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
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
From drones in the snow to AI analyzing emergency runs, this episode features insights on how tech can support – not overwhelm – first responders
How will the future of fire and EMS be impacted by federal government change, force multiplier technology and a new frontier for trauma patient care
How AI-driven platforms are revolutionizing public safety messaging and disaster preparedness
We asked FireRescue1 contributors and board members to share the technology they are hoping to use in the year ahead
We already know from past innovations how AI will really impact our work – driving us deeper into the grind
Exploring the many ways AI to enhance our organizations
LEADERSHIP INSIGHTS
FireRescue1 readers share when they joined, what “ready” really means, and why leadership, mentoring and mental health support matter
Shouldering the weight of the fifth bugle requires a critical mindset shift
Leadership is not defined by title or traits but by the willingness to step forward, take responsibility and be present when decisions must be made
The fire service depends on discipline, but leadership failure occurs when orders go unexamined and accountability is lost
Why today’s youth need intentional outreach, adapted academies and stronger mentorship to succeed
What it takes to do the job right when you don’t have the people, the time or the margin for mistakes
When resources run short during disasters, disciplined command becomes the key to prioritizing needs and coordinating aid
The former U.S. fire administrator shares how a colleague’s kindness in her first days on the job set her up for success
A shift from closed-door goal setting to data-driven, inclusive planning helped IFD move from stalled initiatives to accredited, measurable progress
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.
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
First Due is recognized as the fastest-growing fire and EMS software company in the United States, marking its third consecutive year earning the distinction
Download this FireRescue1 computer-aided dispatch systems & records management systems buying guide to learn key steps for product selection, purchasing and implementation
Download this FireRescue1 fire department records management systems buying guide to learn key steps for product selection, purchasing and implementation
First Due’s comprehensive suite is designed specifically for EMS operations and includes highly configurable NEMSIS v.3.4 and 3.5 compliant ePCR software and applications for scheduling, assets, training, events, and more.
