Eligible departments can apply for five sets of Ricochet Out Front™ Technical Rescue Gear to provide protection during the calls you run every day – from extrication to EMS to technical rescue operations. Applications are due at noon ET on August 31.
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Join us on August 18 at 2pm ET for the NVFC Webinar - PFAS Free Firefighting Foams: What You Need to Know
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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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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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What do you need to know about PFAS-free firefighting foam? 🚒 Join the NVFC on August 18 at 2pm ET for a free webinar that breaks down the facts, challenges, and common misconceptions surrounding the new generation of PFAS-free Class B foams. You’ll learn: ✅ The differences between firefighting foams and wetting agents ✅ How PFAS-free Class B foams perform ✅ Common challenges and misconceptions ✅ Proper application percentages and techniques for effective fire suppression Get the information you need to make informed decisions on the fireground. Register today: https://buff.ly/2wGBKFQ
👋 Meet the newest member of the NVFC team, Braden Horton! Braden joins the NVFC as our corporate relations manager, bringing experience in corporate partnerships, sponsorship strategy, fundraising, and relationship management. In his new role, Braden will work with our corporate partners to build meaningful relationships that help support the NVFC’s programs and mission. We’re excited to have Braden on the team! 🚒 Learn more about the NVFC staff: https://buff.ly/9RNdxkf
August 11 (8/11 Day) is a great time to recognize the importance of contacting 8-1-1 before you dig. 8-1-1 has been protecting our underground infrastructure, communities, and the firefighters and EMS personnel who respond when something goes wrong. Before your next dig, protect your team and your neighbors. Call 8-1-1 or visit 811beforeyoudig.com
🚨 Enter now for a chance to win an MSA Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet! Thanks to MSA Safety, one lucky NVFC member will receive an MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet during the August entry period. 🗓️ Enter by August 31 for your chance to win. Learn more and enter: https://buff.ly/iS0YJSp
Not every call requires structural turnout gear, but every call deserves the right protection. Through the Ricochet PPE Award Program, five volunteer departments will each receive five sets of Ricochet Out Front™ Technical Rescue Gear built for EMS and technical rescue operations. If your department responds to EMS and/or rescue calls, don't miss this opportunity. Applications are open through August 31. Apply here: www.nvfc.org/ricochet
Effective accountability is critical to keeping responders safe on the fireground. This course explores best practices and practical solutions departments can implement, even with limited resources, to strengthen accountability and reduce risk. Take Fireground Accountability FREE for a limited time in the NVFC Virtual Classroom. 👉 https://buff.ly/UQ8vJDx
The Globe® G-XTREME® PRO Jacket features a new design with mesh channels for mobility and reduced bulk. https://buff.ly/EP31A65
For more than 45 years, Thomas Rothdiener has proudly served the volunteer fire service, leading by example through mentorship, training, and a commitment to strengthening the next generation of firefighters. A past chief and past president of the Oriskany Independent Fire & Hose Company in Oriskany, NY, Thomas continues to make a lasting impact on his department and community through his dedication to leadership and education. Read Thomas' story in his NVFC Member Spotlight: https://buff.ly/2qXOtyI
⏰ Last chance to apply! 🚒🎓 Two NVFC members will each receive a scholarship covering up to 60 credit hours toward an online degree program through Columbia Southern University. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your education and your future. Applications close August 17. Learn more and apply: https://buff.ly/tmv5iNQ
As part of the NVFC's 50th anniversary celebration, we're continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we're highlighting the Kentucky Firefighters Association, a longstanding advocate for firefighters and emergency responders across the state. The association is proud to host one of the longest-running state fire schools in the country, providing generations of firefighters with valuable education and training. It also administers Kentucky's firefighter license plate program, supporting and recognizing the fire service throughout the state. Beyond training and education, the Kentucky Firefighters Association works alongside the state's union firefighters and chiefs' association to advance legislation that benefits the entire fire service. The association is also proud to honor those who have served through Kentucky's beautiful state firefighter memorial. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across Kentucky and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
This #thankfulthursday, we're grateful for partners like Ricochet Gear who are helping volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue departments access the specialized PPE they need to stay safe on every call. Through the Ricochet PPE Award Program, departments have the opportunity to receive high-quality EMS, wildland, or technical rescue gear to better protect their responders and strengthen their readiness. Thank you, Ricochet, for investing in the health and safety of the volunteer fire service and helping ensure departments have the right gear for the right response. Learn more and apply: www.nvfc.org/ricochet
When communities come together, everyone is stronger. We're grateful to partner with Anheuser-Busch to help provide emergency drinking water to volunteer fire departments nationwide. This support helps departments stay ready to respond when their communities need them most. Thank you to Hamilton Township Volunteer Fire Company for sharing your story. Give it a watch and check out the program at nvfc.org/water! 💧🚒
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) released their Fatal Firefighter Injuries in the United States annual report. A total of 83 firefighter fatalities were identified in 2025 from traumatic injuries, heart attacks, or other medical conditions — 45 of these deaths were volunteer firefighters. 45% of fatalities for firefighters was caused by overexertion or strain injuries, with the majority being caused by heart attacks. View the entire report here: https://buff.ly/XX6lq7u
PFAS-free firefighting foam is generating a lot of attention, but questions remain. Join us on August 18 at 2pm ET for a free NVFC webinar to separate fact from fiction on PFAS-free firefighting foams. You'll learn: ✅ The differences between firefighting foams and wetting agents ✅ How PFAS-free Class B foams perform ✅ Common challenges and misconceptions ✅ Proper application techniques for effective fire suppression Register today: https://buff.ly/2wGBKFQ
🎉 Congratulations to Elisabeth Hornfeck of Greensboro, NC, on being selected as the recipient of the 2026 NVFC Scholarship from Waldorf University! A member of the Transylvania County Rescue Squad, Elisabeth will pursue an MBA with a fire rescue executive leadership concentration, helping her build on her commitment to serving the volunteer fire service and leading the next generation of responders. Join us in congratulating Elisabeth on this well-deserved achievement! 🔗 Read more: https://buff.ly/5xHoIjC
Join the NVFC Roundtable Talk on August 6 at 2pm ET to learn practical response strategies for solar-related incidents. Panelists will discuss the different types of solar systems, Tesla battery classifications, suppression tools and tactics, and dispel common myths so your department is better prepared before arriving on scene. Register today: https://buff.ly/ko7iu0e
What equipment or technology would help your department most? The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology's SAVER Program wants to hear from first responders, agency leaders, and grant administrators about the equipment and technologies they're considering purchasing. Your feedback will help determine which products SAVER independently evaluates and publishes reports on, providing agencies with free, unbiased information to support purchasing decisions and Homeland Security Grant Program applications. 🗓️ Take the survey by August 31. Learn more and participate: https://buff.ly/WP11UyU
🚨 Applications are now open for the Ricochet PPE Award Program! Volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue departments can apply for the opportunity to receive five sets of Ricochet Out Front™ Technical Rescue Gear designed for EMS and technical rescue responses. To be eligible, departments must: ✔️ Be more than 50% volunteer ✔️ Serve a population of 25,000 or less ✔️ Have at least one active NVFC member ✔️ Meet the program eligibility requirements Applications close August 31 at noon ET: https://www.nvfc.org/ricochet Ricochet Gear
Strong leaders don't just manage emergencies. They know how to lead people. Join us on August 5 at 2pm ET for the NVFC webinar Emotional Intelligence in Emergency Services Leadership with Doug Cline. Discover how emotional intelligence can help you build trust, improve communication, make better decisions under pressure, and create a stronger fire and emergency services culture. Sign up here 👉 https://buff.ly/HxLJ4hH
Being a volunteer firefighter or EMS provider is tough, but you don’t have to carry the weight alone. The NVFC First Responder Helpline offers free, confidential support 24/7 to NVFC members and their families. Whether it’s job stress, family challenges, or mental health concerns, help is always available. 🔗 https://buff.ly/VkQUStb Thanks to Provident Insurance for helping provide this essential service.
Does your department worry that training requirements are making it harder to recruit and retain volunteers? The latest research suggests the issue isn't how much training is required, but what is being taught and how it's delivered. This article in Fire Engineering explores key findings from the study and shares practical principles to help departments create training programs that support volunteer recruitment and retention instead of becoming a barrier. Read the article: https://buff.ly/4dmJgGq
Applications are now open! The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is seeking a State/Local 911 Officials Representative to serve on the National Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council (NEMSAC). This two-year appointment offers an opportunity to help shape national recommendations on issues impacting EMS and 911 systems. I f you're interested in representing the perspective of state and local 911 officials, be sure to apply by August 17 at 5 pm ET. Learn more and apply: https://buff.ly/L9xEuc2
🚨 Your next chance to win an MSA Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet starts August 3! 🚨 Thanks to MSA Safety, one lucky NVFC member will receive an MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet during the August entry period. Designed for comfort, cleanability, and performance, this lightweight helmet features a low ride height and quick disassembly for easy cleaning. Congratulations to Tom Straub, safety officer with the New Kensington (PA) Volunteer Fire Department, who was selected as the June recipient! 🗓️ Enter August 3-31 for your chance to win. Learn more and enter: https://buff.ly/iS0YJSp
It's #thankfulthursday, and we're recognizing Vector Solutions, an NVFC Advocate Member. Vector Solutions helps fire and EMS agencies save time, streamline operations, and strengthen readiness with an all-in-one platform for training management, policy management, asset tracking, scheduling, reporting, and more. Thank you, Vector Solutions, for your commitment to supporting the fire and emergency services community. Learn more: https://buff.ly/kniik0o
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Huntingdon, TN, for our EV/AFV Incident Management: Safety and Response Techniques training. A special thank you to the Huntingdon Fire Department for hosting this training and to instructors Tom Miller and Ralph McNemar for sharing their knowledge to help responders stay safe on the road and on the scene. Check out photos from the training below, and visit https://buff.ly/kh9oURa to find upcoming in-person and online training opportunities.
☀️ As solar power systems become more common, fire departments need to be prepared for the unique challenges they present. Join the NVFC Roundtable Talk on August 6 at 2pm ET to learn practical response strategies for solar-related incidents. Panelists will discuss the different types of solar systems, Tesla battery classifications, suppression tools and tactics, and dispel common myths so your department is better prepared before arriving on scene. Register today: https://buff.ly/ko7iu0e
Strong leaders don't just manage emergencies. They know how to lead people. Join us on August 5 at 2pm ET for the NVFC webinar Emotional Intelligence in Emergency Services Leadership with Doug Cline. Discover how emotional intelligence can help you build trust, improve communication, make better decisions under pressure, and create a stronger fire and emergency services culture. Reserve your spot today: https://buff.ly/HxLJ4hH
As part of the NVFC's 50th anniversary celebration, we're continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we're highlighting the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association (NSVFA), which has proudly supported Nebraska's volunteer fire service for generations. Nebraska is home to 478 fire departments, with 449 of them staffed entirely by volunteers. The NSVFA plays a vital role in supporting these departments through advocacy, education, and recruitment and retention initiatives. The association hosts one of the nation's largest fire schools each May, bringing together more than 2,500 firefighters, instructors, and vendors for hands-on training, education, and networking. The NSVFA has also secured four SAFER grants to strengthen volunteer recruitment and retention across the state, helping departments build a stronger future for Nebraska's fire service. Thank you to the NSVFA and Nebraska's volunteer firefighters for your dedication to protecting your communities. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across Nebraska and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
When disaster strikes, the fire service family shows up for each other. ❤️ If you or a fellow responder experienced home damage or property loss due to a state or federally declared disaster or a home fire, assistance may be available through the NVFC Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund. Eligible responders can apply for a $350 stipend to help meet basic needs in the aftermath of a disaster. Learn more and apply here: https://buff.ly/6hbWevF If you know a responder who may need support, please help spread the word by sharing this post.
📬 Stay Informed with NVFC News and Updates Don’t miss out on the latest in the fire and emergency services! Sign up for the Dispatch or any of our other e-newsletters and get essential news alerts delivered straight to your inbox. Stay up to date on NVFC news, legislative initiatives, calls to action, grants, training opportunities, and more. 👉 Sign up today: https://buff.ly/mhhdh9A
The right gear for the right response. The Ricochet PPE Award Program is coming soon! Volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue departments will have the opportunity to apply for PPE designed specifically for: 🟠 Technical Rescue & EMS 🟡 Wildland Firefighting 🔶 Dual-Certified Wildland + Technical Rescue Each application period is separate, giving departments the opportunity to apply for the gear package that best fits the calls they run. The first application period opens August 3. www.nvfc.org/ricochet Ricochet Gear
Your experience can help shape the future of firefighter safety. The NIOSH Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program (FFFIPP) is asking fire chiefs and firefighters to complete a brief survey on the role of human factors in investigating near misses, serious injuries, and line-of-duty deaths. Your feedback will help determine whether new tools are needed to strengthen investigations and prevent future tragedies. Take the survey: https://buff.ly/YWgTIIb NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Digging without knowing what’s underneath can spark disaster. August 11 is 8-1-1 day. Remember to always contact 8-1-1 before you dig. Whether it’s a home project or major construction, you need to know what’s below. Join us in protecting lives and infrastructure. 👉 811beforeyoudig.com
Big ideas don't have to take a lot of time. The NVFC's Microlearning Series features 10 free, bite-sized videos covering recruitment, retention, leadership, mentoring, social media, community engagement, and more. Watch anytime and gain practical strategies you can put to work in your department right away. ▶️ Watch the full series: https://buff.ly/NiaSZp1
Public safety, disaster relief, employee programs, and education are all priorities of the Motorola Solutions Foundation. This #thankfulthursday, we thank them for their support of the volunteer fire service via their NVFC Chairman’s Club membership. Learn more: https://buff.ly/A4YhybA
☀️ As solar power systems become more common, fire departments need to be prepared for the unique challenges they present. Join the NVFC Roundtable Talk on August 6 at 2pm ET to learn practical response strategies for solar-related incidents. Panelists will discuss the different types of solar systems, Tesla battery classifications, suppression tools and tactics, and dispel common myths so your department is better prepared before arriving on scene. Register today: https://buff.ly/ko7iu0e
Behind every volunteer firefighter is a family that serves, too. ❤️ Help your loved ones better understand the volunteer fire service with free family resources, including a family guide, online course, wellness support, and more. Explore the resources: https://buff.ly/z8O7wXC
From building stronger leaders to building healthier departments, it was another great weekend of NVFC training! 👏 On July 18, firefighters and emergency responders gathered in Missouri for The Power of Hope: Strengthening Resilience and Wellbeing in First Responders, led by Rob Ingram and hosted by the Texas County Emergency Response Team. At the same time, responders in Wisconsin participated in Building a Healthy and High-Performing Fire Department, led by Dave Lewis and hosted by the Village of Biron Fire Department at Mid-State Technical College. Thank you to everyone who attended, hosted, and helped make these trainings a success. Investing in leadership, resilience, and firefighter health strengthens departments and the communities they serve. 📸 Check out a few highlights from both events! Learn more about NVFC in-person trainings: https://buff.ly/36YeKnr
Strong leadership starts with understanding yourself. Join us on August 5 at 2pm ET for the NVFC webinar Emotional Intelligence in Emergency Services Leadership with presenter Doug Cline. Learn how emotional intelligence can help you build trust, strengthen relationships, improve decision-making under pressure, and create a healthier, more resilient fire and emergency services culture. Discover practical strategies you can apply to better lead your team—on scene and every day. Register today: https://buff.ly/HxLJ4hH
Hoarding conditions can significantly increase the hazards firefighters face on the fireground. The latest NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program (FFFIPP) report examines an incident in Virginia where a career firefighter sustained serious burns while operating at a residential structure fire. Review the report to learn key findings and prevention recommendations that can help improve firefighter safety. 👉 https://buff.ly/hyVuk3I
Want to learn more about how AI can play a role in strengthening recruitment and retention in the volunteer fire and emergency services? Join the NVFC R&R Coffee Talk on July 23 at 7pm ET for an interactive discussion with Dr. Candice McDonald, Chief Joel Cerny, and special guest Quentin Cash. Learn how artificial intelligence can support your department's recruitment and retention efforts, then bring your questions for a live audience Q&A. ☕ https://buff.ly/NDDnEP3
Your department's training is only as strong as the policies behind it. Clear standard operating guidelines (SOGs) and procedures help ensure firefighters know what's expected before they respond, creating safer, more effective operations on the fireground. This excerpt from Training Firefighters to be Combat Ready, reprinted on Fire Engineering, highlights key considerations for developing training policies and SOPs/SOGs that support volunteer firefighters. Read the article: https://buff.ly/rpwGBqO
An NVFC membership is a powerful tool that supports, equips, and empowers the volunteers who protect our communities. NVFC membership includes: ✅ Free training & resources ✅ Access to special opportunities & giveaways ✅ Discounts on gear, equipment & wellness tools ✅ A national community of support Join today! 🔗https://buff.ly/kKwnm54
What inspires someone to dedicate more than 45 years to the volunteer fire service? For Fire Chief Joel Cerny, it all started when volunteers responded to a fire at his family's property. Since then, he's devoted his career to serving his community, building strong connections, and championing firefighter mental health. Get to know Joel and read his full NVFC Member Spotlight. 🔗 https://buff.ly/dVPV1xw
Every firefighter should know the history behind the profession they serve. The NVFC's The Fire Service – A History course explores how the fire service has evolved, where it's headed, and introduces common fire service acronyms and the national organizations that support firefighters, EMS providers, and rescue personnel. Whether you're new to the fire service or looking to refresh your knowledge, this course is available free for a limited time in the NVFC Virtual Classroom: https://buff.ly/6WiNmO3
Your observations can help improve vehicle safety nationwide. If you identify a vehicle, child seat, tire, equipment, or automated vehicle safety issue while responding to an incident, you can now report it anonymously using NHTSA's new First Responder Incident Advanced Reporting (FRIAR) form. The confidential, mobile-friendly tool makes it easy for EMS, 911, fire, and other first responders to share safety concerns encountered in the line of duty, helping identify potential hazards and improve roadway safety. Learn more and read the full article here 👉 https://buff.ly/Itna818
What role can AI play in strengthening recruitment and retention in the volunteer fire and emergency services? Join the NVFC R&R Coffee Talk on July 23 at 7pm ET for an interactive discussion with Dr. Candice McDonald, Chief Joel Cerny, and special guest Quentin Cash. Learn how artificial intelligence can support your department's recruitment and retention efforts, then bring your questions for a live audience Q&A. ☕ Free to attend. Register now: https://buff.ly/NDDnEP3
💧 Staying hydrated is critical to firefighter health and safety, especially during the summer months. Thanks to the continued partnership between DripDrop and the NVFC, 1,332 volunteer fire departments in 49 states received a total of 200,000 sticks of DripDrop electrolyte drink mix through the 2026 DripDrop Hydration Giveaway Campaign. Since 2020, the program has donated nearly 3 million servings to help keep volunteer responders hydrated and ready to serve. Read more about this year's campaign and its impact: https://buff.ly/0qrGRZx
This week, we're recognizing Darley, an NVFC Champion Member and a trusted partner serving the fire service for more than a century. Since 1908, Darley has been committed to equipping first responders with high-quality, innovative firefighting equipment backed by exceptional service. As a family-owned company, their dedication to supporting the fire service continues to make a lasting impact on departments and the communities they protect. Thank you, Darley, for your continued partnership and commitment to volunteer firefighters across the country! #thankfulthursday https://www.darley.com/
📚 Missed a recent live NVFC training? Catch the replay! All of our recent webinars and roundtable talks are now available to watch on demand in the NVFC Virtual Classroom — completely free. ▶️ Watch now at: virtualclassroom.nvfc.org