Apply by April 30 for a chance to be selected for a $5,000 grant to fund needed department resources, and nominate your fire department for the chance to win a Nutella Pancake Breakfast Kit for your next fundraiser.
Learn more and apply
Join us for the 2026 NVFC Training Summit, June 26-27, in Arlington, VA.
Register Now
Join us on March 26 at 2pm ET for the Webinar - Building Stronger Fire Service Teams: Leadership Lessons from Home and Abroad
Register now
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 Timeline
Copyright 2026 National Volunteer Fire Council
Social Feed
📢Grant Alert: Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation The next grant application period opens April 7 at 10am ET! Only 600 applications will be accepted! Once that cap is reached, the portal will close. Learn more: https://buff.ly/dpNV2hl
Great things happening at Roscoe Volunteer Fire Department! Thanks to a laptop donation from State Farm, in collaboration with the NVFC, their team now has new tools to help streamline operations, strengthen training, and better serve their community. Programs like this are all about giving volunteer departments the resources they need to stay organized, efficient, and ready to respond. We’re proud to support departments like Roscoe VFD and the important work they do every day! The NVFC has special opportunities like these year-round. See what's coming up here: https://www.nvfc.org/opportunities
Join the NVFC for the webinar “Building Stronger Fire Service Teams: Leadership Lessons from Home and Abroad” on Thursday, March 26, at 2:00 pm ET. This session will explore research-based teamwork principles and real-world experiences from fire service training in the U.S. and across Africa. Hear from NVFC past chair Kevin Quinn, Africa Fire Mission Fire Safety Officer Jose Ngunjiri, and University of Kentucky researcher Amber Lynn Scott as they discuss leadership, communication, and trust in high-risk environments and how these lessons can strengthen volunteer and combination departments. Participants will also learn how U.S. firefighters can engage in meaningful international training efforts while bringing valuable insights back to their home departments. 🔗 Register here: https://buff.ly/5qWqoDI
The NVFC is proud to partner with Vector Solutions to bring innovative training solutions to volunteer fire departments. The new TargetSolutions Volunteer Edition is built specifically for smaller departments, helping streamline training, simplify compliance, and reduce administrative burden — all in one platform. With flexible access, digital tracking, and a flat annual price, departments can focus less on paperwork and more on readiness. Learn more and request a demo today 👉 https://buff.ly/KOe7CMW
New reports released by NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health highlight critical lessons learned from recent fire service incidents. The NIOSH Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program has published two new reports to help departments better understand line-of-duty deaths and serious injuries and take steps to prevent future tragedies. These reports provide important insights into equipment performance, fireground conditions, and decision-making under pressure. Taking the time to review and apply these lessons can help protect your crew and strengthen your department’s safety practices. 🔗 Read the reports: • Evaluation of Three Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Involved in a Near Miss While Operating at a Structure Fire: https://buff.ly/zdQtZs5 • Senior Captain and Two Firefighters of Ladder Company Burned during Primary Search in Garden Apartment Fire – Texas: https://buff.ly/b7tV5O6
Stop chasing down paper sign-in sheets for calls, drills, and meetings. Meet the RedAlert Kiosk system. Digitize member attendance and fully automate attendance tracking. Attendance records sync directly with your events for streamlined reporting on accountability, participation, and more. Learn more: https://buff.ly/ibwU0Bt
🥞 Fundraisers just got sweeter! Through Nutella Stacks for Giving Back, fire departments will have a chance to receive a Pancake Breakfast Kit to support their next fundraiser. Nominate your local fire department by April 30: 👉 https://buff.ly/CQIvhlg
NVFC Member Spotlight: Steven Lowry Steven Lowry has served the fire service for more than 50 years! Now assistant chief of the Renfroe Volunteer Fire Department in Alpine, AL, he still runs the most calls in his department at age 69, responding to more than 375 calls last year. Passionate about mentoring younger firefighters and staying active in training, Lowry continues to give back to his community through volunteer service. Read his full volunteer spotlight here: https://buff.ly/YZIT5fc
It’s #thankfulthursday, and today we’re showing appreciation for FirstNet! They give first responders priority access to their network.📱🚒 We’re grateful for everything they do to support the fire and EMS community — and proud to have them as a Chairman’s Club member of the NVFC! Learn more about the only network built with and for first responders: https://buff.ly/j2XBkQ1
Members of the NVFC Training Team were on-site last weekend for hazmat training hosted by the Citizen Fire Company in Charles Town, WV. Instructors Tom Miller, Corey McCartney, and Ralph McNemar led an engaging and hands-on training for departments from West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland. 📸 Check out highlights from the training below! Want to bring this type of training to your department? 👉 Learn more about upcoming hazmat trainings and how to request a course in your area: https://buff.ly/m5u8J7k
☕🚒 Join the Conversation on Community Involvement How can your department better connect with and serve your community? Join the NVFC for a live R&R Coffee Talk on Community Involvement featuring Dr. Candice McDonald, Chief Joel Cerny, and guest Abena Bonso-Bruce. This interactive 30-minute session will include audience Q&A and practical insights you can take back to your department. 🗓 March 26 ⏰ 7:00–7:30pm ET Bring your questions and be part of the discussion! 👉 Register here: https://buff.ly/tcRYdI5
🚑 How prepared are EMS and fire-rescue agencies to care for pediatric patients? A new national study offers the first comprehensive assessment of pediatric readiness across the U.S., highlighting both progress and areas for improvement. Ensuring responders are equipped to treat children is critical to patient outcomes. 🔗 Read the article: https://buff.ly/bVd3PI2
The first line of defense in a home fire is proper smoke alarm placement, installation, and having enough alarms in each home. This on-demand training was created to help firefighters understand the need for community-based fire safety education and alarm installation and equip you with the tools to help your neighbors reduce the risk of being injured or dying in a house fire. Take this course free for a limited time in the NVFC Virtual Classroom: https://buff.ly/suX9n24
How does your volunteer department decide who responds where and when? Join the conversation and share your perspective. Your insight could be featured in Fire Engineering Magazine. 👇
Join us on Thursday, March 19, at 2pm ET for a roundtable discussion on Strengthening Volunteer Recruitment & Retention Through Effective Social Media. Whether you manage your department’s social media or just want new ideas to support recruitment and retention, this session will give you tools you can start using right away. Register here: https://buff.ly/ibMxLzH
Fire service research is valuable, but it is not always easy for department leaders to turn that information into action. Science to the Station’s new S.C.A.N. briefs are designed to change that. These short, practical summaries translate research into clear, usable insights for the fire service. The first S.C.A.N. brief is now available and explores the hierarchy of contamination control in the fire service to help departments better protect firefighters from harmful exposures. 🔗 Read S.C.A.N.: https://buff.ly/hn1G841
Strong leadership and teamwork are essential for firefighter safety and operational success. Join the NVFC for the webinar “Building Stronger Fire Service Teams: Leadership Lessons from Home and Abroad” on March 26 at 2:00 pm ET. This session will explore research-based teamwork principles and real-world experiences from fire service training in the U.S. and across Africa. Hear from NVFC past chair Kevin Quinn, Africa Fire Mission Fire Safety Officer Jose Ngunjiri, and University of Kentucky researcher Amber Lynn Scott as they discuss leadership, communication, and trust in high-risk environments and how these lessons can strengthen volunteer and combination departments. Participants will also learn how U.S. firefighters can engage in meaningful international training efforts while bringing valuable insights back to their home departments. 👩🚒 Presenters: Nancy Moore, Jose Ngunjiri, Kevin Quinn, and Amber Lynn Scott 🔗 Register here: https://buff.ly/5qWqoDI
The NVFC is pleased to welcome Missioncit as a Champion Member. Founded by first responders, MissionCIT helps public safety agencies fulfill their core objectives by providing services in retention and recruitment, firefighter and EMS training, strategic planning, emergency management, hospital emergency management, and entry/promotional testing. MissionCIT’s goal is to build well-trained, strategically prepared personnel that are ready for any incident. Learn more: https://buff.ly/fUt3jUH
⚠️ Responder Alert: Dangerous Air Bag Inflators NHTSA is warning about substandard air bag inflators that can rupture during deployment, sending metal fragments into the vehicle cabin. These failures have already been linked to 8 deaths and 2 serious injuries. If you encounter a suspected case during a response, reporting it can help prevent future tragedies. Stay informed and learn what to look for! 🔗 Read the article: https://buff.ly/KFSCg58
Join us tomorrow, March 17, at 2pm ET for the Webinar: NIOSH Report Review – Improving Volunteer Firefighter Safety in Privately Owned Vehicles On July 15, 2025, a volunteer firefighter was killed and another injured while responding in a privately owned vehicle. The incident was investigated by NIOSH through the Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program so the fire service can learn from what happened and prevent future tragedies. Join investigator Rick Lago as he reviews the incident details, contributing factors, and key recommendations to help departments strengthen POV response safety. Register here: https://buff.ly/3DjNl9S
Happy 50th Anniversary, NVFC! 🚒 Today marks 50 years of the National Volunteer Fire Council supporting volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. Since our first meeting on March 15, 1976, the NVFC has worked to advocate for and strengthen the volunteers who protect communities across the nation. As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead to the future and remain committed to supporting the volunteer emergency services through advocacy, training, resources, and programs that help departments and responders thrive for the next 50 years and beyond. Thank you to the volunteers, partners, and supporters who have been part of this journey. The work continues. 🔥
Join us on March 19 at 2pm ET for a roundtable discussion on Strengthening Volunteer Recruitment & Retention Through Effective Social Media. Whether you manage your department’s social media or just want new ideas to support recruitment and retention, this session will give you tools you can start using right away. Register here: https://buff.ly/ibMxLzH
Technology helps volunteer fire departments stay organized, train effectively, and serve their communities safely. Thanks to State Farm, 500 laptops were distributed to 100 volunteer fire departments across the country through a collaboration with the NVFC. 💻🚒 The donation will help departments improve reporting, training access, and day-to-day operations. Read more and view the full recipient list: https://buff.ly/GnQwHxY
Webinar: NIOSH Report Review – Improving Volunteer Firefighter Safety in Privately Owned Vehicles 📅 March 17 | 2pm ET 🎤 Presenter: Rick Lago On July 15, 2025, a volunteer firefighter was killed and another injured while responding in a privately owned vehicle. The incident was investigated by NIOSH through the Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program so the fire service can learn from what happened and prevent future tragedies. Join investigator Rick Lago as he reviews the incident details, contributing factors, and key recommendations to help departments strengthen POV response safety. Register here: https://buff.ly/3DjNl9S
Please join us in congratulating Kimberly Quiros, NVFC Chief of Communications, on 20 years with the National Volunteer Fire Council. Kimberly has played a key role in producing and guiding many of the communications that keep the fire service connected and informed. Those of us who work with Kimberly know that behind every polished article, newsletter, campaign, or announcement is someone who cares deeply about doing things well and representing the fire service with professionalism and heart. Congratulations, Kimberly, and thank you for 20 years of dedication to the NVFC and the volunteer responders we serve. 🚒👏
This week we’re thanking NVFC Supporter Member Responder MAX, formerly the marketing and web site division of First Arriving. Responder MAX continues to provide the services departments and associations have relied on for years, including recruitment and retention marketing, web site development, video production, association management, and more. Their work helps volunteer fire, rescue, and EMS organizations strengthen their outreach and better connect with their communities. Thank you, Responder MAX, for supporting the volunteer emergency services. Learn more: https://buff.ly/fxUKLWp #thankfulthursday
LAST CHANCE: The application period for the 2026 Waldorf University NVFC Scholarship closes on March 31! This scholarship covers up to 60 credit hours toward one online degree program at Waldorf University. To be eligible, applicants must have an application for admission on file (it’s free for NVFC members to apply) or be a current online student. Learn more about the scholarship and explore other opportunities available to NVFC members, including online tuition discounts, a first course free, and an on-campus scholarship: https://buff.ly/9opFKzA
Do you know a fire chief who goes above and beyond for their department and community? The IAFC - International Association of Fire Chiefs is now accepting nominations for the Fire Chief of the Year Award. One volunteer fire chief and one career fire chief will be recognized for their outstanding leadership, innovation, integrity, professional development, and service to the fire service. If you know a chief who exemplifies these qualities, take a moment to nominate them and help recognize their impact. 🗓 Nominations are due April 6. Learn more and submit your nomination here: https://buff.ly/8tB6ezd
Thanks to our members, partners, and supporters, 2025 was a big year for the NVFC and the volunteer fire and EMS community. Highlights include: • Training thousands of responders • $2.5 million awarded through grants and giveaways • Advocacy for critical fire service programs • Resources to help departments recruit, retain, and protect their members See everything we achieved in the 2025 Annual Report 👉 https://buff.ly/bJkStiw Plus, check out the quick by-the-numbers highlights 👉 https://buff.ly/NNaBPlQ
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the California State Firefighters’ Association and its 104-year legacy of representing both career and volunteer firefighters across the Golden State. With 54% of California’s fire service serving as volunteers, the association brings together leaders from large urban departments and volunteers from some of the most remote areas of the state. Because of California’s wide range of climates and elevations, many tactics developed here have influenced fire service operations nationwide. Encouraging NVFC membership is another way the California State Firefighters’ Association supports the firefighters who serve their communities every day. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across California and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
In the wild, the firefighter attempts to rest. Sleep is not a luxury. It is essential for heart health, recovery, and performance. Get free wellness resources from the NVFC Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program. healthy-firefighter.org
Exciting News! Nutella is partnering with the NVFC for the third year to support volunteer fire departments through Stacks for Giving Back, including $25,000 in fire department grants. This year, Pearl Milling Company is providing an additional $25,000 in department grants. ✅ $50,000 in grants – 10 departments, $5,000 each ✅ 350 Pancake Breakfast Kits for firehouse fundraisers Applications and nominations are open through April 30. 👉 https://buff.ly/WkZgzeg
Calling all NVFC members! You are invited to attend the Annual Membership Meeting, taking place virtually via Zoom. 📅 March 11 | 1:00–2:00 pm ET This meeting is open to all NVFC state, individual, and corporate members. Attendees will hear updates on the organization’s business and financial operations, and state member representatives will have the opportunity to vote on matters brought before the membership. We encourage all members to participate and stay engaged in the work shaping the future of the volunteer fire service. 🔗 Register today: https://buff.ly/17Jo1Fi
Join the NVFC on Tuesday, March 11, at 2pm ET for the webinar - Smarter, Not Harder: Using AI to Support Volunteer Responder Recruitment & Retention, presented by Daniel Chapek. This session will focus on simple, easy-to-adopt AI tools that departments can use right away to support recruitment, retention, and member engagement. Designed for all experience levels, the webinar will clarify what AI is and what it is not, and provide practical ideas that can be applied immediately, regardless of department size or budget. Register now: https://buff.ly/ZGSyNFt
Many volunteer fire departments face challenges replacing aging gear due to limited budgets. Through MSA’s Globe Gear Giveaway, MSA Fire and the NVFC work together to help address this need. Since 2012, the program has provided more than $2 million in turnout gear and helmets to volunteer departments across the U.S. and Canada. 🔥 Applications for the 2026 program are now open. Apply by June 1 at www.nvfc.org/gear.
Due to the ongoing debate in Congress over the funding of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been shutdown since February 14. This shutdown has delayed the application period for the Assistance for Firefighters Grants (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants. It has also closed the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Academy. Please use the link below to tell Congress to immediately come to an agreement on DHS funding or restore funding to these key fire service programs. Take action now: https://buff.ly/SUsknRL
📣 Firefighters Needed: Help Advance Sleep & Health Research Exhaustion affects every part of the job—from the fireground to home life. Join a FEMA-funded national study examining how sleep and behavioral health impact firefighters’ safety, performance, and long-term well-being. Participation details: • Anonymous online survey • 30–45 minutes • Open to career and volunteer firefighters • Volunteer firefighters may invite a spouse or partner to participate separately Why this matters: Firefighter experiences don’t always make it into policy or practice. This study helps change that—turning lived experience into evidence that can improve tools, resources, and support for firefighters and their families. IF WE WANT BETTER OUTCOMES, WE NEED BETTER DATA. YOUR VOICE MATTERS. 🔗 Survey link: https://buff.ly/JhMwhfv Questions? Contact Brittany Hollerbach at hollerbach@ndri-usa.org.
Cancer is a serious threat facing today’s fire service, but there are easy and low-cost ways you can lower your risks. This course explains how to incorporate the life-saving practices from the Lavender Ribbon Report into your daily routines to reduce your exposure risks and protect yourself and your fellow firefighters from occupational cancer. Take this course for FREE for a limited time in the NVFC Virtual Classroom: https://buff.ly/XHreFUI
Last chance! The deadline to apply for the 2026 Anheuser-Busch Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters Program is March 6. Eligible fire departments can apply for the chance to receive one pallet (2,300+ cans) of emergency drinking water to keep their responders hydrated during wildfires and other emergencies. A total of 1.5 million cans will be donated! www.nvfc.org/water
Social media can be one of your department’s most powerful tools for recruiting and retaining volunteers. But are you using it to its full potential? Join us on March 19 at 2pm ET for a roundtable discussion on Strengthening Volunteer Recruitment & Retention Through Effective Social Media. Whether you manage your department’s social media or just want new ideas to support recruitment and retention, this session will give you tools you can start using right away. Register here: https://buff.ly/MKrbGYE
This #thankfulthursday, we’re sending all of our thanks to NVFC partner Anheuser-Busch. Anheuser-Busch has a longstanding commitment to providing support for disaster relief and preparedness efforts in communities across the country. Since 2019, they have partnered with us to provide canned drinking water to volunteer fire departments. Learn more about Anheuser Busch: https://buff.ly/yvt9D2f Learn more about the Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program (applications are now being accepted for 2026!): www.nvfc.org/water
Volunteer firefighters gathered in Tiffin, OH for two NVFC in-person trainings: Leadership for the Fire and Emergency Services and Incident Safety Officer Training, led by instructor Dave Lewis. These courses give responders practical skills to strengthen leadership, enhance on-scene safety, and support effective operations within their departments. Thank you to the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department for hosting and to all who participated in the training! 📍 Interested in bringing this training to your department or attending one near you? Find upcoming courses or request a training at your department: https://buff.ly/ScUlbqd
NVFC members are invited to attend the Annual Membership Meeting, taking place virtually via Zoom. 📅 March 11 | 1:00–2:00 pm ET This meeting is open to all NVFC state, individual, and corporate members. Attendees will hear updates on the organization’s business and financial operations, and state member representatives will have the opportunity to vote on matters brought before the membership. We encourage all members to participate and stay engaged in the work shaping the future of the volunteer fire service. 🔗 Register today: https://buff.ly/17Jo1Fi
Volunteer firefighters remain the backbone of emergency response across the U.S., but departments have seen a significant decline in volunteers over the past two decades. In the latest episode of The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Podcast, host Jesse Roman is joined by NVFC’s Joe Maruca and Ken Willette of the North American Fire Training Directors to discuss the ongoing volunteer crisis, why volunteers leave the fire service, how training impacts recruitment and retention, and how departments are adapting. Listen to the conversation here: https://buff.ly/o5kqydw
Does your volunteer fire department respond to wildfires? Anheuser-Busch is once again donating 1.5 million cans of emergency drinking water to help keep firefighters hydrated during wildfires and other emergencies. Apply by March 6 for your chance to receive a pallet (2,300+ cans) of clean, safe drinking water at www.nvfc.org/water.
Webinar: NIOSH Report Review – Improving Volunteer Firefighter Safety in Privately Owned Vehicles 📅 March 17 | 2pm ET 🎤 Presenter: Rick Lago On July 15, 2025, a volunteer firefighter was killed and another injured while responding in a privately owned vehicle. The incident was investigated by NIOSH through the Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program so the fire service can learn from what happened and prevent future tragedies. Join investigator Rick Lago as he reviews the incident details, contributing factors, and key recommendations to help departments strengthen POV response safety. Register here: https://buff.ly/IaQcHnV
Join the NVFC on March 11 at 2pm ET for the webinar - Smarter, Not Harder: Using AI to Support Volunteer Responder Recruitment & Retention, presented by Daniel Chapek. This session will focus on simple, easy-to-adopt AI tools that departments can use right away to support recruitment, retention, and member engagement. Designed for all experience levels, the webinar will clarify what AI is and what it is not, and provide practical ideas that can be applied immediately, regardless of department size or budget. Register now: https://buff.ly/ZGSyNFt
Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation is awarding $5,000 to 15 students pursuing careers as first responders. The application period for the scholarship program closes at 3pm CT April 15 or when 500 applications are received!! The scholarships are for high school seniors or graduates, or current college undergraduates, who plan to enroll in a firefighter, EMS, or law enforcement program for the upcoming academic year. View criteria and apply here: https://buff.ly/3GAMp1f
Strong legs power the fireground. Stairs. Ladders. Lifts. Carries. Train your lower body to improve performance and protect your heart. Free resources from the NVFC Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program. healthy-firefighter.org
The application period for the Anheuser-Busch Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters Program is now open! Eligible fire departments can apply for the chance to receive one pallet (2,300+ cans) of emergency drinking water to help keep their responders hydrated during wildfires and other emergencies. Learn more and apply by March 6: www.nvfc.org/water