Fire Service Culture
The FireRescue1 fire service culture resource page encompasses the cultural aspects of firefighter life, from the traditions that make the fire service such a proud profession to the kitchen table conversations that develop a brotherhood and sisterhood among members, to critical discussions about firefighter health and safety, focusing on the impact of culture on behavior and decision-making, both on and off the fireground.
Fire Chief Scott Thompson warned against leaning so far toward firefighter safety that fire victim safety is compromised, leading to tragedy and heightened scrutiny
The battalion chief explains his empathy for firefighters who are burned out or not feeling passion for the job – because he’s been there
The FDIC education director urged firefighters to become “revolutionaries” who don’t watch from the outside but rather make change from within fire service institutions
Empower and optimize your department’s team by selecting quality members, providing thorough training and future planning to avoid burnout
We can gain more influence by becoming a productive follower than a resistant one
Irmo Fire Chief Mike Sonefeld said James Muller would come to work prepared to give 110%
The Myrtle Beach (S.C.) training chief talks go/no-go decision-making, plus creating a culture that prioritizes action
Leadership
“Change everything you can right away” and other bad advice for new leaders
Create an experience people want to be a part of and share community impact to inspire potential members
The EMS leader and advocate emphasizes putting the workforce at the top, with leaders giving them every opportunity to succeed
Firefighter Dennis Bean has been hand-lettering all Orono Fire Department vehicles since he joined in 1996 after attending art school
“We have amazingly talented people at the fire department. We can’t stop looking at [the table]. The pictures do not do it justice,” a Bloomington Fire Department social post read
The Salisbury (N.C.) division chief shares the origins of his training focus, his personal evolution on the job, and what it means to be “combat ready”
“The outpouring was phenomenal,” Lake Norden Chief of Police Tony Aas said, describing offers for substitute vehicles
While not quite on par with royal pomp and circumstance, there are some powerful fire service traditions we should embrace – and a few to leave in the past
Chief Goldfeder offers several simple tips
Dr. Candace Ashby urges firefighters of all ranks to shed the negative narrative and become part of the solution
Thousands gathered in Indianapolis for training, met friends old and new, checked out gear and vehicles, supported Ukrainian firefighters and more
Leadership
What can we do to ensure we’re preserving the elements that make the fire service great — while cutting out the elements that no longer fit?
Leadership
Continuing the mission of emergency services legends, leaders and champions
Chief Jerry Streich identifies the impact problem employees have on the organization and on collective department stress
Share your before-and-after fire department pictures
Bad behaviors associated with cliques may include the use of intimidation tactics, promotion of racist or sexist ideologies, or subverting the chain of command
Leadership
The fire chief – and longtime strategic-thinker – urges firefighters to develop their 1-, 3- and 5-year game plans
The DC firefighter and founder of Food on the Stove shares the impetus for building the nonprofit and offers simple nutrition tips
Family & Home
“There are still good people,” said Brian Hammond, a Russiaville Volunteer Fire Department firefighter
Leadership
From signs of a toxic FD to signs of positive change, plus how a chief officer can know when to go all in to improve organizational health
Dispelling generational myths and clarifying the root of workforce personnel differences
Rocco Brienzo discussed his pride in the fire service; Lynn firefighters gave him a personalized helmet and took him for a ride in their new fire boat
Some FDs offer peer support, trauma symptom education and encouragement to get help, and leaders and younger firefighters show attitude changes
Leadership
The retired FDNY battalion chief underscores that while being into the job is great, finding balance in your life ultimately makes you a better firefighter
It’s incumbent on every member to help build a supportive culture at the firehouse, one that captures the spirit of serving and invests in the emotional needs of crews
Whether fire sprinklers, social media or roadway safety, perfecting minor details will help us better serve our communities
