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.
Apply Now
Register for this Upcoming Training
Join us on August 5 at 2pm ET for the NVFC Webinar – Emotional Intelligence in Emergency Services Leadership
Register now
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.
Access Resources
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.
View TimelineVolunteer Fire Departments Awarded Grants, Fundraising Kits through 2026 Nutella® Stacks for Giving Back Program
Jul 28, 2026:
$50,000 in grants awarded through a partnership between Nutella, Pearl Milling Company, and NVFC
As a brand that aspires to spread smiles for over 60 years, Nutella® shines a light on those who...
Read More »
Application Period Opens August 3: Ricochet Out Front™ Technical Rescue Gear
Jul 28, 2026:
Having the right PPE for the right response is critical to the safety and effectiveness of emergency responders. That is why Ricochet and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) have partnered to...
Read More »
“Too Much” Training is Not a Barrier to Volunteer Recruitment and Retention
Jul 28, 2026:
Are you concerned that requiring a lot training for your fire or EMS personnel is impacting recruitment and retention? Think again! A new study shows that too much training isn’t the problem. Rather...
Read More »
Get Ready: Next Entry Period for an MSA Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet opens August 3
Jul 28, 2026:
MSA Safety is giving away four MSA Cairns® 1836 fire helmets to NVFC members in 2026, and your next chance to enter starts on August 3. The helmet is lightweight, has a low ride height for comfort,...
Read More »
Elisabeth Hornfeck Receives 2026 NVFC Scholarship from Waldorf University
Jul 28, 2026:
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and Waldorf University are pleased to announce that Elisabeth Hornfeck of Greensboro, NC, a member of the Transylvania County Rescue Squad, has been selected...
Read More »
Application Period Opens August 3 for National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program
Jul 28, 2026:
The application period for the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy (NFA) Executive Fire Officer (EFO) Program will open on August 3 and close either August 31 or when 500...
Read More »
NVFC Supporters
Social Feed
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
🚒🎓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
Congratulations to the latest recipients of the 2026 MSA Globe Gear Giveaway! Mariaville Volunteer Fire Department (ME) and Bland County Volunteer Fire Department (VA) have each been awarded four sets of Globe® turnout gear and four MSA Cairns® helmets to help keep their volunteer firefighters protected on every call. A total of 13 volunteer fire departments will receive gear through this year's program, with additional recipients announced each month. Read more and see the latest recipients: https://buff.ly/Ma2rMTC
Looking to advance your fire or EMS career? The application deadline is TOMORROW, July 15, for National Fire Academy (NFA) on-campus courses taking place October–December 2026 in Emmitsburg, MD. Resident courses are free, with: ✅ Free lodging ✅ Free course materials ✅ Travel stipends available Courses cover leadership, incident command, fire investigation, hazardous materials, EMS, community risk reduction, fire inspections, executive development, and more. Apply today: https://buff.ly/2nFbz6B
What a successful weekend at the first-ever NVFC Hands-On: Regional Training Series! 🚒 Firefighters gathered at the Wayne County Regional Training Facility in Apple Creek, OH, for two days of learning, leadership, and collaboration. Attendees participated in sessions on: 🔥 Leadership for the Fire and Emergency Services 🔥 Planning and Implementing a Training Program 🔥 Surviving the Job – Cancer in the Fire Service 🔥 Volunteer Fire Service Culture: Essential Strategies for Success A huge thank you to instructors Dave Lewis and Tom Miller for sharing their expertise, the Ohio State Firefighters' Association and the Wayne County Regional Training Facility for helping make this event possible, and ESIP - Emergency Services Insurance Program for sponsoring lunch and supporting this inaugural training opportunity. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the launch of this new regional training series a success! We look forward to bringing more hands-on learning opportunities to firefighters across the country. 📸 Check out a few highlights from the weekend!
First responders are there in our most critical moments — saving lives, providing care, and protecting our communities. While they’re on a mission to help others, your mission is to help keep them safe. #SlowDownMoveOver
We train for emergencies every day, but preventing them starts long before the sirens. Join the NVFC for this free webinar to learn how your fire or EMS department can bring proven K-12 distracted driving prevention programs to your community. Discover ready-to-use resources for students of all ages, including classroom lessons, presentations, train-the-trainer materials, and a children's book with activity guides available through the NVFC and the Casey Feldman Foundation. These programs have been evaluated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and shown to help change attitudes and behaviors surrounding distracted driving. 📅 July 14 at 2 pm ET 👉 Register https://buff.ly/4sAPt9J
What started as an opportunity to help with clerical duties turned into a passion for serving her community. Since joining the Tivoli (NY) Fire Department in 2018, Robin Bruno has stepped into several leadership roles, including director, corresponding secretary, and 1st lieutenant of the Fire Police Squad. She says the most rewarding part of volunteering is being there for people when they need help the most. Read Robin's full NVFC Member Spotlight here: https://buff.ly/2vaePG5
🚒 Are you getting everything the NVFC has to offer? If you're not an NVFC member, you're missing out on exclusive benefits designed to help you succeed in the volunteer fire and emergency services. As an NVFC member, you'll receive: ✔️ FREE access to all Virtual Classroom courses ✔️ The Volunteer Voices member forum ✔️ An AD&D insurance policy ✔️ Eligibility for stipends, scholarships, grants, and giveaways ✔️ Access to the First Responder Helpline …and much more. For just $24 a year, membership pays for itself many times over. 👉 Join today https://buff.ly/r3MU7dF
Wondering how your emergency service department can harness the power of AI to attract and keep members? Then this event is for you! Join Dr. Candice McDonald, Chief Joel Cerny, and guest Quentin Cash for an interactive discussion on AI in emergency service recruitment and retention. This R&R Coffee Talk will run 30 minutes and include time for audience Q&A. Register: https://buff.ly/maaf54B
💰 Could your department use more funding and stronger community support? In a new Fire Engineering article, NVFC board member and retired Fire Chief Joe Maruca shares three practical strategies that helped his volunteer fire department secure increased funding while building stronger relationships with elected officials and the community. 🔗 https://buff.ly/9tlgLzw
Today we're giving a shoutout to NVFC Advocate Member Snap-tite Hose for its commitment to supporting the fire service with reliable, durable fire hose built to perform when it matters most. Rugged and reliable, Snap-tite Hose products meet NFPA Standards and each is tested and certified to guarantee superior performance on the fireground. Thank you, Snap-tite Hose, for your continued support of the NVFC and the volunteer fire and emergency services community. Learn more: www.snaptitehose.com
Each year, firefighters are injured and killed while driving to or from an emergency scene. This course is designed to provide knowledge, guidance, and practical applications that can help decrease the risks of emergency response faced by fire departments and EMS agencies. Tactics discussed focus on road safety while driving company vehicles or personally owned vehicles. Take this course free for a limited time in the NVFC Virtual Classroom: https://buff.ly/wiJ3hHE
Check out these photos from a recent Wildland Fire Assessment Program (WFAP) training hosted by Rangeley Fire Rescue and the Maine Forest Service in Rangeley, ME. Through this free, in-person training from the NVFC and U.S. Forest Service, fire service volunteers learn how to conduct home safety assessments in the wildland-urban interface and provide residents with practical recommendations to better protect their property from wildfires. 👉 Find a training in your area or request one for your department: https://buff.ly/0Fuil1u
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association (SFFMA), Texas’ oldest and largest fire service association. Founded in 1876 and celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026, SFFMA has spent a century and a half supporting the fire and emergency services throughout Texas. Today, the association serves approximately 1,000 fire departments, more than 16,700 individual members, industrial facilities, fire marshal offices, EMS agencies, and other organizations dedicated to strengthening the fire service. One of SFFMA’s greatest strengths is the involvement of its members. More than 328 individuals serve on over 25 boards and committees, helping guide programs, initiatives, and services that benefit firefighters and emergency responders across the state. For 150 years, SFFMA has been a powerful advocate for the Texas fire service and continues to support firefighters through leadership, education, collaboration, and service. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across Texas and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
When a pipeline emergency happens, the decisions made in the first few minutes matter. Is your department prepared? Join us on July 9 for a FREE discussion on strengthening pipeline emergency preparedness. Learn how to improve your department's response plans and procedures, access free training and resources, and help reduce the risk of incidents by promoting safe digging practices and the importance of contacting 811 before digging. 📅 July 9 🕑 2 pm ET Register now: https://buff.ly/T6ySFeV
Thinking about transitioning from a volunteer to a combination fire department? Adding paid staff can help meet growing service demands, but maintaining a strong volunteer workforce is essential to long-term success. In a recent Firehouse.com article, NVFC board member Joe Maruca shares practical strategies for making the transition while keeping volunteers engaged, valued, and committed. Learn how to communicate effectively, build trust, and create a department culture where career and volunteer members work together successfully.
Preventing emergencies starts before the sirens. This includes teaching kids about distracted driving. Join the FREE NVFC webinar on July 14 at 2 pm ET to learn how your fire or EMS department can bring proven distracted driving prevention programs into local schools. Discover ready-to-use resources for elementary, middle, and high school students, plus train-the-trainer materials that make it easy to educate youth in your community. Empower your department to prevent tragedies before they happen. 📅 July 14 🕑 2 pm ET Register now: https://buff.ly/4sAPt9J
Water drops are happening across the country as part of the Anheuser-Busch Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program in partnership with the NVFC. We are excited to see departments like the Ellenville Fire District receive water to keep their firefighters hydrated during wildfires, long responses, and summer heat.
🚶♂️ Over 1,000 firefighters stepped up to the challenge! The 2026 NVFC Step Strong Challenge may be over, but the momentum continues. Throughout June, firefighters across the country committed to improving their health and fitness by getting more steps each day. A recent article in the Index-Journal highlights several firefighters and departments that participated in the challenge and shares the positive impact it had on their health, motivation, and teamwork. 👉 Read the article to see how they stepped up their fitness: https://buff.ly/25GRsbS
The transition to NERIS is complete, but the platform continues to evolve. Is your department keeping up? Join the FREE NVFC webinar, NERIS Live: What Volunteer Fire Chiefs Need to Know, on July 8 at 2 pm ET to hear the latest updates from the NERIS team. Learn about recent changes, lessons from departments already using the system, what's coming next, and practical tips to help your department make the most of NERIS. Bring your questions and get the answers you need to stay ahead. 📅 July 8 🕑 2 pm ET Register today: https://bit.ly/4vSmOUY
Did your department take part in the 2026 Safety Stand Down? If your fire or EMS department embraced this year's FITNESS: Fit to Serve, Fit for Life theme, we'd love to hear about it! Share how your department promoted firefighter health and wellness, inspired positive change, or made fitness a priority during Safety Stand Down. Your success story could be featured on the Safety Stand Down website and inspire departments across the country to take action. And remember, Safety Stand Down doesn't end when the week is over. Keep the momentum going by using the free resources, tools, and activity ideas throughout the year to build a healthier, stronger department. 👉 Submit your story: https://buff.ly/0iiGuur
Happy Fourth of July! As America celebrates 250 years of independence, we also celebrate a tradition that has helped strengthen communities for generations: volunteer service. Volunteer firefighting is deeply rooted in American history. For centuries, neighbors have stepped forward to protect their communities, answering the call not because they have to, but because they choose to serve. That spirit of service, sacrifice, and commitment continues today in volunteer fire and EMS departments across the country. To every volunteer responder spending the holiday on duty or ready to answer the next call, thank you. Your dedication embodies the very best of what it means to serve your community. From all of us at the NVFC, we wish you a safe and happy Independence Day as we celebrate 250 years of our nation's enduring spirit.
FEMA is investing more than $420 million to strengthen emergency management nationwide. Applications are now open for two federal funding opportunities: 🚨 Emergency Management Performance Grant – $337 million to help state, local, tribal, and territorial governments invest in training, planning, and equipment for emergency response personnel 👉 https://buff.ly/SNmzcWx 🏢 Emergency Operations Center Grant – $83 million to enhance state emergency operations centers that coordinate information, resources, and decision-making during emergencies 👉 https://buff.ly/l9Q3p5S Applications are due July 15.
Why Firefighters Trust DripDrop: ➕ Developed by a humanitarian aid doctor ➕ Built on 60+ years of ORS science ➕ Used by 90% of top college and professional sports teams ➕ Relied on by all six branches of the U.S. military ➕ Award-winning taste 20% Off $30 or More With Code NVFC26 🔗https://buff.ly/GegT9DP
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the Montana State Volunteer Firefighters Association and its long-standing commitment to supporting volunteer firefighters across the Big Sky State. Representing hundreds of volunteer fire departments, the association has worked for decades to strengthen Montana’s fire service through advocacy, collaboration, and education. In 2000, the association helped establish Montana’s Fire Alliance, bringing fire service organizations together with one voice to advance legislation and support firefighters statewide. The association is especially proud of its recent legislative successes, including volunteer protections, tax deductions for volunteers, pension improvements, and increased funding to support wildland fire response. The Montana State Volunteer Firefighters Association continues to work closely with the NVFC to support training, advocacy, and resources that help firefighters serve their communities safely and effectively. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across Montana and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
💰 Funding opportunity for rural EMS agencies! The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is accepting applications for Rural Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Training Grants. Eligible EMS agencies can apply for up to $300,000 to recruit, train, and retain EMS personnel serving rural communities. 🗓️ Application deadline: July 16 Read the Notice of Funding Opportunity: https://buff.ly/sGFoOXH Access application resources here: https://buff.ly/g8cA0fj
The NVFC and the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) are united in our commitment to advancing firefighter health and safety through education, research, and collaboration. We're proud to have FSRI as an NVFC Champion member and appreciate their continued partnership in helping protect those who serve. Thank you for your support! 🚒 #ThankfulThursday