FireRescue1 Leadership Institute’s 2026 Spotlight on AI in the fire service examines how artificial intelligence is shaping decision-making across training, operations, incident response and administrative work. Coverage focuses on practical, real-world use — including predictive analytics, dispatch improvements, generative AI applications and the ethical considerations leaders must weigh. Grounded in examples from the field and informed expert insight, this series is designed to support informed, responsible adoption of AI within today’s fire service.
SPOTLIGHT ON AI
Whether you need data-driven outreach or just better graphics, AI offers practical ways to strengthen your prevention messages
From hazard mapping to resource deployment, AI is changing the way agencies prepare for major incidents
From overworked volunteers to red tape-heavy agencies, fire department leaders face distinct hurdles in adopting AI
Upskill your staff so you’re ready to deploy AI tools for everything from training plans to fire detection and post-incident analysis
Imagining the shift from generative AI to general AI — and how that impacts fire service jobs
Battalion Chief Bobby Ortiz and Division Chief Chad Crouse drive the latest Tech Talk Tuesday discussion focused on AI, drones and robotic systems
Use these planning tools, prompts and ideas to support behavioral health in your department
Not enough hours in the day? Try these tips to get you back on track
Learn the basics of artificial intelligence, plus how to use a chatbot at your department to streamline work
LEADERSHIP INSIGHTS
Technology may be the enabler, but leadership is the engine
From training photos to fireground videos, firefighters are quick to critique, but following one simple tip can do more to improve the discourse than public callouts
From the Los Angeles wildfires to dramatic rescues, we’re looking back at the biggest stories of the year captured on camera
Let us be grateful for the amazing organizations we work for and the quality of the people who serve our communities
It’s time to think about how you want to make your mark on the fire service
For companies to thrive, their officers must prioritize member conduct, training discipline and career development
Survey reveals five training gaps that continue to rise to the surface
A data-driven accreditation model helps departments move beyond emotion-based appeals, aligning staffing, planning and resource decisions with community needs
Making the annual visits mandatory reduces stigma, normalizes care and ensures that those most at risk don’t avoid needed support
About the Sponsor: First Due
Fire and EMS software is broken. As times change, keeping pace with the demands of modern firefighting and emergency response is more important than ever. From preincident planning to response and incident reporting, fire and EMS agencies nationwide struggle to manage day-to-day operations within a single platform. First Due is changing how fire and EMS software works, delivering an end-to-end, cloud-based solution designed to support an entire operation in one place. Learn more about First Due.
The company’s growth underscores the demand for streamlined public safety operations supported by real-time data
Through AI-powered processes, built-in checklists, guided workflows, and real-time validation, First Due eliminates manual coordination
Marking back-to-back recognition, this year’s honor underscores First Due’s leadership in artificial intelligence for public safety
Ranking No. 492 overall and No. 54 in Software, 2025 marks the company’s fourth consecutive appearance on the list — and its first time in Inc. 500
First Due integrates NextNav’s advanced vertical location and 3D visualization technology into its Incident Command platform
First Due’s new Advanced Data Insights delivers real-time, configurable dashboards across incidents, ePCR, staffing, and more—built for public safety. Agencies get full visibility and meet compliance standards like NFIRS/ NERIS, NEMSQA, and NEMSIS—without technical expertise or third-party tools
First Due launches a new LMS to streamline training, certification tracking and compliance, complete with real-time monitoring and industry-specific content
Designed to simplify compliance, streamline ITM workflows and improve service provider collaboration, First Due’s ITM solution strengthens its industry-leading Fire Prevention toolset
Since its founding in 2016, First Due has delivered a comprehensive, true-cloud platform designed to meet the critical needs of first responders
The Sterling Fire Department is using a program that allows residents and business owners to provide critical information to enhance pre-planning