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.
Did one inappropriate comment justify the job-ending consequence?
Nine members from Engine 38/Ladder 51 and eight from Engine 43/Ladder 59 were reassigned as the department investigates
Following World War I, military veterans-turned-first responders expanded the challenge coin tradition to public safety organizations
It’s how we handle the day-to-day, person-to-person interactions that makes us who we are
The new year marks an opportunity to reflect on your accomplishments and goals ahead
Firefighter Jeffrey Fiala was honored in a solemn procession as firefighters lined the streets
With Engine 18’s motorized pumper out of service due to fuel line issues, the department gathered hay, straw, oats and cordwood to place a steamer in service
Benton city council members had previously considered ‘Knox’ to be a liability and pushed for removing him from the firehouse
Recapping the themes that dominated events, headlines and kitchen table conversations, plus tips for how to thrive in 2025
We asked FireRescue1 contributors and board members to share the technology they are hoping to use in the year ahead
Ventura Fire Captain Fernando Calderon explains how the survival challenge has made him a better company officer
As much as the fire department is a fraternity, the firehouse is not a frat house
Chief Caughey argues that different generations aren’t better or worse, just different
Think twice before posting about an LODD, as your rush to spread the word could cause harm
The wrong leadership choice can destabilize an organization, while the right one can position it for sustained success
Ego-driven culture that fosters the normalization of deviance leads to a level of dysfunction that can undermine a department for decades
You might spare your spouse the grimmer details of a call, but bare your soul to your crew
A good leader accepts that they may not have created the problem, but they are responsible for fixing it
Retirement is often difficult for firefighters, unprepared for the sense of identity loss
Bellingham firefighters highlighted fire service history when placing their new Pierce fire engine in service
What began as a simple solution to a practical problem has become a historical emblem of firefighting
What started as a women-centered wildland fire training event has evolved into a networking and camaraderie-building international movement
Unlike some department tees out there, you can wear these shirts with pride
The survey measures organizational safety culture
The Illinois firefighter details how fire departments can help critically ill kids have “more good days”
Encourage your members to be humble, hungry and everyday street smart
Understanding shift culture and respecting it can go a long way in navigating the first responder lifestyle
Ahead of Oct. 28, share your organization’s impact with local media outlets and reach out to local companies for support
Remember, they are firefighters serving their community just like you
It may be time to revisit your Value Statement to see if it aligns with reality
Strong policies must be bolstered by training and enforcement
Two new Jacksonville firefighters received black helmets highlighting a milestone in their careers
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