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
New writing tools can help organize data, sharpen narratives and align applications with funder priorities when paired with human review
How AI will reshape the future of fire‑EMS operations, dispatch and governance, according to the ChatGPT
The Colorado department developed a flexible, town-wide policy to manage risk, protect sensitive information and guide responsible use
From shift schedules to PFAS gear, these are the stories that lit up our socials
Inside the department’s plan to use AI to improve planning, documentation and daily operations
AI, cognitive friction and the future of fire service leadership
Understanding the impact of AI sycophancy
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
LEADERSHIP INSIGHTS
Four keys to changing our broken approach to attracting new members
The relationship among these principles is vital for effective incident management
How chiefs can stem the tide of negative interactions with elected officials who may not understand the fire service model
Understanding the myth of the “technical titan” and why the fire service reveres technical skills over leadership qualities
Fire service leaders, paid and volunteer, must focus on problem-solving and decision-making in service to the community
Video shows senior firefighter without gear teaching new firefighter how to extinguish a car fire
Virginia research project highlights possible solutions for filling hiring and knowledge gaps
Part 2 – It’s critical to train in actual stairwells to understand the mental and physical requirements of these operations
Decentralized command empowers members to make decisions that align with the commander’s strategic goal
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.
First Due earned a spot on the 2026 GovTech 100 for the second consecutive year, recognizing its AI-powered, all-in-one platform supporting fire and EMS operations
The FDNY is now live and submitting fire incidents to NERIS through First Due, while sustaining the operational demands of the largest municipal fire department in the United States
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