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.
Chiefs John Tippett and John Oates debunk the idea that safety and aggression are mutually exclusive
Brian McCaffrey himself can remind your crew that “you go, we go”
Aggressive tactics and operational safety aren’t mutually exclusive when policies are clear, current and consistently applied
What makes a fire department enthusiast — and how to be one, the right way
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,
