IAFC's Recommendations for FEMA Reform

The report highlights the importance of the U.S. Fire Administration through its ability to record and process data through systems like the new National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) and prepare a new generation of senior leaders through the National Fire Academy. Because of the important role that EMS response plays in fire departments’ missions, the IAFC task force recommends consolidating federal EMS programs, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Emergency Medical Services, within the USFA. The report also recommends elevating the position of U.S. Fire Administrator to the role of Deputy FEMA Administrator.

In addition, the report also discusses the role that FEMA plays in response. It highlights the need to maintain the National Urban Search and Rescue System, which plays a major role in responding to disasters and national emergencies. The report also discusses the importance of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) in providing a standardized controlling framework and terminology for harnessing multiple agencies and disciplines to provide an effective response. Also, the paper discusses the need to improve the national mutual aid system to improve coordination and deploy the closest available resources to an escalating disaster to save lives. Importantly, the report emphasizes the need to improve reimbursement of local agencies when they provide staffing and equipment to respond to incidents outside of their states and jurisdictions.

The report also emphasizes the need for grants like the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, including the Fire Prevention and Safety grants, and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program. These programs build the emergency response capabilities in local fire departments that are deployed to all hazards. The State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) and Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) programs provide investments in training, equipment, intelligence, and specialized response capabilities to help fire and EMS departments prepare for acts of terrorism. As the Trump Administration emphasizes the responsibilities of state and local governments in responding to disasters, it must fund these grant programs to fund the resources that allow local fire and EMS departments to meet this challenge.