National Volunteer Fire Council

In-Person - Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP)
2025-03-27 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Kansas City Convention Center, 301 W 13th St., Suite 100, Kansas City, MO, 64105, United States
The Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP) is a joint effort by the U.S. Forest Service and the National Volunteer Fire Council to provide volunteer firefighters and non-operational personnel with training on how to properly conduct assessments for homes located in the wildland-urban interface (WUI). This is the first program targeted to volunteers that specifically prepares them to evaluate a home and provide residents with recommendations to protect their property from wildfires in order to make their community more fire adapted.
Instructor: Steve McClintock
Event: Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Conference

R&R Coffee Talk: Behavioral Health
2025-03-27 19:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | AL
Join Dr. Candice McDonald and Chief Joel Cerny, along with guests Jeff Dill and Sheri Nickel, for an interactive discussion on Behavioral Health. The session will run 30 minutes and include audience Q&A.

In-Person - Teaching Hazmat Basics
2025-03-28 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Thomson Depot, 111 Railroad Street, Thomson, GA, 30824, United States
This course covers the foundations of teaching hazmat response and safety. Attendees will learn how to connect their hazmat training to the risks faced by the student audience. They will walk away able to take a limited hazmat resource list and develop at least three practical skills trainings of direct benefit to their students. Finally, attendees will be able to develop training drills and/or exercises that meet the needs of their jurisdiction in accordance with recognized national standards.

In-Person - Teaching Cargo Tank Awareness – MC-306 & DOT-406
2025-03-29 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Thomson Depot, 111 Railroad Street, Thomson, GA, 30824, United States
This course focuses on cargo tank regulations and standards, including NFPA 470 and 49 CFR regulations as they relate to cargo tanks, especially the MC-306/DOT-306. Attendees will learn how to teach others about the various types of bulk cargo tanks used in the transport and handling of hazardous materials. They will walk away with an understanding of the general characteristics, lids, and closures on MC306/DOT-406 cargo tanks. Attendees will also learn about the most common incidents and risks with these cargo tanks so that they can plan appropriate training.

In-Person - EV/AFV Incident Management: Safety and Response Techniques
2025-03-29 09:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Houston Fire Rescue – Training Center, 226 East Madison Street, Houston, MS, 38851, United States
As the number of electric vehicles on the roadways increases, it is important for first responders to understand how a response involving these types of vehicles is different than those with an internal combustion engine. This awareness and fundamentals course sponsored by General Motors will introduce first responders to hybrid and electric vehicles, share data and resources, and equip first responders with the knowledge and tools to respond more safely when a hybrid or electric vehicle is involved in an incident. This training will require space outside for a hands-on component with an electric vehicle.
Instructor: Rob Ingram

In-Person - Instructor Training for Flammable Gases
2025-03-29 13:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Thomson Depot, 111 Railroad Street, Thomson, GA, 30824, United States
This course focuses on the specific techniques and knowledge required to teach others about flammable gases hazmat response. After completing the course, attendees will be able to relate the specific regional applications of the product and key response considerations; describe specific chemical properties of the product to their students; and transfer key strategies and tactics to students for dealing with an incident involving the product. Safety is a focus, and the course will stress teaching others the key safety considerations for application when dealing with an incident involving the product.

In-Person - Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP)
2025-04-05 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Regional Public Safety Training Center, 5190 Spectrum Blvd, Reno, NV, 89512, United States
The Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP) will teach you how to work-side-by-side with homeowners to identify threats around their property that may be susceptible to wildfires. The WFAP is a joint effort between the National Volunteer Fire Council and the U.S. Forest Service to prepare fire department members with the necessary information, skills, and resources to conduct home safety assessments and provide residents with recommendations as to how to make their homes more fire adapted in the wildland-urban interface. Learn more about WFAP at www.nvfc.org/wfap.

Instructor: Steve McClintock

Roundtable Talk - Balancing Act: Navigating Work, Life, and Volunteer Commitments
2025-04-24 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | AL
You’ve probably heard of the importance of work-life balance – but what about work-life-volunteer balance? Keeping two plates spinning is hard enough without adding the demands of a high-commitment volunteer role like being a volunteer first responder. April is National Stress Awareness Month, and the NVFC is hosting a Roundtable Talk with a panel of experts to provide insight into what it means to have work-life-volunteer balance, how to set your own boundaries, and how to approach your team’s work-life-volunteer balance as a leader. The session will include information on key resources to help you tackle this important topic.

In-Person - Scenario Based Hazmat Training
2025-04-25 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Edinburg Central Fire Station, 212 W McIntyre St, Edinburg, TX, 78541, United States
This course focuses on the different types and scopes of scenarios that can be used in hazmat training. Attendees will learn the various student learning styles and how to use scenarios to bridge gaps in learning retention. The course will cover the concept of all hazards planning and how to engage key response stakeholders in scenario planning, training, and exercises.
To Register email Ubaldo Perez – bperez@cityofedinburg.com

In-Person - Teaching Cargo Tank Awareness
2025-04-26 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Edinburg Central Fire Station, 212 W McIntyre St, Edinburg, TX, 78541, United States
This course focuses on cargo tank regulations and standards, including NFPA 470 and 49 CFR regulations as they relate to cargo tanks, especially the MC-306/DOT-306. Attendees will learn how to teach others about the various types of bulk cargo tanks used in the transport and handling of hazardous materials. They will walk away with an understanding of the general characteristics, lids, and closures on MC306/DOT-406 cargo tanks. Attendees will also learn about the most common incidents and risks with these cargo tanks so that they can plan appropriate training.
To Register email Ubaldo Perez – bperez@cityofedinburg.com

In-Person - Instructor Training for Methanol
2025-04-26 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Edinburg Central Fire Station, 212 W McIntyre St, Edinburg, TX, 78541, United States
This course focuses on the specific techniques and knowledge required to teach others about methanol hazmat response. After completing the course, attendees will be able to relate the specific regional applications of the product and key response considerations; describe specific chemical properties of the product to their students; and transfer key strategies and tactics to students for dealing with an incident involving the product. Safety is a focus, and the course will stress teaching others the key safety considerations for application when dealing with an incident involving the product.
To Register email Ubaldo Perez – bperez@cityofedinburg.com

In-Person - Teaching Hazmat on a Budget
2025-04-26 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Edinburg Central Fire Station, 212 W McIntyre St, Edinburg, TX, 78541, United States
Teaching hazmat to your responders doesn’t have to be a costly undertaking. In this course, attendees will learn how to identify the key components of a hazmat training budget, including direct/indirect cost planning and using a risk-based needs assessment, and then determine how to align goals with their budget. In addition, attendees will learn how to find free and low-cost training materials, resources, and opportunities to support their program. After completing this training, attendees will walk away able to develop a practical hazmat training session or drills using no/minimal cost resources.
To Register email Ubaldo Perez – bperez@cityofedinburg.com

In-Person - Instructor Training on Flammable Gases
2025-04-26 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Edinburg Central Fire Station, 212 W McIntyre St, Edinburg, TX, 78541, United States
This course focuses on the specific techniques and knowledge required to teach others about flammable gases hazmat response. After completing the course, attendees will be able to relate the specific regional applications of the product and key response considerations; describe specific chemical properties of the product to their students; and transfer key strategies and tactics to students for dealing with an incident involving the product. Safety is a focus, and the course will stress teaching others the key safety considerations for application when dealing with an incident involving the product.
To Register email Ubaldo Perez – bperez@cityofedinburg.com

Roundtable Talk - Educate Your Community on Wildfire Community Preparedness Day
2025-05-01 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | AL
Wildfire Community Preparedness Day (WCPD) is a campaign that encourages people and organizations everywhere to come together on a single day to take action to raise awareness and reduce wildfire risks. The theme for this year’s WCPD, taking place on Saturday, May 3, is Defending the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ). Join this NVFC Roundtable Talk to hear subject matter experts from across the country discuss how to use WCPD to educate your community and learn what other fire departments are doing to get involved to support their community WCPD activities.
Presenters: Charlie Kludt, Steve McClintock (Moderator), and Josh Nigro

In-Person - Essentials of Volunteer Retention & Recruitment
2025-05-03 08:00 - 10:00 (America/Chicago) | Price LeBlanc PACE Center, 2824 St Anthony Ave, Gonzales, LA, 70737, United States
Many fire and EMS departments across the nation are struggling to find new volunteer members and retain their current members. This session discusses the challenges of recruiting volunteers, presents valuable research collected as part of the NVFC’s Make Me A Firefighter campaign, and offers ideas to help overcome recruiting challenges. Potential retention solutions and the importance of leadership will also be covered. This course is being held at the Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association Annual Conference.
Instructor: Tiger Schmittendorf
To register email Morgan Smith – Morgan@amplouisiana.com

In-Person - Teaching Hazmat Basics
2025-05-03 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Phoenix) | Poplar Middle School, 411 D Street, West Poplar, MT, 59255, United States
This course covers the foundations of teaching hazmat response and safety. Attendees will learn how to connect their hazmat training to the risks faced by the student audience. They will walk away able to take a limited hazmat resource list and develop at least three practical skills trainings of direct benefit to their students. Finally, attendees will be able to develop training drills and/or exercises that meet the needs of their jurisdiction in accordance with recognized national standards.
Register by emailing Matt Paulson at: mkpaulson_51@hotmail.com

In-Person - Teaching Basic Decon
2025-05-04 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Phoenix) | Poplar Middle School, 411 D Street, West Poplar, MT, 59255, United States
This course focuses on first responder safety by reviewing basic decontamination (decon) techniques. Attendees will learn the differences between the various levels of decontamination as well as alternate means of decontamination and how to set up a one-hour drill/exercise in their jurisdiction. Keeping the focus on safety, attendees will discuss how to utilize a safety officer when conducting decon drills.
Register by emailing Matt Paulson at: mkpaulson_51@hotmail.com

Webinar - Arson Awareness Week: A Community Approach to Preventing Arson in the Wildfire Environment
2025-05-05 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | AL
Kick off Arson Awareness Week with this NVFC webinar designed to equip first responders with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent arson in wildfire-prone areas. This session will provide information and resources relevant to firefighters, company level officers, fire investigators, youth firesetting intervention and prevention specialists, and chief staff. Discover the importance of strong investigations and the need for specific wildland arson awareness training for firefighters. Explore the unique challenges of investigating wildfires compared to structural fires and the critical role of community efforts in identifying arsonists and their motives. Understand the importance of law enforcement cooperation, district attorney awareness, and the need for a feedback loop to keep the community informed. A case study will highlight the collaborative efforts of various departments and agencies along with community members, showcasing the power of a united community approach. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your arson prevention strategies and make a difference in your community!

NVFC 2025 Spring Board Conference
2025-05-08 - 2025-05-10 | The Westin Alexandria Old Town, 400 Courthouse Square, Alexandria, VA, 22314, United States

In-Person - EV/AFV Incident Management: Safety and Response Techniques
2025-05-10 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Newkirk Public Safety Center, 115 S Maple Ave, Newkirk, OK, 74647, United States
As the number of electric vehicles on the roadways increases, it is important for first responders to understand how a response involving these types of vehicles is different than those with an internal combustion engine. This awareness and fundamentals course sponsored by General Motors will introduce first responders to hybrid and electric vehicles, share data and resources, and equip first responders with the knowledge and tools to respond more safely when a hybrid or electric vehicle is involved in an incident. This training will require space outside for a hands-on component with an electric vehicle.
To register email Chief Greg Williams – riverroad801@yahoo.com

Webinar - Strengthening EMS Teams: Effective Recruitment & Retention Strategies
2025-05-15 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | AL
Join the NVFC for this engaging and insightful webinar designed to help emergency medical service (EMS) agencies tackle one of their biggest challenges: recruiting and retaining dedicated volunteers, including EMTs, paramedics, and support staff. As the demands on EMS grow, agencies must adapt to attract and keep talent across generations. This webinar will explore proven strategies for recruitment and retention, including how to effectively engage volunteers from various age groups, best practices for bridging generational communication gaps, and the power of using modern tools like social media to connect with prospective volunteers. Whether you’re a leader, recruiter, or administrator within an EMS agency, this session will provide you with actionable tips and innovative approaches to strengthen your team and ensure long-term sustainability.
This webinar is sponsored by First Arriving.

In-Person - EV/AFV Incident Management: Safety and Response Techniques
2025-05-17 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Greenville Fire Protection District, 1110 E Harris Ave, Greenville, IL, 62246, United States
As the number of electric vehicles on the roadways increases, it is important for first responders to understand how a response involving these types of vehicles is different than those with an internal combustion engine. This awareness and fundamentals course sponsored by General Motors will introduce first responders to hybrid and electric vehicles, share data and resources, and equip first responders with the knowledge and tools to respond more safely when a hybrid or electric vehicle is involved in an incident. This training will require space outside for a hands-on component with an electric vehicle.
Instructor: Doug deBest

In-Person - Teaching Hazmat Basics
2025-05-17 08:30 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center, 48 Canada Street, Lake George, NY, 12845, United States
This course covers the foundations of teaching hazmat response and safety. Attendees will learn how to connect their hazmat training to the risks faced by the student audience. They will walk away able to take a limited hazmat resource list and develop at least three practical skills trainings of direct benefit to their students. Finally, attendees will be able to develop training drills and/or exercises that meet the needs of their jurisdiction in accordance with recognized national standards.
Register by emailing Brian McQueen at: 271believe@gmail.com

In-Person - Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP)
2025-05-17 09:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mi Wuk Sugar Pine FPD Fire Station, 24247 Highway 108, Mi Wuk Village, CA, 95346, United States
The Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP) will teach you how to work-side-by-side with homeowners to identify threats around their property that may be susceptible to wildfires. The WFAP is a joint effort between the National Volunteer Fire Council and the U.S. Forest Service to prepare fire department members with the necessary information, skills, and resources to conduct home safety assessments and provide residents with recommendations as to how to make their homes more fire adapted in the wildland-urban interface.
Instructors: Mike Johnson and Steve McClintock

In-Person - Instructor Training for Flammable Gases
2025-05-18 08:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center, 48 Canada Street, Lake George, NY, 12845, United States
This course focuses on the specific techniques and knowledge required to teach others about flammable gases hazmat response. After completing the course, attendees will be able to relate the specific regional applications of the product and key response considerations; describe specific chemical properties of the product to their students; and transfer key strategies and tactics to students for dealing with an incident involving the product. Safety is a focus, and the course will stress teaching others the key safety considerations for application when dealing with an incident involving the product.
Register by emailing Brian McQueen at: 271believe@gmail.com

Webinar - Following the Science: Considerations for a Safe Transition to Non-PFAS in Firefighter Protective Clothing
2025-05-20 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | AL
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) comprise a class of man-made toxic chemicals that have been used in thousands of consumer and industrial products and processes. There is heightened concern of its use in the fire service due to the multiple potential routes of exposure that firefighters experience. PFAS-based materials have been used in firefighter gear as well as in aqueous film-forming foams. Following pressure from firefighters, the fire service industry has transitioned to now offering outer shell and moisture barriers that are not manufactured with PFAS. As with any major change to protective clothing, it is critical to assess the differences in performance of the new gear and determine any limitations that may need to be considered. In this webinar, R. Brayn Ormond, PhD, will provide updates on research efforts to better understand the risk and extent of PFAS exposure to firefighters from their gear and then provide a comprehensive comparison of the effectiveness of PFAS-treated and newly available non-PFAS-treated turnout gear in both new and aged conditions. This webinar is sponsored by ESO.

Coffee Talk - R&R for EMS
2025-05-22 19:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | AL
Join Dr. Candice McDonald and Chief Joel Cerny, along with guests Marv Trimble and Steve Marsar, for an interactive discussion on R&R for EMS. The session will run 30 minutes and include audience Q&A.

In-Person - Essentials of Volunteer Retention & Recruitment
2025-05-29 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Plano Station 1, 3210 Plano Road, Bowling Green, KY, 42104, United States
Many fire and EMS departments across the nation are struggling to find new volunteer members and retain their current members. This session discusses the challenges of recruiting volunteers, presents valuable research collected as part of the NVFC’s Make Me A Firefighter campaign, and offers ideas to help overcome recruiting challenges. Potential retention solutions and the importance of leadership will also be covered.
Instructor: Doug Cline
To register email Kelley Willford at kwillford@planovfd.com

Webinar - Challenges of the Firefighter Marriage
2025-05-29 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | AL
When someone becomes a volunteer firefighter, it impacts the whole family. Spouses, in particular, will be there to support their loved one while keeping things on track at home. In this NVFC webinar, author Anne Gagliano and her husband, Captain Mike Gagliano, share their 40-plus years of personal experience on how marriage can thrive in the chaotic world of firefighting. This webinar will focus on the essential conversations for firefighter couples to have specific to the unique challenges of the job. Bring your spouse!

In-Person - EV/AFV Incident Management: Safety and Response Techniques
2025-05-31 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Silverton Fire District, 819 Railway Ave NE, Silverton, OR, 97381, United States
As the number of electric vehicles on the roadways increases, it is important for first responders to understand how a response involving these types of vehicles is different than those with an internal combustion engine. This awareness and fundamentals course sponsored by General Motors will introduce first responders to hybrid and electric vehicles, share data and resources, and equip first responders with the knowledge and tools to respond more safely when a hybrid or electric vehicle is involved in an incident. This training will require space outside for a hands-on component with an electric vehicle.
Instructor: Rob Ingram
To register email Daniel Brown – dan.brown@silvertonfire.com
