Community Risk Reduction
Fire departments are primary advocates for community risk reduction (CRR). While fire prevention, inspections and public education remain integral parts of fire department activities, the CRR concept takes a more holistic approach to improving civilian and firefighter safety.
San Jose Fire Department’s six-month pilot sends a two-person mobile unit to connect residents with complex medical and behavioral health needs to long-term care, aiming to reduce repeat cycling through 911
The fire service must walk the walk in our support of residential sprinklers
How to tailor your safety messaging by age group
Whether you need data-driven outreach or just better graphics, AI offers practical ways to strengthen your prevention messages
Connect with RAs to help share kitchen safety tips, provide fire extinguisher training, and underscore proper use of small appliances
You’ll undoubtedly have to answer at least one of these questions when speaking with members of the community, so be ready
Cherry Grove Fire and Rescue shows what can happen when CRR starts with the needs firefighters see every day
Fire Chief Jonathan Killings details how El Paso’s mobile integrated health program connects community members with the right resources at the right time
A six-year push for the day of appreciation, inspired by heroism and tragedy, culminated in the designation of Oct. 28 to honor first responders
Geauga County officials say hoarding conditions have been found at an estimated 25 fires over five years, creating blocked exits, access problems and contamination risks for first responders
Volunteers at Sleeping Bear Dunes provide safety guidance, water and first aid to help prevent rescues
Lee County’s Northridge fire rating improved from Class 10 to Class 7, a change officials say could reduce homeowners’ insurance premiums by 25% to 30%
Old Lyme residents and businesses can share property, medical and access information through Community Connect
Cherry Grove Fire and Rescue uses practical parenting education to reduce risk, strengthen families and build trust before an emergency occurs
UC Merced researchers found the share of homes destroyed after wildfire exposure rose from about 3% to 18% over two decades despite efforts to harden properties
The SoCal department is leading a regional effort to standardize emergency management operations, training and preparedness
Officials reported 26 drone incursions in one day, including four that crossed directly into the path of firefighting aircraft
Fire departments must look beyond local risks and build systems capable of anticipating threats and mobilizing resources nationwide
The 2025 Jones Road Fire exposed growing wildfire risk, where experts say climate change, expanding development and limited resources have left the state vulnerable to a catastrophic blaze
McAlester volunteers repainted 21 hydrants after firefighters reported difficulty locating some hydrants during emergency responses
How fire and EMS agencies can take part in National Night Out to build relationships, promote safety and recruit the next generation
The Oakland Fire Department limited wildfire vegetation inspections to public property after firefighters reported attacks and intimidation
The rural California department leverages tribal resources, regional relationships and security personnel to enhance emergency response
The new U.S. Wildland Fire Service director shares his vision for a more unified, firefighter-focused wildfire response
The Virginia military installation uses home visits and newcomer education to reduce residential fire risks
Learn how fire agencies can create interoperable systems of care, strengthen community partnerships and secure funding to support long-term program success
Reviewing benefits and risks of volunteer fire department mergers — and how to start the merger process for a smooth transition
Building on lessons learned from major earthquakes, the CERT program has grown into a nationwide network of more than 600,000 trained volunteers
Investigators say an e-scooter battery charged with a third-party charger likely sparked the fire that killed a lieutenant
