Apply for a Columbia Southern University (CSU) Scholarship!
Two NVFC members will receive a scholarship towards any of CSU's online degree programs. Applications due August 17.
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Upcoming Training
Join us on July 8 at 2pm ET for the Webinar - NERIS Live: What Volunteer Fire Chiefs Need to Know
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Heart-Healthy Firefighter Resources
Protect the heart that protects others. Learn what you can do to support your heart health so you can keep doing the job you love.
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NVFC Turns 50!
The NVFC marks its 50th anniversary this year. Celebrate with us by taking a trip down memory lane through our retrospective timeline of milestones and highlights from the past 50 years.
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Shop the NVFC Stores
Looking for NVFC logo apparel? Want to shop items made by firefighters? The NVFC now has two stores to meet your shopping needs!
Shop NowNVFC Hosts Successful Training Summit in Arlington, VA
Jun 30, 2026:
The 2026 National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) Training Summit took place on June 26-27 in Arlington, VA. This signature conference annually brings together firefighters, EMS providers, and leaders...
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The Latest Issue of Firefighter Strong is Now Available!
Jun 30, 2026:
The NVFC’s annual publication, Firefighter Strong, is filled with information, resources, tips, and tools to engage volunteers, foster a healthy and safe environment, and build strong leaders. The...
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How to Get More Money and Support for Your Fire Department
Jun 30, 2026:
If your volunteer or combination fire department is like most, you could benefit from additional funding and support from elected officials and the community. In this article for Fire Engineering,...
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Funding Opportunity: Rural Emergency Medical Services Training Grants
Jun 30, 2026:
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is now accepting applications for the Rural Emergency Medical Services...
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FEMA Announces More than $420 Million in Federal Funds to Support Emergency Management
Jun 30, 2026:
FEMA is accepting applications for two funding opportunities until July 15. The Emergency Management Performance Grant will provide $337 million to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments to...
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A Challenge, A Commitment, and Thousands of Steps: Firefighters Take on Step Strong Challenge
Jun 30, 2026:
Today is the last day of the 2026 NVFC Step Strong Challenge – a walking and fitness challenge that encouraged firefighters to get moving in June. A recent article in the Index-Journal highlighted...
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Prevention starts long before the emergency call. Fire and EMS departments play a vital role in educating the next generation. Join the NVFC on July 14 at 2pm ET to discover ready-to-use K-12 distracted driving prevention programs you can bring to your schools and community. Learn about: 📚 Classroom resources for K-12 students 🎤 Presentations for middle and high schools 👨🏫 Train-the-trainer materials 📖 How to receive resources through the NVFC and the Casey Feldman Foundation These evidence-based programs have been shown to improve attitudes and behaviors around distracted driving, helping prevent tragedies before they happen. Register today and help make your community safer 👉 https://buff.ly/4sAPt9J
👏 Congratulations to all of the winners of the 2026 National 811 Student Safety Challenge Contest! Thank you for helping spread the important message to Contact 811 Before You Dig. Every Dig. Every Time. Safe digging starts with awareness.
⏰ Last chance! The entry period for the 2026 DripDrop and NVFC Hydration Giveback Campaign closes at noon ET on June 30. 💧 A minimum of 1,000 volunteer fire departments will receive free hydration support ✅ Exclusive benefit for volunteer fire departments that have at least one NVFC member Apply now: https://buff.ly/nHH62in
LAST CHANCE: Enter NOW until June 30 for a chance to receive a personalized MSA Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet! 🔗 www.nvfc.org/helmet 🚒 Must be an NVFC member & active U.S. volunteer firefighter
That’s a wrap on the 2026 NVFC Training Summit in Arlington, VA! 🎉 Over the past two days, volunteer responders from across the country came together to learn, connect, and share ideas that will strengthen their departments and communities. From leadership and recruitment to training, technology, and responder wellness, attendees left with practical tools they can put into action right away. As the NVFC celebrates 50 years of serving the volunteer fire and emergency services, it was especially meaningful to gather with so many dedicated responders committed to moving the fire service forward. 📸 Check out some highlights from Day 2!
Connections continued long after the sessions ended on Day 1 at the 2026 NVFC Training Summit! 🚒 The evening networking reception gave attendees the chance to meet volunteer responders from across the country, share ideas, and build relationships that strengthen the fire service. We also gathered our 2026 NVFC Training Summit stipend recipients for a group photo. As the NVFC celebrates 50 years of serving the volunteer fire and emergency services, we're proud to help make the Summit accessible to responders through these stipends. 📸 Check out a few highlights from the evening!
Day 1 of the 2026 NVFC Training Summit continued with an afternoon full of learning, networking, and fresh ideas. 🚒 Attendees explored topics including brush fire response, volunteer recruitment and retention, leadership, AI, and fire department outreach. 📸 Here are a few highlights from this afternoon's sessions!
Globe Boots are tough and dependable, just like the firefighters who wear them. Lighter, stronger-than-steel materials, super-gripping treads, all to help keep you fighting at peak levels. 👉 https://buff.ly/LuJcAdU
The 2026 NVFC Training Summit is officially underway! 🚒 We kicked off the day with an inspiring opening session and keynote from Stephen Marsar before attendees headed into breakout sessions covering fire department training programs, leadership development, and human resources in the volunteer fire service. It's been a great morning of learning, collaboration, and connecting with volunteer responders from across the country. We're excited for everything still to come! 📸 Take a look at a few highlights from this morning!
We’ve arrived in Arlington, VA, for the 2026 NVFC Training Summit! 🎉 This evening we kicked things off with one of our favorite traditions, the Ice Cream Social! 🍦 It’s a great opportunity for attendees to reconnect with old friends, meet fellow volunteer responders from across the country, and start the Summit on a fun note. We’re looking forward to two days of education, networking, and inspiration. Stay tuned for photos and updates throughout the Summit!
🚒 Is your department prepared for a pipeline emergency? Pipeline incidents can threaten responders, communities, and critical infrastructure. Join the NVFC on July 9 for a free Roundtable Talk to learn how your department can improve pipeline incident readiness, strengthen response policies and procedures, and access training and resources to better protect your community. You'll also learn how to support public awareness efforts, including promoting the importance of contacting 811 before digging to help prevent pipeline emergencies. 📅 July 9 🕑 2 pm ET Register here: https://buff.ly/T6ySFeV
Today is #thankfulthursday, and tomorrow is the first day of the 2026 NVFC Training Summit in Arlington, VA, so what better time to send our thanks to the sponsors who are making the Training Summit possible? Thank you for supporting our nation's volunteer and EMS services.
🚒 Firefighters face unique occupational risks, making preventive health care more important than ever. Learn why firefighter physicals matter, explore screening options available to departments, and discover how regular occupational health evaluations can help save lives in this free on-demand course. Take advantage of this limited-time opportunity and complete the course today in the NVFC Virtual Classroom. 🔗 https://buff.ly/5TDNT76
🎉 45,000 MEMBERS STRONG! 🎉 The NVFC is proud to celebrate a major milestone: 45,000 members nationwide! This achievement reflects the strength, dedication, and passion of volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, rescue personnel, and supporters who make up the NVFC community. Together, we are advancing training, advocacy, resources, and opportunities that help departments and responders thrive. Thank you to every member who has chosen to be part of the NVFC family. Here's to 45,000 members and counting! 🚒❤️ Not a member yet? Join us and be part of the nation's leading association representing the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services 🔗 www.nvfc.org/join
🚒 NFIRS may be gone, but the transition to NERIS is just getting started. Join the NVFC on July 8 at 2pm ET for a live webinar with Tom Jenkins and the NERIS team to learn what volunteer fire chiefs need to know now that departments are required to use the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS). Get updates on: ✅ Recent platform changes ✅ Lessons learned from departments already using NERIS ✅ Strategies to maximize the value of your data ✅ What’s coming next for the system 📅 July 8 | 2pm ET 👉 Register https://buff.ly/Cp0ByR8
🚒🎓 Invest in your future! Two NVFC members will receive scholarships covering up to 60 credit hours toward an online degree program through Columbia Southern University. Applications are open until August 17. Learn more and apply: https://buff.ly/tmv5iNQ
☀️ Keep your summer on track — and protect those who protect us. Whether you're heading out for a road trip or just running errands, remember to slow down and move over when you pass an emergency scene.
Nothing beats hearing directly from the departments participating in our programs. 💧🚒 Toga Volunteer Fire Department shared this video about the Anheuser-Busch Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program and why they're helping spread the word. Learn more: www.nvfc.org/water
Applications are now open for the 2026 DripDrop and NVFC Hydration Giveback Campaign. Selected volunteer fire departments will receive a donation of DripDrop electrolyte sticks to help keep responders hydrated during summer response and training activities. ✅ Exclusive benefit for volunteer fire departments that have at least one NVFC member 📅 Apply by June 30 at noon ET 🔗 https://buff.ly/nHH62in
Every responder has a story. Some include struggles that are difficult to talk about, but no one has to face them alone. The NVFC has released new 30- and 15-second videos featuring firefighters and EMS providers who share their experiences seeking help and finding a path forward. These powerful stories serve as a reminder that support is available and reaching out is a sign of strength. Watch the videos: https://buff.ly/zDctZgB Explore behavioral health resources for responders: www.nvfc.org/help
🚨 Know an outstanding first responder who deserves national recognition? The First Responders Children’s Foundation is seeking nominations for its National First Responders Day ceremony, taking place October 28 in Times Square. Hosted by Jon Stewart, the event will honor exceptional first responders from across the country. Volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, and junior firefighters are encouraged to be nominated. Selected recipients will be flown to New York City to be recognized during this memorable event. 🗓️ Submit your nomination by July 31: https://buff.ly/h1S7tHW
The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2026 has been announced! 🔥 October 4-10, 2026 ⚡ "Charge Into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower." This year's campaign from the NFPA focuses on safe charging practices to help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires. From phones and laptops to e-bikes and other rechargeable devices, simple charging habits can make a big difference in keeping homes and communities safe. Find educational materials, activities, and resources to help your department participate in Fire Prevention Week and share this important message with your community 👉 https://buff.ly/xZU76gS
FirstNet is the only network built with and for first responders, because nothing should slow down life-saving calls. 🔗 https://buff.ly/XMlhPOR
Summer heat, wildfire response, training, and long incidents can take a toll on responders. Staying hydrated matters. Enter now for the 2026 DripDrop and NVFC Hydration Giveback Campaign for your department’s chance to receive free electrolyte support. 💧 A minimum of 1,000 departments will receive product 📅 Deadline: June 30 at noon ET Apply now ➡️ https://buff.ly/nHH62in
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association and its longstanding commitment to supporting firefighters across the state. As the longest-running fire service association in Oklahoma, the OSFA represents the majority of the state's volunteer fire departments and serves a unique role through its board's work as Oklahoma's firefighter pension board. Through advocacy, leadership, and service, the association helps strengthen the fire service and support those who answer the call. One of the association's greatest points of pride is the no-cost benefits and training opportunities it provides to firefighters, helping departments build skills, enhance safety, and better serve their communities. Did you know? Despite being landlocked, Oklahoma has more than 55,000 miles of shoreline thanks to its many lakes and reservoirs, giving it more shoreline than the Atlantic and Gulf coasts combined. The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association continues to be a strong voice for firefighters and an important partner in advancing the volunteer fire service. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across Oklahoma and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
Funding is available to help improve pipeline safety and emergency response preparedness. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is accepting applications through June 22 for two grant opportunities: ✅ Pipeline Emergency Response Grants – Support training for individuals with statutory responsibility for responding to pipeline incidents. 🔗https://buff.ly/m9v3Rh8 ✅ Technical Assistance Grants – Help local communities access technical expertise and information related to pipeline safety. 🔗https://buff.ly/zaLQsFZ
This year's Safety Stand Down theme is Firefighter FITNESS: Fit to Serve, Fit for Life. Firefighters rarely move in straight lines. Responding on uneven ground, stepping around obstacles, and carrying equipment all require strength, balance, and mobility from side to side. The lateral lunge helps build lower body strength while improving hip mobility and stability, making it a valuable addition to any firefighter fitness routine. Watch the demonstration and give this functional movement a try as part of your Safety Stand Down fitness focus.
On this #thankfulthursday, we’re sending a shout-out to DripDrop for their incredible support of volunteer firefighters through the DripDrop and NVFC Hydration Giveback Campaign. This program provides free hydration supplies to help departments combat heat stress and stay safe on the job. Volunteer fire departments can apply now: https://buff.ly/nHH62in Thank you, DripDrop, for helping keep our firefighters healthy and mission-ready!🚒
Assistant Chief Jerry Brant of Patton (PA) Fire Company No. 1 has been in the fire service since 1969. A consultant and grant writer, Jerry joined the volunteer fire service because he wanted to make a meaningful difference in his community. Read Jerry's full NVFC member spotlight here: https://buff.ly/DkTfia0
Volunteer fire departments face growing demands, but sustaining members takes more than training, equipment, and funding. A new article explores the HERO Framework — Hope, Efficacy, Resilience, and Optimism — and how these psychological resources can help strengthen engagement, support wellbeing, and improve retention within volunteer fire departments. Learn how small, intentional leadership actions can help build stronger, more sustainable departments from the inside out. Read the article: https://buff.ly/x01HaaB
We're halfway through Safety Stand Down 2026, but there's still plenty of time to focus on your health and wellness. This year's theme, Firefighter FITNESS: Fit to Serve, Fit for Life, breaks fitness down into seven key focus areas: ✅ Foundations ✅ Intentional ✅ Technique ✅ Nutrition ✅ Evaluation ✅ Sleep ✅ Strategies for Success Use these daily topics to strengthen your fitness program, spark conversations in your department, and build habits that support long-term health and performance. Get started at: www.safetystanddown.org
Check out this new podcast from Boulder Crest Foundation exploring the science and stories behind growth after adversity. Episode 1 is available now and is a great introduction to the concept of posttraumatic growth. 🎧 Listen below.
NOW OPEN! 💧 Volunteer fire departments can now apply for the 2026 DripDrop and NVFC Hydration Giveback Campaign. A minimum of 1,000 departments will receive a donation of DripDrop electrolyte sticks to help responders stay hydrated during extreme heat, training, wildfires, and emergency response. ✅ Exclusive benefit for volunteer fire departments with at least one NVFC member ✅ U.S.-based volunteer fire departments only 📅 Apply by June 30 at noon ET 🔗 https://buff.ly/nHH62in
Enter NOW until June 30 for a chance to receive a personalized MSA Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet! 🔗 www.nvfc.org/helmet 🚒 Must be an NVFC member & active U.S. volunteer firefighter
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the North Dakota Firefighters Association and its long history of supporting firefighters across the state. Organized in 1884, the NDFA serves as North Dakota’s official training and certification agency for the fire service. Operating under the State Insurance Commissioner, the association provides training, certification, and resources that help firefighters stay prepared to protect their communities. One of the association’s greatest achievements is making training accessible. NDFA provides nearly all firefighter training at no cost, helping support a fire service that is approximately 95% volunteer or paid-on-call. North Dakota is also home to some unique distinctions, including Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the state-owned Bank of North Dakota, and the Bakken oil formation. It is a leading producer of honey, sunflowers, durum wheat, flaxseed, and canola, and Lewis and Clark spent more time in North Dakota than any other state during their historic expedition. The North Dakota Firefighters Association continues to strengthen the fire service through education, advocacy, and support for the volunteers who serve communities across the state. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across North Dakota and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
This year's Safety Stand Down theme is Firefighter FITNESS: Fit to Serve, Fit for Life. Core strength plays a critical role in nearly every movement firefighters make, from lifting equipment to maintaining balance and stability under load. This week, take time to focus on the fitness components that help keep you healthy and ready for the job. A strong core can improve posture, support the spine, and help reduce the risk of injury. Watch the sit-up demonstration and add this simple core-strengthening exercise to your fitness routine.
☀️ Summer road trip season is here — and so is a rise in crashes. With more drivers on the road, it’s important to stay alert, avoid distractions, and drive responsibly. One careless moment can change everything.
🚨 Safety Stand Down 2026 starts today! 🚨 This year's theme, Firefighter FITNESS: Fit to Serve, Fit for Life, focuses on building the physical, mental, and emotional wellness needed for a long and healthy fire service career. Throughout the week, we'll be sharing resources, training, and practical tips to help firefighters improve their fitness, resilience, and overall well-being. To kick off Safety Stand Down, hear a special message from NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch and join departments across the country in making health and safety a priority. 🎥 Watch Steve's message: https://buff.ly/nHtKpXP Learn more about Safety Stand Down: www.safetystanddown.org
Wildfire preparedness starts long before the first spark. As wildfires become more frequent and intense, helping homeowners reduce risk is one of the most effective ways to protect lives, property, and communities. Through the NVFC and U.S. Forest Service Wildland Fire Assessment Program, fire service volunteers can learn how to conduct home safety assessments and provide recommendations that help residents make their homes more wildfire resistant. Access free training and resources to help your community become more fire adapted and ready before wildfire strikes. 🔥 Learn more: https://buff.ly/gfnXWCH
What could your department do with 5 new sets of turnout gear? 🔥 Ricochet is awarding 6 fire departments across the country with 5 sets each of M² Maverick™ non-PFAS turnout gear — built for mobility, durability, and the future of the fire service. As departments prepare for evolving standards and growing PFAS concerns, this giveaway is about helping crews access next-generation protection without adding strain to already tight budgets. ✅ 6 Departments Selected Nationwide ✅ 5 Sets of Non-PFAS Turnout Gear Per Department ✅ No Cost to Enter 🔥 Entry is open now through June 30. 🔗 https://buff.ly/KqHuqQJ
Strong departments are built through intentional leadership, healthy culture, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This past weekend, volunteer firefighters and department leaders in New York and Maryland participated in the NVFC's Building a Healthy and High-Performing Fire Department course. Led by instructors Jill Holland and Dave Lewis, attendees learned practical strategies to strengthen department culture, support member well-being, improve retention, and build organizations that can thrive for years to come. Thank you to Community Fire and Rescue in Van Etten, NY, and Maugansville (MD) Goodwill Volunteer Fire Station #13 for hosting these training opportunities. Find training in your area or request one at your department here: https://buff.ly/XlHLqzs
This #thankfulthursday, we're recognizing Emergency Technical Decon (ETD) for their commitment to firefighter health, safety, and gear readiness. As a full-service NFPA 1851 verified Independent Service Provider, ETD helps fire departments extend the life of their turnout gear through advanced cleaning, inspection, and repair services. Their innovative liquid CO2+ decontamination process helps remove harmful contaminants while supporting cancer prevention efforts and NFPA compliance. Learn more at etdecon.com
Children may make up a small portion of 911 calls, but when a pediatric emergency happens, your department needs to be prepared. The Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Project offers an open assessment to help departments evaluate how ready they are to care for children and identify areas for improvement. Take the assessment and view the PPRP Roadmap to see how the assessment and related resources work together to strengthen pediatric emergency response. 🔗 https://buff.ly/K4AWjxY
The Heroes Off Duty Comedy Tour is bringing together firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement, nurses, military veterans, and other first responders for a night of laughs, stories, and well-earned stress relief. The tour features comedians who have lived the first responder life and know exactly what it’s like on and off the job. ‼️Presale runs through Friday, June 12 at 9:59 AM ‼️ Learn more and secure your tickets at: https://buff.ly/DulH7kH
📢Grant Alert: Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation The next grant application period opens July 9 at 10am ET! Only 600 applications will be accepted! Once that cap is reached, the portal will close. Learn more: https://buff.ly/dpNV2hl
Pipelines carry hazardous materials through thousands of U.S. communities. While pipeline incidents are low frequency, they pose a threat to the public and responders should one occur. Make sure your department is prepared with a free toolkit and training from the Fire Department Pipeline Response, Emergency Planning, and Preparedness (FD PREPP) initiative. 🔗 https://buff.ly/UltM5be
Stiff hips, tight shoulders, and limited mobility can make everyday movements more difficult and increase your risk of injury. As we prepare for Safety Stand Down, June 14-20, remember that firefighter fitness isn't just about strength. Mobility and flexibility help improve movement, support recovery, and keep you ready for the demands of the job. This year's theme is Firefighter FITNESS: Fit to Serve, Fit for Life. Watch the World's Greatest Stretch demonstration and add this full-body mobility exercise to your fitness routine today.
🚒💧 Emergency drinking water is starting to arrive at volunteer fire departments across the country through the Anheuser-Busch Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program! As firefighters prepare for wildfires, extreme heat, and extended emergency responses, access to clean drinking water is critical for staying healthy, hydrated, and ready to serve. ❤️ A big thank you to Anheuser-Busch for helping provide this valuable resource to volunteer departments nationwide. We're proud to support the firefighters who work tirelessly to protect their communities. Learn more about the program at nvfc.org/water.
Different calls require different gear, and the same principle applies to PPE. Too often, structural turnout gear is used for EMS responses, MVAs, and other non-fire incidents, increasing health risks and putting unnecessary wear and tear on costly equipment. Join the NVFC on June 16 at 2pm ET to learn why alternative PPE is becoming an essential strategy for today's volunteer fire service and how using the right gear for the right response can enhance safety, reduce PFAS exposure, and help lower long-term costs. Register 👉 https://buff.ly/PrvyMQ3 This webinar is sponsored by Ricochet Gear
Being a first responder comes with inherent risks. While more experienced crew members may know how to reduce those risks, new recruits often do not. This course details why risk management is important, not just to those in leadership positions, but to all firefighters and EMS personnel. Take this course free for a limited time in the Virtual Classroom, and consider making it required training for all newer personnel in your department. 👉 https://buff.ly/P844IbU