Jan 01, 0001

Nominations Open for Prestigious Training Officer Award

VCOS is accepting nominations for the Prestigious 2024 Training Officer Recognition Award

Jan 01, 0001

U.S. House of Representatives Votes to Save FIRE and SAFER Grants

The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to pass S. 870, extending the end date of both the AFG (FIRE) & SAFER Grants. The bill will now be considered by the Senate.

Jan 01, 0001

Message from IAFC President John Butler re: OSHA Draft Emergency Response Standard

Message from IAFC President John Butler re: OSHA Draft Emergency Response Standard

Jan 01, 0001

Two Fire/EMS Departments to Receive Heart Safe Community Awards at 2024 Fire-Rescue Med Conference

City of Madison and Dothan, Alabama fire departments recognized for their exceptional efforts toward cardiac safety & education.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC's EMS Section Names Chief J. Robert Brown, Jr. (Ret.) Recipient of the 2024 James O. Page EMS Achievement Award

IAFC Honors Chief Rob Brown with Prestigious Award

Jan 01, 0001

Submit Your Nomination for the 2024 IAFC Ben Franklin Award for Valor

Presented annually at Fire-Rescue International (FRI) by the IAFC and Motorola Solutions, the award honors a firefighter(s) for their expert training, professional service and dedication to duty displayed in saving human life.

Jan 01, 0001

Submit Your Nomination for the 2024 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year Award

The IAFC is now accepting nominations for the IAFC Fire Chief of the Year Award through May 17. Since 1996, this prestigious award has recognized one volunteer and one career fire chief.

Jan 01, 0001

International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Celebrates 106th Anniversary

Congratulations to the IAFF on their 106 years of service representing more than 343,000 career firefighters and paramedics.

Jan 01, 0001

iDELP Chort 3 Announced

President John Butler announces the names of the individuals who have been accepted into the iDELP program as fellows in Cohort 3

Jan 01, 0001

2024 Safety Stand Down Theme Announced

Fire Training: Back to Basics is announced as theme for Safety Stand Down, June 16-22, 2024

Jan 01, 0001

Wildfire Mitigation Awards Announced

Wildfire Mitigation Awards have named the individuals and organizations chosen to receive honors this year

Jan 01, 0001

Elevate Your Leadership Skills with ODP - Leadership Development Certification Series Online Courses

IAFC and Columbia Southern University announce first series of online courses for Company Officers I – II – III

Jan 01, 0001

Chief John S. Butler Appoints Stephanie Holloman to the IAFC Human Relations Committee

Stephanie Holloman of Orange County Fire Authority appointed to IAFC HRC

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officers Section Board Nomination Period is Open

Company Officers Section (COS) announces the opening of their board nomination period.

Jan 01, 0001

2024 Fire Service Executive Development Institute Participants Selected

IAFC and Motorola announce the12th year FSEDI participants

Jan 01, 0001

Lion, IAFC Proudly Partner for Saudi Aramco Cohort 24 International Fellowship Program Graduation

IAFC continues partnership to provide a host environment for the Fellowship Program.

Jan 01, 0001

Statement from IAFC President, Chief John S. Butler

IAFC President, Chief John S. Butler announces appointments

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC President John Butler's Statement Regarding Aurora (CO) Paramedics Verdict

IAFC President John Butler's Statement Regarding Aurora (CO) Paramedics Verdict

Jan 01, 0001

Help Improve the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Today!

The IAFC is conducting a study on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the US Fire and EMS.

Jan 01, 0001

FLSS Scholarship for the Community Risk Reduction Leadership Conference

Learn about an opportunity for scholarships and complimentary registration to attend the Community Risk Reduction Leadership Conference

Jan 01, 0001

Celebrating 150 Years of IAFC: A Legacy of Fire Service Excellence

We invite all our members to participate in the 150th year celebration.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute Available for Twelfth Year

IAFC receives a grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation to fund the 12th year of FSEDI

Jan 01, 0001

Leadership in Action: Fire Chief John S. Butler, IAFC President and Board Chair, Appoints Key Working Groups

IAFC President and Board Chair, John S. Butler, acted on several key appointments during the recent IAFC Board Meeting

Jan 01, 0001

VCOS Scholarships and Awards

VCOS 2023 awards

Jan 01, 0001

Chief John Butler Installed as IAFC President

Fire Chief John Butler installed as IAFC President during the final General Session at FRI 2023

Jan 01, 0001

Hilton Head Island Fire Department Honored with Ben Franklin Award for Valor

The IAFC and Motorola are proud to honor Hilton Head Island Fire Department with the Ben Franklin Award for Valor

Jan 01, 0001

Excellence in Fire and Life Safety Award

St. Paul, Minnesota’s Director of the Department of Safety and Inspections, Angie Wiese, honored with the 2023 Excellence in Fire & Life Safety Award

Jan 01, 0001

Fire Chief of the Year Awardees Announced

2023 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year honorees during FRI 2023

Jan 01, 0001

Transformative Partnership Formed Between IAFC and Columbia Southern University

IAFC and CSU proudly announced a groundbreaking collaboration that delivers on one of the key goals

Jan 01, 0001

Heart Safe Communities Honored at Fire-Rescue Med 2023

Two fire departments were recognized for their success in improving cardiac arrest survival rates in their communities

Jan 01, 0001

Spanish-Language Hazmat Instructor - Independent Contractor Opportunity

Seeking a minimum of two (2) independent contractors to serve as Spanish-speaking Hazmat Safety Instructors

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Board Unveils 150th Anniversary Celebration Plans

IAFC is turning 150

Jan 01, 0001

EMS Week 2023 - May 21-27

This annual campaign brings the EMS community together to celebrate the accomplishments of EMTs and paramedics

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC President Testifies at Congressional Hearing

Chief Donna Black testifies to support the reauthorization of the AFG and SAFER programs

Jan 01, 0001

Vector Solutions and IAFC’s Volunteer and Combination Officers Section Now Accepting Nominations for the 2023 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

Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870) has passed in the Senate, Now What?

Great news for members of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the entire fire service community! The Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870) has passed in the Senate with an overwhelming vote of 95-2. This is a significant achievement and deserves to be celebrated.

Jan 01, 0001

Help Improve Mutual Aid & Multi-Agency Coordination – Participate Today!

We ask that you please share any relevant documents your agency has and complete the brief feedback form on your agency’s mutual aid to help inform best practices and assist us in developing this resource for the entire public safety community.

Jan 01, 0001

URGENT: TAKE ACTION: The Senate Considers Legislation to Reauthorize the AFG and SAFER Grant Programs Starting Tomorrow (Wednesday)

Please contact your Senators and ask them to vote for S. 870, the Fire Grants & Safety Act, without any amendments

Jan 01, 0001

Submit Your Nomination for the 2023 IAFC Ben Franklin Award for Valor

Presented annually at Fire-Rescue International (FRI) by the IAFC and Motorola Solutions, the award honors a firefighter(s) for their expert training, professional service and dedication to duty displayed in saving human life.

Jan 01, 0001

Submit Your Nomination for the 2023 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year Award

The IAFC is now accepting nominations for the IAFC Fire Chief of the Year Award through June 9. Since 1996, this prestigious award has recognized one volunteer and one career fire chief.

Jan 01, 0001

RFP: Recruitment and Retention Instructor Contract Opportunity

Recruitment and Retention Coordinator Certification (RRC) course is accepting submissions for contractor positions.

Jan 01, 0001

North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs Receives Safer Grant

NCAFC Grant Will Assist Communities in Recruiting and Retaining Volunteer Firefighters

Jan 01, 0001

Statement by IAFC President Chief Donna Black on the passing of Chief Bobby Halton

IAFC wishes to extend our deepest sympathies to Bobby’s family and our colleagues at Fire Engineering & FDIC International

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute Available for 11th Year

UPDATE: The 2023 FSEDI application period is closed. Applicants will be notified in the near future.

Jan 01, 0001

Financial Education Survey: Help Develop Resources for Fire Chiefs

Complete a short survey to help us develop financial education and resources for fire chiefs.

Jan 01, 0001

Emerging Leader Scholarship and Alumni Scholarship Opportunity

Scholarship available for an all- expenses paid opportunity for a future fire service leader to attend the Symposium in the Sun.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Recognizes Randolph Mantooth, West Allis FD and Spokane Valley FD in Annual Fire-Rescue Med Awards

The IAFC recognizes the winners of the James O. Page and the Heart Safe Community Awards during FRM 2022.

Jan 01, 0001

Chief Michael O’Brian honored for excellence in fire and life safety

Individuals dedicated to saving lives & property through their work on code development, fire prevention practices and fire service leadership.

Jan 01, 0001

Submit Your Nomination for the IAFC Fire Chief of the Year Award

The IAFC is now accepting nominations for the IAFC Fire Chief of the Year award

Jan 01, 0001

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs: A Chief’s Personal Experience with Cardiovascular Disease

Fire chief shares his personal experience with cardiovascular disease.

Jan 01, 0001

Nation's leading wildfire management groups name 2022 Wildfire Mitigation Awardees

WASHINGTON—The Wildfire Mitigation Awards committee has named the six individuals and organizations chosen to receive 2022 Wildfire Mitigation Awards.

Jan 01, 0001

Safety Stand Down 2022 Announced

The International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Safety, Health and Survival Section, the National Volunteer Fire Council, and the National Fire Protection Association have announced the theme for the 2022 Safety Stand Down is Situational Awareness: The Foundation for Good Decision-Making.

Jan 01, 0001

Comparable Differences: Apples and Oranges When Comparing Fire Departments

Just because you have a fire department, and so does your neighbor, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have “comparable” departments.

Jan 01, 0001

Propane Emergencies: Responding to Flammable Gas Incidents

The basic steps and processes outlined in this article should be utilized by departments of all sizes, from small rural to large metropolitan departments.

Jan 01, 0001

HHS Rural EMS Grant Application Period Ends on February 14

Eligible IAFC members are encouraged to review the grant announcement and Notice of Funding Opportunity to apply for these grants.

Jan 01, 0001

SAVER Market Survey Report Published: Incident Management Software

Results are published from NUSTL’s market survey of Incident Management Software (IMS) for Emergency Response.

Jan 01, 0001

Education Revisited

The environment firefighters work in today has many ingredients for educational success, which is a game-changer from the fire station decades ago.

Jan 01, 0001

Needs Assessment of US Fire Service

Fifth Needs Assessment shows some progress but continuing gaps in fire department resources.

Jan 01, 0001

Reflect and Remember: How ‘Campfire Moments’ Help us Connect

It’s critical for our relationships and emotional health to gather with friends, family and colleagues to share successes, challenges and losses

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute Available for Tenth Year

Chantilly, Va. ‐ For the tenth year, the IAFC has received a grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation (MSF) to fund another year of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI).

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.

Jan 01, 0001

House Passes Build Back Better Act; Senate Action Still Required

Today, the House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better Act (H.R. 5376) by a vote of 220-213.

Jan 01, 0001

Putting on the White Shirt

Remember why you do it and what it means.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Online Community available via Mobile App

Access IAFC's online community via mobile app.

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

EVMS Presents 2019 & 2020 Boyd Cole Awards

The EVMS announces the recipient of the 2020 Boyd Cole Award, David Williams.

Jan 01, 0001

House Sends Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework Funding Wildfire Initiatives and Authorizing the ALERT Grant to the President’s Desk

The IAFC was very pleased that this package includes the authorization of the ALERT grant program.

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

Partnerships for Safer Emergency Response

The IAFC and PERC make sure that first responders and industry specialists work together in a safer, more efficient manner.

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

FCC Issues Public Notice Partially Lifting the Temporary Freeze on 4.9 GHz Licenses

The FCC imposed the 4.9 GHz licensing freeze on September 8, 2020, to maintain a stable spectral environment in the 4.9 GHz band while it considered changes to the service rules governing operations in the band.

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

IAFC Recommends Improvements for National Preparedness

Testifying before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, the IAFC identified opportunities for improvement to the national preparedness system.

Jan 01, 0001

Fire Chief Michael O’Brain Receives The Robert W. Gain Fire Prevention Leadership

Fire Chief Michael O’Brian has been named the recipient of the 2021 Robert W. Gain Fire Prevention Leadership Award.

Jan 01, 0001

COVID Variants, Vaccinations, and Victims: A Short Update on the Pandemic

While this COVID wave spread through America and Canada, the impact on the fire service continues at a high level as we mourn the deaths of our co-workers, family, and friends.

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

Fire Chiefs Encouraged to Recognize 20th Anniversary of 9/11

IAFC resources for fire and EMS departments that would like to hold 9/11 remembrance ceremonies.

Jan 01, 0001

How Do You Feel 20 Years Later?

Chief Gary Ludwig, Champaign (Illinois) Fire Department, reflects on what has changed over the last twenty years.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Encourages Fire and EMS Departments to Remain Vigilant During the Fall

The Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee is in close contact with our federal intelligence and law enforcement partners and will work diligently to share any priority threat-related information.

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

The Fire Service Fought For Vaccines, So Why All The Resistance Now?

It is difficult to state that we care about the public we serve when we cite “personal choice” as a reason for not being vaccinated.

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

Chiefs Reflect on Interview Regarding Volunteer Firefighters

According to a National Fire Protection Association report, there is an estimated 1,115,000 firefighters in the United States. Of that total number, 745,000 or 67% are volunteer firefighters.

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.

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

Safety at the Forefront: A Doctor Reflects on FRI 2021

The actions of IAFC staff and leadership allowed conference attendees to enjoy in-person camaraderie, fulfill any requirements “back home” related to reducing exposure, and fulfill commitments to the host community.

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

Members of Congress Introduce Legislation with Housing Benefits for Volunteer Fire and EMS Personnel

The Volunteer First Responder Housing Act (S. 2316/H.R. 4377) was introduced by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-MN) and Representative Cynthia Axne (D-IA). Both bills have bipartisan support.

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

DOJ Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Nominations Due July 31

Fire and EMS chiefs are encouraged to nominate members of their departments for this esteemed award.

Jan 01, 0001

Heart Safe Communities Honored at Fire-Rescue Med

Chesapeake and Harrisonburg, Virginia, Recognized for Innovative Emergency Cardiac Responses

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

CMS Releases TIP Rules

CMS has issued it guidance on reimbursing EMS agencies for providing treatment-in-place services.

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

Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to Reform Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program

The PSOB program provides death and educational benefits to the families of fallen fire, EMS, and law enforcement personnel, along with benefits to public safety officers who become disabled in the line of duty.

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.

Jan 01, 0001

Leadership Lessons Learned During a Crisis

The COVID-19 crisis has heightened the awareness of mental illness as a real physical illness, not a character weakness or a choice.

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

J. Robert "Rob" Brown Appointed as CEO/Executive Director of the International Association of Fire Chiefs

​Mr. Brown served 38-years in the fire and rescue service – 20-years as fire chief – and joined the IAFC as a full member in 1987.

Jan 01, 0001

Webinar: Unaware, Unwilling or Unable? Identify and Manage 3 Types of Underperforming Employees

District Chief Sobieski offers strategies for handling performance issues and details how to develop a performance improvement plan.

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

Webinar: Lessons Learned from Fukushima

This presentation will share experiences and lessons that will greatly benefit decision makers and responders who have to prepare for wide area environmental remediation to respond to and recover from radiological contamination events.

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

Help Vaccinate America

Register for an opportunity to help distribute the COVID-19 vaccine to communities.

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

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

IAFC Urges Congress to Pass Recently Introduced Next Generation 9-1-1 Legislation

As Next Generation 9-1-1 technology evolves and is deployed around the country, it is going to encounter numerous and vastly different use scenarios across law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies in urban, suburban and rural areas.

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.

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.

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.

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

Safety Stand Down 2021: Rebuild Rehab

Responder agencies are encouraged to suspend all non-emergency activities during the week of June 20-26 in order to focus on training and education related to this year’s theme, Rebuild Rehab.

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

USFA & IAFC Co-Host Webinar on Public COVID-19 Vaccination Campaigns

On February 11, 2021, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and the IAFC hosted a webinar on fire department participation in public COVID-19 vaccination campaigns

Jan 01, 0001

How fire chiefs can push past mistakes to grow as an individual and advance their organization

Overcoming key personal battles will ultimately serve the entire department.

Jan 01, 0001

Living up to Our Oath: We Must Take Care of Others and Ourselves

Following a difficult year, firefighters must continue to focus on helping our fellow members cope

Jan 01, 0001

Chief Nancy

The story of the first woman to join the IAFC

Jan 01, 0001

City Officials – How Must Your Cities Change in the Future?

Our goal to protect our staff and citizens should be unwavering.

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

Urge Your Governor to Prioritize Fire and EMS for COVID-19 Vaccines

IAFC members are asked to urge their governors to prioritize fire and EMS personnel for access to a COVID-19 vaccine

Jan 01, 0001

I Picked A Bad Week to Stop

My Initial COVID-19 Response and the Lessons I Learned

Jan 01, 0001

The 21st Century Fire and Emergency Services

As we move farther into the 21st century, the speed of change will continue to accelerate.

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

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

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

Chief Richard Carrizzo named Vice-Chair of the Board of FirstNet Authority

Chief promises to continue the work that maintains a robust public safety broadband network.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Supports Vaccine Prioritization for First Responders

IAFC supports prioritized COVID-19 vaccine access for fire and EMS personnel

Jan 01, 0001

Bridging the Multigenerational Divide in Your Department

In a diverse world of generations, we as a fire service, still seem to struggle when it comes to retention and recruitment.

Jan 01, 0001

Hazmat and Local Emergency Planning Committees

Industrial partners are encouraged to be active in their Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC).

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

Karl Neubecker of Ellington Fire Department Selected as 2020 Training Officer Recognition Award Winner

Deputy Chief of Training Made Mark with Innovation During COVID Pandemic and Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) Training Program

Jan 01, 0001

Planning for the Worst

Having LODD guidelines is vital for you and your department.

Jan 01, 0001

Livingston County chief named Fire Chief of the Year

Honor goes to Livingston County chief two years in a row

Jan 01, 0001

2020 Wildfire Mitigation Awardees Announced

Individuals and organizations honored for exemplary commitment to community wildfire risk reduction.

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.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC President Calls on Congress to Support Fire & EMS Departments During COVID-19 Pandemic

Chief Ludwig's testimony highlighted the challenges that local fire departments face during the pandemic.

Jan 01, 0001

COVID-19 and Lessons from the Hanoi Hilton

History is often the best of teachers.

Jan 01, 0001

Wildfire Mitigation Awards Nominations Open

Applications Open for the 2021 Wildfire Mitigation Awards

Jan 01, 0001

Running A Firehouse During A Pandemic

How does a fire department tackle PPE shortages head-on?

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

Are You Doing Enough to Engage Your Community?

There are many ways we as fire service leaders can engage our communities.

Jan 01, 0001

FY 2019 SAFER Grants: Application Period Extended, Cost-Share Waived

In consideration of the economic effects of the pandemic, Acting Secretary Wolf also authorized waivers for certain provisions of the FY 2020 SAFER Grant Program.

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

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.

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

Are Your Firefighters Members or Employees?

As you look at the policies, standard operating procedures or guidelines, how are you describing your firefighters or civilian personnel?

Jan 01, 0001

National Emergency Declaration: What Fire Chiefs Need to Know

President Trump on March 13 declared a national emergency over the coronavirus pandemic, invoking the Stafford Act.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Launches Coronavirus Task Force

The Task Force will be monitoring COVID-19 and developing recommendations for ways that fire departments can protect their members while continuing to serve their communities.

Jan 01, 0001

Planning for the Worst

Why having LODD guidelines is essential.

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

A Collaboration to Help Establish Safer, Bully-Free Departments and Healthy Workplace Environments

Members of the IAFC Bullying, Harassment, and Workplace Violence Prevention Work Group curriculum sub-group traveled to the National Fire Academy (NFA) in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to develop an introductory course curriculum and a Train-the-Trainer (TtT) program to be launched as a pre-conference at Fire-Rescue International (FRI) 2020 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Jan 01, 0001

Five Es for Us!

By getting ahead of the call, you will be keeping your community and your firefighters safer.

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Recognizes 2019 Ben Franklin Award for Valor Nominees

All are worthy of our recognition and appreciation.

Jan 01, 0001

What I Wish I Knew When I Became a Fire Chief

A lesson on relationships.

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

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.

Jan 01, 0001

Firefighters' Top 8 Characteristics of Effective Leaders

Firefighters weigh in on what makes a leader worthy of respect and loyalty.

Jan 01, 0001

The Oregon Mutual Aid System: Learning to Adapt and Confront Emerging Challenges

Built upon the state's Emergency Conflagration Act, Oregon's mutual aid system continues to adapt to confront these emerging challenges.

Jan 01, 0001

Seven Ways to Make Community Risk Reduction a Focus of Your Department

An ever-present concern for any fire chief is our role in reducing the impact incidents have on our community.

Jan 01, 0001

Remembering the Survivors of 9/11

What gets lost over time is the number of people that were saved on that day.

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?

Jan 01, 0001

That's the Way We've Always Done It!

As leaders, it's your job to challenge that corrosive "we've always done it that way" mindset.

Jan 01, 0001

FRI 2019 Highlights: Chief Chat with Chief David Hawks

2019 Ben Franklin Award for Valor describes the day that earned him the award.

Jan 01, 0001

iCHIEFS Episode 4 Now Available

Listen as Tonya Hoover, Superintendent at the National Fire Academy, explains the big changes coming to the Executive Fire Officer Program (EFOP) in early 2020.

Jan 01, 0001

Chief Rader: Change Begins With Leaders

Chief Jan Rader walks through ground zero of the opioid epidemic in her state by exploring how the community and first responders are making a difference - especially through community partnerships.

Jan 01, 0001

The Value of the IAFC's Fellowship Program

Fire chief recalls experience with IAFC Cohort 13.

Jan 01, 0001

Dan Finnegan Earns 2019 FLSS Award

The award honors those who have dedicated themselves to saving lives and property through the development of codes and standards, supporting community risk reduction programs and fire-prevention practices, and demonstrating strong leadership techniques.

Jan 01, 0001

iCHIEFS Magazine: New Publication, New Opportunities

The official print magazine of the IAFC is here.

Jan 01, 0001

Chiefs Morrison and Clack Selected 2019 IAFC Fire Chiefs of the Year

Since 1996, the prestigious Fire Chief of the Year award has recognized one volunteer and one career fire chief for their leadership, innovation and contributions to the fire service.

Jan 01, 0001

National Diversity and Inclusion Program Departments Announced

This program focuses on improving volunteer recruitment and retention through more inclusive and diverse departments nationwide

Jan 01, 0001

Lee Whitner of South Adams County Fire Department Selected as 2019 Training Officer Recognition Award Winner

The award honors exemplary conduct and dedication by a training officer.

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

iCHIEFS Podcast Episode 2 Now Available

Listen to the second iCHIEFS podcast, now available.

Jan 01, 0001

Four Inclusive Behaviors

Know the four key inclusive behaviors that leaders need to embrace along with eight sustaining behaviors that will assist your organization to become more inclusive.

Jan 01, 0001

2nd iDELP Cohort to Help Foster More Diverse, Inclusive Fire Service

The program aims to provide changemakers the tools necessary to become national leaders in the fire and emergency service and the IAFC.

Jan 01, 0001

Creating Trust with Your Crew

Being promoted does not magically provide new officers with leadership skills, and the fire service has sometimes been light on developing leadership qualities. The most important leadership quality all others can be built on is trust.

Jan 01, 0001

Four Simple Skills of an Effective Communicator

Effective communication helps us to understand a person or situation and enables us to resolve differences, build trust and respect and create environments where creative ideas, problem solving, affection and caring can flourish.

Jan 01, 0001

2019 Fire Service Executive Development Institute Participants Selected

FSEDI is a yearlong leadership-development program to provide new and aspiring chiefs with the tools they need to have successful tenures.

Jan 01, 0001

I Stands for Inclusion

Diversity is about all of us in the fire service – it is who an organization is as well as who those in it are. But is the term becoming just an empty concept?

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

President’s Letter: Our Jobs Are Changing

Many of us are facing some of the stormiest, most demanding challenges we’ve ever seen, and our jobs are changing. We aren’t just firefighters anymore; we’re civil servants called upon to answer at a moment’s notice any call for assistance.

Jan 01, 0001

Health, Wellness and the Fire Service Family

It’s our duty as officers to lead; successful officers do lead, then take their lumps when they find themselves on the unpopular side of us-versus-them discussions. After these difficult situations, I do still feel part of the fire service family.

Jan 01, 0001

Executive Officer Leadership: The SIMPLE Way of Accountability

No organization can flourish without the right people in place, doing the right things at the right time. It’s our responsibility to set our members up for success; we must define our expectations and hold employees accountable for those results.

Jan 01, 0001

Human Relations: Managing within the Context of a Fire Organization

Most fire departments are structured around a traditional model and leaders have a firm foundation to build on; this article focuses on continuous training, team spirit and influence.

Jan 01, 0001

NFHC National Induction Ceremony Set for October 8

The Hall of Legends, Legacies and Leaders provides individual recognition of significant contributions and distinguished service to the fire and emergency services mission.

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

Chief Dan Eggleston Installed as IAFC President

Over 10,000 fire and emergency service leaders, exhibitors, guests and industry partners participate in Fire-Rescue Internanal in Dallas.

Jan 01, 0001

2018 Presidential Address: Chief Tom Jenkins

To the members here today, I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to serve you and represent you internationally, in the halls of congress, and all venues in between. Be proud to be an IAFC member. Stay involved or find ways to get involved.

Jan 01, 0001

Human Relations: Mutual Respect Starts with a Conversation

I often ask, “Why can’t everyone just get along?” Is inappropriate behavior and comments by firefighters a product of cultural, gender or social differences, or is it just that someone is being an insensitive and unprofessional jerk?

Jan 01, 0001

2018 Fire Service Executive Development Institute Participants Selected

The program has become the premier development piece for chief officers transitioning to fire chief roles.

Jan 01, 0001

Women Fire Chiefs Council Supports Women Leaders

I attended FRI this year as I had before and looked forward to interesting ideas to implement in my department. But I’ll admit, each year I felt like the only woman chief present. This year marked a dramatic change in my outlook.

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

Executive Officer Leadership: Make a Decision

Many chief officers have prepared for and experienced many types of fireground situations. Countless lives have been saved based on quick, decisive actions. How do these processes transfer to administrative decisions these same officers must make?

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.

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.

Jan 01, 0001

Those Who Lead: When Opportunity Knocks

What are the qualifications to be a leader? You don’t need a degree or particular classes to be a leader. A true leader has what it takes within, and this surpasses any other qualities of leadership.

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?

Jan 01, 0001

Community and Department Needs First

I’m asked from time to time about how I've survived the changing landscape of our community and not encountered the issues other neighboring chiefs have. While I have no magic solution, I can offer these suggestions.

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?

Jan 01, 0001

Executive Officer Leadership: Forecasting—An Inexact Science

Can anyone with certainty forecast the future? It isn’t likely, but with some research and knowledge, we can predict how current trends may change what we see and how we act 5 to 10 years from now.

Jan 01, 0001

Safety & Health: Leadership in Innovation

Contrary to common wisdom, some value progress, unimpeded by tradition. These organizations' focus is closely associated with their leaders and their views on innovation.

Jan 01, 0001

Let Character Be the Standard

The fire service, without a doubt, provides excellent fire and emergency service education. More often than not, department personnel go through hours of dedicated training to perfect the operational skills they need to perform properly during a call. A new ...

Jan 01, 0001

Executive Officer Leadership: Be Respectful, but Be Different

Uber is a transportation network company that promotes ride sharing in the taxi industry; it enables individuals to hail a vehicle using smart phones. Since the app appeared in June 2010, competition in this industry has led to falling prices ...

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

President’s Letter - Noble Obligation

As leaders of organizations filled with such brave souls, it is our obligation to lead with nobility, courage, selflessness and strength.

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.

Jan 01, 0001

Why So Many Unhappy Firefighters?

The fire service is one of the most rewarding and exciting careers available. So why are there so many unhappy firefighters?

Jan 01, 0001

When Leadership Requires a Subtle Approach

Leadership is exhibited not only in times of peril and action, but also in the more mundane events we encounter. Yet, as fire-suppression activities decline, fire officers garner fewer opportunities to hone their leadership skills...

Jan 01, 0001

5 Notable Traits of High-Performing Management Teams

Five attributes are consistently seen in high-performing management teams, consistently resulting in optimized performance, innovation, growth in capabilities and influence and measurable results.

Jan 01, 0001

Executive Officer Leadership- Delegation and Communication

Proper communication facilitates good management; this is often easier to say than to do.

Jan 01, 0001

No Easy Answers: The Nature of Diversity and Leadership

Editor's Note: The IAFC has begun a dialog regarding the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision of Ricci v. DeStefano. This article, "No Easy Answers: The Nature of Diversity and Leadership," by Chief Rhoda Mae Kerr, chair of the IAFC Human Relations ...

Jan 01, 0001

Ricci v. DeStefano: A New Approach to Disparate-Impact Discrimination in Promotional Testing

Editor's Note: The IAFC has begun a dialog regarding the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision of Ricci v. DeStefano. This article, "Ricci v. DeStefan - A New Approach to Disparate-Impact Discrimination in Promotional Testing," by John Rukavina, a retired fire chief ...

Jan 01, 0001

President’s Letter- Let’s Always Look Out for Each Other

When the wall collapses, we’ll be there for our brothers and sisters. We should be there for them, too, even before the wall comes down.

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership - Success as a Leader Means Never Being Satisfied

The most important attribute of being a leader is just this—the continued drive for personal and professional success in all aspects of life.

Jan 01, 0001

Nine Qualities for Excelling at Team Leadership

This crew of rookies and veterans, paramedics and EMTs, young guns and grizzled old-timers didn’t gel just because they’re together there. It took the leadership of the company officers and the follower-ship of the crews.

Jan 01, 0001

Five Core Competencies of Executive Leadership

Just as a mechanic requires a precise set of skills to fix cars, leaders require a certain array of competencies to enact effective leadership.

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Defining the Cutting-Edge of EMS

Since the release of the 1966 white paper Accidental Death and Disability: The Neglected Disease of Modern Society (PDF, 2 ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: The Fire Service`s Role in Healthcare Delivery

The healthcare system in our country is undergoing tremendous change. Driven by unsustainable costs, policy makers are reengineering healthcare in ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Culture Change Through Grassroots Leadership

When applied to common areas in the fire service, grassroots leadership can take on a powerful form and gain momentum. ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Community Relations in the Fire Service

Recently, I attended a conference where leaders in fire service discussed the state of our profession and how leadership had ...

Jan 01, 0001

Executive Fire Officer: A Personal Touch on Community Engagement

Recently I had an opportunity to speak candidly with a commissioner from another district about the importance of open communication ...

Jan 01, 0001

Emergency Medical Services: A Vested Interest

We know we provide a valuable service to our community, and community members rely on us just as we rely ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: Serving the IAFC, Listening to You

I``m truly honored, humbled and excited to have the opportunity to serve you, the members of our association, as your ...

Jan 01, 0001

Safety & Health: Great Leadership Needs Great Followership

The question of whether leaders are born or made is one that has views on either side. However, there’s little ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: Serve First

Regardless of your personal faith or affiliation, this axiom has obvious application to fire and emergency services. I believe the ...

Jan 01, 0001

Embracing Grassroots Leaders

Leadership is perhaps one of the most fascinating and controversial topics in today’s fire service; no model fits every department ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: Your Association, Your Direction

In 2012, a survey of IAFC members was conducted to solicit input for our association’s strategic planning efforts. The results ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Branding Through Prevention and Education

Recently, there seems to be a great deal of buzz in the fire service around the idea of branding your ...

Jan 01, 0001

Emergency Medical Services: Improvise, Adapt and Overcome

As we start 2015, one of the goals this year for On Scene is to look at the wicked problems ...

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC at 140: At the IAFC, History Is Made Every Day

In preparing for the 140th anniversary of the IAFC, what’s most remarkable is how ordinary chiefs, in their ordinary course ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: What Direction Will We Take into the Future?

The fire service has never been as challenged as it is now, and I worry that the can-do attitude of ...

Jan 01, 0001

Executive Fire Officers: Are You Up to the Task of Leading?

The fire service has entered a new dimension that will significantly impact it: While the economy is improving, this improvement ...

Jan 01, 0001

Chief Bill Metcalf Issues Challenges in His Farewell Address

One year ago, I stood before you in Chicago and took the oath of office to begin my term as ...

Jan 01, 0001

Near-Miss Reporting: <BR>National Fire Prevention Week

National Fire Prevention Week is traditionally the time of year that fire/rescue departments hold open houses and other public-safety events. ...

Jan 01, 0001

The Future of the Fire and Emergency Service

The future of the fire and emergency service is very predictable. Look at the 2010 U.S. census; pay attention to ...

Jan 01, 0001

Finding Solutions Is in Our DNA; Is It in Yours?

America’s fire chiefs are a breed unlike any other in our nation. Every day, we``re charged with understanding the risks ...

Jan 01, 0001

Mission Above Self: Ego Is the Least Important Part of This Equation

Today``s political climate ensures a completely different dynamic than we have been accustomed to in our careers. Elected officials and ...

Jan 01, 0001

Transforming the Fire Service Through Collective Leadership

The fire service has evolved into all-risk preparedness and response organizations focused on community service. But currently, our profession is ...

Jan 01, 0001

Economy Creates Opportunities for the Fire Service

For this issue, a diverse group of IAFC leaders was asked to anticipate challenges and opportunities for 2012; not surprisingly, ...

Jan 01, 0001

Global Summit Sets Course for International Collaboration

More than 20 fire and emergency service leaders from around the world met in Zurich, Switzerland on October 10-11 to ...

Jan 01, 0001

Fit Like a Glove: When Technological and Cultural Innovation Collide

When Neil Armstrong planted his boot on the surface of the moon, it was because technological and cultural innovation collided. ...

Jan 01, 0001

Research Begets Innovation for the Fire and Emergency Service

According to Wikipedia, innovation “is the creation of better or more effective products, processes, services, technologies or ideas that ...

Jan 01, 0001

Lead Federal Agency for EMS: Debate or Distraction?

Recently, Americans have been granted a breather from debates as the presidential candidates have agreed to focus their attention elsewhere....

Jan 01, 0001

Six Years and a Lasting Legacy: A Case Study in IAFC Program Success

As the National Fire Fighter Near-Miss Reporting System approaches its sixth anniversary, the lessons learned from the delivery of this ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Are You Ready to Step Up?

As company officers, we’re responsible for managing small emergency incidents and the first few minutes of large incidents when we’re ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Advancing Fire-based EMS

John and Roy riding Los Angeles County Fire Department Squad 51 on the television show Emergency introduced many of us ...

Jan 01, 0001

What`s Out, What`s In: Five-Year Forecast by You

While real change can be slow, trends can change dramatically in five years. IAFC On Scene asked IAFC members which ...

Jan 01, 0001

The Next Five Years: Forecasting the Future for EMS, Emerging Technology and Hazmat Response

To get a picture of the future of the fire and emergency service, we asked members in several disciplines to ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Renaissance Responders

In 2010, the number of structure fires in the United States was less than half of what it was 30 ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Managing Administrative Processes

We all probably joined the fire and emergency service for pretty much the same reasons: to help others, to have ...

Jan 01, 0001

Eyes Wide Open: One Community`s Efforts to Face the Future of Fire

As wildland fires in the west consume more acres and resources and environmental changes brings dryer weather to places like ...

Jan 01, 0001

A Fire Service Wish List from the IAFC Board of Directors

 Gifts come in all shape and sizes: from gadgets to make our life easier to the blessing of family and ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Reputation Management

Does it seem lately like every time you pick up a newspaper, watch the evening news or read the Daily ...

Jan 01, 0001

The Real Importance of Succession Planning

Do you sense a lack of bench strength in your organization? Do you believe that when you head out the ...

Jan 01, 0001

Finding Valor to Lead

In fire and EMS, heroism and valor takes many shapes. And though saving lives is certainly going to always be ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: A Lost Leadership Partner

One of the hallmarks of any profession is the commitment to continuous learning: sharing experiences, lessons learned and best practices; engaging ...

Jan 01, 0001

Emergency Medical Services: What Don`t We Know?

EMS has many challenges, and in today``s environment, it``s imperative that leaders understand their role in their organizations and communities ...

Jan 01, 0001

Following the Light: Guiding Principles to Live and Work By

As fire chiefs, we should be—and in most cases are—held to a higher standard than anyone else in our organizations. ...

Jan 01, 0001

Defining Relevance for the Fire and Emergency Service in 2013

After more than 30 years in the fire service, one of the most common clichés I hear is, "It isn``t ...

Jan 01, 0001

Emergency Medical Services: New Year, New Challenges for EMS

The elections are over, the end of the year is almost here and before you know it, 2013 will be ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Emerging Role of the Fire Service

News headlines demand that fire departments "Reduce staffing, cut costs, operate efficiently, do more with less, wear more than one ...

Jan 01, 0001

The Man in the Arena: All Our Small Actions Add Up

As fire-code officials, we hear the same questions asked by our own peers every day: "Why doesn``t the code require ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: Learn to Love to Learn

Leaders aren``t born with leadership skills; true leadership skills must be developed. Our ability to be a good leader at ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Navigating Inevitable Change

A few years ago, Fire Chief and then IAFC President Jack Parow stated that the fire service saw 50 years ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Making an Excellent Difference

With every promotion in the fire service comes a changing of the guard—an opportunity for someone to move up, to ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: Changing When Change Is Hard

This is a very volatile time in the fire service and not an easy time to be a fire chief. ...

Jan 01, 0001

Let's Call Things by Their Proper Names

This year the fire service will hold its’s sixth Wingspread Conference. These conferences, which are held just once a decade, ...

Jan 01, 0001

Driving Community Leadership

Often we think of the fire department as a standalone entity with a single goal, albeit with a wide mission ...

Jan 01, 0001

Advantages of Diversity and Inclusiveness

If you think that diversity is only about race, gender, religion, age or sexual orientation, you’d be mistaken. It’s also ...

Jan 01, 0001

Chiefs from Texas and Virginia Named IAFC Fire Chiefs of the Year

Fairfax, Va. & The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and Pierce Manufacturing today announced the 2015 winners of the ...

Jan 01, 0001

Company Officer Leadership: Avoiding Complacency in Your Leadership Role

Great leaders work most of their careers to become who they are and to get where they are, either as ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: Fire Service Culture—The Good and the Bad

At the IAFC strategic planning meeting in January 2013, a group was formed and tasked with identifying the most critical ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: Take Time to Reflect, Connect and Protect

To say that there``s no shortage of issues, challenges and problems that we as fire chiefs and chief officers continually ...

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Annual Conference Delivers in Dallas

Fairfax, Va. - Fire and emergency service leaders, exhibitors, guests and industry partners from around the globe took over the ...

Jan 01, 0001

Chief Metcalf Presents 2014 President`s Awards at Fire-Rescue International

Every year at Fire-Rescue International, the IAFC president honors individuals from the fire service who have contributed in a significant way during the president`s term. Here are the presentations Chief Bill Metcalf made in Dallas in August.

Jan 01, 0001

The Time Is Now: Leading with Character, Courage and Resiliency

The other evening, as I was watching our local professional basketball team in a playoff game, I observed a homemade ...

Jan 01, 0001

National Spotlight on Ethics: IAFC Ready to Respond

Fire and EMS leaders should also investigate if guidance and resources are available at the state level.

Jan 01, 0001

Firefighter/EMT Safety, Health & Survival: Share, Listen, Let Go

Firefighter/EMT Safety, Health & Survival:

Jan 01, 0001

Fire & Life Safety: Feed Your Lawn—Feed It!

Fire & Life Safety:

Jan 01, 0001

Pierce to Partner on IAFC Fire Chief of the Year Award

Fairfax, Va. - Pierce Manufacturing, a long-time supporter in recognizing excellence among fire service leaders, has partnered with the ...

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: A Sensitive Subject?

At the risk of offending good friends and a portion of the IAFC membership, I feel compelled to bring up ...

Jan 01, 0001

Five Wicked Issues We Can No Longer Ignore

The future fate of the fire and emergency service depends on finding solutions to the macro-level problems underlying the many challenges we face on a daily basis.

Jan 01, 0001

Executive Fire Officers: Leading with Integrity—An Ethical Approach

Executive Fire Officers:

Jan 01, 0001

President`s Letter: We Need You!

The IAFC is the professional association representing fire and emergency service leaders in the United States, Canada and worldwide. We``re ...

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC at 140: Persistence in Practices, Policies in Fire Protection

The IAFC at 140:

Jan 01, 0001

IAFC Launches Bugle Brief

Beginning August 8, the IAFC will offer a new resource called Bugle Brief, which offers leadership lessons and management ...

Jan 01, 0001

New IAFC Resource Helps Fire Departments Take Control of Their Public Image

The IAFC has launched the much-anticipated Taking Responsibility for a Positive Public Perception (pdf, 2MB), the result of the association's ...

Jan 01, 0001

Fighting Fire Through Prevention: Effective Public Education

By Meri-K Appy<br>Vision 20/20`s strategic plan for fire prevention focuses efforts in a collective and sustained way. Effective public education is a top priority in the strategic plan and is at the heart of two of the core strategies: prevention ma ...

Jan 01, 0001

President's Letter: The Fire Service on the Cusp of Greatness

The following is adapted from the inaugural address of Chief Hank Clemmensen, IAFC president and chairman of the board, delivered ...

Jan 01, 0001

President's Letter: Continuum

... Continuing the work started by the previous IAFC presidents. Imagine if your fire department had a new fire chief ...

Jan 01, 0001

President's Letter: Together We Can

Here’s a radical thought: city managers and fire chiefs have something in common. No, it isn``t because they must have ...

Jan 01, 0001

Eyes on Mesa and Its Groundbreaking Innovations

Mesa, Ariz., is the 38th largest U.S. city, and the Mesa Fire/Medical Department (MFMD) serves almost half a million people. ...

Jan 01, 0001

President's Letter: Jack of All Trades

“Jack of all trades, master of none.” This two-part phrase—according to the well-respected Wikipedia—was actually two separate statements that were ...

Jan 01, 0001

President's Letter: The Crystal Ball

In my office is a gift I received several years ago at a department director``s Christmas party. The gifts were ...

Jan 01, 0001

President's Letter: A Big Step into a Small World

Just days ago, I had the opportunity to witness our world grow smaller. As I write this column, I``m flying ...