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.
Yuba City Firefighter Chase Kennedy grew up visiting his father’s firehouse
A three-step roadmap for cultural transformation
Fire Chief Scott Thompson warned against leaning so far toward firefighter safety that fire victim safety is compromised, leading to tragedy and heightened scrutiny
U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell’s focus on consistent messaging has reached fire service organizations; the next step – firefighters
Columbia Basin Technical Skills Center received a fire engine for use in their fire science program
Volunteers want more mental health services, increased staffing to relieve stress and culture change to eliminate lingering stigma
A fire career isn’t always about flashovers and extrications; it’s often the little things that make the biggest impact on a community
It’s important to connect with your fellow firefighters, get involved in training, and avoid silos
A simple mindset shift is at the root of a critical difference between biased and nonbiased people
The FDNY chief of safety – and Better Every Shift’s first guest – returns a year later to talk leadership, safety and training
Leadership
Sometimes we simply need to be real and lead with a heightened focus on our mission
Lifestyle
No matter the challenges that face you, you find a way to respond to those in need
A lack of trust between firefighters isn’t just a concern on scene; it can also negatively affect day-to-day operations and disrupt harmony among members
As NFFF liaison to the FDNY, Minogue works to support firefighters and their families – and pay forward positivity
We must slow down during the transition from ‘automatic’ to ‘effortful’ in our responses
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
Leadership
One simple solution: Get back in touch with the community, physical and metaphorically
The machine wants to hear from you – do you agree with the AI assistant?
The Orange County (Calif.) fire chief explains why a compliance-based mindset doesn’t always work in the world of chaos around us
Upon taking the reins, the Greensburg (Pa.) VFD chief made it his mission to improve firefighter safety and health
It’s time to put these issues to rest once and for all – and start doing the right thing
The IPSDI CEO argues that labeling firefighters by arbitrary birth years is unfair, too convenient and shortchanges the conversation around individuality
Should past troubles disqualify fire service leaders from holding the top spot, and are some troubles too serious to uphold the public’s trust?
More than 2,100 firefighters speak up about the perfect storm of stress and staffing challenges
Recognizing the differences among the many generations in the fire service can help identify skills and talents to improve team dynamics
Firefighter-Paramedic Mike Anderson shares what it was like having his work life chronicled for NBC’s new show – and the playful razzing that followed
Leadership
Defining your purpose will help solidify your connection to your fire department’s organizational mission, vision and values
The chief details the biggest firefighter health and wellness risks and offers simple ways to build accountability
Leadership
The Indianapolis battalion chief highlights the power of company officers to quash negativity
From prevention to data-driven decision-making, department leaders must set the tone for mayday-minded training
While not a legal requirement like for police officers, firefighters may witness inappropriate behavior on fire scenes that necessitates intervention
Leadership
The battalion chief talks passion for the job, fighting complacency, empowering your leaders, and the difference between being right and being effective
Empower and optimize your department’s team by selecting quality members, providing thorough training and future planning to avoid burnout
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