Current Programs
National SAFER 7
National SAFER 7 addresses the critical decline in volunteer firefighters by modernizing training resources and expanding access to essential tools to recruit and retain qualified volunteers. This grant streamlines three existing IAFC courses, recruitment and Retention, Building Collaborative Teams, and Department Coaching, into condensed formats, making them more accessible to volunteer and combination departments. The Community & Fire Department Composition Explorer Tool is a key component, a digital resource suite designed to help departments analyze community demographics and operational needs to improve recruitment strategies. SAFER 7 reinforces IAFC’s mission to build sustainable, resilient fire service organizations by equipping departments with actionable tools and adaptable training.
National SAFER 8
Launched in December 2024, National SAFER 8 is a three-year national campaign to combat the volunteer firefighter staffing crisis through strategic outreach and awareness-building. Year 1 focuses on campaign design. A Campaign Architect will develop themes, messaging, and prototype materials tested at events like Fire-Rescue International. A dedicated metrics-driven website will track engagement to refine strategies in real-time. Year 2 scales the campaign across TV, radio, and social media, emphasizing the value and opportunities of fire service careers. Year 3 prioritizes sustained outreach, data analysis, and a final report to guide future efforts. This grant empowers departments to address staffing shortages through innovative, data-backed strategies, reflecting IAFC’s leadership in workforce solutions.