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.
From training photos to fireground videos, firefighters are quick to critique, but following one simple tip can do more to improve the discourse than public callouts
Chicago Firefighter Daniel Capuano’s family highlighted how his example shaped their paths
It’s that time of year when fire departments across the country engage in a different kind of light display; send us a snapshot of your station’s holiday decorations!
The firehouse kitchen table has long been the place to continue traditions and share lessons learned
Shop and price compare a chicken dinner for 12 firefighters in San Diego and Pennsylvannia
For the first time in decades, Ypsilanti firefighters responded to calls from their original 1898 station, sliding down fire poles and backing modern trucks through barn doors
If our leaders can’t see that, then it’s on us, especially those in the middle, to bring some humanity back into the firehouse
Enid Fire Department’s Honor Guard proudly represents the department at ceremonies and funerals, blending tradition, teamwork and deep respect for service
Great leaders know when to coach, when to cut and how to build a growth-focused culture
Community trust can erode quickly when firefighters are mistaken for enforcers
Go beyond check-the-box communication to build real trust with firefighters who need more than information
The fire service doesn’t need more slackers, troublemakers or tyrants; it needs more doers, listeners and leaders
What I’ve learned the hard way — and what I hope you’ll take to heart as you begin your fire service career
Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Engineer David Tysdal begins specialized spinal recovery after surviving attack that killed two battalion chiefs
Anyone can click through slides. Not everyone can teach.
More than 150 musicians from as far as Virginia and Calgary joined the Coeur d’Alene Firefighter Pipes and Drums to honor two battalion chiefs killed in a tragic ambush
The incident has reignited debate over department directives and personal beliefs
July 4 is a time to reflect upon what makes this country extraordinary — and commit to protecting our freedoms
The Montgomery County Fire & Rescue fire chief reflects on his first year at the department
Digging into the assertion that there needs to be a new search-and-rescue-focused culture in which civilian safety comes first
It’s the NFA-adjacent pub where firefighters feel like family
Help create a welcoming space by using the time gathered together to empower, uplift and inspire your colleagues, instead of belittling and bad-mouthing
Explore these television series that provide insights into firehouse life, teamwork, and the challenges faced by firefighters, offering both realism and entertainment for new recruits
Long before the badge or bugles, it’s the senior leader who sets the direction
Times have changed in the fire service and some of the best peer support opportunities have fallen by the wayside as firefighter culture has evolved
No matter how harmless they seem, pranks demand careful timing, context and discretion
Groton Capt. Whitney Teehan Jr. was remembered for his decades of dedication, community spirit and the generations of firefighters he helped inspire
Anthony Gaul, recently named Sergeant Bluff’s first full-time fire chief, is celebrating milestones in the fire service alongside his two sons,
Common themes related to belonging and identity emerge from interviews with female firefighters
More than 150,000 firefighters have signed the Seatbelt Pledge, but we must do better
You can disagree without disrespect, you can educate without condescending, and you can lead without knowing everything
Marking a nod to tradition and a step into the future, Elkhart firefighters at Station 4 celebrated their upgraded fire engine with a ceremonial push-in
Whether you’ve been out of the fire service for five months or 15 years, your lived experiences remain valuable to the firefighters of today
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- The ‘Taylor Swift Effect’ and fire service personalities on social media
- Cat in a tree: One hoseline, one viral video
- FDNY transfers 17 firefighters out of Bronx firehouses over hazing
- Products for the ultimate fire station day room that I hope go on sale for Prime Day
- ‘Push the gate’: Chief Kris Blume on mission-drive culture in action