What every agency must have in place for high-risk events
In 2026, fire departments across the U.S. will face extraordinary operational challenges during high-risk, high-visibility events — from the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding to the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup. FireRescue1 is launching On the Front Line, a special editorial series exploring how fire service leaders and incident commanders are preparing for and executing unified command, seamless information sharing, and rapid response in dynamic, multi-agency environments.
Large events test your system before the first call. This checklist helps fire and EMS leaders stage resources, align command and prepare for rapid escalation.
COMPLETE COVERAGE
Chief Norris Croom highlights the need to plan and train for when to stage, when to enter the hot zone and when to retreat
Will you be prepared if tens of thousands ‘storm’ your community?
Branchville Hose Company No. 1 Chief Jonathan Frato said they had just finished dinner when “everything pancaked” and the decks collapsed, injuring over 20 people
During the New Jersey Firemen’s Convention, multiple levels of decking attached to a building collapsed, trapping people and injuring several others
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- FDNY formally forbids use of hoses against unruly crowds
- Photo of the Week: Care amidst chaos
- Ohio bills would penalize demonstrators who target first responders, block roadways
- Texas lawmakers pass bills targeting protesters who block roads, use fireworks, laser pointers
- Wis. man convicted of killing 6 with SUV at Christmas parade
ABOUT THE SPONSOR: L3HARRIS
L3Harris is a leading supplier of mission-critical communications systems and equipment for local, state and federal firefighter agencies. We have more than 80 years of experience in public safety and professional communications with over 500 systems now in use around the world. Learn more at L3Harris.com.
Download a copy of the Guide and level-up your operations by creating a culture of mayday training and designing rookie-, basic-, and advanced-level drills
Battalion Chief Steve Conn and Lt. Bassel Ibrahim detail mayday lessons from real-world events and progressive training
Communication on the fireground is made easier and safer with a personal public address system integrated into an incident command center