Where a dirty helmet was once a badge of honor, a source of pride for firefighters looking to prove their mettle, this symbol is now seen by many as a sign of weakness, even ignorance. With all that we know about the risks of fireground toxins, firefighters who continue to glamorize dirty gear have positioned themselves as the modern-day Marlboro Man – a face that once symbolized rugged cool, now a relic of a fading culture.
The problem extends to unsafe fireground behavior, too, but many members find themselves unsure how to embody the essence of a valiant public servant amid a growing focus on safety.
In this special coverage series, we redefine fire service pride, identify the factors that drive firefighters to choose unsafe actions, and consider how culture and behavior are two very different ways to approach the issue.
Redefining fire service pride and identifying the factors that drive firefighters to choose unsafe actions
Chief Goldfeder takes on the issue of "Dirty Helmet Syndrome" and how much firefighters should be concerned with cleaning their gear
How volunteer departments can overcome challenges related to health mindset and limited PPE cleaning equipment
Fire service leaders share what works at their departments
Leeb serves as chief of the Fire Academy and chair of the department’s Contamination Reduction Workgroup
Mitigating the negative influences of goal seduction, situation aversion and firefighter identity are critical to fostering a culture of safety
When fire service leaders focus on behavior change, culture takes care of itself
When you get away with operating in an unsafe manner without a seminal moment, you feel invincible - but you're not
All members of the fire service must take ownership of setting a new expectation of fire service pride
Think big and act small, time it right using “commitment devices,” and focus on positive reinforcement and social norms
Detailing simple steps fire departments can employ to best connect with members
I'm the first guy into the fray, but I’m also the first to scrub my helmet clean afterward, all so I will be around to raise my kids
Does dirty gear really show how capable a firefighter you really are?
Fire Chief Marc Bashoor details his perspective on the topic and outlines what one Florida department is doing to keep its members safe
Four ways fire departments can continue the landslide of positive and productive behaviors to protect our members
Exploring why some firefighters still glamorize dirty gear and unsafe actions, despite knowing the risks
Reflecting on the evolution of gear through my career, the impact of an early burn, and how one leader gave me a better option
Researchers argue that if leaders want meaningful change, they must convince members that “everyone else is doing it, too”
Failing to protect the gear that protects you is foolish and sets a bad example for new members
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