If you’ve spent any time around the fire service, you’ve probably heard the name “FOOLS” spoken with a mix of pride, curiosity and, occasionally, confusion. The Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society (FOOLS) is one of the most visible firefighter organizations in North America, known for its emphasis on tradition, training and fireground competence. But despite the playful name, FOOLS is neither a social club nor a nostalgia group.
Origins of FOOLS
FOOLS traces its roots to Central Florida, where a group of firefighters organized the society in 1995 out of a shared passion for camaraderie, brotherhood, training and the rich tradition of the fire service. The name Leatherheads is a nod to the traditional leather firefighting helmet. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into an international organization with dozens of chapters across the United States and Canada.
What FOOLs stands for
At its core, FOOLS focuses on firefighter competency and operational readiness. The organization promotes:
- Mastery of basic and advanced fireground skills
- Aggressive, well-calculated interior firefighting
- Truck company operations such as forcible entry, ventilation, ladders and search
- A deep understanding of fire behavior and building construction
- Mentorship of younger firefighters
FOOLS places strong emphasis on why things are done, not just how, and encouraging firefighters to understand the science and reasoning behind tactics rather than blindly following tradition.
Training, not politics
Unlike labor unions or advocacy organizations, FOOLS is not a political or bargaining entity. It does not negotiate contracts, endorse candidates or lobby legislatures. Its mission is training-centric, often delivered through:
- Hands-on drills
- Live fire training
- Classroom lectures
- Regional and national training events
Many FOOLS events are open to non-members, reflecting the group’s belief that improving the fire service benefits everyone.
FOOLS is often associated with a traditionalist culture, celebrating the history of the fire service while emphasizing pride in the job. Supporters say this fosters professionalism, accountability and respect for the craft. FOOLS leadership has repeatedly stated that the organization’s intent is not to reject modern science or safety practices, but to blend proven experience with current research, particularly when it comes to fire dynamics, PPE use and risk assessment.
Who can join FOOLS?
Membership is generally open to active or retired firefighters, with requirements determined by local chapters. Some chapters also allow associate or probationary membership for newer firefighters, emphasizing mentorship and education. FOOLs is not limited to career firefighters. Volunteers, paid-on-call members and combination department personnel are commonly represented.
Why FOOLS matters
By focusing on fundamentals, repetition and shared experience, FOOLS seeks to preserve the idea that the fire service is not just a job, but a profession requiring continual learning and discipline.
Whether viewed as a training organization, a brotherhood, or a cultural touchstone, FOOLS remains a significant part of the modern fire service, reminding firefighters that progress does not require forgetting where the job came from.
