Fire Service Culture
The FireRescue1 fire service culture resource page encompasses the cultural aspects of firefighter life, from the traditions that make the fire service such a proud profession to the kitchen table conversations that develop a brotherhood and sisterhood among members, to critical discussions about firefighter health and safety, focusing on the impact of culture on behavior and decision-making, both on and off the fireground.
Help create a welcoming space by using the time gathered together to empower, uplift and inspire your colleagues, instead of belittling and bad-mouthing
Understanding the origin, meaning and controversy related to the thin red line flags
Fire Chief Robert Logan and Battalion Chief David Picone detail how SDFR shows its members ‘we’re focused on you’
These products serve as great everyday reminders of the bravery exhibited by firefighters
Every department needs different viewpoints to grow and thrive, even if that means having to manage constant dissenters
We tout our cancer prevention measures but then take turnout gear into schools, place weight rooms in engine bays and puff on cigars outside the station
A program from the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership shared lessons and values for a culture of leadership with Henderson firefighters
Four tips for managing political differences while keeping the crew together as a functional and compatible team
How to navigate entrenched bad habits and new deviant behaviors among members
It’s how we handle the day-to-day, person-to-person interactions that makes us who we are
The new year marks an opportunity to reflect on your accomplishments and goals ahead
Firefighter Jeffrey Fiala was honored in a solemn procession as firefighters lined the streets
With Engine 18’s motorized pumper out of service due to fuel line issues, the department gathered hay, straw, oats and cordwood to place a steamer in service
Benton city council members had previously considered ‘Knox’ to be a liability and pushed for removing him from the firehouse
Recapping the themes that dominated events, headlines and kitchen table conversations, plus tips for how to thrive in 2025
We asked FireRescue1 contributors and board members to share the technology they are hoping to use in the year ahead
Ventura Fire Captain Fernando Calderon explains how the survival challenge has made him a better company officer
As much as the fire department is a fraternity, the firehouse is not a frat house
Chief Caughey argues that different generations aren’t better or worse, just different
Think twice before posting about an LODD, as your rush to spread the word could cause harm
The wrong leadership choice can destabilize an organization, while the right one can position it for sustained success
Ego-driven culture that fosters the normalization of deviance leads to a level of dysfunction that can undermine a department for decades
You might spare your spouse the grimmer details of a call, but bare your soul to your crew
Following World War I, military veterans-turned-first responders expanded the challenge coin tradition to public safety organizations
No matter the challenges that face you, you find a way to respond to those in need
A good leader accepts that they may not have created the problem, but they are responsible for fixing it
Retirement is often difficult for firefighters, unprepared for the sense of identity loss
