The National Volunteer Fire Council, together with the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS), and the International Society of Fire Service Instructors, has updated its 2012 edition. The guide includes best practices to form a blueprint for a successful training program.

The report argues for a need to revisit all levels of police training, including academy, in-service, mid-rank, command, and leadership. Its authors contend that this multi-level approach will ensure that everyone at every rank is keying off the same mission, vision, and strategies to ensure consistent and successful service delivery.

A recent study by The International Association of Fire Chiefs takes a deep dive into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the U.S. volunteer and combination fire service. Funded by a FEMA SAFER grant, the study and its accompanying report seek to help address the critical shortage of volunteers in the fire-rescue service by offering strategies for improving recruitment and retention – and, by extension, strategies for creating and maintaining inclusive, equitable, and diverse work environments.

The International Association of Fire Fighters has compiled a step-by-step guide to getting started and building a diverse recruitment program. It includes recommended strategies, sample programs, recruitment profiles, tips, and additional resources.

This six-part video series from the International Association of Fire Chiefs features motivational speaker Jan Spence. Topics include teamwork and communication; generational differences; difficult people; recruitment; leading and engaging volunteers and employees; and time management.

The U.S. Fire Administration has released a 2022 guide that details how to develop a safety program for EMS operations. The five sections include the elements of safety; physical and mental health; infection control and hazardous materials protective equipment; emergency operations; and vehicle operations.