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.
Firefighters face a unique crisis where physical dangers are matched by mental and emotional tolls—fueled by silence, cultural pressure and systemic neglect
Understanding the ‘why’ behind mental health challenges in the fire service
Exploring the haunting cost of heroism in the American fire service
We must slow down during the transition from ‘automatic’ to ‘effortful’ in our responses
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
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
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
The Indianapolis battalion chief highlights the power of company officers to quash negativity
While not a legal requirement like for police officers, firefighters may witness inappropriate behavior on fire scenes that necessitates intervention
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
We can gain more influence by becoming a productive follower than a resistant one
Irmo Fire Chief Mike Sonefeld said James Muller would come to work prepared to give 110%
The Myrtle Beach (S.C.) training chief talks go/no-go decision-making, plus creating a culture that prioritizes action
“Change everything you can right away” and other bad advice for new leaders
Create an experience people want to be a part of and share community impact to inspire potential members
The EMS leader and advocate emphasizes putting the workforce at the top, with leaders giving them every opportunity to succeed
Firefighter Dennis Bean has been hand-lettering all Orono Fire Department vehicles since he joined in 1996 after attending art school
“We have amazingly talented people at the fire department. We can’t stop looking at [the table]. The pictures do not do it justice,” a Bloomington Fire Department social post read
The Salisbury (N.C.) division chief shares the origins of his training focus, his personal evolution on the job, and what it means to be “combat ready”
“The outpouring was phenomenal,” Lake Norden Chief of Police Tony Aas said, describing offers for substitute vehicles
While not quite on par with royal pomp and circumstance, there are some powerful fire service traditions we should embrace – and a few to leave in the past
Dr. Candace Ashby urges firefighters of all ranks to shed the negative narrative and become part of the solution
Thousands gathered in Indianapolis for training, met friends old and new, checked out gear and vehicles, supported Ukrainian firefighters and more
What can we do to ensure we’re preserving the elements that make the fire service great — while cutting out the elements that no longer fit?
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