NFCC celebrates UK fire and rescue volunteers during Volunteers’ Week

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Volunteering spotlight across the UK fire sector

Organisations across the UK are marking Volunteers’ Week from 2 to 8 June 2025.

According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), this annual event is an opportunity to recognise the contribution of volunteers who support fire and rescue services throughout the UK.

The NFCC stated that volunteers play a key role in local prevention work, community education, and public engagement, contributing hundreds of thousands of hours each year to support safety initiatives.

The NFCC explained that volunteer involvement extends beyond incident response.

It noted that volunteers often assist with educational outreach, deliver safety messaging, and contribute to wider prevention work related to fire, water, and road risks.

Community roles support safer outcomes

The NFCC reported that volunteering helps build safer communities by increasing the capacity of fire and rescue services.

It stated that volunteers work alongside operational crews to engage the public in settings such as schools, community events, supermarkets, and health centres.

The council added that volunteer work may include distributing safety leaflets, assisting with home fire safety checks, and promoting awareness of career opportunities in the fire sector.

The NFCC explained that these activities help strengthen community links and broaden the diversity of people involved with fire and rescue services across the UK.

Volunteer experience shared by GMFRS contributor

The NFCC shared the example of John Griffiths, who joined Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) as a volunteer in 2023.

It said that over the course of 18 months, Griffiths dedicated more than 500 hours to three volunteer roles: Community and Support Volunteer, Safety Centre Volunteer, and Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor.

NFCC Volunteer Lead Wendy Richings said: “John’s flexibility, enthusiasm and reliability have made him an invaluable asset to the service.

“His contributions have not only made a lasting impact on the community but have brought additional skills, knowledge and life experience to GMFRS.

“I would urge anyone considering a rewarding volunteering role to contact their local fire and rescue service and enquire about what volunteering opportunities are available.

“You’ll meet like-minded people with the knowledge that you’re making a tangible difference to safety in your community.”

Motivation and impact of volunteer work

The NFCC stated that people choose to volunteer for various reasons, including maintaining activity after retirement, contributing to the community, or exploring new career paths.

Richings said:
“People volunteer for a variety of different reasons, but one thing that unites them all is the impact they make.

“It can add a great deal to your life and the lives of those that you help in the community.

“Our volunteers give their time so generously and connect us in a really different way to members of our public, and our communities.

“We are so grateful for their ongoing dedication and support.

“They are a valued part of our service and we can’t thank them enough for what they do.”

The NFCC said there are a range of volunteering opportunities available within the fire and rescue service, and encouraged members of the public to learn more by visiting its website.

NFCC celebrates UK fire and rescue volunteers during Volunteers’ Week: Summary

Organisations across the UK are marking Volunteers’ Week from 2 to 8 June 2025.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) highlighted the role of volunteers in the UK fire and rescue service.

Volunteers contribute to public education, community safety, and engagement work.

The NFCC stated that volunteers support prevention efforts beyond emergency incident response.

Activities include leaflet drops, safety messaging, and attendance at public events.

Volunteers also support home fire safety visits and career outreach.

John Griffiths volunteered over 500 hours with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service since 2023.

He held roles including Community and Support Volunteer and Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructor.

NFCC Volunteer Lead Wendy Richings praised Griffiths’s impact on the service and community.

Richings encouraged others to consider volunteering with their local fire and rescue service.

The NFCC stated that motivations vary but the impact of volunteers is consistent.

It said volunteering can benefit both the community and the individual.

A list of volunteering opportunities is available via the NFCC’s website.

The Institution of Fire Engineers starts recruitment drive for volunteer fire safety assessors

by Breaking NewsFire Engineering

New recruitment drive aims to support competency frameworks

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced the launch of a new recruitment drive to increase its volunteer cohort.

This initiative comes ahead of the competency requirement in Section 156(4) of the Building Safety Act (BSA) 2022 and the new British Standard for Fire Risk Assessor competence.

As reported by the Institution of Fire Engineers, the fire risk assessor field is moving towards a system of Conformity Assessment and certification schemes.

The IFE seeks to shape industry standards and practices during this challenging period.

Recruiting volunteers with diverse backgrounds and skills is essential to the IFE’s mission to advance global fire safety standards and ensure visibility of competency levels across the sector.

The role of volunteers in advancing fire safety standards

Voluntary roles are crucial to the IFE’s operations, including assessing competency levels for membership, drafting exam papers, and facilitating the path to Engineering Council registration.

IFE Special Interest Groups (SIGs) develop expertise in various fire safety areas, such as heritage buildings, transport, emerging trends, and electric vehicles.

With the awaited publication of the Grenfell inquiry report and upcoming legislative changes, the fire safety landscape underscores the need for specialised expertise in safety subjects.

The call for volunteers comes at a critical time for the fire safety sector, with the Fire Sector Federation’s Industry Benchmark Standard highlighting the importance of maintaining a suitable record of learning and development.

Steve Hamm, IFE CEO, said: “The IFE recognises the critical role that competency plays in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities.

“As we prepare for the implementation of new competency frameworks, we are calling on passionate individuals from all aspects of fire to join us in our mission to advance fire safety standards and practices.”

Importance of competency in fire risk assessment

The Fire Competency Framework document emphasises the importance of robust record-keeping, demonstrating a commitment to quality and ongoing professional development within the industry.

Dame Hackitt’s Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety identified fragmentation and lack of cohesion in competence within fire safety roles, including fire risk assessors.

Volunteers supporting this initiative will play a crucial role in verifying competencies, providing Responsible Persons (RPs) confidence in the assessors they appoint.

Subsection 156(4) of the Building Safety Act 2022 amends the Fire Safety Order (FSO), placing a new legal duty on RPs not to appoint a person to assist them with fire risk assessments unless that person is competent.

IFE members interested in volunteering can find further information and submit applications on the IFE website.

How to get involved

Those interested in helping navigate the changes ahead and aiding the workforce in demonstrating and aligning competencies in fire risk assessment will find this a crucial time for the industry.

More details about volunteering opportunities can be found at www.ife.org.uk/volunteering.

IFSJ Comment

The Institution of Fire Engineers’ recruitment drive for volunteers comes at a significant juncture for the fire safety sector.

The introduction of new competency frameworks and the Building Safety Act’s amendments necessitate a robust system of Conformity Assessment and certification.

By recruiting volunteers with diverse backgrounds and skills, the IFE aims to advance global fire safety standards and ensure visibility of competency levels across the sector.

The roles offered by the IFE provide an opportunity for individuals to contribute to assessing competency levels, drafting exam papers, and supporting Engineering Council registration.

The call for volunteers is timely, given the anticipated changes in legislation and the emphasis on maintaining a comprehensive record of learning and development.

The involvement of volunteers in developing expertise in various fire safety areas is vital as the sector adapts to new challenges and demands.

The IFE’s collaboration with the Home Office highlights the importance of supporting the current workforce in showcasing competencies in fire risk assessment.

This recruitment drive is essential for the ongoing professional development and assurance of quality within the fire safety industry.

CTIF commission supports global volunteer firefighters, highlights challenges and initiatives

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Volunteer firefighters’ role in community safety emphasised at international meeting

The CTIF (International Technical Committee for the Prevention and Extinction of Fire) Commission for Volunteer Firefighters recently held its 10th meeting on the island of Hydra, hosted by the Hellenic Volunteer Firefighter Association.

This event, occurring from October 16-19, brought together 22 participants from 12 countries to address the current challenges faced by fire departments globally.

The discussions centred on the evolving demands of climate change on firefighting techniques, technology, and training.

The assembly also explored the motivation and retention of volunteer firefighters through the lens of scientific research from Holland and Greece.

Addressing the impact of climate change on firefighting

Climate change’s impact on firefighting efforts was a primary focus, with the commission examining how volunteer departments must adapt to increasingly severe weather conditions.

“The meeting focused on the impact of climate change on the work of fire departments.

How do volunteer fire departments have to adapt to the changed climatic conditions?” shared a spokesperson for the commission.

This included a review of technological advancements, tactical approaches, and the necessary evolution of training protocols to meet these new challenges.

Support for volunteer firefighters in Ukraine

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the support for volunteer firefighters in Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.

Earlier this year, firefighting associations from Germany, Austria, and Poland collaborated to assist in establishing a volunteer fire department system in Ukraine, addressing the increased demand and limited resources caused by the war.

The CTIF commission has endorsed the “Norderney-Declaration,” urging national fire department associations to support this initiative.

“Volunteer firefighters rescue, extinguish, recover, and protect citizens in their community and beyond,” the commission stated, highlighting the dedication of volunteers who serve under the added pressures of conflict.

Commitment to volunteer firefighter support

The commission’s “Hydra Statement” reaffirms the crucial role of volunteer firefighters and the need for strong associations to coordinate efforts and advocate for their interests.

It underlines the commitment to aiding the fire departments in Ukraine, sharing over a century’s worth of organizational knowledge and support to establish a self-sustaining association of volunteer firefighters in the country.

IFSJ Comment

The CTIF Commission for Volunteer Firefighters’ meeting underscores the critical role of volunteer firefighters in ensuring community safety and responding to the challenges posed by climate change.

The discussions and initiatives from this gathering reflect a collective determination to adapt and evolve in the face of these global challenges, fostering a culture of resilience and cooperation among volunteer firefighters worldwide.

The commission’s support for the volunteer firefighting efforts in Ukraine is a testament to the international firefighting community’s solidarity and commitment to aiding those in need, regardless of the circumstances.

This initiative not only aids in immediate disaster response efforts but also builds a foundation for sustainable community-based fire protection services, demonstrating the power of collaboration and shared knowledge in enhancing global fire safety standards.

Volunteer fire departments receive get-a-grip gloves

by Featured NewsProducts

PH&S Products, LLC (PH&S), in partnership with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), has provided 100 NVFC members with GET-A-GRIP Gloves for their volunteer fire departments through the 2022 “Glove On!” Giveaway.

The giveaway saw each department given two dispenser boxes (up to 50 pairs of gloves per box) to enhance responder health and safety.

Gloves are an important part of a responders’ personal protective gear as they provide hand protection against substances that may be encountered during emergency response.

GET-A-GRIP gloves have been permeation tested against fentanyl, heroin, and gastric acid, and the super tough nitrile compound provides abrasion resistance and protection.

NVFC chair Steve Hirsch said: “Emergency responders answer the call to all types of incidents, and keeping them safe is a top priority for the NVFC. It is critical that our first responders have the resources they need to safely respond where hazardous or toxic exposures might be a concern.

“We are grateful to PH&S Products for their support and providing our volunteer fire departments with these protective gloves.”

PH&S Products general manager Brett Sarbach said: “PH&S Products is proud to be able to aid in the safety of first responders. We are glad to offer gloves that protect our front-line workers from fentanyl and also heroin and gastric acid. In addition, the strength and two-tone construction are other benefits to the first responders. Glove ON!”

To be eligible to enter the giveaway, departments had to be over 50 percent volunteer, serve a population of 25,000 or less, be located in the U.S., and the applicant or department chief had to be a member of the NVFC. Recipients were randomly selected after the entry period closed.

NVFC members are eligible for a five percent discount on GET-A-GRIP Gloves and free shipping until December 31.

Firefighters in New South Wales recognised for bush fire effort

by Featured NewsPeople

Over 60 members of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Macarthur District have been recognised for their dedication at a special ceremony in Camden.

NSW RFS District Manager Superintendent Angelo Baldo AFSM presented 64 National Emergency Medals, one National Medal and eight Long Service Medals at the Camden Civic Centre.

The National Emergency Medal is awarded to persons who rendered sustained or significant service during nationally significant emergencies in Australia, including the 2019-2020 bush fires.

Superintendent Baldo said the District had been instrumental in battling blazes across the state during the 2019-20 fire season, and tonight was an opportunity to say thank you: “Members of the Macarthur District have always answered the call, not only assisting with incidents locally but also to communities in need across the state.

“The hard work and professionalism of all NSW RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, we should take every opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and commitment to their community.

“You only have to look at recent events to see how hard our skilled firefighters and support crews work to keep us safe in not only when faced by fires, but during floods as well.”

Superintendent Baldo also congratulated each of the Macarthur District volunteers on their dedication, commitment and service: “I’d particularly like to congratulate Karen and James Randall, who are being recognised for their 31 and 32 years respectively with Long Service Medals, along with the National Emergency Medal.

“Karen works closely with the Aviation Division and previously held the role of Captain in the Macarthur Communications Brigade for six years. Her husband James is a Group Captain and was Captain of the former Prestons Bush Fire Brigade and inaugural Captain of the Casula Brigade.

“It is an honour to recognise all these dedicated professional volunteers, who give their all to help others.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all NSW RFS volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”

NVFC awarded grant from Motorola Solutions Foundation

by Featured NewsTraining

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the association representing the volunteer fire, emergency medical, and rescue services, has received a grant for $25,000 from the Motorola Solutions Foundation, the charitable arm of Motorola Solutions.

This is the seventh consecutive grant the NVFC has received from the Motorola Solutions Foundation to support training initiatives.

NVFC has said it will use the grant to prepare first responders across the US to serve their communities in a safer, more efficient manner through online and in-person training courses.

The grant will enable the NVFC to develop a new course as well as offer existing courses in its catalogue for free to the volunteer emergency services community. The training covers critical topics including health, safety, preparedness, leadership development, and retention and recruitment, among others.

NVFC chair Steve Hirsch said: “Training is consistently the number one resource that our members request. With the varying schedules of volunteer firefighters and limited resources of departments, online training is a pivotal tool in enhancing the knowledge and awareness of responders on an array of topics that will increase their safety and effectiveness.

“We are grateful to the Motorola Solutions Foundation for supporting the NVFC and our efforts to provide greater training access to our nation’s volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, and rescue workers.”

Karem Perez, executive director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation added: “The Motorola Solutions Foundation is proud to partner with organizations like the NVFC that share our values and passion for driving positive change in the community.

“We believe in the work that the NVFC is doing and look forward to seeing their continued impact.”

American Red Cross seeks volunteers for wildfire season

by Featured NewsIndustry SectorsWildland Fire

Due to the ongoing threat from wildfires, the American Red Cross North Texas Region has put out a call asking for individuals to become Red Cross volunteers and take part in future relief efforts.

Since March 1, the Red Cross has responded to more than 160 wildfires in greater North Texas. Red Crossers provided immediate and long-term aid, staff shelters and evacuation points and set up canteen services for firefighters. Disaster Action Team, Disaster Recovery Casework, Mass Care Team and Shelter Services volunteers are on the frontlines of recovery response, and they are especially needed now.

Katrina Farmer, Red Cross North Texas Disaster Officer said: “Our volunteer workforce is critical in carrying out the mission of the American Red Cross. Volunteers respond to house fires, tornadoes, floods and more, offering the immediate assistance that our neighbours need. Please join our more than 1,600 North Texas volunteers and support your community.”

Carla Signoret, Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteer commented: “The way the Disaster Action Team works is we wait for a call or a text letting us know we are needed. When a fire happens, we get the address and relevant details about the event. We try to reach the client within the first couple of hours. Our job is to be there, offer support and get their information so that those affected can get assistance.”

Wildfire prevention

The American Red Cross also issued some advice on preventing wildfires, pointing out that people cause 85 percent of wildfires by burning debris, using equipment improperly, discarding cigarettes carelessly, leaving campfires unattended and by arson.

It advised:

  • Don’t drive your vehicle onto dry grass or brush. Hot components under your vehicle can spark fires.
  • Use equipment responsibly. Lawn mowers, chain saws, tractors, and trimmers can all spark a wildfire.
  • Use caution any time you use fire. Dispose of charcoal briquettes and fireplace ashes properly, never leave any outdoor fire unattended, and make sure that outdoor fires are fully extinguished before leaving the area.
  • If residential debris burning is allowed – use caution! After obtaining any necessary permits, ensure that burning is not currently restricted in your area.
  • Store combustible or flammable materials in approved safety containers away from the house. 
  • Keep the gas grill and propane tank at least 15 feet away from any structure. Do not use the grill during potentially dangerous fire weather conditions. Always have a fire extinguisher or hose nearby.

Fire-safety firm Chubb launches volunteer programme

by Featured News

Provider of fire-safety and security solutions Chubb has launched an employer-volunteer programme to encourage employees to give their time, skills and energy to help improve the communities in which it operates.

Under the name charitAble the community engagement programme has been designed to promote leadership development and environmental stewardship through employee volunteerism and contributions to worthy community organisations and schools.

Employees looking to take part are required to form a team of three or more members and select a non-profit organisation or school to work with on a volunteer project. All approved projects will receive a £500 grant from Chubb and employees will be given two paid days off per year to volunteer.

Priority will be given to volunteering requests that provide value in seven focus areas: science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education; sustainable urbanisation; safety and security; hunger and food waste; disaster relief; diversity and inclusion; and vibrant communities.

Carla Sousa, Director of Marketing Communications at Chubb, said: “We wanted to launch a community engagement programme that all of our employees could get involved with, no matter what their role or skill set. With charitAble employees have the opportunity to play a vital role in their local communities, whilst developing invaluable team building and leadership experience.

“We’re very excited to facilitate this opportunity for our employees and to see the difference they can make to their local communities.”

To find out more visit Chubb’s community engagement page.