IAFC calls for responder feedback on hazmat rail incidents in the United States

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsResearchTransport

IAFC begins data collection from responders to improve hazmat rail incident response

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has launched a nationwide request for input from emergency responders who have dealt with hazardous materials (hazmat) rail incidents.

According to the IAFC, the insights will contribute to its ongoing Significant Rail Incident Study, which is being developed with national partners to improve hazmat preparedness and training programmes.

The organisation confirmed that the study’s initial framework has been developed by a national control group, which identified five key focus areas. It now seeks operational feedback from those with firsthand response experience.

Participants are invited to complete an initial form, with select responders to be contacted by IAFC for further follow-up as part of a detailed assessment.

The IAFC stated that input collected may inform future protocols and improve nationwide response systems for major hazmat rail incidents.

U.S. study follows earlier IAFC rail safety research

The IAFC said the responder feedback component builds on its prior research publication Considerations For Ensuring The Effectiveness of U.S. Railroad Hazardous Materials Training, Preparedness, And Community Outreach Programs.

That earlier work focused on improving rail hazmat training and outreach efforts across the country.

The new phase aims to document operational practices and lessons learned directly from significant rail incident response events.

The IAFC noted that the current study is designed to connect high-level priorities with practical, on-the-ground responder experience.

It added that this process will help refine policy recommendations through a more applied evidence base.

Partners include rail industry and federal bodies

The IAFC reported that the study is being undertaken in collaboration with the Association of American Railroads, the Shortline Safety Institute, and additional industry and federal agencies.

These partners are working with hazmat response stakeholders to ensure findings reflect operational needs and challenges.

The IAFC said that cooperation across these sectors is essential to capture a full range of technical, procedural, and policy considerations.

It added that the involvement of responders is a critical part of validating and contextualising the study’s findings.

The association said the study aligns with broader national safety goals and will contribute to ongoing risk reduction strategies in rail operations.

Call for U.S. responder participation remains open

The IAFC has invited all U.S.-based personnel who have responded to hazmat rail incidents to take part in the study.

Participation involves completing a short form, with follow-up contact from the IAFC if criteria are met.

The association said that all data collected will be used to shape future hazmat rail preparedness and response policies.

It added that responder feedback is particularly valuable in assessing what procedures work in practice, and where gaps may exist.

The IAFC encouraged eligible responders to engage with the study, stating that their perspectives can contribute directly to national safety improvements.

Study targets applied learning from incident response

According to the IAFC, the project aims to capture “Smart Practices and Lessons Learned” from real-world incidents.

The organisation stated that grounding the study in actual responder experience will support a more accurate understanding of current capabilities and shortfalls.

It also said that this phase of the research focuses on operational relevance, rather than theoretical planning or policy assessment.

The IAFC explained that volunteer participants will be contributing to a shared national learning process.

It emphasised that participation from diverse response contexts is encouraged, including urban, rural, and specialist units.

IAFC calls for responder feedback on hazmat rail incidents in the United States: Summary

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has launched a national data collection initiative.

The goal is to gather feedback from U.S. emergency responders who have dealt with hazmat rail incidents.

The study follows a prior IAFC publication on hazmat rail safety and outreach.

A national control group has outlined five key study priorities.

The IAFC is now seeking practical feedback to validate and extend that framework.

Responder input will help identify operational lessons and effective practices.

Participants must complete an online form to register interest.

Selected responders will be contacted for follow-up interviews.

The study is being conducted with the Association of American Railroads and the Shortline Safety Institute.

It also involves federal agencies and hazmat response networks.

All data collected will be used to support future rail incident protocols.

The IAFC stated that participation will inform national preparedness improvements.

The feedback gathered will focus on applied operational experiences.

Responders from all geographic and service contexts are encouraged to apply.

The IAFC confirmed the opportunity remains open for eligible responders.

IAFC outlines Trump Administration’s FY 2026 fire and emergency budget plans

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

US fire service funding maintained, homeland grants reduced

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has reported that President Trump released more details of the FY 2026 United States budget proposal on 31 May.

According to the IAFC Government Relations and Policy Department, the budget proposes level funding for key fire service grant programmes but includes reductions in other homeland security areas.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programmes would each receive $324 million.

This matches funding levels approved for FY 2024 and FY 2025.

The State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) would decrease from $468 million to $351 million.

The Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) would be reduced from $553.5 million to $415.5 million.

The U.S. Fire Administration would receive $64.166 million, including funding for the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).

Wildland fire service restructured under new agency

The IAFC stated that the Trump Administration proposes creating a U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) under the Department of the Interior.

This agency would consolidate all federal wildland fire response bureaus and functions.

The USWFS would oversee suppression response, wildfire risk reduction, and coordination with non-federal partners.

It would also employ all federal wildland firefighting personnel, manage federal fire equipment, and direct response policy.

A separate $2.85 billion Wildfire Operations Reserve Fund would also be established.

Existing programmes within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, including State Fire Assistance and Volunteer Fire Assistance, would be eliminated and potentially transferred to the USWFS.

The budget includes permanent salary increases for federal and tribal wildland firefighters.

According to the IAFC, the proposed funding covers new special salary rates and premium incident response pay introduced in Public Law 119–4.

Tribal nations would also receive funds to offer similar pay increases.

Health and safety provisions for fire and EMS personnel

The FY 2026 budget includes $94.7 billion for the Department of Health and Human Services.

The IAFC reported that several public health agencies would be consolidated into a new Administration for a Healthy America, with a $19 billion allocation.

The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer would receive $6 million, representing a $500,000 increase.

The National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory would be defunded.

The World Trade Center Health Program would continue to receive federal support.

According to the IAFC, the State Opioid Response and other behavioural health emergency grants are being reorganised into a single Behavioral Health Innovation Block Grant.

The effects on the rural health-focused SIREN programme remain uncertain.

A further reorganisation would create a $3.7 billion Assistant Secretary for a Healthy Future by combining the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response with ARPA-H.

Hazmat and transportation safety funding allocated

The IAFC reported that the Department of Transportation would receive $121.4 million for Hazardous Materials Safety and Emergency Preparedness Grants under the FY 2026 proposal.

This includes $66.9 million for hazmat safety operations.

A further $48.8 million would be allocated to hazmat training grants for first responders and local governments.

An additional $2.5 million is allocated for Pipeline Emergency Response Grants.

The Information Grants to Communities programme would receive $2 million.

The IAFC said these allocations support frontline response capabilities in hazardous material incidents.

IAFC urges congressional protection of local emergency support programmes

The IAFC stated that it will continue to advocate for strong federal support for fire and EMS departments.

The organisation noted concerns about a policy shift that places more responsibility for emergency response on individual states.

It said such changes must not weaken the role of federal programmes in supporting local responders.

The IAFC encouraged its members to remain updated on legislative developments as Congress begins reviewing and amending the FY 2026 budget proposal.

IAFC outlines Trump Administration’s FY 2026 fire and emergency budget plans: Summary

President Trump released further details of the FY 2026 budget on 31 May 2025.

The IAFC reported that AFG and SAFER fire service grants would remain funded at $324 million each.

Homeland security grants SHSGP and UASI would be reduced.

The U.S. Fire Administration would receive $64.166 million, including support for NERIS.

The Trump Administration proposes creating a new U.S. Wildland Fire Service under the Department of the Interior.

The new agency would consolidate federal wildland fire responsibilities and personnel.

A $2.85 billion Wildfire Operations Reserve Fund would also be established.

State Fire Assistance and Volunteer Fire Assistance programmes would be discontinued.

The budget includes pay increases for federal and tribal wildland firefighters.

The Department of Health and Human Services would be reorganised under a $94.7 billion proposal.

The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer would receive a $500,000 funding increase.

The National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory would be defunded.

Hazardous materials safety and training grants would total $121.4 million under the Department of Transportation.

The IAFC stated it will continue to advocate for federal funding of fire and EMS departments.

IAFC launches task force in response to FEMA reform

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

US FEMA strategy overhaul under presidential orders

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has confirmed that it has formed a task force to examine the Trump administration’s restructuring plans for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

This development follows the issuance of Executive Order 14180, which was signed on 24 January and establishes a 20-member Council to assess FEMA.

The council is chaired by the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security.

It is required to deliver its findings 180 days after its first public meeting.

The council held its first meeting on 20 May.

The IAFC also cited the 18 March signing of Executive Order 14239.

That order mandates a new National Resilience Strategy and calls for changes to key homeland security directives, including HSPD-5 and PPD-8.

These policy changes, according to the IAFC, could directly affect fire and emergency services.

IAFC outlines key concerns and review scope

The IAFC reported that Fire Chief Josh Waldo, its President and Board Chair, appointed a dedicated task force to provide formal recommendations to the federal government on the implications of its proposals for local emergency services.

Retired Chief Jim Schwartz, former fire chief of the Arlington County Fire Department and former chair of the IAFC Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee, was named as the task force lead.

The IAFC confirmed that Schwartz will oversee a 10-person team responsible for evaluating the potential impact on fire departments and emergency medical services.

The organisation explained that the task force will also engage directly with the newly formed FEMA Review Council and other federal officials to represent the views of fire and rescue services.

Transition from all-hazards to risk-based response

The IAFC noted that the Trump administration is proposing a shift away from an all-hazards response model toward a risk-based approach.

This change affects federal support structures such as FEMA’s Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and homeland security preparedness policies.

The administration has committed to producing a National Critical Infrastructure Policy and National Risk Register within 240 days, according to the IAFC.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is also tasked with updating core preparedness policies and documents within the same timeframe.

The IAFC stated that the task force will evaluate how these policy changes could affect current fire service operations.

This includes considerations for grants, training at the National Fire Academy, and operational readiness for events such as hazardous materials incidents and wildfires.

Task force to provide ongoing updates

The IAFC said the task force will focus on several key questions.

These include how FEMA can better serve local fire departments and what parts of the existing homeland security framework should be retained or revised.

It will also consider what steps local agencies should take in response to federal changes.

The IAFC stated that the review process will include analysis of how potential policy shifts could alter training, funding, and federal coordination practices.

The organisation confirmed that the task force will continue to monitor developments.

It will report regularly to IAFC members about the progress of discussions in Washington.

IAFC launches task force in response to FEMA reform: Summary

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has launched a task force in response to proposed changes to FEMA.

The task force was created after President Trump signed Executive Orders 14180 and 14239 in January and March 2025.

Executive Order 14180 established a FEMA Review Council.

The council held its first public meeting on 20 May.

Executive Order 14239 instructs the creation of a National Resilience Strategy and a National Risk Register.

The IAFC task force is led by Chief Jim Schwartz (Ret.).

The task force includes 10 members.

The group will assess how the changes affect fire and EMS services.

The task force will provide recommendations to the federal government and the FEMA Review Council.

The IAFC said the review will cover FEMA operations, federal response policy, and local preparedness.

The Department of Homeland Security is required to revise emergency support and preparedness policies within 240 days.

The IAFC will provide regular updates to its members throughout the process.

Lithium-ion battery fire risks addressed through U.S. House legislation

by Featured NewsSafety

U.S. House approves new consumer safety standards for lithium-ion batteries

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has reported that the U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 973, the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-ion Batteries Act, by a vote of 365 to 42.

The bill directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to issue mandatory federal safety standards for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices, including e-bikes and scooters.

The legislation aims to address an increase in fires caused by these batteries, which have been linked to safety hazards across the United States.

Fire service leaders support lithium-ion battery regulation

IAFC President and Board Chair Fire Chief Josh Waldo welcomed the passage of H.R. 973 by the House of Representatives.

Waldo said: “I am thankful that the U.S. House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly to pass the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act (H.R. 973).

“I thank Representative Ritchie Torres, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Chairman Brett Guthrie, and Ranking Member Pallone for their leadership in passing this critical legislation to set fire safety standards for lithium-ion batteries and their charging elements in e-mobility devices.

“We look forward to working with our allies to pass this legislation in the Senate.”

According to the IAFC, the next step for the legislation will be consideration in the Senate, where a companion bill, S. 389, has already cleared the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation.

Scope and implementation of the battery safety legislation

The legislation requires the Consumer Product Safety Commission to finalise federal standards within 180 days of enactment.

It specifies the adoption of the ANSI/CAN/UL 2271 standard for batteries used in light electric vehicles, ANSI/CAN/UL 2849 for e-bike systems, and ANSI/CA/UL 2272 for personal e-mobility devices.

The Commission is instructed to apply these standards only to consumer products as defined under existing consumer product safety law.

Future revisions to these standards must be reported to the Commission, and if no objection is raised within 90 days, the updates will take effect after 180 days.

Reporting requirements and long-term oversight

The bill also requires the Commission to submit a report to Congress within five years of enactment.

This report must include data on fires, explosions and other hazards linked to lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices.

The report must specify the source of the information, details of the battery and product models involved, and whether the batteries complied with the mandated standards, if known.

It must also include information on the manufacturer and country of origin of the batteries when available.

Lithium-ion battery fire risks addressed through U.S. House legislation: Summary

The International Association of Fire Chiefs reported that the U.S. House passed H.R. 973 with bipartisan support.

The bill is titled the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-ion Batteries Act.

It mandates federal safety standards for lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission must implement these standards within 180 days.

Standards include ANSI/CAN/UL 2271, UL 2849 and UL 2272.

Future revisions to these standards will be treated as official safety rules unless objected to.

A companion Senate bill, S. 389, has passed committee and awaits full Senate consideration.

Fire Chief Josh Waldo, IAFC President and Board Chair, expressed support for the legislation.

The Act includes a requirement for the Commission to report on battery-related hazards within five years.

Reports must include sources, product and battery details, compliance status, and manufacturing information.

US 2026 Budget proposal calls for Federal Wildland Firefighting Agency

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Budget proposal introduces Federal Wildland Firefighting Agency

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has reported that President Trump’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget proposal includes a plan to establish a new Federal Wildland Firefighting Agency under the Department of the Interior.

The proposal would unify existing federal responsibilities for wildfire suppression and management into a single service, consolidating the functions currently housed within the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

According to the IAFC, this new agency would be responsible for coordinating wildfire suppression responses, mitigation efforts, and partnerships with non-federal stakeholders.

Increased wildfire firefighting expenditure and USDA budget cuts

The IAFC stated that the proposed federal wildfire firefighting budget would increase by 3.6 percent to $2.9 billion under the 2026 plan.

The agency would assume management responsibilities and resources currently held by the Department of Agriculture, which would see reductions in several key programmes.

The Rural Development Programme would be cut by $721 million, including the complete removal of Community Facility grants historically used for building fire stations.

Funding for the National Forest System would be reduced by $392 million, which includes a $342 million cut to salaries and expenses.

FEMA and emergency preparedness programmes targeted for reductions

The IAFC noted that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would see a $646 million reduction in its grant programmes.

Programmes marked for removal include Targeting Violence and Terrorism Prevention and the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium.

The impact on Assistance to Firefighters Grants, SAFER, Fire Prevention and Safety, Urban Areas Security Initiative, and the State Homeland Security Grant Programme remains unclear until more detailed documentation is released.

Cuts of $491 million are also proposed for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which the administration said would be reoriented toward federal network defence and critical infrastructure protection.

Additional cuts across health, safety and environmental agencies

The Department of Health and Human Services is affected in several areas, according to the IAFC summary.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration would lose $1.065 billion in funding, eliminating a number of regional and national programmes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would face a $3.588 billion reduction. The budget proposal would consolidate several disease-focused grants into a single $300 million programme.

The proposal would also eliminate multiple CDC programmes and shift responsibility for others to state governments.

The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response would lose $240 million, with the removal of the Hospital Preparedness Programme.

The Department of Transportation’s rail safety grant funding would increase by 400 percent to $500 million.

US 2026 Budget proposal calls for Federal Wildland Firefighting Agency: Summary

President Trump’s 2026 budget proposes the creation of a Federal Wildland Firefighting Agency.

The new agency would fall under the Department of the Interior.

It would absorb wildland fire functions from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Wildfire firefighting costs would rise by 3.6 percent to $2.9 billion.

USDA’s Rural Development Programme would be cut by $721 million.

Community Facility grants used for fire stations would be removed.

National Forest System funding would be reduced by $392 million.

FEMA grant programmes would be reduced by $646 million.

The impact on AFG, SAFER and other FEMA grants remains unclear.

CISA would be cut by $491 million and refocused on federal networks.

SAMHSA would see a cut of $1.065 billion with multiple programme eliminations.

CDC funding would be reduced by $3.588 billion.

Hospital Preparedness Programme funding would be eliminated.

Rail Safety Grant funding would increase to $500 million.

The IAFC said this proposal is the beginning of the 2026 appropriations process.

John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

John Butler becomes first FSEDI graduate to lead Metro Chiefs

Former International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President John Butler has been appointed president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, according to the IAFC.

Butler, who serves as Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia, is the first graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) to be selected for the Metro Chiefs presidency.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association operates as a joint section of the IAFC and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Metro Chiefs includes departments from North America, Australia and beyond

The IAFC explained that the Metro Chiefs Association brings together senior officers from large fire departments across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other countries.

According to the IAFC, the association provides a platform for leadership development, operational collaboration and peer engagement across metropolitan fire services.

It stated that the Metro Chiefs section plays a central role in shaping education and strategic direction in the wider fire sector.

Education and research partnerships central to the association’s mission

The IAFC reported that the Metro Chiefs Association maintains longstanding relationships with safety research bodies and academic institutions.

It noted that these include FM, the Firefighter Safety Research Institute (UL), the Fire Protection Research Foundation and multiple universities.

The IAFC stated that such partnerships contribute to the association’s goal of supporting evidence-based leadership and decision-making in urban fire services.

Butler to guide policy direction during one-year term

The IAFC confirmed that Butler’s term as president will last one year.

It stated that he will chair meetings, coordinate committees and contribute to the delivery of internal and external objectives.

The IAFC added that Butler’s presidency comes at a time when many large fire departments are managing structural change and operational demands.

John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association: Summary

John Butler has been named president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association.

The announcement was made by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).

Butler is currently Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia.

He is a past president of the IAFC.

He is also the first Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) graduate to lead the Metro Chiefs.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association is a section of the IAFC and NFPA.

It includes senior fire officials from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other nations.

The IAFC reported that the association partners with research bodies and universities.

These include FM, UL’s Firefighter Safety Research Institute and the Fire Protection Research Foundation.

The IAFC said Butler will serve a one-year term as president.

His responsibilities include policy guidance, committee leadership and strategic coordination.

IAFC joins DCD fire safety campaign aims to train one billion people by 2027

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsSafety

IAFC joins Dubai Civil Defense in international fire safety campaign

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its involvement in the Dubai Civil Defense-led “Billion Readiness Campaign“, a global fire safety initiative.

According to the IAFC, the campaign aims to reach and train one billion people between 2025 and 2027. The initiative focuses on increasing public and responder awareness of fire safety practices across 34 countries in collaboration with 18 major firefighting organisations.

The Dubai Civil Defense is funding the initiative. Activities began in September 2024. The IAFC has committed to supporting this effort through quarterly updates on member outreach and encouraging global fire services to submit local engagement data.

Campaign goals include training and outreach on global scale

The Billion Readiness Campaign aims to deliver fire safety training and educational outreach to one billion individuals by the end of 2026. The UAE-led initiative includes humanitarian aid and public awareness efforts designed to reduce fire risks.

The programme is intended to enhance safety knowledge, reduce fire incidents and improve community security. It also aims to create a consistent reporting structure through regular feedback from global partners.

The IAFC will contribute data through quarterly outreach reports and encourages fire departments to complete a recurring survey capturing engagement figures and activities.

IAFC issues call for participation from member agencies

The IAFC has outlined specific reporting milestones to track campaign progress. These include five key dates between April 2025 and October 2026, during which fire departments are asked to submit summaries of their outreach.

The reporting periods include estimated achievements for 2024, biannual reviews for 2025 and 2026, and a final update in October 2026. These reports will form part of the IAFC’s overall contribution to the campaign’s evaluation.

Departments are asked to submit details on outreach activities and the estimated number of individuals reached.

Fire services urged to contribute to local-level training efforts

IAFC members are being encouraged to support the campaign by delivering community-level outreach and education programmes. Each agency is asked to document and submit their activities as part of a coordinated global effort.

The IAFC described its role in the campaign as an opportunity to demonstrate the scale of impact that fire and emergency services can have when working together.

The association has called for broad participation from its network of professionals to meet the campaign’s ambitious target.

Fire safety campaign aims to train one billion people by 2026: Summary

The IAFC has confirmed it will partner with Dubai Civil Defense on the Billion Readiness Campaign.

The campaign began in September 2024 and continues through 2026.

Its objective is to reach one billion individuals with fire safety training.

The initiative includes participation from 34 countries and 18 firefighting organisations.

The IAFC will support the campaign through outreach and quarterly reporting.

Participating agencies are asked to submit data on training and engagement levels.

The first reporting milestone is 1 April 2025.

The final campaign report is due on 1 October 2026.

All submissions are intended to help measure the campaign’s reach and effectiveness.

The campaign is funded by Dubai Civil Defense.

IAFC members are encouraged to contribute at the local level.

IAFC outlines 2025 conference schedule for fire and EMS professionals

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsEvents

Key IAFC fire and EMS conferences set for 2025

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its full conference schedule for 2025, offering a series of events for fire and EMS leaders.

Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference to focus on wildfire prevention

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its 2025 conference schedule, featuring a range of events for fire and emergency medical services (EMS) leaders.

These conferences will address wildfire prevention, EMS advancements, community risk reduction, hazardous materials response, and technology in fire services.

The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference will take place in Kansas City, Missouri, from March 25 to 29.

The event will provide a platform for professionals to discuss wildfire prevention, protection, and mitigation strategies.

Attendees will have access to preconference workshops on wildfire modelling technology and networking opportunities with industry experts.

IAFC has stated that early bird registration is open until February 19.

Fire-Rescue Med (FRM) Conference returns to in-person format

The Fire-Rescue Med (FRM) Conference, initially launched as a virtual event, has gained traction and will continue as an in-person gathering in 2025.

The conference will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from May 5 to 9, with a preconference on May 4.

FRM 2025 will focus on fire-based EMS operations, offering sessions on patient and responder safety, personnel management, data technology, and government relations.

The exhibit hall will feature new fire-rescue apparatus and advancements in medical technology.

IAFC has confirmed that registration for FRM 2025 will open in February, with an early bird rate available until March 29.

Community Risk Reduction Leadership (CRRL) Conference to highlight fire data analysis

The Community Risk Reduction Leadership (CRRL) Conference will take place in Glendale, Arizona, from May 13 to 15.

This event is aimed at fire service managers and chief officers who are developing community risk reduction programs.

According to IAFC, CRRL 2025 will focus on practical strategies and measurable outcomes, featuring case studies and best practices for risk reduction.

A preconference session, the Fire Data Analysis Working Group (FireDAWG), will be held on May 12 for those interested in fire data collection and analysis.

Registration will open in late February, with early bird rates available until April 1.

Fire-Rescue International (FRI) Conference remains IAFC’s flagship event

Fire-Rescue International (FRI) will be held in Orlando, Florida, from August 13 to 15.

The annual conference, which dates back to 1931, is IAFC’s largest event, drawing thousands of fire and EMS professionals, government officials, and industry representatives.

FRI 2025 will feature keynote speakers, workshops, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing the latest fire service technology.

The conference will also include leadership training and panel discussions on emerging industry challenges.

IAFC has stated that the registration period will be announced in the spring through its website and social media channels.

IAFC outlines 2025 conference schedule for fire and EMS professionals: Summary

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its full conference schedule for 2025, offering a series of events for fire and EMS leaders.

The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference will take place in Kansas City, Missouri, from March 25 to 29, focusing on wildfire prevention and mitigation strategies.

The Fire-Rescue Med (FRM) Conference, set for May 5 to 9 in Las Vegas, will cover fire-based EMS operations, including patient safety and data technology.

The Community Risk Reduction Leadership (CRRL) Conference will be held in Glendale, Arizona, from May 13 to 15, with a preconference on fire data analysis scheduled for May 12.

Fire-Rescue International (FRI), IAFC’s largest event, will take place in Orlando, Florida, from August 13 to 15, featuring leadership training, keynote speakers, and industry exhibits.

Registration details for each event will be available on IAFC’s official website and social media channels.

IAFC marks 150th anniversary with a special celebration in Baton Rouge

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) is celebrating its 150th anniversary during the IAFC Southwestern Division Annual Meeting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana from October 17-20.

IAFC’s legacy in focus

Chief John S. Butler, IAFC President and Fire Chief of Fairfax, Virginia, commented on the occasion: “This anniversary marks a historic moment for the IAFC.

“For 150 years, we have been committed to ensuring the safety of communities across the nation.

“Our anniversary celebration is a testament to the dedication of fire chiefs and first responders, who have continually risen to the occasion.

“We are excited to gather in Baton Rouge to honour this legacy.”

Southwestern Division takes the lead in celebrations

Chief Roy Robichaux, Director of IAFC’s Southwestern Division and Fire Chief of Belle Chasse Volunteer Fire Department, Louisiana, shared: “The Southwestern Division is proud to host this milestone event.

“We are looking forward to celebrating this extraordinary anniversary with IAFC members and recognising the IAFC’s ongoing impact on fire and emergency services.”

The forthcoming event is expected to be a moment of reflection on the organisation’s rich history and a reaffirmation of its dedication to community safety and well-being.

The IAFC community is keenly awaiting the occasion to commemorate this significant milestone.

IFSJ Comment

The International Association of Fire Chiefs has played a pivotal role in the fire and emergency services for the past 150 years.

Celebrating this sesquicentennial anniversary isn’t just about looking back; it’s about reaffirming a commitment to the future.

It underscores the steadfast dedication of fire chiefs and first responders, who remain at the forefront of ensuring community safety.

As we observe the IAFC’s enduring influence on fire and emergency services, we are reminded of the importance of such institutions in fostering growth, innovation, and resilience in the sector.

Chief John Butler takes the helm as IAFC president for 2023-24

by AmericasFeatured NewsPeople

Chief Butler commits to inclusive leadership for the fire and rescue community

In a significant ceremony at the Fire-Rescue International (FRI) 2023, the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) announced its officers for the 2023-24 tenure.

IAFC’s vision for the future

Chief Mary Beth Michos, a renowned figure in the fire and rescue sector, presided over the event.

Chief John Butler of Fairfax County (VA) Fire and Rescue was officially sworn in as the IAFC President.

The oath was also administered to 1st Vice President Chief Josh Waldo from Bozeman (MT) Fire Department, 2nd Vice President Trisha Wolford from Anne Arundel County (MD) Fire Department, and Treasurer Chief Steven Locke from South Burlington (VT) Fire Department.

Addressing the audience, Chief Butler emphasised: “We must not lose sight of the need to be vigilant about building and sustaining healthy organisational cultures, strengthened by behavioural best practices, in which EVERYONE can thrive.”

He went on to describe the association’s relationship with its members: “The Association frames its relationship with the membership and related organisations based on four (4) goals – Lead, Educate, Serve, and Include.”

On a further note, he mentioned, “We all have the power to build inclusive teams, inclusive organisations.”

Chief Mary Beth Michos, while addressing the newly installed officers, commented: “A significant duty has been bestowed upon you.

“This duty also requires you to accept a great responsibility.

“It is my honour to install you as the officers for the upcoming term which formally takes effect at the conclusion of this conference.”

IAFC celebrating 150 years of dedication

This year is particularly momentous for the IAFC as Chief Butler will serve as Chair of the IAFC Board of Directors during its 150th year of dedication to the international fire and EMS community.

IFSJ Comment

The installation of Chief John Butler as IAFC’s President is a landmark moment for the global fire and emergency response community.

Chief Butler’s commitment to inclusive leadership and fostering healthy organisational cultures signals a positive direction for the IAFC and its members.

His emphasis on the core goals – Lead, Educate, Serve, and Include – aligns perfectly with the challenges and requirements of the modern firefighting landscape.

As the IAFC commemorates its 150th anniversary, having a leader with such vision at its helm augments its mission to support and uplift the fire and EMS community.

About the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)

The IAFC represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide.

Its members are the world’s leading experts in areas such as firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials, and public safety legislation.

Established in 1873, the IAFC has consistently provided a platform for its members to share ideas, undergo professional development, and discover the newest best practices available for first responders.

As they mark their 150th anniversary in 2023, the IAFC continues to stand proud as a beacon for global firefighting and emergency response leadership.