New “Cyber Essentials” Resources to Promote Cybersecurity
The IAFC recommends that fire chiefs review the actions described in the Cyber Essentials to protect your fire department from cyber-attacks.
Jan 01, 0001
6 Ways to Reduce Cancer in the Fire Service
The key to being cancer-free is knowledge and the discipline apply that knowledge daily.
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Jan 01, 0001
It's Drone Safety Week
This is an opportunity to share your commitment to drone safety and download valuable resources for you and your crew.
Jan 01, 0001
Firefighter Safety Culture Starts Behind the Wheel
A comprehensive emergency vehicle driver program demonstrates your organization’s culture of safety for your firefighters, as well as the general public, that encounters our emergency vehicles on the street.
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC’s Firefighter Near Miss Reporting System: More Relevant Today Than Ever Before
The Firefighter Near Miss Reporting System continues to work on delivering lessons learned from actual near miss, injury, and property damage accident events.
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Jan 01, 0001
Transitioning to a First-Level or Higher-Level Leadership Position
How does one seamlessly transition to an officer position with as few setbacks as possible?
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Jan 01, 0001
The Value of the IAFC's Fellowship Program
Fire chief recalls experience with IAFC Cohort 13.
Jan 01, 0001
Has Technology Killed Our Networking Opportunities?
Technology is great and necessary, but in-person learning and networking can prove vital to personal and professional growth.
Jan 01, 0001
Mentoring Within the Fire Service Course Released
Learn to demonstrate effective mentorship communication skills and identify strategies for developing the mentee’s behavior and performance.
Jan 01, 0001
Wildfire Risk Management Starts with Communities
It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, there are always communities preparing for, actively mitigating, fighting, or recovering from wildfire
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Jan 01, 0001
Diversify Your Experience
Have you served time in your risk-reduction bureau? You should.
Jan 01, 0001
Looking for the Executive Within
How do new chiefs prepare for what happens after they're appointed? Like new parents, do they ask themselves, “Am I ready? Am I the right person for the job?” Remember, you are not alone.
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Jan 01, 0001
Visionary EMS Leadership: Our Fire Duty to EMS
The fire service owns EMS in the United States; it’s time to step up and provide our visionary leadership to EMS. The future of EMS depends on you.
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Jan 01, 0001
iDELP Application Period Extended to March 29
Launched in 2017, iDELP is aimed at supporting individuals from under-represented identity groups and courageous leaders interested in creating an inclusive and diverse workforce.
Jan 01, 0001
Executive Fire Officer Program: A New Evolution
For a program to remain relevant for decades, it must evolve. The EFOP is currently undergoing one of its most significant evolutions since its creation.
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Jan 01, 0001
Visionary EMS Leadership: The History of the James O Page Award
Every year at Fire-Rescue Med, the EMS Section pays tribute to the legacy of James O Page with the James O. Page EMS Achievement Award.
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Jan 01, 0001
President’s Letter: Highlighting the “International” in the IAFC!
The IAFC is a world leader in the fire service, and we are proud to present the second International Fire Operations Conference in Manama, Bahrain – the result of our vision to expand the IAFC’s reach beyond North America.
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Jan 01, 0001
Visionary EMS Leadership: A New Format for Fire-Rescue Med
Many conferences offer multiple breakout sessions. Which session should you attend? Should you attend only one full session or session-jump and miss parts of each? FRM’s solution: the World Café model, also known as speed dating.
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Jan 01, 0001
EMS is Not Nursing!
As the debate over requiring a degree for paramedic education heats up, I want to clarify one thing: EMS is not the same as other health fields. Stop comparing EMS to any other form of medicine.
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Jan 01, 0001
Chief 101: Executing Your Leadership Role
This new online chief-level course is designed to help fire chiefs in volunteer fire departments effectively execute the roles and responsibilities of a leadership position.
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Jan 01, 0001
Educational Interests of the Fire Service
Researchers from the University of Southern California are looking to understand the educational interests of fire service professionals and what is known about a federal opportunity to partake in a program that offers loan forgiveness.
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Jan 01, 0001
Making Community Risk Reduction Relevant
The IAFC’s new CRR Leadership Conference will educate and train chief officers and other fire service managers seeking to create, execute and evaluate measurably successful CRR platforms and programs.
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Jan 01, 0001
You're a New Chief-level Officer. Now What?
New course is designed for chief-level officers across the United States so please share it with your fire service colleagues.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute Available for 7th Year
The year-long program is open to new and aspiring chiefs who have demonstrated a commitment to career advancement and enhancing the fire and emergency service through their leadership.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC, 1-800-BOARDUP Announce Chief’s Edge Scholarship Winners
The scholarships include complimentary registration for the Chief’s Edge leadership program at FRI in Dallas.
Jan 01, 0001
Fire Service Leaders to Convene in Dallas for Fire-Rescue International, August 8-11
FRI offers fire service leaders teh information, education and services needed to enhance their professional development and service delivery.
Jan 01, 0001
Executive Officer Leadership: Opportunity Missed!
It's said we should leave an organization better than we found it. How can we do that if we don’t seek out a next generation of members who come in the door prepared to take the organization to that next level? Or if we don't nurture that in them?
Jan 01, 0001
President’s Letter: Education is a Pillar of Our Mission
Our profession isn’t for the faint of heart and it requires almost constant learning. The fire and emergency service is saturated with places to go and associations to join; it’s important that we don’t get distracted.
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Reverse-Engineering Succession Management to Grow Your Career
Few departments have successfully implemented a succession-management program, so to have the greatest success in promotions and job performance, aspiring chiefs and officers must know how to reverse-engineer succession management.
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Jan 01, 0001
Fire and Life Safety: Why Pursue Our Professional Credentials?
What’s the common denominator between obtaining coaching credentials and working for our fire service professional credentials? What value do these provide?
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Jan 01, 0001
Keeping the Lug Nuts Tight on the Chariot Wheels!
Innovation is happening in the fire service. The question is, do you know about it? If you do know, do you have time to develop an implementation strategy?
Jan 01, 0001
Is a Degree for EMS Providers Needed to Advance the Profession?
The EMS community is split on whether EMS needs to add a college degree to the minimum requirements for all paramedic training. This article is an in-depth consideration of this question for American EMS providers.
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Jan 01, 0001
Training as if Your Life Depended on It!
The public and all our fellow firefighters are relying on us to be 100% proficient 100% of the time. The only way that happens is through training—every day, every shift, whenever and however you can.
Jan 01, 0001
Enhancing Fire-Rescue Human Capital: Respect
Why do people like me cherish respect? Because of my children. I want my children to be respectful of their peers, their employers, their clients and themselves.
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Jan 01, 0001
Enhancing Fire-Rescue Human Capital: The Expanded Visual Scope of a Supervisor
This month’s prescription: Prepare for an expanded viewpoint.
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Jan 01, 0001
President’s Letter: Preparing Our Departments for All Hazards
The fire service handles things outside our traditional mission of firefighting: from community paramedicine and terrorism to hazardous materials and technical rescue, our world’s fire service is the benefactor of all-hazards solutions.
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Organizing Fire Operations Conference in Middle East
Conference offers unique opportunity to explore leadership development, education sessions covering many operational components.
Jan 01, 0001
The Gold Standard: Are You Ready to Shine?
Today’s fire service leaders must develop professional competencies to lead their organizations into the future, fully engaging in their communities, becoming certified and credentialed and embracing lifelong learning.
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Jan 01, 0001
Excellent Firefighters: We’re Not Promoting Through Testing Difficulties
There’s no question the fire service needs standards, but are our standards so stringent that we’re promoting the academic and passing over vocational candidates?
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Jan 01, 0001
Executive Officer Leadership: Atypical Innovation
Innovation isn’t always packaged in the shiniest wrapping and it doesn’t always cost money. Sometimes, it’s packaged in as research that provides perspectives leading to innovative solutions.
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Jan 01, 0001
Chiefs, Union Leaders Come Together as LMA Conference Returns
For any fire department that has labor-management relationships or new people in leadership roles, the 2018 LMA Conference is the place to be.
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Jan 01, 0001
Choose Your Next Officer with These Key Evaluation Areas
A key factor to ensuring a successful and highly reliable organization is finding those who are committed to excellence and embody the epitome of the organization’s vision.
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Foundation Now Accepting Education Scholarship Applications
Scholarships help leaders to advance their college-level education.
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Jan 01, 0001
Emotional Intelligence, or Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?
Traditionally, intellectual capacity has been seen as a primary indicator of one’s ability to succeed. Emotional intelligence is now also considered a crucial element in individual and professional success.
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Jan 01, 0001
Developing Tomorrow's Leaders Today
FSEDI provides new and aspiring chiefs with the tools they need for successful and productive tenures. Apply by Oct. 27.
Jan 01, 0001
The Driving Force Behind Catalyst Leadership
A catalyst is a driving force behind transforming one product into a more usable, valuable one. Without it, no change can take place. In leadership, how does a catalyst become the driving force behind change?
Jan 01, 0001
President’s Letter: Who’s on Deck?
Our obligation as fire chiefs is to do everything we can to develop, encourage and support future leaders.
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Personally Commit to Professional Development
Until a few years ago, there were few options for professional development of midcareer members. True professional development, both education and training, was limited to chief matters. Through decades of effort, that's changing.
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute Available for 6th Year
Apply by October 6 for the IAFC's Fire Service Executive Development Institute.
Jan 01, 0001
Don’t Train Your Firefighters to Be Leaders
How can we build relationships and invest the time and energy to make our firefighters successful? We need to leave the footprints behind that can create a path for their success.
Jan 01, 0001
Executive Officer Leadership: Professional Development for the Entire Organizational Chart
One of the questions many training officers and fire chiefs struggle with is how to structure professional and career development programs within their departments.
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Leadership Development
Leadership development—what does that really mean? Can you develop people into becoming good leaders, or are leaders just born to be leaders?
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Jan 01, 0001
An Evolution in Transparency: In Our Departments and Communities
It’s time to introduce our personnel to the public we serve. People have seen our folks in action. They’ve invited them into their homes at their time of need. But who is it that’s stepping across the threshold?
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Jan 01, 0001
Executive Officer Leadership: Try a KISS Succession Plan
It’s been said you never know what a job entails until you’re in it. As the fire chief, exposing those coming up behind you to what you do is a major step in minimizing the gap.
Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Innovation in Officer-Development Training
Fairfax County (Virginia) Fire and Rescue serves rural, suburban and urban environments, and with such varied needs, ensuring a highly trained and effective officer corps becomes even more critical.
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Jan 01, 0001
Hazmat Initiatives at the IAFC: Program Update and Learning Opportunities
Here’s what’s been happening at the IAFC in the Hazmat Center.
Jan 01, 0001
President’s Letter: All-Hazards Experience Is the Worst Teacher
As I was standing alongside a road, watching a mile-wide flame front from a fast-moving wildland fire move rapidly toward me, a friend pulled up and said, “Fire first gives the test, then provides the lesson.”
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Jan 01, 0001
'Tis Intimidation Season—Again!
IAFC members and staff are again being harassed and lied to by representatives of a union upset that our organization is holding FRM at the Green Valley Ranch in Nevada. Don't let these bullying tactics derail our conference.
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Jan 01, 0001
In Your Leadership Toolkit: Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is recognized as a necessary component of leadership. Fire and emergency service leaders must keep this tool sharp and use it effectively in the firehouse and on every call. How sharp is the tool in your kit?
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Moving Forward in 2017
We know that one of the most powerful positions has little impact on what we do daily when the bell goes off in the fire station. Now that the vote is done, it’s time to move forward and continue with our daily responsibilities as company officers.
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Jan 01, 0001
Motorola Solutions Foundation Public Safety Grant Funds 5th Year of Fire Service Executive Development Institute
Fairfax, Va. – The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has received a significant grant award as part of the Motorola Solutions Foundation’s public safety grant award program. The grant will make it possible for the IAFC to provide a ...
Jan 01, 0001
NFA’s Growing Impact on Community Risk Reduction
One goal of the USFA is to reduce risk and increase resiliency through programs and training in preparedness, prevention and mitigation, and the NFA has offered courses focused on prevention since it doors opened in 1980.
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Jan 01, 0001
If Not Now, When?
Training is about today. Education is about tomorrow: what the next community need is and where the fire and emergency service fits in.
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Officer Development at FRI 2016 – A First-Hand Look
“ODP is second to none. There’s no other training for company and chief officers that compares to the Officer Development Program at FRI.”
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Jan 01, 0001
Executive Officer Leadership: Formal Education Needs in the Fire Service
The fire and emergency service is a dynamic profession, and it’s up to each member to continue to improve.
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Jan 01, 0001
Building Experience After Education
“That was a great class. Now what do I do with it?” That thought has passed through the minds of many fire officers, but how do you apply your new information to make it practical, valuable? Read more
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Jan 01, 0001
"Man in the Mirror"
You may not be changing the world, but you are sending a message of change to your fire department with everything you do or don’t do. So are you committed to the lifelong learning a chief officer in the 21st-century fire service needs?
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Jan 01, 0001
Executive Officer Leadership- Are You Energized to Develop our Future Leaders?
To truly develop leaders, we must exercise more effort than just formulating a well-laid-out plan; we must energize ourselves and the individuals to achieve this goal.
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Jan 01, 0001
The Lawsuit Litmus Test
Anyone in public service knows that legal action or a lawsuit may be just the next call or the next shift away.
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Jan 01, 0001
What to Do When Internal Candidates Don’t Get the Promotion
Fostering a pool of both interested and qualified personnel allows chiefs to select their command staff and local administrators or governing boards to draw from for their next fire chief.
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Foundation Receives Motorola Solutions Foundation Grant
The IAFC Foundation, providing first responders with the educational opportunities they need to lead the fire service and serve ...
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Jan 01, 0001
President`s Letter: When Bad Things Happen to Good People
One of the benefits of being the IAFC president is having fire service friends throughout the country and around the ...
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Jan 01, 0001
President`s Letter: We Are More Alike Than You Think
When you look at the fire service from the 30,000-foot level, it seems like we spend a great deal of ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Fire & Life Safety: "Leadership Manager" and Other Abuses of English
Every year, our friends at Lake Superior State University publish an annual list of banished words, those overused words ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: The Value of a Solid Reputation
A good reputation is one of the most valuable assets we have. It takes years to build, but can be ...
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Jan 01, 0001
11 Gifts for Your Members: Be a Leader, Be a Giver
Once you become a chief officer, you no longer put out fires, extricate trapped victims or provide emergency medical care; ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Are We Just Checking Boxes?
In the job description for these lieutenant positions, besides generic language such as “has the ability to lift X pounds,” ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Safety & Health: Grassroots Leadership
Leadership. Ask a roomful of people to identify a leader and responses will range from very recognizable icons to the ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Scholarships Available through the IAFC Foundation
The IAFC Foundation is now accepting applications for its educational scholarships from qualified first responders. The deadline is June 1, ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Lifelong Learning in the Digital Era
Tomorrow``s illiterate will not be the man who can``t read; he will be the man who has not learned how ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Executive Fire Officer: Facing the New Realities
In today``s world, shrinking budgets, increased competition and the availability of online information and resources means that fire and emergency ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Firefighter/EMT Safety, Health & Survival: "So, Coach?"
Organizationally, we``re as strong and successful as our company-level operations—in particular, our company officers. Company officers come almost exclusively from ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Internships: Opportunities for Fire Departments and Recruits Alike
Economic realities have forced hiring freezes, layoffs and fire station closures. Fire departments respond to calls with staffing levels below ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Preparing Chief Officers
When someone describes the fire service as “100 years of tradition unimpeded by progress,” does it conjure nostalgic images of ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Communication: A Key to Successful Succession Planning
Only after Harry Truman was sworn in as president did he learn that the United States possessed a weapon unseen ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Learn How to Be the Next Leader and Coach
Coaching is face-to-face leadership that pulls together peoplewith diverse backgrounds, talents, experiences, and interests, encourages them to step up ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC at 140: The Ladder the IAFC Built
The task for the IAFC now is the same as it has been since its inception 140 years ago: share ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Recruiting a Diverse Firefighting Force
For many years, the Rochester (N.Y.) Fire Department has faced the challenge of recruiting a diverse firefighting force that better ...
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Jan 01, 0001
President's Letter: Climbing the Professional Ladder, Helping Others Up
There comes a point in all our lives when we consider a change in our jobs; the reasons may vary ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Successful Succession Doesn`t Happen by Accident
The American fire service focuses its members on the tactics and strategy they confront daily in responding to all-hazard emergencies, ...
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Jan 01, 0001
You and ISO
Plainfield Fire Protection District Plainfield, Illinois Demonstrating the continued partnership between the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS) of the ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Advancing Your Education and Your Career
Wanted: Fire chief. Requirements: bachelor``s degree from a regionally accredited institution in fire science or closely related field`` master``s degree ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Foundation Receives Motorola Solutions Foundation Public Safety Grant
The IAFC Foundation, promoting higher education and research in the fire services, has received a $50,000 grant as part ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Training with New Technology
For many businesses, travel and training are among the first things cut when the economy slows. The fire and emergency ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Foundation Scholarship Deadline Is June 1
Fire service professionals who want to further their professional education can apply for educational scholarships with the International Association of ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Foundation Receives Donation from 1-800-BOARDUP
At the Welcome Reception at FRI in Atlanta, Chief Jack McElfish, IAFC Foundation treasurer, accepted a generous donation on behalf ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Emergency Medical Services: What`s In a Name?
A name defines who we are, and in fire and EMS, we use all kinds of names. There are names ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Emergency Medical Services: "Knowledge Itself Is Power"
"Ipsa scientia potestas est." This Latin phrase meaning "Knowledge itself is power" is attributed to Sir Francis Bacon (1561-1626). He ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Building a Community for Homeland Defenders Through Education
A famous quote from John F. Kennedy is inscribed in the ceiling of the US Embassy to Canada here in ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Developing Leaders from Within Your Department
I was speaking to a new friend several months ago and we began discussing some of the current problems company ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Mentoring as a Mandate for Successful Fire Service Leaders
Successful organizations are built on the wealth of their human capital. Nothing is of more critical mass to an organization ...
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Jan 01, 0001
The Dialog Continues: IAFC Members Weigh In on Succession Planning
The February 1 issue of IAFC On Scene focused on the topic of succession planning, a topic many in the ...
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Jan 01, 0001
The Need for Training: Tested Under Extreme Conditions
We often hear from our troops, “Training again, man that’s all we do!” and “Why do we need this?” Such ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Chief Pouget Takes the Helm: Frederick County Names First Female Fire Chief and Director
July 22 was a historic day for the Frederick County (Md.) Division of Fire & Rescue Services as they welcomed ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Succession Planning: Ensuring Organizational Success
One of the most challenging dimensions of organizational leadership is succession planning. John C. Maxwell writes: "When all is said ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Pursuing Your Degree and Need Funding Support? Check Out IAFC Foundation Scholarships
The IAFC Foundation is accepting applications for its educational scholarships from qualified first responders; the deadline is June 1. Scholarships ...
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Jan 01, 0001
President`s Letter: Thanks to a Retiring Leader
One of the themes of my term as IAFC president is the issue of succession planning and leadership development in ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Looking to Your Future
As a company officer, have you asked yourself where to next? Is my next promotion taking me to the fire-prevention ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Transitioning into the Fire-Rescue Service
The cost of recruiting, hiring, testing and training new recruits runs into tens of thousands of dollars, and a loss ...
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Jan 01, 0001
From Problems to Possibilities: 7 Tips for Focusing on Opportunities
Whether you think you can or think you can``t – you``re right. This quote, attributed to Henry Ford, illustrates perfectly ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Stepping Up to Lead
It’s Tuesday morning, August 24: as I’m sitting in the Denver airport, destination Atlanta, I’m thinking about my responsibility as ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Leadership 101
At this point in your fire service career, you``ve probably attended leadership conferences or classes, read leadership books, watched leadership ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Mentoring Program Off to a Good Start
The IAFC``s Company Officer Mentor Program is off to a rousing start, with eight IAFC company-officer members currently enrolled in ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Emergency Medical Services: On the Right Path
We talk a lot about developing and empowering our employees, creating succession plans and offering educational opportunities to improve their ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Fire & Life Safety: Taking Time to Grow
At what point in a fire service career does a firefighter begin their education in leadership? Most would argue that ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Professional Development Can Be a Two-Way Street
Perform a web search on "fire officer development" and you``ll quickly see how a new company officer can become overwhelmed ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC at 140: Who Will Lead Us Next?
The fire service has had smart, experienced, bold leaders at the helm since the first splash of water snuffed out ...
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Jan 01, 0001
A New Milestone in the Officer Development Program
This year the IAFC introduced Executive Chief Officer-Level II at Fire-Rescue International, which also marked the final level of the ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Emergency Medical Services: EFO - It`s Not Just About Fire
During a recent discussion about the Executive Fire Officer Program (EFOP) at the National Fire Academy (NFA), I was asked ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Education and Accreditation: To Serve, Meet the Requirements
A senior fire official I know once surprised me by saying that the National Fire Academy was a "bunch of ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC at 140: An Idea that Created Leaders
The key to moving any industry forward is taking an idea—be it simple or complex—and transforming it into something tangible. ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Fire & Life Safety: Equipping Ourselves Now for the Fire Service of Tomorrow
The foundation of our careers has come from influences inside and outside the fire service. Every inspection, plan review, investigation, ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officer Leadership: Be a Better Leader for Tomorrow
Our parents try to instill in us as children the importance of education. We all choose different career paths, and ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Developing the Future with Vision
If you’re reading this article, at some point in your life you’ve made a decision to improve yourself, not only ...
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Jan 01, 0001
A Potential Game Changer for the Next Call
The pipeline incident may have happened more than six years ago, but it’s a vivid memory that hasn’t faded for ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC and USFA Release National Safety Culture Change Initiative Web-Based and Instructor-Led Training
USFA and IAFC released a web-based training program and instructor-led training materials, supporting the National Safety Culture Change Initiative (NSCCI).
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Jan 01, 0001
2016 Fire Service Executive Development Institute Participants Selected
Fairfax, Va. - The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) announced the names of the individuals who have been accepted ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Mentoring in a Diverse Organization
Over the past 25 years, mentoring has been used in both formal and informal settings. One reason organizations use mentors ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Company Officers in 2015 and Beyond
The IAFC has recognized the progression of leaders within the fire service and recognizes the benefits of beginning the leadership ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Leadership Development: An Obligation
This in-depth article compiles research and recommendations from experts in the arena of leadership development.
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Jan 01, 0001
2015 Fire Service Executive Development Institute Participants Selected
Fairfax, Va. - The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) today announced the participants accepted into the third-year of the ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Succession Planning or Succession Program?
When chiefs see the phrase succession planning, many think they need to develop a plan for who will succeed them. Building a succession program is a better approach.
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Jan 01, 0001
"What is a FSEDI?"
At FRI this year, it seemed like everywhere you looked, there was someone with a name badge ribbon "FSEDI." Actually, ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Firefighter/EMT Safety, Health & Survival: Share, Listen, Let Go
Firefighter/EMT Safety, Health & Survival:
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Jan 01, 0001
FSEDI Participants Complete First Week of Yearlong Executive Development Program
Fairfax, Va. - Twenty-two members of the 2014 Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) have completed the first week of ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Officers Selected for Fire Service Executive Development Institute for 2014 Session
Fairfax, Va. - The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) announced the cadre of students accepted into the 2014 session ...
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Continues Growth of Next-Generation Fire Service Leaders with Support from Motorola Solutions Foundation
Fairfax, Va. - The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) today announced it has received a grant as part of ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Doing It Differently—Back to the Future at Symposium in the Sun
This year, VCOS Symposium in the Sun``s theme was "Do It Different: Back to the Future." Our new hotel, the ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Mentoring Program for Future Chiefs
The International Association of Fire Chiefs has launched a new mentoring program targeted to company officers as part of its ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Mapping the Future of Fire-Rescue International
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) is pleased to announce the locations set to host Fire-Rescue International (FRI) through ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Diving In: A New Chief's Perspective on Assuming Leadership
Advancing professionally can be both exciting and nerve-wracking; what makes anyone jump into the deep end of this pool? On Scene talks to a new chief about the decision to take the plunge and his continuing professional journey.
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Jan 01, 0001
First Class: Officers Selected for Fire Service Executive Development Institute
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) announced the inaugural cadre of students accepted into the Fire Service Executive Development ...
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Jan 01, 0001
Educational Requirements Are a Must for Today's Fire Chief
Let’s get right to it: without a college degree or advanced professional certifications, such as Chief Fire Officer (CFO) or ...
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Jan 01, 0001
A New Outlook on Education
In today's world, it's not always true that you get a simple answer when you ask a simple question. That's ...
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