Chantilly, Va. – The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) announced today that Fire-Rescue International (FRI) 2020, scheduled to take place August 19-21 in Phoenix, AZ, has been cancelled due to the impact and ongoing concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). A virtual FRI format will be announced on July 7, 2020, and will take place over the week of August 19th.
"While much of the country is beginning to transition into the different phases of stay-at-home orders and opening up businesses, the IAFC Board was concerned by the rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations in Arizona. We could not compromise the safety and health of our attendees, exhibitors, customers and staff above all else," Chief Gary Ludwig, IAFC President and Chairman of the Board, said in a statement to the IAFC Membership.
"We are all disappointed that we have had to cancel FRI 2020 in Phoenix. Phoenix is a beautiful, vibrant city; all of us were certainly looking forward to visiting," said Ludwig. “However, we are looking forward to rolling out a virtual FRI format to offer our members and attendees the opportunity to connect with fire service thought leaders, apparatus and equipment manufacturers, and to conduct the annual business of the IAFC.”
The IAFC Board would like to thank the City of Phoenix, the Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau and Convention Center; and Phoenix Fire Chief Kara Kalkbrenner and the staff of the Phoenix Fire Department for all of their support and assistance during the years of preparation for FRI 2020.
Media Inquiries Contact:
Rob Brown | IAFC Interim CEO/Executive Director
540-379-3582 | rbrown@iafc.org
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About the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC): The IAFC represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials response, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest best practices and services available for first responders.