The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has announced that it has received a five-year grant of $7 million to support HazMat response training at nuclear facilities in the United States.
IAFF secures $8 million for Hazmat response training
Federal grant supports firefighter training in hazardous materials response
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has confirmed that it has received more than $8 million in federal funding to expand its Hazmat response training.
According to the IAFF, the five-year grant is the largest in its history and was awarded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).
The funding will strengthen the IAFF’s Hazardous Waste Worker Training Program and Hazmat Disaster Preparedness training courses.
It will also support the development of new instructional materials that the IAFF said are intended to modernise approaches to firefighter training.
General President Edward Kelly said: “The longstanding partnership between the IAFF and the NIEHS has been vital to many of the advancements in fire fighter safety and training we’ve accomplished.
“These funds will ensure we continue to provide fire fighters with the training, knowledge, and tools they need to address hazardous materials emergencies and keep themselves and their communities safe.”
Training expansion and new course delivery
The IAFF reported that nearly 4,000 firefighters were certified in Hazmat response under its previous five-year federal grant.
The union said that the new award will allow training for an additional 6,500 firefighters over the next five years.
It added that the funding would also help advance the IAFF’s “Responding to Renewable Energy Emergencies” programme.
That course, launched earlier this year, provides instruction on managing electric vehicle fires and other incidents linked to renewable energy.
The organisation explained that these scenarios are increasingly present in modern firefighting operations.
Partnership with NIEHS
The IAFF explained that its collaboration with the NIEHS has continued for several decades.
The group said the relationship has supported the design of training aimed at preparing firefighters for hazardous material incidents.
It added that the funding helps ensure personnel can access knowledge and skills necessary to work safely in these environments.
The union commented that the renewal of the partnership would carry forward initiatives that it views as central to firefighter safety.
Kelly added: “This funding will ensure we continue to provide fire fighters the training, knowledge, and tools they need to address hazardous materials emergencies and keep themselves and their communities safe.”
Development of drone training
The IAFF confirmed that part of the new grant will go towards creating a drone training programme for the fire service.
The union explained that this will be the first comprehensive course of its kind for the sector.
It said the training would focus on operational use of drones in emergency settings.
The IAFF added that the programme would also help participants prepare for the Federal Aviation Administration’s remote pilot certification exam.
The group said it expects drones to play a greater role in fireground operations in the future.
Supporting modernisation of the fire service
The IAFF noted that the grant will be used not only for direct Hazmat training but also for the production of updated learning materials.
The union explained that these resources are intended to make training more relevant to current and emerging risks.
It said that part of the funding would go towards instructional methods suited to evolving technologies and incident types.
The organisation added that federal support for these initiatives reinforces national investment in emergency response capacity.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This funding announcement shows how large-scale grants are being directed toward firefighter training in hazardous material response.
The IAFF has indicated that the award will allow for an additional 6,500 firefighters to be trained in the US over the next five years.
The inclusion of renewable energy and drone programmes highlights how Hazmat response training is adapting to new operational challenges.
Professionals in fire and safety roles can use this information to understand current priorities in firefighter training and how resources are being allocated.
IAFF secures $8 million for Hazmat response training: Summary
The IAFF has received more than $8 million in federal funding for Hazmat response training.
The grant comes from the National Institutes of Health through the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
The IAFF said this is the largest grant in its history.
The funding will strengthen Hazardous Waste Worker and Hazmat Disaster Preparedness training programmes.
It will also support the creation of new training materials.
The IAFF reported that 4,000 firefighters were certified under the previous grant.
The new award will allow for training of an additional 6,500 firefighters over five years.
The funding will support the “Responding to Renewable Energy Emergencies” programme.
The IAFF said this course helps firefighters manage electric vehicle and renewable energy fires.
The union also confirmed development of a new drone training programme.
The drone course will prepare participants for the FAA remote pilot certification exam.
Edward Kelly, IAFF General President, said the grant ensures firefighters have knowledge and tools for Hazmat emergencies.
The IAFF added that the partnership with NIEHS has been longstanding.
It said the collaboration supports firefighter safety training.
The organisation confirmed the funding will help modernise fire service training approaches.
Federal fire fighters bill proposes work-hour cap and pension reform
Senators introduce bipartisan bill to support U.S. federal fire fighters
Senators Ruben Gallego and Bernie Moreno have introduced a bipartisan bill to cap weekly work hours for federal fire fighters and address longstanding issues with pension calculations.
According to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the legislation – titled the Federal Fire Fighters Families First Act – limits pre-scheduled work hours to 60 per week and changes how overtime is included in pension formulas.
The IAFF stated that federal fire fighters currently work 72 hours per week, with shift structures that limit rest and recovery between deployments.
The trade union said this has created long-term health, safety, and family wellbeing concerns for fire fighters across military bases, research sites, and other federal locations.
The proposed bill, introduced on 25 July 2025, complements a previously submitted House version, H.R. 759, sponsored by Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick and the late Gerry Connolly.
IAFF says excessive schedules are damaging fire fighters’ health
The IAFF has said that the current work schedules of federal fire fighters are putting their physical and mental health at risk.
General President Edward Kelly said: “Federal fire fighters are being pushed to the brink as they work gruelling schedules that jeopardise their health, safety, and well-being.
“That’s why the IAFF proudly supports the Federal Fire Fighters Families First Act – it caps excessive workweeks, fixes broken retirement rules, and honours the hours our members serve.”
He added: “Not only is this schedule physically demanding, but it also has a mental impact, as these fire fighters are forced to spend so much time away from their families.
“I want to thank Senators Gallego and Moreno for supporting these brave men and women – and their families.
“It’s time for U.S. government to recognise the sacrifices these fire fighters are making every day to protect our federal facilities.
“I urge Congress to pass this bipartisan legislation as quickly as possible.”
Weekly hour cap set at 60 under proposed legislation
The bill would limit pre-scheduled hours for federal fire fighters to 60 per week.
According to the IAFF, current schedules often require personnel to leave or return to work every 24 hours, with little opportunity for recovery.
Senator Ruben Gallego said: “Federal fire fighters protect our communities from wildfires and keep our veterans and service members safe.
“But right now, these brave men and women are forced to work gruelling hours at pay rates far below what other fire fighters make.”
He continued: “It’s unacceptable, and I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation to fix it.”
The IAFF explained that the new cap is intended to better align federal schedules with those of non-federal fire departments.
Pension calculations revised under the new bill
The proposed bill also addresses what the IAFF called “unjust penalties” in federal fire fighter pensions.
Currently, 26 percent of pre-scheduled overtime is excluded from retirement benefit calculations.
The IAFF stated that this exclusion reduces long-term earnings and adds to issues of burnout and attrition in federal fire services.
The organisation said the bill will ensure all pre-scheduled hours are included in pension formulae.
Senator Bernie Moreno said: “America’s fire fighters put their lives on the line every day to protect and save communities across the country.”
He added: “This legislation makes sure they and their families are fairly compensated for the incredible work they do and sacrifices they make.”
Companion bill already introduced in the U.S. House
The Senate bill serves as a companion to H.R. 759, introduced in January 2025 in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The earlier bill was brought forward by Representative Brian Fitzpatrick and Representative Gerry Connolly, who passed away earlier this year.
According to the IAFF, both versions aim to establish the same protections and benefits for federal fire fighters.
The association added that alignment between the House and Senate bills is intended to streamline the legislative process and build bipartisan support.
Federal fire fighters bill proposes work-hour cap and pension reform: Summary
Senators Gallego and Moreno introduced a bipartisan bill for federal fire fighters on 25 July 2025.
The bill is titled the Federal Fire Fighters Families First Act.
It proposes a cap of 60 hours per week for federal fire fighter schedules.
The International Association of Fire Fighters said current schedules average 72 hours per week.
The IAFF said these schedules negatively affect fire fighters’ health and wellbeing.
The bill would also change pension calculations for federal fire fighters.
It includes pre-scheduled overtime hours in retirement benefit formulas.
Currently, 26 percent of these hours are excluded from calculations, the IAFF said.
The new bill is the Senate version of House Resolution 759.
House Resolution 759 was introduced in January 2025.
It was sponsored by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Gerry Connolly.
The IAFF has publicly endorsed both versions of the legislation.
The organisation has urged Congress to pass the bill.
Firefighters and families lobby Congress to recognise cancer as line-of-duty illness
Public safety bill seeks to expand death benefits
More than 50 firefighters, family members, and advocates travelled to Washington, D.C. to press lawmakers to back new legislation recognising occupational cancer as a line-of-duty illness.
According to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the bipartisan ‘Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act’ aims to amend the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits programme to cover work-related cancers, which it says are the leading cause of death among firefighters.
IAFF stated that the act, filed as S. 237 in the Senate and H.R. 1269 in the House, would ensure financial and death benefits for firefighters’ families are available in cases where cancer is linked to their occupational exposure.
General President of the IAFF, Edward Kelly, said: “These families have seen firsthand the devastating impacts occupational cancer has on the fire service. Fire fighters are losing their lives to occupational cancer at alarming rates, and it’s time for the federal government to finally recognize these sacrifices as occurring in the line of duty.”
The IAFF confirmed that over 150 members of Congress have already signed on to support the bill.
Bipartisan support building in House and Senate
The IAFF reported that, since its reintroduction earlier this year, 116 members of the U.S. House of Representatives have agreed to co-sponsor the legislation, including 83 Democrats and 33 Republicans.
In the Senate, 42 members are currently supporting the measure, consisting of 26 Democrats and 16 Republicans.
Key sponsors include Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Representative Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), and Representative Carlos Gimenez (R-FL).
IAFF said these lawmakers have worked closely with its staff and affected families to raise awareness and secure bipartisan support.
During the lobbying day, the group held meetings with Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), Representative Jim Baird (R-IN), and Representative Betty McCollum (D-MN).
Personal stories shape the legislative campaign
Among the advocates was firefighter Josh Southerland of Hamilton County, Indiana Local 4416, who lost his father to kidney cancer in 2020.
Southerland said: “These are not isolated tragedies. We’re hoping to get this passed through so we can get it done for the families.”
He added: “So far, the legislators have been very receptive. They’ve been engaged, and asked plenty of questions, so I’m hoping for a positive outcome and a quick vote passing through this year.”
Senator Klobuchar addressed participants during the visit. According to the IAFF, she thanked firefighters and urged them “to not give up”, adding: “We have worked really hard on this legislation because we know what the facts are.”
Family of fallen firefighter joins Capitol Hill outreach
Cylina Cervantes travelled from California with her three children to speak in memory of her late husband, Miguel Cervantes, a firefighter with Rancho Cucamonga Local 2274.
Miguel Cervantes died in 2023 at the age of 45, after being diagnosed with Follicular Lymphoma in 2022, which later progressed to Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.
Cervantes said: “This isn’t supposed to be my story. It still doesn’t feel real. My husband was a fire fighter for over 22 years. He worked for his dream department, got promoted to engineer medic, and even served as union vice president. We thought we had a lifetime ahead of us.”
She added: “Passing this would help support people like my hero who lost his life to cancer. We don’t want other families to go through what we did, without the support they need and deserve.”
The IAFF reported that Cervantes and her children visited congressional offices throughout the day to discuss the occupational cancer risks firefighters face.
IAFF campaigns for formal federal recognition
The IAFF said that the current Public Safety Officers’ Benefits programme does not recognise occupational cancer as a qualifying line-of-duty illness, creating a gap in federal protections for firefighters and their families.
The union said this lobbying initiative was part of a broader campaign to ensure federal law reflects the risks firefighters face from carcinogenic exposure on the job.
It added that the IAFF has been gathering personal accounts and data to support the legislation, which it says is necessary to match state-level recognition in many jurisdictions.
As more families share their experiences, the IAFF stated that it hopes growing public and political awareness will result in formal passage of the Honour Act during the current session of Congress.
Josh Southerland said: “It’s about honoring their sacrifice. And making sure the system honors it too.”
Firefighters and families lobby Congress to recognise cancer as line-of-duty illness: Summary
More than 50 firefighters, family members, and advocates visited Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.
The International Association of Fire Fighters reported that the visit was to support the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act.
The Act proposes expanding the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits programme to include occupational cancer.
Firefighters’ cancer deaths are not currently recognised as line-of-duty under federal law.
IAFF General President Edward Kelly said federal recognition is long overdue.
The legislation is filed as S. 237 and H.R. 1269 in the Senate and House respectively.
Over 150 lawmakers have co-sponsored the bill, including Republicans and Democrats.
Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Kevin Cramer, Representative Mary Gay Scanlon, and Representative Carlos Gimenez are leading sponsors.
Josh Southerland and Cylina Cervantes were among those who shared personal stories with legislators.
Miguel Cervantes, a California firefighter, died in 2023 from a cancer linked to work exposure.
His family met lawmakers to highlight the need for federal recognition and support.
The IAFF said this is part of a broader campaign to close the gap in federal benefits.
Senator Klobuchar told attendees to “not give up” on the legislative effort.
The IAFF continues to gather support and testimony in favour of the bill.
It hopes for a formal vote on the legislation within the current congressional session.
Firefighters across US gain access to Dana-Farber cancer support programme
New programme offers tailored cancer support to firefighters
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has reported that Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has launched a national cancer care programme tailored to firefighters in the United States.
The initiative, called Direct Connect for Firefighters, was piloted last year in Massachusetts in partnership with Boston Local 718 and the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts (PFFM).
The expanded programme provides support in three key areas: educational materials for training, clinical guidance for early detection, and research collaboration to inform cancer screening recommendations.
According to IAFF, the pilot involved collaboration with the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation, which helps connect firefighters with cancer treatment and support services.
PFFM President Rich MacKinnon said: “The PFFM is incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to work with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute toward a future where fire fighters can do their jobs without sacrificing their long-term health.”
Pilot programme builds on Boston Fire Cancer Foundation
IAFF reported that the initial phase of the Direct Connect programme was closely tied to the work of the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation.
The foundation, managed by Boston fire fighter Dan Ranahan, helps firefighters access care and navigate cancer treatment services.
Sam Dillon, President of Boston Local 718, said: “The partnership and efforts of Dana-Farber and the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation — led by Boston fire fighter Dan Ranahan — are resulting in enhanced access to specialized care, vital education to our fire fighters, and collaboration on research that could lead to a deeper understanding of the cancer risks inherent in our profession.”
He added: “Fire fighter lives will no doubt be saved by the utilization of this program.”
According to the IAFF, this collaboration model will inform future national rollouts of the programme to other firefighting bodies.
Cancer remains leading cause of firefighter deaths
According to IAFF, cancer is now the leading cause of death among US firefighters, primarily due to regular exposure to toxic substances during incident response.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute said the Direct Connect programme aims to address these risks through more accessible, tailored cancer screening options.
Heather Cloran Di Lorenzo, Senior Director of Commercial and Market Strategy at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, said: “Our goal is to provide fire fighters with personalized support and access to cutting-edge cancer screening and prevention strategies.”
IAFF 3rd District Vice President Jay Colbert also commented on the importance of early intervention efforts for firefighters.
Colbert said: “We know now that cancer is the number one killer of fire fighters due to the toxins we are exposed to every day on the job.”
He added: “Any weapon we can add to our arsenal to fight against this horrible disease helps save lives.”
Research collaboration aims to improve early detection
According to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a key part of the programme involves working with firefighter organisations to develop evidence-based screening recommendations.
This collaboration includes efforts to gather data and generate insight into the specific risks firefighters face.
Dana-Farber explained that findings from the research could help refine clinical guidance and improve training on early symptoms and intervention strategies.
As part of the programme, Dana-Farber will work with firefighter groups across the US to assess outcomes and identify ways to improve service provision over time.
IAFF confirmed that research outputs from this initiative will be made available to support wider awareness efforts within the fire service community.
Educational support included in training resources
IAFF stated that the Direct Connect programme also includes the development of oncology-related educational content for firefighter training.
This material will be made available to training centres and departments as part of an effort to raise awareness of occupational cancer risks and screening processes.
According to Dana-Farber, this content aims to support a more preventative approach and equip fire service personnel with knowledge relevant to their occupational exposure profile.
The institute confirmed that firefighters will be able to access the resources through affiliated local organisations.
IAFF reported that future phases of the programme may include additional components based on feedback from participating fire departments.
Firefighters across US gain access to Dana-Farber cancer support programme: Summary
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has launched a national cancer care programme for firefighters.
The initiative is named Direct Connect for Firefighters.
It was piloted with Boston Local 718 and the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts.
The programme includes clinical guidance, research collaboration and education.
Dana-Farber worked with the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation on the pilot.
The initiative supports early detection and cancer screening.
Heather Cloran Di Lorenzo said the programme offers personalised support.
IAFF stated that cancer is the leading cause of firefighter deaths.
Jay Colbert said toxic exposure contributes to this trend.
The programme also includes training resources on cancer awareness.
PFAS Alternatives Act reintroduced to support safer fire fighter gear
Lawmakers move to fund development of PFAS-free turnout gear
A bipartisan group in the United States Congress has reintroduced the PFAS Alternatives Act, legislation aimed at eliminating toxic chemicals from fire fighter protective clothing.
According to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the bill was brought forward by Representatives Debbie Dingell and Sam Graves, and seeks to authorise $25 million for research into protective gear that does not contain per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
The IAFF said the bill would support the development of fire fighting gear that includes features such as visual alerts when cleaning is needed and adaptations to suit different body types.
IAFF highlights health concerns linked to PFAS exposure
The IAFF stated that exposure to PFAS in turnout gear is contributing to increased rates of cancer among fire fighters, citing that fire fighters are more than 14 percent more likely to die from certain cancers than the wider population.
IAFF General President Edward Kelly said: “The science is clear. Exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals is driving alarming rates of cancer in the fire service.”
He added: “The PFAS Alternatives Act is critical legislation that will help introduce next-generation, PFAS-free gear to better protect fire fighters and ensure we have a voice in developing the very products we rely on for safety.”
He continued: “The IAFF is grateful to Rep. Dingell and Rep. Graves for championing this legislation.”
Political backing for occupational safety reform
The IAFF reported that alongside Representatives Dingell and Graves, the bill has the support of lawmakers including Representatives Glenn Ivy, Brian Fitzpatrick, Dina Titus, Tom Kean Jr., Suzanne Bonamici, and Glenn “GT” Thompson.
Dingell said: “Fire fighters’ jobs are already dangerous enough without worrying about the long-term health risks of being exposed to dangerous PFAS in their turnout gear.”
She added: “The PFAS Alternatives Act will remove this unnecessary occupational hazard and help protect fire fighters as they work every day to protect us.”
Graves added: “America’s fire fighters charge into danger to save the lives of others. This bipartisan legislation will help develop the next-generation of firefighting gear to keep them safe.”
Federal support would extend beyond local efforts
The IAFF noted that while some U.S. states and cities have already moved to phase out PFAS in turnout gear, federal support is needed to scale research and ensure widespread availability of alternatives.
It explained that the PFAS Alternatives Act would provide funding through the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) to back collaboration between scientists and fire fighters on gear development.
According to the IAFF, the gear would be designed to be safer, more adaptable, and to include new safety indicators.
PFAS Alternatives Act reintroduced to support safer fire fighter gear: Summary
A bipartisan group in the U.S. House has reintroduced the PFAS Alternatives Act.
The legislation is supported by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).
The bill was introduced by Representatives Debbie Dingell and Sam Graves.
It proposes $25 million in funding through the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH).
The funding would support development of turnout gear free from PFAS chemicals.
The IAFF stated that PFAS exposure is contributing to increased cancer rates in the fire service.
Turnout gear has historically included PFAS due to its heat-resistant properties.
The IAFF said the new gear would include cleaning indicators and gender-based fit adjustments.
The bill has also received support from Representatives Ivy, Fitzpatrick, Titus, Kean Jr., Bonamici and Thompson.
Some cities and states have already taken action on PFAS but federal backing is seen as necessary for broader change.
New apprenticeship programme for firefighters launched across the United States
IAFF and US Department of Labor introduce first national firefighter apprenticeship
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has announced the launch of the IAFF Fire and EMS Apprenticeship Program, a new federally registered apprenticeship designed to support firefighter and emergency medical services recruitment in the United States.
According to the IAFF, the programme was introduced at a signing ceremony hosted at the Frances Perkins Department of Labor building in Washington, D.C., and is the first federally registered apprenticeship of its kind for the fire service.
The IAFF stated that the programme has been established in response to long-term recruitment and retention challenges affecting fire departments across the country.
Programme offers new pathway into US fire and EMS services
The IAFF explained that the programme will allow fire departments to access a nationally coordinated model for hiring, training, and retaining new firefighters and EMS personnel.
The programme has been federally registered through the Department of Labor to provide departments with consistent support and expanded access to funding and other federal resources.
IAFF General President Edward Kelly said: “As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Day, what a fitting occasion to launch the first-ever apprenticeship programme for firefighters and paramedics in the United States. This programme will not only give firefighters in every jurisdiction a baseline of skills, but it allows those fire chiefs to tailor their training to the specific hazards they have in their jurisdictions – something that’s incredibly important.”
Kelly added: “This is a brand-new era for the US fire service.”
Partnership focuses on training and safety standards
The US Department of Labor said the programme has been created to ensure departments have enough properly trained personnel to meet community needs and maintain health and safety standards.
US Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer said: “Time and time again, the IAFF has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the rights, safety, and future of firefighters, emergency medical workers, and rescue workers.”
Chavez-DeRemer added: “Registered apprenticeships like these ensure responders have enhanced capabilities that help prevent harm and improve overall health and safety. Programmes like yours are reinforcing proper protections to avoid tragedies and build a future where everyone remains safe. That’s why I’m so excited to be part of this signing ceremony today.”
Federal coordination and military career transitions included in scope
The IAFF noted that the programme will unify existing state-level apprenticeship models under one federal framework, allowing for broader implementation and support.
The programme has also been designed to align with Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense employment transition initiatives, such as SkillBridge and Career Skills Programs.
According to the IAFF, the programme will provide an accessible path into the fire service for former military personnel and others facing barriers to certification and training.
Kelly said: “Together with the fire chiefs, we launched this concept to boost the ranks of the American fire service.”
Recruitment needs remain high for US departments
The IAFF stated that fire departments across the US continue to face staffing shortages, particularly in small and rural areas.
These shortages, it said, have contributed to increased workloads, burnout, and injuries among existing staff.
According to the IAFF, the new apprenticeship model is the first national solution aimed at reversing these trends through structured training and recruitment.
Kelly said: “We are going to redefine the US fire service through this programme.”
New apprenticeship programme for firefighters launched across the United States: Summary
The International Association of Fire Fighters has launched a new federal apprenticeship programme for fire and EMS personnel.
The announcement was made alongside the US Department of Labor during National Apprenticeship Day.
The IAFF Fire and EMS Apprenticeship Program is the first federally registered apprenticeship scheme for the US fire service.
It will support recruitment and training needs across fire departments in every state.
The Department of Labor said the scheme will improve safety and skill standards for fire and EMS workers.
The IAFF said it will coordinate existing state apprenticeship programmes under a national model.
Federal registration will provide departments with greater access to funding and resources.
The programme will also support former military personnel entering fire service careers.
Workforce shortages have affected departments across the US, especially in rural areas.
The IAFF said the programme was developed through discussions with the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
IAFF Convention concludes with re-election of key leaders
Edward Kelly re-elected as IAFF General President
The election results for the 57th International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Convention have been finalised, as reported by the International Association of Fire Firefighters.
Edward A. Kelly has been re-elected as General President with a total of 226,797 votes, while his opponent, Braden Frame, received 4,043 votes.
Frank Líma was re-elected as General Secretary-Treasurer by acclamation, continuing his service in this critical role.
The votes were meticulously counted and certified by the IAFF Elections Committee, General Counsel, and candidates’ observers, ensuring a transparent and fair process.
The re-election of Kelly and Líma signals continuity in leadership for the organisation’s more than 350,000 members.
Vice President results across various districts
The election also saw the re-election of several Vice Presidents across different districts.
Mahlon Mitchell secured the position of 5th District Vice President with 3,982 votes, defeating Jerry Biggart, who received 2,098 votes.
In the 16th District, James “Jim” Johnson was elected Vice President with 1,827 votes, surpassing Dale Smith, who garnered 1,382 votes.
The IAFF Canadian Trustee position was won by Scott Marks with 18,346 votes, while his opponent Alex Forrest received 8,666 votes.
These results reflect the trust and support of the members in the elected candidates.
Acclaimed positions and new Vice Presidents
Several positions were filled by acclamation, with incumbents returning to their roles.
These include District Vice Presidents James Slevin (District 1), Mark Woolbright (District 2), Jay Colbert (District 3), and others.
Additionally, new District Vice Presidents were elected by acclamation, with Michael Glynn taking the role for District 11 and Chris Ross for District 15.
These appointments highlight the members’ confidence in the continuity and experience of their leadership, ensuring stability within the organisation.
Trustees and their roles in the IAFF
Anthony Mejia and Mark S. Ouellette were re-elected as Eastern and Western Trustees, respectively, by acclamation.
Their roles involve overseeing the fiduciary responsibilities within their regions, a critical function in maintaining the integrity and financial health of the IAFF.
Their re-election suggests a sustained belief in their capability to manage these significant responsibilities.
IAFF Convention concludes with re-election of key leaders: Summary
The 57th IAFF Convention concluded with the re-election of Edward A. Kelly as General President and Frank Líma as General Secretary-Treasurer, marking continued leadership for the association’s 350,000 members.
Key Vice President positions were also filled across several districts, with Mahlon Mitchell and James “Jim” Johnson winning in the 5th and 16th Districts, respectively.
Several incumbents were re-elected by acclamation, while new Vice Presidents were appointed in Districts 11 and 15.
The Trustees, responsible for overseeing financial matters, were also re-elected, ensuring the stability and continuity of the IAFF’s leadership.
IAFF urges new federal safety standards to protect US fire fighters
IAFF addresses Congress on new fire fighter safety standards
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) addressed Congress on June 4, calling for new federal safety standards to protect fire fighters.
As reported by the IAFF, the current approach to fire fighter safety has been inadequate for the last 40 years.
IAFF Director of Government Affairs, Evan Davis, testified before the Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee of the House Committee on Homeland Security, emphasizing the need for significant investment in staffing, training, and resources.
Davis stated: “Our reliance on consensus standards with no teeth and the goodwill of city administrators is literally killing us.
“Unlike nearly every other American industry, we have almost no legally enforceable workplace protections.”
The proposed updates by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) include comprehensive revisions to the Fire Brigades Standard, now to be renamed the Emergency Response Standard.
Proposed updates to fire brigades standard
The proposed standards aim to revamp the Fire Brigades Standard, addressing various aspects of emergency response.
This includes staffing, training, apparatus readiness, and protective equipment.
Employers would also need to provide baseline medical screenings and access to behavioral health resources for emergency responders.
IAFF General President Edward Kelly commented: “Our job will never stop being dangerous, but there are steps we can take to make it safer.
“This update is long overdue, and the Biden Administration agrees.”
The IAFF has been lobbying for these changes, arguing they will save lives and enhance fire fighter safety.
Volunteer fire departments raise concerns
While the proposed standards aim to improve safety, they have raised concerns among volunteer fire departments.
Chief Joseph Maruca, Director of the National Volunteer Fire Council, warned that compliance could be economically infeasible for many volunteer fire departments, particularly in smaller communities.
He noted the recent decline in funding for FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant programs.
Maruca stated: “If adopted as written, this proposal would be economically infeasible for most volunteer fire departments to implement and cause many volunteer fire departments to shut down.”
He highlighted the challenge of implementing the new standards without adequate financial support.
Congressional response and future steps
Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Anthony D’Esposito (R-NY) acknowledged the concerns of both career and volunteer fire organizations.
He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that enhances fire fighter safety while preventing regulatory burdens that could make communities less safe.
D’Esposito concluded the hearing by thanking the participating organizations, including the IAFF, for their efforts in promoting fire fighter safety.
D’Esposito remarked: “This OSHA standard hasn’t been touched since 1980, and you have been the driving force of making fire fighters lives safer throughout this country.”
The next steps involve further discussions and potential revisions to ensure the standards are practical and beneficial for all fire departments.
Safety Stand Down 2024 focuses on fundamental fire training
Introduction to Safety Stand Down 2024
Safety Stand Down, an annual campaign to enhance firefighter training and safety, has announced its theme for the 2024 event.
Scheduled for June 16-22, the campaign titled “Fire Training: Back to Basics” aims to reinforce essential strategies and tactics in firefighting.
The initiative underscores the importance of foundational training for firefighters, addressing the diverse needs of communities and fire departments.
This year’s Safety Stand Down highlights the criticality of comprehensive training programs.
The week-long event will delve into various topics crucial to firefighter safety and preparedness, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional aspects.
Each day will concentrate on different aspects, ranging from building a solid training foundation to the crucial ’10 commandments of firefighter training’.
Collaborative Effort for Firefighter Safety
Safety Stand Down is a collaborative effort involving several prominent organisations.
These include the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Safety, Health and Survival Section, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA), and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).
The campaign, held in the third week of June each year, aims to reduce preventable injuries and deaths in fire and emergency services.
During the campaign week, participating agencies are encouraged to suspend non-emergency activities to focus on training and education.
The official campaign website, www.safetystanddown.org, will provide resources and action plans to help departments prepare and implement the campaign’s objectives.
Interactive Initiatives and Additional Resources
In addition to the training focus, NFPA will host the Fire Service Safety Stand Down Quiz.
This interactive online quiz is designed to enhance awareness and understanding of this year’s theme.
Participants completing the quiz will enter a sweepstakes, with 200 randomly selected individuals winning a commemorative Safety Stand Down challenge coin.
More information and resources will be periodically added to the campaign website in the lead-up to Safety Stand Down 2024.
These resources aim to support fire departments in effectively implementing the training and safety principles emphasized during the campaign week.
IFSJ Comment
The Safety Stand Down 2024 campaign, with its theme “Fire Training: Back to Basics,” presents an essential reminder of the foundational principles of firefighter training.
In an era where fire departments face increasingly diverse challenges, such initiatives are vital.
They ensure that firefighters remain adept in core skills, which are crucial for effective emergency response and community safety.
This focus on fundamental training, alongside the emphasis on physical and mental wellbeing, reflects a comprehensive approach to firefighter readiness.
The collaboration among leading firefighter associations further enhances the impact of this initiative, offering valuable resources and unified support for fire departments globally.
By concentrating on these fundamental aspects of training, Safety Stand Down 2024 contributes significantly to the ongoing efforts in enhancing fire and emergency service safety and effectiveness.