FULLY INVOLVED

https://www.transcaer.com/training/training-events/ethanol-emergency-response-webinar/51097

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 4.16.26

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:13:20 GMT

Upcoming Training Opportunity: Ethanol Emergency Response Webinar

An upcoming training opportunity is available for those interested in strengthening their response to ethanol-related incidents.

This webinar, hosted by TRANSCAER, will cover key safety considerations and best practices for emergency response involving ethanol. It’s a valuable opportunity for first responders and departments to enhance preparedness and operational knowledge.

Please feel free to share this information with others who may benefit from attending.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 4.9.26

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:29:38 GMT

NVFC Article: $1.5 Million Awarded to Local Fire Departments

Hello,

In 2025, 150 volunteer fire departments from across the country received a $10,000 grant through the State Farm® Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, in partnership with the NVFC. These funds were used to secure essential equipment that enhanced the department’s readiness and the safety of firefighters and community members.

As the 2026 grant application period approaches, we’re sharing local impact stories highlighting how this funding is making a difference on the ground. The attached article provides examples of how national support translates into real community impact.

Let me know if you have any questions or need additional information.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 4.7.26

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:41:41 GMT

Please see the Course Announcement for the upcoming Fire Department Executive course (Fire Officer IV) at GPSTC.

There are seats available!

Jeff Dean

Director, Fire & Emergency Services Section

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4258 EFO, CTO jdean@gpstc.org

URGENT: Firefighters Needed at Capitol Today for SB 143 Vote

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:42:55 GMT

URGENT: Firefighters Needed at Capitol Today for SB 143 Vote

Dear Members,

We need your help.

A called vote on SB 143 is taking place today, and it is critical that we have a strong showing of firefighters in attendance.

If you are available, please report in uniform to the Coverdell Legislative Office Building, Room 506 at the Capitol by 1:45 PM. We need to fill the room to demonstrate the strength and unity of the fire service in support of this important legislation.

Your presence matters and can make a difference.

Thank you for your continued support.

GSFA Board of Directors

Call to Action: Your Immediate Action is Vital

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:17:53 GMT

Your Immediate Action is Vital

Good morning,

We are asking all members to take a few moments to reach out and show your support for Senate Bill 143.

Please use the attached contact list to email the Retirement Committee members and express your support for this important legislation. Your outreach can make a meaningful impact as the bill continues to move forward.

We are also working to confirm that SB 143 will be on the agenda for a subcommittee meeting this Tuesday from 2:00–4:00 PM at the Coverdell Building. We will share any updates as soon as they are confirmed.

Thank you for your continued support of Georgia’s fire service.

GSFA Board of Directors

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.23.2026

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:11:32 GMT

Good morning,

We wanted to share the attached support letter regarding Senate Bill 143, which outlines proposed updates to the Georgia Firefighters’ Pension Fund and its potential impact on retirement flexibility and workforce retention.

We will be sharing contact information for the Retirement Committee members soon to assist those who would like to reach out in support of this legislation.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement.

GSFA Board of Directors

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.20.2026

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:10:49 GMT

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.18.2026

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 18:08:56 GMT

Experience a hands-on leadership program unlike any other. The Axioms of Leadership course is designed to challenge and inspire participants through real-world team exercises that build character, trust, and servant leadership. Whether you are a seasoned leader or just beginning your journey, this immersive experience will strengthen your ability to lead both professionally and personally.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.10.2026

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:23:42 GMT

Good morning,

The NVFC is pleased to team up with Nutella for the third year for the Nutella Stacks for Giving Back program. Thanks to support from Nutella and Pearl Milling Company, 10 volunteer fire departments will receive a $5,000 grant to fund resources and necessities. In addition, departments can be nominated for the chance to receive one of 350 Pancake Breakfast Kits to support their next fundraiser. A press release is attached to share with your audience. The deadline to apply is April 30.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

aham@gpstc.org www.gpstc.org

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.10.2026

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:18:33 GMT

The UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government - Certified Public Manager 2026 Forsyth Cohort is proud to invite you to the 2026 Georgia Fallen Heroes’ Classic Golf Tournament!

2026 Georgia Fallen Heroes’ Classic

Friday, April 24, 2026 at 8:00am

Lake Jonesco Golf Course in Gray, GA

Signup at https://georgia-fallen-heroes-classic.perfectgolfevent.com/

Join us on April 24, 2026, at the beautiful Lake Jonesco Golf Course for an incredible day of golf, networking, and support for our public safety community. The tournament serves as our cohort's Service Learning Project, with all proceeds directly benefiting the Georgia Public Safety Memorial Fund. Your participation provides tangible financial support to maintain the Georgia Public Safety Memorial Wall at GPSTC.

We need your help to make this event a success! Whether you're looking to put together a foursome for the golf tournament or promote your business as an event sponsor, there is a place for you on the course. Players will enjoy an amazing day that includes free breakfast and lunch, fantastic door prizes, and cash prizes for the top two teams, closest to the pin winner, and longest drive winner.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to honor Georgia's public safety heroes. Secure your team's spot or register your sponsorship today using the sign up link above.

Thanks, Adam

Adam Ham, CISSP

CTO, Technology Services Section

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4425 Chief Technology Officer

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.3.26

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:13:23 GMT

Hi everyone! Here’s the most recent version of the elected officials guide. There were some very minor changes on page two to strengthen wording about funding. IAFF, IAFC, and NVFC have approved and CFSI was brought in late - trying to get it approved in time to be distributed at CFSI.

This is just informational - no action required!

Sarah

Sarah Lee

Chief Executive Officer

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.2.2026

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:37:08 GMT

This is the first half of the month of March's offsite classes we are offering across the state.

Offsite Classes offered by GPSTC: Fire and Emergency Services for the first half of the month of March, 2026.

Classes may be found on our website at GPSTC.org along with more information about our onsite training.

Register TODAY!

FFAT26078 Introduction to Ropes and Knots 03/02/2026 3hrs Cedar Creek Volunteer Fire Department

FFAT26087 Pressurized Container Fire Control 03/02/2026 8hr Hall County Fire Rescue

FFAT26328 Pipeline Emergencies: Air Monitoring 03/03/2026 4hr Macon County Fire Department

FFAT26153 Interior Search and Rescue 1 03/03-04/2026 16hr Screven County Fire Department

FFAT26253 Structural Fire Control 03/03-04/2026 16hr Douglas County Fire / Emergency Medical Services

FFAT26088 Structural Fire Control 03/05-06/2026 16hr Hall County Fire Rescue

FFAT26157 Fire Suppression - Passenger Vehicle with Live Fire 03/07/2026 3hr Claxton Fire Department

FFAT26113 Fire Suppression - Passenger Vehicle with Live Fire 03/09/2026 3hr Cedar Creek Volunteer Fire Department

FFAT26245 Handling Flammable and Combustible Liquid Incidents 03/09-10/2026 16hr Jesup Fire Department

FFAT26265 Interior Search and Rescue 1 03/10-11/2026 16hr Bainbridge Public Safety Training Center

FFAT26250 Pressurized Container Fire Control 03/11/2026 8hr Jesup Fire Department

FFAT26164 Fundamentals of Water Shuttle Operations 03/12/2026 3hr Glennville Fire Department

FFAT26254 Structural Fire Control 03/12-13/2026 16hr Carrollton Fire Department - Training Center

FFAT26322 Pressurized Container Live Fire Instructor 03/12/2026 6hr Tattnall County Fire Rescue

FFAT26249 Pressurized Container Fire Control 03/12-13/2026 8hr Thomas County Fire and Rescue

FFAT251097 Pipeline Emergencies: Air Monitoring 03/13/2026 4hr Adele Fire Department

FFAT26323 Pipeline Emergencies: Command Officer Strategies (PECOS) 03/13/2026 4hr Adel Fire Department

FFAT26261 Crash Victim Extrication 1 03/13-17/2026 16hr Jesup Fire Department

FFAT25997 Initial Rope for the First Due Responder 03/14-15/2026 16hr Sandersville Fire Department

FFAT26356 Pressurized Container Fire Control 03/14/2026 8hr Montgomery County Government Annex

Jeff Dean

Director, Fire & Emergency Services Section

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4258 EFO, CTO jdean@gpstc.org

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 2.25.26

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:55:49 GMT

Hello,

We are pleased to announce that the application period is now open for MSA’s Globe Gear Giveaway. Now in its 15 ^th year, this partnership between MSA Safety and the NVFC helps volunteer fire departments obtain needed personal protective gear. In 2026, 13 departments will each receive 4 sets of Globe® turnout gear and MSA Cairns® helmets. A press release is attached to share with your audience.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

https://www.science2station.org/scholars

Howdy, friends!

The fire service does not have a research problem. In fact, research regarding the realities of work in emergency services is plentiful. We do, however, face one glaring challenge: translation and accessibility.

There is outstanding research happening on firefighter health, exposure, performance, and safety. But far too often it lives quietly in journals, locked behind paywalls, while the people who could benefit from its findings are making decisions at a kitchen table, in the bay, or on the fireground without access to it.

So, we built something to change that.

Introducing S.C.A.N.: Science, Conditions, Actions, & Needs.

These are new Science to the Station resources designed to take research and turn it into something usable. Short. Practical. Evidence-based. Built for real fire and EMS humans doing real jobs.

Our first S.C.A.N. focuses on PFAS exposure and cancer risk, centering on something rarely given the attention and concern it is due: the hierarchy of controls.

For years, the conversation has focused heavily on PPE. PPE matters. A lot. We all know this, but the science is clear: PPE alone will not solve our exposure problem. The greatest risk reduction comes from layered protection across the hierarchy of controls--elimination and substitution where possible, engineering controls, administrative practices, and yes, PPE as one of many critical layers.

This S.C.A.N. distills academic text into something tangible; the research presented here indicates that risk reduction occurs not due to a singular piece of gear or protective measure, but instead across the entire hierarchy: from tactics- and suppression-approaches to clean cab concepts, decon practices, station design, material choices, and leadership decisions --all of which shape degree of responders' exposure to carcinogens every single day.

SO, HERE'S THE FIRST!!!

Hierarchy of Contamination Control in the Fire Service: Review of Exposure Control To Reduce Cancer Risk

ABOUT THIS STUDY

Firefighters face higher cancer rates than the general population.

You're exposed to cancer-causing chemicals through your skin, via inhalation, and even through accidental ingestion. The

research contained here reviewed every major study on contamination control and

organized the findings using a proven safety framework. The goal:

give you and your department the best strategies to protect yourself

from the gear you wear to how you design your station.

S.C.A.N.s are a work product of the Science to the Station Fire & EMS Scholars Alliance: a collaborative network of advanced degree holding practitioner-scholars, currently working in the fire/ems field, committed to making science accessible, relevant, and actually usable for everyday on-the-job applications. These are people who understand research design and understand the job, working together to ensure evidence-based research does not just get published. It gets used!

Learn more about the Fire & EMS Scholars Alliance here:

WHAT IF I'M NOT A FIRE/EMS RESPONDER, BUT AM A RESEARCHER IN THIS AREA?

If you are an academic researcher studying topics that intersect with fire and EMS: health, sleep, toxicology, human performance, behavioral health, exposure science, organizational culture, or anything else that could improve outcomes - we want you in THIS ecosystem!

You do not have to be a firefighter to contribute meaningful research to the fire service. But you do need pathways for that work to reach the field and inform practice.

That is exactly why we created the Fire & EMS Researchers Alliance.

This is an open invitation for non fire/EMS service field practitioner researchers to collaborate, share work, and help ensure that what you study actually reaches the people it was meant to support.

Learn more or join us here:

https://www.science2station.org/researchers-alliance

Help us spread it!!!

Just like when a "Breaking Science" drops:

Read it.

Share it.

Email it.

Print it.

We are serious about closing the gap between research and practice.

S.C.A.N.s are one way we are doing that. The Scholars and Researchers Alliances are another. If your interested and eligible think about joining them TODAY!

More coming soon. We are just getting started!!!

Dr. Sara Jahnke

President

Science to the Station

Because science belongs in the station, not just the journal.

2026 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Call for Papers

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:18:22 GMT

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Augusta! To submit a class Click here for the electronic call for papers. We are soliciting classes for all ranks!

We are expecting a great turnout for this year’s conference and ask that you please encourage at least one member from your department to attend (we'll always take more?). We are all in the Georgia Fire Service together and this is a great way for us to come together and bond as Team Georgia Fire!

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS MARCH 20th!

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 2.13.2026

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:30:08 GMT

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 2.11.2026

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:53:05 GMT

February 9, 2026

The Fire and Emergency Services Section of the Georgia Public Safety Training Center is hosting the course Fire and Emergency Services Training Officer on March 9-13, 2026.

This course will prepare fire and emergency services personnel to lead the overall training program for their agency. Topics range from needs assessment, curricula development, administrative duties, and resource management. During the course, each student will develop and present a needs analysis and recommendations for change in their department's training program. This course will meet and exceed the requirements for NFPA 1020, Standard for Fire and Emergency Services Instructor, Fire Officer, and Emergency Medical Services Officer Professional Qualifications Chapter 6, Fire Instructor III.

Any individual that is serving as or may potentially serve as a training officer in a fire and/or emergency services organization should attend. This includes those individuals that may manage the training programs for their organization, such as mid-level officers, administrative officers, and those that may be promoted to the level of training officer in their organization.

Prerequisites: Certification at the level of Fire Instructor II.

This is a 40-hour class and will be held at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.

Use the following link to register: Fire and Emergency Services Training Officer

Thank you

Jeff Dean

Director, Fire & Emergency Services Section

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4258 EFO, CTO jdean@gpstc.org

1000 Indian Springs Dr, Forsyth, GA 31 0 29

Call to Action: Support Georgia Firefighters Pension Reform on February 3

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:29:49 GMT

Good afternoon,

We are pleased to share an important legislative update that directly impacts Georgia firefighters.

On Tuesday, February 3, at 1:00 PM, Senator Albers will formally present the results of the study recommending changes to the Georgia Firefighters Pension Fund rules. The proposed change would allow firefighters to continue working while collecting their pension under the Rule of 80, a significant step toward strengthening firefighter benefits across the state.

The presentation will take place before a legislative subcommittee in Room 310 of the Coverdale Building, located adjacent to the Georgia State Capitol.

This presentation coincides with Georgia Firefighter Appreciation Day, and we are strongly encouraging firefighters from across the state to attend in uniform to show visible support for the bill and its advancement through the legislative process. A strong turnout will send a powerful message about the importance of this issue to Georgia’s fire service.

Your presence matters, and we hope you will consider attending to support this important effort on behalf of all Georgia firefighters.

Thank you for your continued dedication and advocacy.

Sincerely,

Mike Byrd, M.S., CFO, EFO

Fire Chief

Spalding County Fire Department

1005 Memorial Drive

Griffin, GA 30223

770-228-2129

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 1.22.26

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:37:45 GMT

Good afternoon, folks!

The NVFC is hosting the EV/AFV Incident Management: Safety and Response Techniques course in Pisgah, AL, on March 21. Please help us promote this course to the appropriate folks in your states and a flyer is attached.

Here is the direct registration link - https://nvfc.wufoo.com/forms/w6wcofz0y8m8cv/

Details:

EV/AFV Incident Management: Safety and Response Techniques

March 21, 2026, 0900-1700 ET

Rosalie Fire Dept

16191 Hwy 71

Pisgah, Alabama 35765

Thank you, and please let us know if you have any questions.

David Bryson

Director of Education

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

E: David@nvfc.org

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 1.21.26

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 14:54:34 GMT

Come in from the Rain: Taking Care of Ourselves

Fire Service Leaders,

"Come in from the Rain: Taking Care of Ourselves" is a 16-hour symposium dedicated to the behavioral health and safety of all public safety personnel. At a time when suicides and mental health issues among public safety employees are of deep concern, this is an opportunity to learn how to take care of ourselves and each other. Attendees will discover strategies to prevent burnout, depression and the effects of the devastation experienced every day by those in these professions. Additionally, attendees will be presented with resources and options to use when the situation becomes unbearable.

This event is being held at the GPSTC Main Campus in Forsyth on January 27th and 28th.

Keynote Speaker: Dena Ali, Battalion Chief, Raleigh (NC) Fire Department. Dena also serves as the program manager of Behavioral Health for the First Responder Center for Excellence. Dena is the author of the Fire Engineering bestselling book Hope out of Darkness ~ A Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness.

Topics for the two-day event include: Organizational Leadership and Mental Wellness; Are You (Physically) Fit for Duty?; The Ashley Wilson PTSD Bill; Valor Station; and Financial Wellness, to name a few.

Vendors will also be on hand Wednesday afternoon to discuss needs with those attending.

Click Here to Register Today

Ike McConnell

Director, Training Bureau

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

dthayer@gafallenfirefighters.org

BIG CHANGES FOR FIREFIGHTER OCCUPATIONAL CANCER

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:08:11 GMT

BIG CHANGES FOR FIREFIGHTER OCCUPATIONAL CANCER

On December 18, 2026, President Donald Trump signed into law H. Amdt. to S. 1071, The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA authorizes annual funding levels for the U.S. Armed Forces and sets expenditures for the Department of Defense (DoD). Also included in this bill was the “Honoring our Fallen Heroes Act”.

Why is this important for the fire service? Well, the Honoring Fallen Heroes Act enables certain occupational cancers to be eligible for coverage under the Public Safety Office’s Benefit Program (PSOB). The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA) Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB) Program provides death and education benefits to survivors of fallen law enforcement officers, firefighters and other first responders, and disability benefits to officers catastrophically injured in the line of duty.

Simply put, the surviving family members of firefighters who have died from certain occupational cancers is now considered LODD and are now eligible for death benefits through PSOB, providing certain parameters are met.

We have long known that firefighting in today’s synthetically material-based world brings increased exposure to deadly toxins and an enhanced chance for firefighters to contract certain occupational related cancers. And while some states have recognized this and included certain cancers in their statewide indemnification programs, Georgia not being one of those, until now the PSOB Federal Benefit has not recognized occupational cancer as a covered causation.

WHO’S COVERED?

Once a bill like this is signed into law, the Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, will have to take the basic outline of the bill and develop rules and regulations to ensure the benefit process adheres to their long-standing legal requirements. Additionally, they will have to work out some of the terminology and definitions that are not specifically identified in the legislation. This may take some time.

As noted, it will be some time before all of the rules and regulations associated with the bill are published, however the key points of the legislation are pretty basic: First and foremost, the benefit is retroactive to January 1, 2020. Secondly, the firefighter must have been serving as a public safety officer (the PSOB official term for firefighter) for not fewer than 5 years at the time of the cancer diagnosis. Basically, if the firefighter had been serving for not less than 5 years at the time of their diagnosis and died after January 1, 2020, the family may be eligible for the death benefit.

Additionally, this legislation goes beyond the normality that you are no longer covered by PSOB LODD benefits once you retire; the legislation covers firefighters for 15 years after their last day of active service as a public safety officer. Now, we’ll have to wait to see what the term “Active Service” means once the rules and regulations are completed. At this point, it is unclear whether this pertains only to those who ride fire trucks, or to all firefighters regardless of their assignment within the department.

As with all PSOB coverage, there is an exemption also: “The presumption shall not apply if competent medical evidence establishes that the exposure of the public safety officer to the carcinogen was not a substantial contributing factor in the death or disability of the public safety officer”.

Otherwise, if the firefighter were to die in an off-duty traffic accident, they would not be considered eligible for the benefit just because they had been diagnosed with one of the identified cancers. To be eligible, the cancer is going to have to be identified as the cause of death.

WHAT’S COVERED?

The legislation currently identifies 20 specific cancers and any form of cancer that is considered a WTC-Related Health Condition under section 3312(a) of the Public Health Service Act.

bladder cancer.
brain cancer.
breast cancer.
cervical cancer.
colon cancer.
colorectal cancer.
esophageal cancer.
kidney cancer.
leukemia.
lung cancer.
malignant melanoma.
mesothelioma.
multiple myeloma.
non-Hodgkins’s lymphoma.
ovarian cancer.
prostate cancer.
skin cancer.
stomach cancer.
testicular cancer.
thyroid cancer.

Furthermore, the legislation defines a review process that may take place no less than every 3 years to potentially add additional cancers that are not currently covered but now considered a fire service-related occupational cancer.

THE SURGE

The addition of occupational cancers into the PSOB Program is huge! The inclusion of heart attacks in 2003 for firefighters was the first recognition that occupational hazards exist beyond that of just trauma. While this increased the opportunity for many more firefighters’ families to potentially receive the death benefit, the process of applying for benefits was not well known, cumbersome and extremely slow, and it took several years to work out the issues in the process to make it untroublesome. Again in 2020 the PSOB recognized COVID19 as an occupational hazard and began covering certain deaths related to COVID19. However, this process went much faster and many more claims were filed and much quicker than before. In fact, COVID19 claims more than doubled the PSOB’s annual claim numbers in the first year alone, as you can imagine, overwhelming the PSOB staff. The PSOB did a great job of augmenting their current full-time staff with contractors and at the peak of COVID19 claims they had over 25+ staff members working to process claims.

Unfortunately, due to circumstances in which they do not control, the PSOB has not been able to maintain the surge levels of staffing and what was already a slow process has even slowed more. And with the general consensus being that the initial influx of cancer related benefit applications will be immense, the key take away here is patience!

Fire service leadership at the national level has been watching this legislation and plans are in the works to assist the fire service nationwide in the application process once the rules and regulations are worked out. Organizations like the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) through their Local Assistant State Team (L.A.S.T.) program, The International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network are all working to establish a surge in individuals that are available to assist individuals and departments with the benefit application process.

THE BENEFIT

Again, as with all PSOB benefit applications there are some very specific guidelines that will come into play. First, we’ll discuss the beneficiary: The PSOB rules and regulations are very specific in who is eligible to receive the benefit, regardless of the firefighter or survivors’ wishes; If there is just a surviving spouse and no children, then the spouse would receive the entire benefit. If there are surviving children and the firefighter is not married, then the benefit would be divided equally between the children. If there is a surviving spouse and children, then the spouse would get 50% of the benefit and the other 50% would be divided equally between the children. If the firefighter is not survived by either a spouse or children, then the hierarchy continues to a beneficiary listed on a PSOB identified beneficiary form or department sponsored life insurance plan on file with the department. Then it goes to surviving parents in equal shares, and then lastly, adult children in equal shares. Determining eligibility is a major portion of the application process and requires a good deal of documentation.

As with all things PSOB, the benefit amount is also very specific. The amount of the PSOB benefit changes each October. The current amount is $ 461,656.00. While we will have to wait for the rules and regulations to identify the benefit amount for the applications of those firefighters who died before October 2025, I suspect the benefit will be the identified benefit for the year of death. Once an application has worked its way through the process and has been approved, the benefit is paid out in a one-time payment and is non-taxable.

There are also education benefits potentially available for those survivors who have been approved for the main benefit. This requires an additional application process that is much less cumbersome and time consuming compared to the initial application.

Additionally, there is an appeals process for those claims that are denied. According to a recent audit, about 35% of the claims filed are denied due to not meeting the criteria. Of those who appealed about 21% are eventually approved.

WHAT’S NEXT?

While it will be some time before the PSOB rules and regulations are completed and they are ready to start accepting Cancer Death related claim applications, there are things the surviving family members can start doing today in preparation.

As mentioned, the normal family demographic determination process will certainly still apply. This means each application will include the identity of all of the immediate family members, i.e. spouse, ex-spouse, children, stepchildren, adopted children, deceased spouse or children, etc. And provide proof of such will be required. The required documentation will include marriage certificates for those married. Divorce Decrees for all divorces of the firefighter and their current spouse, birth certificates for all children, court orders for adopted children and any other identifying legal paperwork.

Again, while not clearly identified yet by published rules and regulations, supporting documentation of the firefighter’s current work status, date of employment or date of retirement will also be required. This information will more than likely be included in the “Statement of Circumstances” which is the responsibility of the employing department. All of the previously identified assisting agencies and their representatives can and will help generate this document.

Additionally, records such as the death certificate indicating the cause of death, and medical records identifying the type of cancer and diagnosis date will also most certainly be required.

Families that believe they may be eligible for this benefit can start today by gathering these documents and having them ready for the application process. Having to wait on required documentation significantly slows down the application process. Having all the required documentation in hand when the application is filed provides the biggest opportunity for a efficient approval process.

I would also note that the PSOB Benefit Application process, while greatly improved over the last few years, is still lengthy and somewhat cumbersome. There are pitfalls and must have documentation that is not necessarily intuitive. Having the assistance of someone who is trained and experienced in the process will provide the best opportunity for smooth and expedient application processing.

For more information or assistance with filing an application for benefits, contact one of the organizations identified above.

Dennis Thayer

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 11.21.25

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:14:53 GMT

The Georgia Public Safety Training Center is hosting the National Fire Academy's Command and Control of Fire Department Operations at Target Hazards.

This 6-day, 48 Hour course is designed to introduce command officers to the complexities involved in commanding incidents in high-risk areas. Students are confronted with a number of fire and rescue incidents that include high life hazard, multiple exposure and unusual occupancy risk considerations. Students are taught operational applications in the Incident Command System (ICS), command and control, decision-making, strategic and tactical considerations, pre-incident preparation, documentation, and post-incident analysis.

Register Today

Ike McConnell

Director, Training Bureau

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Save the Date: Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 03:02:55 GMT

Save the Date:

Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner

February 3, 2026

Plans are well underway for the 54th Firefighters Recognition Day and Legislative Dinner on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

Program Details

Recognition Day Program: 2:30 pm at the Georgia State Capitol
Dinner Event: 5:30 pm at the Georgia Freight Depot

Registration

We plan to open registration on Monday, December 1. Additional details and the registration link will be shared soon, so please watch your email.

We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta to honor Georgia’s fire service and connect with our legislators.

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

NFFF Action Alert - Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:07:09 GMT

NFFF ACTION ALERT –

ASK CONGRESS

TO PASS THE HONORING OUR FALLEN HEROES ACT

On January 23rd, Senator Amy Klobuchar (MN) and Senator Kevin Cramer (ND) introduced S. 237, the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act. The legislation expands the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program to line-of-duty deaths and permanent disabilities that occur because of certain cancers. On February 12th, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-5) introduced companion legislation, H.R. 1269.

The PSOB program provides benefits to the survivors of public safety officers who die in the line of duty, as well as disability benefits to officers who become permanently disabled due to injuries sustained in the line of duty. The legislation was included as part of the Senate-passed annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The House and Senate are now resolving differences between the two chambers' versions of the NDAA, and NFFF and our national fire service partners are advocating for the inclusion of S. 237.

Please reach out to your members of Congress and ask them to support the inclusion of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act in the final version of the NDAA. This is critical legislation that will help support the families of our nation’s firefighters.

Visit this link to contact your members of Congress: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member . Additionally, our friends at the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) have created a VoterVoice campaign and asked us to share it: https://www.votervoice.net/IAFF/campaigns/106899/respond .

Please reach out to Congress today. Thank you.

________________________________

Sean Patrick Carroll

Director of Government Relations

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Cell: (703) 795-6213

www.firehero.org

Ceremony honoring Fire Recruit Kalif Daly

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 01:56:24 GMT

Ceremony Honoring Fire Recruit Kalif Daly

Friday 11/14/2025 at from 1600 hrs. to 1900 hrs., a visitation will be held at Platt's 337 N Belair Rd, Evans, GA 30809

Funeral Services

Saturday 11/15/2024

Any departments wishing to place apparatus in the procession staging will begin at 07:30 – 08:00, at Platt's (337 N Belair Rd, Evans, GA 30809). Please arrive by 0800.

Any uniformed personnel wishing to attend that are not riding on an apparatus are asked to arrive at Aldersgate Methodist UMC 3185 Wheeler Rd., Augusta, GA 30909 by 09:00 hrs.

At 08:30, the procession will depart Platt's and proceed to Aldersgate UMC (3185 Wheeler Rd., Augusta, GA 30909). Be advised due to limited space at the church all apparatus in the procession may not be park at the church and attend the service.

From 09:00-10:00, Recruit Daly will lie in state.

The funeral service will begin at 10:00 hrs., at Aldersgate Methodist UMC 3185 Wheeler Rd., Augusta, GA 30909.

Respectfully,

Fire Administration

Final Services -Scott Ard

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:36:32 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

Final Services for Georgia Fire Academy Assistant Chief Ard are as follows:

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Rock Springs Church, 219 Rock Springs Road in Milner, GA from 17:30 to 19:30.

The funeral and interment will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, at Rock Springs Church, 219 Rock Springs Road in Milner, GA starting at 10:00.

While there will not be a procession, departments wishing to send apparatus are asked to arrive at the church at 09:00. They will be parked in the parking lot adjacent to the church as a show of support.

Thank you for all of your support,

Ike McConnell

Director, Training Bureau

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

�� Sign Up Today at HendrickCars.com/Georgia Fleet Training Day

Passing of Executive Director Gordon Thomas Henderson

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 17:35:07 GMT

The Georgia State Firefighters Association is sad to report that former Georgia Firefighters Standards and Training Council Executive Director Gordon Thomas Henderson has passed away at the age of 79 following a courageous battle with cancer.

Chief Henderson's fire service career began in Rome, Georgia, in 1975, where he dedicated 39 years of his life before retiring in November 2014. Throughout his tenure at the Rome Fire Department, he held various positions, including Firefighter, Engineer, Company Officer, Training Officer, Chief Officer, and ultimately, Fire Chief.

In 2010, Chief Henderson was appointed to the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council by Governor Sonny Perdue, where he served, including a term as Chairman. On November 19, 2014, he was named Executive Director of the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council (GFSTC).

During his time as Executive Director, Chief Henderson worked diligently to enhance professionalism within the Georgia Fire Service. His unwavering commitment and passion were evident daily throughout his service.

He will be profoundly missed, and the Georgia Fire Service owes him a great deal of gratitude for his dedication and contributions. The Georgia State Firefighters Association extends its heartfelt condolences to his family. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy will endure for many years to come.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 8.25.25

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 16:16:40 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

We are hosting Fleet Training Days next week here at the training center. We have plenty of room, two sessions each day, and lunch provided so sign up today.

August 26–28 | Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC)

Hosted by: Georgia Public Safety Training Center & Georgia Fleet Day Committee

Register for one of the training sessions hosted by GPSTC over an impactful three-day event designed to help government officials and public safety professionals enhance their fleet budgeting strategies and streamline operations for emergency vehicles—including police, fire, and first responder units.

Whether you're a municipal leader, fleet manager, or public safety decision-maker, this event offers practical solutions and real-world insights that will help you make more informed, efficient, and cost-conscious decisions.

Why You Should Attend

· ✔️ Hands-On Experience: Vehicle walkthroughs, static displays, and demo drives on the GPSTC test track.

· ✔️ Vendor Solutions Expo : Meet top industry vendors

· ✔️ Peer Networking & Panels: Hear firsthand experiences from law enforcement fleet managers during a catered lunch session.

· ✔️ Earn Training Credit: Qualifies for state training credits toward your annual requirement.

· ✔️ Support a Worthy Cause: All proceeds support Bert’s Big Adventure , enriching the lives of children with chronic and terminal illnesses.

Sign Up Today

�� Location : Georgia Public Safety Training Center (Forsyth, GA)

�� Register Online : HendrickCars.com/GeorgiaFleetTrainingDay

Help drive better outcomes for your department and your community—and be part of an event that fuels both professional growth and meaningful impact.

Ike McConnell

Director, Training Bureau

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

�� Sign Up Today at HendrickCars.com/Georgia Fleet Training Day

Fully Involved: An important update from us 7-31-25

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:37:35 GMT

AN EVENT YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS!

 Empowering Smarter Spending: Georgia Fleet Training Day

August 26–28 | Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC)

Hosted by: Georgia Public Safety Training Center & Georgia Fleet Day Committee

Why You Should Attend

✔️ Hands-On Experience: Vehicle walkthroughs, static displays, and demo drives on the GPSTC test track.

✔️ Vendor Solutions Expo : Meet top industry vendors

✔️ Peer Networking & Panels: Hear firsthand experiences from law enforcement fleet managers during a catered lunch session.

✔️ Earn Training Credit: Qualifies for state training credits toward your annual requirement.

✔️ Support a Worthy Cause: All proceeds support Bert’s Big Adventure , enriching the lives of children with chronic and terminal illnesses.

Sign Up Today

�� Location : Georgia Public Safety Training Center (Forsyth, GA)

�� Register Online : HendrickCars.com/GeorgiaFleetTrainingDay

Help drive better outcomes for your department and your community—and be part of an event that fuels both professional growth and meaningful impact.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 7.30.25

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 16:17:48 GMT

Join us for the GSFA/GAFC Memorial Motorcycle Ride on October 10, 2025, as we honor Georgia’s fallen firefighters and emergency service members.

This special ride is held in conjunction with GPSTC’s LODD Memorial Service and supports the Georgia Fallen Fire and Emergency Services Memorial Fund.

�� Staging Area: Walmart in Forsyth

�� 9:00–10:45 AM

�� KSU at 10:45 AM to GPSTC

�� Memorial Service: 11:00–11:30 AM

��️ Memorial ride to follow

��️ $20 per bike | $5 per passenger | $25 other vehicles

✅ Motorcycles, Trikes, Sling Shots, and Jeeps welcome!

�� Scan the QR code on the flyer to register or click the link below!

Let’s ride in remembrance and support a great cause. All proceeds benefit the Georgia Fallen Fire and Emergency Services Memorial Fund.

2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Memorial Service

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 17:43:07 GMT

2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference

September 30 - October 4, 2025

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Thursday, October 2nd at 12:30 p.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

If you have lost a current or retired member of your department since the last conference (November 2024), please submit their information so that they may be recognized.

All information is due by August 31, 2025

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Forsyth!

2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference Registration

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:42:51 GMT

2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference

September 30 - October 4, 2025

We’re excited to share that registration for the 2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference will be opening soon!

�� September 30 – October 4, 2025

�� Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC), Forsyth, GA

Make sure to mark your calendars for an action-packed week of hands-on training, dynamic speakers, and valuable networking opportunities. More details on sessions and registration will be available soon.

Important Registration Notes:

GPSTC Registration Required for Credit: In addition to conference registration, you must also register with GPSTC to receive course credit.
HOT Classes: If you're planning to participate in Hands-On Training (HOT) classes, each class requires separate registration through GPSTC. These classes have limited availability and fill quickly!
Lodging Information: Hotel details will be included in the registration packet. GPSTC will also offer a limited number of dorm rooms on-site.

Stay tuned—we’ll be sending out the official registration link and more details very soon!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Applications & More Information

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Forsyth!

Interact with Fire Service Vendors:

Exhibit Hall open on Wednesday and Thursday

Make plans to visit the Exhibit Hall on Wednesday afternoon during the opening reception from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. and again on Thursday from 9:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. to interact with the conference vendors and learn more about their products, services and programs.

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter for Recognition

GSFA Annual Awards

Firefighter of the Year
Rookie of the Year
Instructor of the Year
Training Officer of the Year
Educator of the Year
Valor Award
Dave Gray Memorial Firefighter Leadership Award

Deadline: August 10, 2025

GAFC Annual Awards

Fire Chief of the Year
Chief Officer of the Year
Fire Chief / Fire Officer Certifications

Information coming soon..

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

If you have lost a current or retired member of your department since the last conference (September 2024), please submit their information so that they may be recognized. All information is due by August 31, 2025.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 7.12.25

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 20:48:11 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

This symposium is next week and we have plenty of room.

There is absolutely no question that the number one killer of active and retired law enforcement officers and firefighters is heart disease. The average age of a police officer who suffers a heart attack is 46, and the life expectancy of men and women in uniform is more than 22 years less than the general population. Published data shows that, between the ages of 55 and 60, the chance of a civilian dying from a heart attack is 1.6%. However, within populations of police officers and firefighters, it is 56%. Join Dr. Stone for an in-depth overview of the early detection model, specific to public safety, that he and his team are creating in an effort to permanently change these shocking statistics.

In his presentation, Dr. Stone will outline the scope of heart disease within public safety occupations and will discuss why it appears to be so prevalent within high-stress occupations. The presentation will involve a complete breakdown of cardiac disease within public safety occupations. Each participant will leave with a renewed understanding of the prerequisite diagnostics necessary to properly identify cardiac risk specific to occupations of public safety.

There will be two sessions on July 16, 2025. To sign up use the following links:

AM Session

PM Session

Ike McConnell

Director, Training Bureau

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Application Period Now Open for the DripDrop Hydration Giveback Campaign

200,000 sticks of DripDrop electrolyte powder to be donated, in partnership with the NVFC

The application period for the 2025 DripDrop Hydration Giveback Campaign is now open. For the sixth year, DripDrop has partnered with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to provide 200,000 electrolyte sticks to volunteer fire departments to keep responders hydrated during wildfires, summer heat, long incidents, and more. A total of 1,000 volunteer fire departments will receive 2 cases (200 sticks) each of electrolyte powder.

Firefighters work in high-heat, high-stress environments while wearing hefty gear and carrying heavy equipment. Without the proper precautions, this can lead to dehydration and heat related injuries. DripDrop is fast, proven hydration that works to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes quickly, so responders can perform at their best, both physically and mentally.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with DripDrop electrolyte powder to make sure that volunteer departments have the resources they need to protect their responders from dehydration and avoid heat-related illness and injury,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “Local volunteer departments often have to stretch every penny, and this donation will ensure that they are able to provide critical hydration to those who keep their communities safe.”

“We’re honored to collaborate with the National Volunteer Fire Council for the sixth year in a row to support volunteer fire departments across the U.S.,” said John Shea, Chief Marketing Officer at DripDrop Hydration. “It’s a privilege to have earned the trust of firefighters nationwide, and we’re proud to help power their heroic efforts to ensure their communities stay safe.

The application period closes at 8pm ET on July 22. Apply at www.dripdrop.com/NVFC-2025 .

To be eligible to apply, departments must meet the following criteria:

At least one member of the department must be an active member of the NVFC. Member name and email address used for NVFC portal login must be provided. If you don’t know your member status, click here to find out. Learn about member benefits and join here .
The department must be over 50% volunteer; paid on-call is considered volunteer.
The department must be located in the U.S. and legally organized under state law.
A physical address must be provided for shipping; product cannot be shipped to P.O. Boxes. Entries with a P.O. Box will be disqualified.
Recipients must use the donation for the benefit of their department and not for any other purpose; cannot be resold.
Recipients agree that their department name, details from application, and photo may be used in media by DripDrop and the NVFC for the purposes of promoting the program.
Only one application will be accepted per department; any subsequent applications received for that department are ineligible.
Please note: Priority consideration will be given to departments that respond to wildfires and those that did not receive a donation in 2024.

###

About DripDrop Hydration, PBC

DripDrop is an oral rehydration solution (ORS) invented by Dr. Eduardo Dolhun while on life saving humanitarian aid missions across the globe. It was created for fast hydration in the most challenging circumstances where IVs were not an option. DripDrop is a breakthrough in hydration, designed for both speed and taste to deliver the fastest hydration possible, and is trusted by doctors, firefighters, professional athletes, and the U.S. Military. DripDrop is proven hydration for exercise, heat, performance, travel, sleep, and wellness. As a Public Benefit Corporation, DripDrop is committed to defeating dehydration and each purchase generates life-saving donations and hands-on support across the globe. For more information, or to find a store that carries DripDrop, visit www.dripdrop.com .

Fully Involved: GSFA Awards Program

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 15:22:59 GMT

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Award Nominations Due July 15th

Since 1972, GSFA has recognized firefighters through its annual recognition program. Award recipients will be recognized at the 2026 Firefighters Recognition Day. Recognition is given for the following categories:

Company Officer of the Year

Dave Gray Memorial Leadership Award

Educator of the Year

Firefighter of the Year

Instructor of the Year

Life Saving Valor Award

Rookie of the Year

All nominations must be received no later than July 15, 2025. For nomination forms and more information, click here .

2025 Georgia State Firefighters Association

Fire Department Grant & Scholarship Applications

Application Deadline: July 15, 2025

Applications must be received by GSFA by the deadline. A drawing will be held at the 2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference scheduled for September 30 - October 4, 2025 in Forsyth, Georgia from those individuals that submit qualified applications meeting all scholarship eligibility & grant requirements. GSFA will award up to six scholarships in the amount of $500 and up to two grants in the amount of $1000.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 6.6.25

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 17:11:49 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

There will be two sessions on July 16, 2025. To sign up use the following links:

0800 - 1200 Session

1300 - 1700 Session

Ike McConnell

Director, Training Bureau

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Georgia NERIS Information

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 6.2.25

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 16:41:37 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

As we transition from NFIRS to the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) for incident reporting, the State Fire Marshal's Office has asked that we send you the following link:

It's crucial that you provide the requested information to verify your Fire Department Reporting Contact.

Thank you for your support in this matter.

Ike McConnell

Director, Training Bureau

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

https://youtu.be/J41nwcPMmZ8?si=XlQrBqueWfpVi3EZ

Registration Now Open – Promotional Preparation Workshop on June 26!

Wed, 21 May 2025 19:50:34 GMT

Promotional Preparation Workshop

Are you preparing for a promotion or looking to sharpen your professional skills? We’re excited to announce that registration is now open for our upcoming Promotional Preparation Workshop!

�� Date: Thursday, June 26, 2025

�� Location: Mercer University – Macon

�� Time: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM

�� Cost: FREE for members | $25 for non-members (includes a 1-year membership!)

This full-day, in-person workshop is designed to help you feel confident and prepared when the next promotional opportunity comes your way. Topics include:

✅ Test-Taking Strategies

✅ Resume Tips & Personalized Review

✅ Dress for Success

✅ Mock Tactical Simulation

✅ Mock Interview Panel

Whether you're just starting to prepare or ready to take that next step, this is a great opportunity to gain practical tools, receive expert guidance, and build your confidence.

�� Registration is now open—secure your spot today!

We hope to see you in Macon this June!

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 4.17.25

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:47:35 GMT

I 'd like to invite you to a private documentary screening that Applied Information is hosting in Marietta, GA on May 3rd. We've spent the past six months producing The Next Right Thing, a documentary which shows how the lives of four Marietta locals became intertwined by the opioid crisis - including the role that transportation has to play in supporting the people who need it most.

The screening will be followed by a Q&A with the film's participants, and guests are encouraged to make a donation to the Davis Direction Foundation - the recovery support organization featured in the documentary - on their way out.

Watch the film's trailer and RSVP now to secure your tickets.

https://glance-films.com/marietta-screening/

When: May 3, 2025

Where: The Earl & Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, Marietta, GA

Doors open 7pm | Screening starts 8pm | Q&A 9pm

2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Call for Papers

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 20:07:15 GMT

�� Call for Papers ��

Teach at the 2025 Georgia Fire Service Conference!

We learn best from our peers—come teach a class in Forsyth! This is your opportunity to share your knowledge and experience with fire service professionals from across the state.

�� Click here to submit your class proposal!

We are currently accepting classes for all ranks and topics!

This year’s conference is shaping up to be one of the best yet, with a great turnout expected. We strongly encourage departments to send multiple members to attend and take advantage of the new offerings.

�� What’s New This Year?

Multi-track hands-on training
Traditional classroom sessions
A renewed focus on collaboration and peer learning

Let’s come together as Team Georgia Fire—learning, bonding, and growing stronger together!

��️ Deadline to Submit Your Proposal: May 16, 2025

�� Start assembling your competition teams now! Show your department’s skills, teamwork, and spirit on the big stage.��

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 4.10.25

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 20:32:03 GMT

A Tribute to Chief Morgan: The Grandfather of Georgia Fire Service

CLICK HERE FOR MEMORIAL SERVICE INFORMATION

In the rich and storied history of Georgia’s fire service, few names carry te weight, honor, and reverence of Chief Morgan—affectionately known by many as “The Grandfather of Georgia Fire Service.” His life’s work was more than a career; it was a legacy forged in courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of every Georgian.

Chief Morgan’s journey began as Fire Chief for the City of Conyers, where he laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong pursuit of excellence in public safety. His leadership soon extended to Rockdale County, and ultimately to the consolidated Rockdale County Fire Department, where he served with distinction for over four decades.

Throughout his career, Chief Morgan was a tireless advocate and visionary leader. He played a critical role in revolutionizing firefighter training and qualifications, ensuring that those who answered the call were equipped with the knowledge, discipline, and skill required to save lives. His efforts brought about vast improvements in fire safety, prevention equipment, and modernized facilities, preparing departments across the state for the challenges of an evolving world.

His influence reached far beyond the firehouse. Recognizing the urgent need for timely emergency response, Chief Morgan championed the development of emergency medical services and lifesaving techniques. His dedication led to the introduction of legislation—through former State Senator Jeff Mullis—that established the 911 emergency call system throughout Georgia, a move that has since saved countless lives and set a standard for emergency communication.

But Chief Morgan’s service did not stop with local impact. He was a relentless advocate for legislation that benefited firefighters, first responders, and their families, understanding that those who dedicate their lives to protecting others deserve unwavering support in return. His voice resonated in the halls of government, leading to real, lasting change.

As a testament to his expertise and leadership, Chief Morgan served for six years on the Georgia Public Safety Council, where he helped guide statewide policies and initiatives. His wisdom and influence extended across borders as he provided key leadership in statewide, southeastern, and international Firefighters and Fire Chiefs associations, mentoring generations of fire service professionals.

To know Chief Morgan was to witness a life lived in the service of others. His legacy is etched not only in the policies he helped shape or the institutions he strengthened but also in the lives he touched and the communities he protected.

Today, we honor a true giant in Georgia’s public safety history. Chief Morgan was more than a chief—he was a mentor, a pioneer, a protector, and a patriarch of the fire service family. His light will continue to burn in the heart of every firefighter who dons the uniform, and in every life saved through the systems he helped build.

May his legacy continue to inspire, and may we forever honor the example he set.

Rest well, Chief. Your watch is complete.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 4.9.25

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 15:26:28 GMT

Volunteer Firefighter Interviews

Please see below from our partners NFPA Research Foundation/NDRI in reference to a research project our 3 organizations area working on. They are still seeking interviewees and your help is needed. If you are able to participate, please sign up for an interview below, or if you know someone else that would be a good fit, please pass this along :

Your participation is needed!

You are invited to participate in the project Understanding the Role of Training on Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment and Retention . This project was funded by FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Fire Prevention and Safety Grant #EMW-2022-FP-00935 to the Fire Protection Research Foundation (the research affiliate of NFPA) and is being conducted by researchers from Social Sciences Innovations Corporation (SSIC) with support from the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and the North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD). We appreciate you taking the time to complete this survey. Your feedback is essential to help us understand the structure and needs of volunteer fire departments. Your responses will remain confidential and anonymous.

What: We are conducting state‐level interviews from at least two departments from each state. These interviews (through virtual meetings) are expected to capture formal departments or organizations that represent volunteer firefighters from nearly all 50 states , and diverse community types (rural, suburban, urban) and structures (volunteer, paid‐on‐call and combination). Please go to https://bit.ly/43fI0ZK to sign up for an interview.

Who: All volunteer firefighters, company officers, chief-level officers, organizational leaders are invited to participate.

Reach out to Dr. Brittany Hollerbach at: hollerbach@ndri-usa.org with any questions.

Other Important Info:

Voluntary Participation

Participation is voluntary at all times . You may choose not to participate or to withdraw your participation at any time. Deciding not to participate or choosing to leave the interview or survey will not result in any penalty. You may refuse to answer any questions. If you withdraw from the study, the information you have already provided will be used for the project and remain confidential.

Fees and Expenses

There will be no expenses incurred on your part as a result of participation.

Risks/Inconveniences and Benefits

There are no known risks associated with the survey or interview. There may be questions that are uncomfortable to answer, you may refrain from answering any such questions. We cannot and do not guarantee or promise that you will receive any benefits from this study. Your decision whether to participate in this survey will not affect your employment.

Questions

If you have any questions concerning this project or to report any possible injury that might result from your participation, please feel free to contact Dr. Hollerbach at 913-709-9035. In addition, you may contact Carol Tarzian at (888) 845-4695 to answer any questions about your rights as project participant.

Sarah Lee

Chief Executive Officer

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

https://cfsi.org/support-NFA/

Good Afternoon!

Please see attached a flyer regarding a free EV/AFV Incident Management course being offered June 3 in Murphy, NC. Please share with the appropriate regions of your state.

Thank you!

Rachel

Rachel Buczynski, M.S.Ed.

Chief of Training and Education

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

E: Rachel@nvfc.org

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.17.25

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 20:53:19 GMT

Remember Fallen Firefighters,

One Bell at Time

Every year, communities across the country come together for Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters , a moving tribute honoring America’s firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We invite fire departments, places of worship, carillonneurs, and community organizations to take part in this meaningful tradition.

Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters is part of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend , when the nation pauses to honor firefighters who have died in the line of duty. By ringing bells in remembrance on May 3-4, 2025, you show Fire Hero Families that their loved ones are never forgotten. Whether you host a public ceremony, toll a bell at your station, or invite your community to participate, you ensure that their legacy lives on.

This is your opportunity to be part of this nationwide movement.

Let’s ring out to remember our fallen fire heroes!

Together, we can echo the sound of

remembrance nationwide.

Box Alarm Alert (3/13/25)

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 12:29:08 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

March 13, 2025

TAKE ACTION TODAY: Reopen the National Fire Academy

The Georgia State Firefighters Association is deeply troubled by the federal spending cuts that have affected the National Fire Academy. Canceling on-campus and field delivery classes until further notice is a significant blow. These classes are not just a resource but also a lifeline for first responders in the United States and worldwide, providing them with training, knowledge, and expertise that cannot be obtained at the state and local levels.

The potential impact on public safety is a grave concern. The National Fire Academy and Emergency Management Institute, with its long tradition of providing the highest caliber of training, is a cornerstone of emergency services' higher learning, both nationally and internationally.

WHAT CAN YOU DO? TAKE ACTION TODAY TO REOPEN NFA:

Visit CFSI’s NFA Action Center for talking points and guidance on reaching out to Congress and the Administration to ask them to reopen NFA.
Fill out CFSI’s survey on the value of the National Fire Academy. Click on the link below to access the survey and other valuable information about this issue.

Also, write to your representatives in Congress. The following website will give you tips on how to script an email. Please click on the link below to access tips and script for an email:

https://cfsi.org/advocacy-and-outreach/#writing

We must take a stand and let them know these cuts will not be tolerated.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.7.25

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 22:41:49 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

Please see the following message from the National Fire Academy Superintendent. This will not affect most of our local offerings, it will only affect our Direct Deliveries and we will notify students directly. I will keep you updated as further information becomes available.

FEMA is currently in the process of evaluating agency programs and spending to ensure alignment with Administration priorities. While this review is underway, we will be cancelling all in person training offered by the National Fire Academy (on and off campus). For those courses that can continue virtually, we will do so, and you will receive more information soon. For those that are unable to proceed in a virtual format we will reevaluate rescheduling of courses once the review is complete.

Eriks Gabliks

Superintendent | National Fire Academy | U.S. Fire Administration

Office 301-447-1117

Eriks.gabliks@fema.dhs.gov

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.6.25

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 23:33:23 GMT

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 3.5.25

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 21:52:05 GMT

Dear Georgia Firefighters,

As some of you know, especially in the Augusta area, we have been fighting (the county commissioners and the courts) to open Valor Station-Augusta. To get to the point we are at today has taken six years. We are happy to report that we will be officially open on April 1st!

Valor Station is an intensive outpatient (IOP) facility for First Responders, by First Responders. We are the only First Responder-exclusive 501c3 recovery facility in the nation. We are in historic downtown Augusta, along the Savannah River. Most programs are 28 days but can go longer on a case-by-case basis. Firefighters, Law Enforcement Officers, Medics, Corrections Officers and 911 Operators can have reactions to the things we encounter at work that the general public may never understand. Unique problems call for a unique solution. Our goal and bottom line at VS is to return First Responders to their jobs and families happier and healthier. Please call if there is anything I can do or answer any questions. I have attached the link to our website. Since we are a non-profit, we will rely heavily on donations to stay up and running. If you know of anyone who can help, please pass this along. If you know a first responder who needs help, most definitely, please pass this along! We have an amazing staff and will only grow moving forward.

Valor Station

Thanks,

Andy

Andrew Carrier, LCSW

Capt - GSP, Ret

Chief Operations Officer

Valor Station-Augusta, Inc.

404 Telfair Street

Augusta, GA 30901

706-670-9797 - Main

706-836-4410 - Cell

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 2.26.25

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 21:32:16 GMT

Call Your House Member to Support HB 578

We need your help! House Bill 578 is crucial for enhancing emergency 9-1-1 services across Georgia by increasing funding to ensure first responders have the resources they need.

Please take a few minutes today to call your local House member and urge them to support HB 578. Your voice can make a difference in strengthening emergency response capabilities for our communities.

Find your legislator here: https://www.legis.ga.gov/find-my-legislator

Thank you for your support in advocating for Georgia’s firefighters and public safety professionals.

Fire Service Leaders,

As you seek to serve the members of your communities in a variety of ways, I am writing to request your assistance in participation and/or promotion of a significant event that will support the many veterans in communities across the State that are in need of services and assistance.

The Supporting Our Veterans Golf Tournament will support Discovering Soldiers Potential, a non-profit organization that seeks to provide temporary, safe housing and provide transition services for our veterans. This new facility will be located in Spalding County, Georgia, but will serve veterans from across the State. A new service center will be opening and will have accommodations for veterans until they are able to get on their feet.

The tournament will be held at the Lake Jonesco Golf Course in Gray, Georgia on March 31, 2025.

This tournament is a service project for the Certified Public Manager program that we have several GPSTC members currently attending. I ask that you consider participating in this event and / or sharing the information about the event with your colleagues. With your support, we can ensure that this tournament receives the attention and participation it deserves for our veterans.

I have attached a flyer and ask that you share the following link. It can be used to find out more information or sign up your teams today.

Supporting Our Veterans Golf Classic

Your assistance in promoting this event and/or participation is greatly appreciated.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 2.20.25

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 17:37:58 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is pleased to announce that we will be hosting a NFA Direct Delivery of the course "Youth Firesetting Interviewing and Educational Intervention Strategies" on April 15-16, 2025.

This two-day course is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to conduct interviews/screenings and develop educational intervention programs for youth displaying fire misuse behaviors. The course will also cover how to implement these strategies to effectively address the needs of both the youth and their families.

The target audience for this course includes individuals with responsibilities related to youth firesetting intervention programs within their agency or community. We encourage mental and behavioral health professionals, social services staff, law enforcement, juvenile justice and probation personnel, fire investigators, and healthcare professionals to attend.

The course will be held at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center on April 15th and 16th, 2025. Please use the following link to register:

Youth Firesetting Interviewing and Educational Interventions

Please share the attached flyer.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Good morning,

The NVFC is pleased to announce that the application period for the 2025 MSA and DuPont’s Globe Gear Giveaway is now open. A total of 52 sets of Globe® turnout gear and 52 MSA Cairns® helmets will be awarded to 13 volunteer fire departments in need (four sets of gear and four helmets per department). The first 500 applicants will also receive a complimentary NVFC membership, courtesy of MSA. Attached is a press release – please help us get the word out to your audience.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

2025 Firefighters Recognition Day & Dinner - Photos to Share

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 15:38:00 GMT

2025 Firefighter Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation & Awards Dinner

THANKS TO ALL WHO JOINED US

2025 Firefighter Annual Recognition Day

and Annual Legislative Appreciation & Awards Dinner

We are excited to share a special photo gallery from the 2025 Firefighters Recognition Day, which took place on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Now in its 53rd year, this significant event brought together state leaders, fellow firefighters, and experts for valuable networking and discussions about the future of fire service in Georgia. Established by law, this day serves as both a celebration of the fire service community and a recognition of the incredible contributions you make every day.

The day began at the State Capitol, where state leaders honored the dedication of fire service personnel and presented commendations to award recipients from the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs, and Georgia Fire Inspectors Association.

Later that evening, more than 200 fire service members and legislators gathered at the Georgia Freight Depot for a memorable barbecue dinner, expertly prepared by the Vienna Fire Department. The Awards Ceremony followed, celebrating the top achievements of the year.

We hope you enjoy viewing the photo gallery, and thank you again for all that you do for our community.

Thanks to our Event Sponsors!

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 2.12.25

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 17:56:15 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy has immediate openings in the course Basic Firefighter Training Course starting March 7, 2025.

Course Description: The Basic Firefighter Training Course (BFTC) is a 10 week (428 hour) course beginning on a Friday with Day 0 for orientation and overview. The course meets or exceeds the standards in NFPA 1001 (current), as well as NFPA 1072 (current). The students will be tested mentally and physically in stages throughout the course delivery to ensure competence and ability at the various levels of basic firefighting. During the course, testing will include weekly written tests administered by the Georgia Fire Academy Division. Practical skill performance and evaluation will occur throughout the course to ensure competency in job performance capabilities necessary culminating in a 24 hour drill exercise. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have achieved Firefighter I, HAZMAT Awareness and Operations, Structural Fire Control, and Interior Search and Rescue.

This is a 51-day delivery and will be held 03/07/2025 to 05/16/2025 on the Forsyth campus of the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.

Use the following link to register: Basic Firefighter Training Course - 03/07/2025 - 05/16/2025

See attached for further,

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Good morning,

The NVFC is excited to announce that the application period is now open for the STEPR Health and Safety Giveaway. Three volunteer fire departments will receive a STEPR PRO+ stair climber, accessory pack, initial warranty, and accompanying training to help foster physical and mental wellness among responders and provide innovative health and safety resources for those who selflessly serve their communities. A press release is attached; please share with your audience.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

Webinar - Essentials of Volunteer Retention & Recruitment

Feb. 13 at 2pm ET

Presenter: Tom Merrill

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.

Tom Merrill is a 42-year fire department veteran and serves with the Snyder Fire Department in Amherst, NY (first ring suburb of the City of Buffalo). He served 26 years as a department officer including 15 years in the chief officer ranks. He was chief of department from 2007-2012 and currently serves as a fire commissioner for the Snyder Fire District. Tom has conducted various fire service presentations and keynote addresses throughout the country and also hosts a regular podcast sponsored by Fire Engineering titled “The Professional Volunteer Fire Department.” His book, The Professional Volunteer Fire Department, was published by Fire Engineering Books and Videos and was released in September 2023. Tom is employed full time as the senior fire dispatcher in charge of the Town of Amherst Central Fire Alarm Office.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 1.24.25

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 22:11:27 GMT

NVFC PIT Crew Hazmat Train-the-Trainer - Thomson, GA

Free hazmat train-the-trainer courses - no experience needed!

The NVFC, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), is offering a hazmat train-the-trainer program: Partners in Training (PIT) Crew. This project will help first responders gain the knowledge and skills they need to train others in their communities on hazmat safety and response. Experienced hazmat trainers and those new to the field are welcome to participate. After course completion, attendees will receive a materials toolkit and session slides to help them teach these courses to others. Find out more at www.nvfc.org/hazmat .

Date and Time

Friday, March 28, 2025 - 0900-1700 ET

Saturday, March 29, 2025 - 0900-1700 ET

Location

Thomson Depot

111 Railroad Street

Thomson, GA 30824

Course Offerings

Friday: Teaching Hazmat Basics (7 hours)

Sunday: Instructor Training for Flammable Gases (3 hours) and Teaching Cargo Tank Awareness - MC 306 & DOT 406 (3 hours)

Travel and Logistics

Closest airport: Augusta Regional Airport (AGS)

Recommended Hotels:

Hampton Inn , 1702 Washington Road, Thomson, GA 30824
Comfort Inn , 1893 Washington Road, Thomson, GA 30824

Training site parking: Free lot

Meals and refreshments: lunch provided daily; bring a water bottle

Attire: casual (no gear needed)

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 1.16.25

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 18:24:58 GMT

VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS NEEDED. You are invited to participate in the project: Understanding the Role of Training on Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment and Retention. This project was funded by the Fire Protection Research Foundation (part of NFPA) and is being conducted by researchers from Social Sciences Innovations Corporation (SSIC) with support from the National Volunteer Fire Council. Your feedback is essential to help us understand the structure and needs of volunteer fire departments. The information collected will be used to enhance and tailor training programs to better serve your needs and improve overall effectiveness. Click this link to learn more and take the survey: https://ndri1.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_38cBV75jmsLVqui.

Reach out to Dr. Brittany Hollerbach at hollerbach@ndri-usa.org with any questions.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 1.10.25

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 21:50:27 GMT

January is Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize the impact of work-related cancer in the fire service. Almost every fire scene can expose firefighters to chemicals that may increase their risk of cancer.

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) created the National Firefighter Registry (NFR) for Cancer to better understand cancer risk in the fire service. When you join the NFR for Cancer, you share information about your work history, health, and exposures that can pave the way for new health and safety measures.

All U.S. firefighters – with or without cancer, active or retired, and any specialty - can join.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 1.8.25

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:19:26 GMT

NVFC Awards

The National Volunteer Fire Council annually honors volunteers whose achievements in the fire service and community exemplify outstanding performance. Learn more about each award below.

The nomination period for the NVFC’s annual awards is open through 5pm EST on January 17.

Learn about the recipients of the 2024 awards here . View the list of previous NVFC award winners here . If you are interested in sponsoring an NVFC achievement award, contact Meg Goldberg at meg@nvfc.org .

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 12.16.24

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 20:31:47 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is conducting a Fire Instructor I course on the GPSTC Forsyth campus January 6 – 10, 2025.

This program addresses the job performance requirements of the National Fire Protection Agency, 1041 Standard for Fire Service Instructor Qualifications, Instructor 1. The course prepares the program participants for planning instruction, using a variety of methods, teaching diverse learners, and evaluating course outcomes. The course also provides guidelines for addressing the critical issues of safety and the legal issues of training, and it provides opportunities to participate in application activities.

The target audience personnel who desire to become trainers for their organization.

This is a 5-day delivery and will be held January 6 – 10, 2025 at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.

Use the following link to register: Fire Instructor I

Please share with your members.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4697

1000 Indian Springs Dr, Forsyth, GA 31029

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 12.9.24

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:23:54 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following course: Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations-Core on January 06, 2025, - January 10th, 2025, at GPSTC, Forsyth Campus. The class will be held at the Firefighter Training Complex.

This course will provide the Hazardous Materials Responder with the basic information to respond safely and efficiently to hazardous materials/weapons of mass destruction incidents. The responder will be able analyze, plan a response, implement the planned response and evaluate progress for the purpose of protecting nearby persons, the environment, or property from the effects of the release. This course is for individuals seeking NPQ Firefighter 1 or to expand their knowledge of Hazardous Materials Response.

Use the following link to register:

Hazmat Core Registration

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4697

1000 Indian Springs Dr, Forsyth, GA 31029

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 12.6.24

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:13:55 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following course: Insurance Services Office (ISO) Update on January 14, 2025, at GPSTC, Forsyth Campus. The class will be held in the Auditorium and starts at 8:00am.

This course will provide the student with an overview of the Insurance Services Office Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS). Classroom discussion along with question-and-answer sessions will provide the student information on the various aspects of ISO, the Rating Schedule Program, and the newest changes that effect the Fire Service.

This course is designed for Fire Officers, City & County Administrators, City & County Council or Commission members, Communication Center Directors, Water Utility Directors.

Use the following link to register:

ISO Update

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4697

1000 Indian Springs Dr, Forsyth, GA 31029

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 12.3.24

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 20:41:16 GMT

Mark your Calendars for 2025 key fire service events

The Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs and the Georgia State Firefighter Association are planning to hold the following events. More information forthcoming and we look forward to having you and your department join us.

February 4, 2025 Atlanta, Georgia - 53rd ANNUAL FIREFIGHTER RECOGNITION DAY AND 18th ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE APPRECIATION DINNER

March 29 - April 2, 2025 Savannah, Georgia - GEORGIA ASSOCIATION OF FIRE CHIEFS - 2025 SPRING EXECUTIVE TRAINING SESSION

September 30 – October 3, 2025 | Forsyth, Georgia - GEORGIA FIRE SERVICE FALL CONFERENCE

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 11.7.24

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:11:29 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy has immediate openings in several classes as we close in on the end of 2024.

Those classes are as follows:

Health and Safety Program Manager on December 2 – 3, 2024

Use the following link to register: Health and Safety Program Manager

Youth Firesetting Program Manager on December 10 – 11, 2024

Use the following link to register: Youth Firesetting Program Manager

Life Safety Code on December 10 – 12, 2024

Use the following link to register: Life Safety Code

Introduction to Community Risk Reduction on December 12, 2024

Use the following link to register: Introduction to Community Risk Reduction

See the attached flyer for further, please share with your members.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4697

1000 Indian Springs Dr, Forsyth, GA 31029

Fire Service Leaders,

Can you please share this with your 911 Counterparts.

_______________________________________________________

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the course The Dispatcher’s Role in Mayday Situations on December 5, 2024 at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth, GA.

This four-hour course will present information about different scenarios that would warrant a firefighter issuing a "Mayday" call. Attendees will examine what the communications officer's role is during such an event. Students will also have an opportunity to view the Fire Service's demo acting out various fire-related situations.

Target Audience: Communication Officers, CTO's, and Supervisors.

Use the following link to register: The Dispatcher's Role in Mayday Situations

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

478-993-4697

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83763087851?pwd=KmAD6dbJNs28FtMFZ79q7uLwreCHwj.1

1000 Indian Springs Dr, Forsyth, GA 31029

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 11.5.24

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 21:27:00 GMT

Rescheduled:

The upcoming

GFSTC Council Meeting will now be held on

December 10, 2024 11:00 AM

The meeting will be held in the Courtroom at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, GA

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 837 6308 7851

Passcode: 013409

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Meeting ID: 837 6308 7851

Passcode: 013409

EXTENDED: Four National Fire and

Emergency Services Awards Applications

The award applications are due by November 8, 2024.

The Congressional Fire Services Institute is extending the deadline for submitting applications for its 2025 national fire service leadership awards to November 8. The four awards, which will be presented at the 2025 National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on February 13, 2025, recognize individuals and organizations for leadership in fire and life safety. CFSI will cover the travel costs for the recipients to attend the dinner program. Please contact us at update@cfsi.org if you have any questions.

The four awards can be found below:

2025 Firefighter Cancer Awareness Incentive Program

Firefighter Leadership,

LGRMS, working in conjunction with ACCG and GMA, wants to encourage the awareness of the hazards and controls surrounding firefighter cancer across the State of Georgia. Thus, we will award two fire departments (1 County, 1 City) up to $5,000 in reimbursement, toward the purchase of equipment that will assist in the reduction of firefighter cancer risks (e.g. washer extractor, ventilation equipment, decontamination, etc.). Please review the attached 2025 Firefighter Cancer Awareness Incentive Brochure for more details on this year’s program and how you could receive the $5,000 reimbursement.

Thank You, Stay Safe & Healthy

Dan Beck

MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet Giveaway

Good morning,

The NVFC is pleased to announce that the fourth and final entry period for the 2024 MSA Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet Giveaway is now open through November 30. An article and image are attached to share with your audience.

Best,

Kimberly

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 10.28.24

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 20:31:07 GMT

Update:

GFSTC Council Meeting

October 30th, 2024 11:00 AM

The meeting will be held in the Courtroom at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, GA

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83763087851?pwd=KmAD6dbJNs28FtMFZ79q7uLwreCHwj.1

Meeting ID: 837 6308 7851

Passcode: 013409

---

One tap mobile

+13052241968,,83763087851#,,,,*013409# US

+13092053325,,83763087851#,,,,*013409# US

---

Dial by your location

• +1 305 224 1968 US

• +1 309 205 3325 US

• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

• +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

• +1 646 931 3860 US

• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

• +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)

• +1 689 278 1000 US

• +1 719 359 4580 US

• +1 253 205 0468 US

• +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

• +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

• +1 360 209 5623 US

• +1 386 347 5053 US

• +1 507 473 4847 US

• +1 564 217 2000 US

• +1 669 444 9171 US

Meeting ID: 837 6308 7851

Passcode: 013409

NVFC Live Online Trainings

The NVFC offers the following live, virtual training opportunities, all of which are presented on Zoom:

Train Strong Webinars

One-hour live sessions led by nationally-known instructors

Roundtable Talks

Monthly discussion and Q&A panel sessions

R&R Coffee Talks

Informal Q&A sessions with national fire service leaders

Volunteer Voices Live

Quarterly interactive, live discussions to share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from one another

Below are upcoming events; click on the title to register. This page is updated as more trainings are added. If you miss a live webinar, you can watch the recording in the NVFC Virtual Classroom . Recorded Roundtable Talks can be found here . R&R Coffee Talks and Volunteer Voices Live events are not recorded.

Volunteer Voices Live: Volunteer Performance Evaluations and Expectations

October 30 from 3-4:15pm ET

Recruiting volunteers is not easy, so it can be difficult to evaluate the ones you do have. However, when done regularly and efficiently, volunteer evaluations can benefit both the department and the volunteer by highlighting strengths, showing areas in need of improvement, and offering an opportunity for one-on-one interactions between leadership and volunteers. This live interactive discussion will focus on methods for evaluating volunteer performance, how to reward top performing volunteers, and how to help those who do not meet expectations to improve their performance. Come prepared to share and learn from one another. This discussion will not be recorded.

Webinar: What You Need to Know Before Testifying at OSHA’s Emergency Response Public Hearing

November 7 at 2pm ET

Presenters: Ryan Woodward, David Denniston, Bruce Lundegren

So, you’ve reserved a spot to testify at OSHA’s upcoming public hearing regarding the proposed Emergency Response Standard. Have questions about what to say? The hearing procedure? How to answer questions from the OSHA panel and the audience? This session will cover the answers to these questions and allow time for audience Q&A so that you’re prepared for your testimony.

Webinar: So You’re a Training Officer – Now What? Incorporating Adult Learning Theory into FD Training Programs

November 13 at 2pm ET

Presenter: Rachel Buczynski

Congratulations, you’re a training officer! But…how do you teach adult learners? When we think of the science of how humans learn, we often think of children (i.e., pedagogy). However, there are learning theories unique to adults: how people learn in formal and informal ways once they are over 18. Many training officers (in all industries) find themselves in the role of educator with little to no background knowledge of andragogy (the science of adult learning). This webinar, presented by Rachel Buczynski, will help you understand more about andragogy so you can further build your skillset as a fire department trainer and reinforce techniqu es you’re already using.

Fully Involved: 2024 Elections

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 14:49:22 GMT

Candidates for GSFA Board of Directors 2024-2026

President - Mike Byrd
1st Vice President - Craig Dukes (I) and Mark Ware
2nd Vice President - Jeff Hardin
3rd Vice President - Jason Amerson
Treasurer - Bruce King (I) and Zach Steele
Director at Large - Otis Calvin Hitchcock

Candidates were allowed to submit a video to the election committee for distribution by GSFA. As a reminder the 2022 bylaws change removed nomination from the floor for Board candidates.

The received videos can be viewed here:

GSFA Elections - Google Drive

Voting delegates (alternates) will submit their email address to the business manager via a credential submission form. The form will be distributed prior to the annual meeting. Delegates will receive a designation on the conference name badge at check in. At the beginning of the voting meeting session, we will verify the attendance of voting delegate/alternates.* Anyone not present at the voting business session, will not receive the link for voting. Votes will be tallied electronically per the bylaws at the amount each department receives.

*A roll call vote is one where in person attendance to vote is verified

Please use the button below to download your department credential form. We kindly request that your completed form is submitted via email to taylor@gsffa.org by Friday, November 8th. Receiving these forms in advance will allow us to efficiently enter delegate emails into the electronic ballot system before the conference begins. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the GSFA office.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 10.24.24

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:46:45 GMT

NVFC Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund

While they are protecting their communities, who is protecting them?

Every day, volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel put their lives on the line to protect their communities. But what happens when the tragedy strikes home? Many first responders are impacted each year by disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, tornadoes, and others – often having their own homes damaged or destroyed while they are out protecting those of their neighbors. These men and women dedicate themselves to serving their communities. When their homes and families are affected by tragedy, they rely on the community to give back.

You can assist in helping these first responders in need by contributing to the National Volunteer Fire Council’s (NVFC) Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund.

The NVFC Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund provides a stipend of $350 to volunteer first responders whose homes have been impacted by a state- or federally-declared disaster or a home fire. The stipend helps these firefighters and emergency personnel meet their basic needs in the aftermath of the disaster or fire.

The Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund was created in response to the devastation caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. Since then, the fund has also assisted volunteer first responders impacted by flooding in New York and along the Mississippi River, tornadoes in different parts of the country, Super Storm Sandy, wildfires in the West, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other large-scale disasters. To date, more than $750,000 has been distributed to volunteer firefighters in need.

The fund relies on the support of individuals and organizations to assist volunteer first responders in need. 100% of donations go to volunteer responders in need; the NVFC donates all administrative costs.

Click here to make your contribution to the Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund; select “Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund” as your donation type. You can also mail your donation to:

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Suite 1478

Washington, DC 20002

Applying for Assistance

Volunteer first responders whose homes have been impacted by a state- or federally-declared disaster or fire can apply for assistance through the Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund. The Fund provides a $350 stipend to help these individuals meet basic needs in the aftermath of a disaster or fire, as funds allow.

To qualify for a stipend through the Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be an NVFC member or a member of an NVFC affiliated state association at the time of the incident
Be an active volunteer firefighter, rescue worker, or EMS provider
Live (have your primary residence) in a state- or federally-declared disaster area or have suffered home damage due to fire
In the instance of a home fire, the applicant must certify that there were no intentional acts of arson or fraud and that there were working smoke alarms in the residence placed according to code.
Have incurred an uninsurable loss in excess of $5,000 (only applies to the state or federally declared disaster, not to the personal fire loss).
Applications must be received by the NVFC within 60 days after the incident occurred.

All applications are reviewed by the NVFC Director from the applicant’s state fire association. The NVFC may also contact your department’s chief for approval of the application.

If it is determined that there was impropriety, fraud, or arson, or that any information submitted on the application is intentionally false or misleading, the NVFC reserves the right to seek the return of the stipend.

Click here to apply for assistance.

View federal disaster declarations.

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Competition Update

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 20:43:14 GMT

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference

November 12-15, 2024

Firefighter Competition Update

We are excited to welcome everyone back to Augusta for the 2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference, scheduled for November 12-15, 2024. This annual gathering is always a valuable opportunity for our community to connect, learn, and share in our mission.

However, we want to inform you of a change regarding the firefighter competition. After meeting last week, the boards made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s competition. With Augusta heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene, there simply isn’t the available manpower to assist with running the event.

We appreciate your understanding and flexibility during these challenging circumstances, and we remain committed to making this year’s conference a meaningful and engaging experience for all attendees.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you in November!

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 10.11.24

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 20:34:52 GMT

Dear Emergency Services Sector partners,

Baxter’s North Cove manufacturing plant in Marion, North Carolina, was significantly impacted by the rain and storm surge from Hurricane Helene. A collapsed bridge and flooding in the surrounding area are also impeding access to the plant. The plant is temporarily closed for production.

According to Healthcare Ready , Baxter’s North Cove plant is the largest IV solutions plant in the U.S., producing 1.5 million units of IV solution per day. The facility supplies 60% of IV solutions domestically.

Baxter is continually posting status updates on its Hurricane Helene Updates page . The Oct. 9 update states that Baxter’s goal is to “restart North Cove production in phases and return to 90% to 100% allocation of certain IV solution product codes by the end of 2024.”

It is anticipated that IV fluid shortages will remain or be further exacerbated during the next few months. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is maintaining a page listing products currently in shortage and that may be further impacted until North Cove resumes operations.

On Sept. 30, Baxter posted a letter for healthcare providers with suggestions on how to manage and conserve supplies .

On Oct. 9, Healthcare Ready released a situation update on the Baxter North Cove closure . This update provides a timeline of the developing situation so far, and a summary of currently known impacts to the healthcare supply chain.

In Baxter’s Oct. 9 update on supply continuity, it stated, “we are increasing the current U.S. allocation levels of our highest demand IV fluids for direct customers from 40% to 60%, and for distributors from 10% to 60%, effective Wednesday, Oct. 9.”

Emergency medical services (EMS) providers may want to review current inventory of IV solutions and consider your agency’s ability to get through a time of reduced supply, based on your historic consumption. Consider placing earlier orders and/or implement contingency plans to reduce use or reduce waste.

(Sources: Baxter , AHA , Healthcare Ready , FDA , Reuters , ASHP )

Sincerely,

EMR-ISAC Staff

Emergency Management & Response Information Sharing & Analysis Center

National Emergency Training Center

16825 South Seton Avenue Emmitsburg, MD 21727

fema-emr-isac@fema.dhs.gov

www.usfa.fema.gov/emr-isac

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 10.10.24

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 18:21:32 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the course Youth Firesetting Interviewing and Educational Interventions on December 3 and 4, 2024.

This two-day National Fire Academy Course provides students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform an interview/screening and develop an educational intervention program for identified youth exhibiting fire misuse behaviors. The course addresses how to establish and implement these strategies to meet the needs of these youths and their families. It is targeted for individuals with responsibilities related to practitioner functions associated with a youth firesetting intervention program for their agency or their community.

This is a direct delivery from the National Fire Academy and will be taught by Karla Klas, University of Michigan Burn Center specialist.

There are no prerequisites, though completion of Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention Specialist will be helpful.

Use the following link to register: Youth Firesetting Interviewing and Educational Interventions

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com

All,

We never cease to smile, when regardless of what the situation, Firefighters work to fix it. But you knew that.

We just received a message from the North Carolina State Fire Marshals office, expressing appreciation and are overwhelmed with thanks, and that they currently have enough equipment to share and help numerous fire departments back up and running. Good stuff.

Will pass on any other requests we get, as we all keep Florida’s Tampa Bay and other areas in our hearts and minds this morning.

Take Care. Be Careful. Pass It On.

BillyG

The Secret List 10-9-2024-1100 Hours

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 10.9.24

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:20:05 GMT

Fire and Emergency Services Leaders,

We cordially invite you to attend the 2024 Georgia Fire and Emergency Services Memorial Ceremony scheduled for Friday, October 25, at 11:00 a.m. in the Auditorium at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, located at 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia.

This year's memorial will honor the following:

Honoree Agency End of Watch

Gina Ayres-Skindzier Central EMS 11/17/2022

Gary Epperson Gold Star EMS 7/24/2023

Bobby Blue Smith Ware County Fire Rescue 6/22/2023

Matthew Smith Bartow County Fire and 3/21/2023

Emergency Services

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference - HOT Class Schedule

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:47:59 GMT

HOT Class Registration - $20

Available HOT Classes This Year!

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2024

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Pre-Conference Class: GFSTC Evaluator

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2024

1:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

School Bus Rescue & Extrication - Leigh Hollins, Starfire Training (4 hrs)

School buses are not constructed like regular vehicles. Rigorous safety requirements are in place to protect the nation's children. These incidents often result in a mass casualty scene and not understanding the unique safety and construction features can hamper rescue efforts. This HOT class is where students will see and have the opportunity to participate in extrication techniques and get hands-on with the many unique bus features. This includes practicing basic, intermediate and advanced extrication techniques on all bus components. These components include windows, doors, seats, sidewalls and roof structures. The use of hand tools, electric tools, hydraulic tools and pneumatic tools is included.

Class to be held at Augusta Fire Department Training Center, Transportation will be arranged from host

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m

Alarms, Elevators, & Standpipes – David Bullard, Matthew Snyder (8 hrs)

The number of mid rise and high-rise buildings, including large warehouses continues to grow throughout our state. Firefighters will be introduced to fire protection systems in these types of buildings, how to design and deploy their hose and equipment packages for these structures, and strategies and tactics for responding to fires in them. Students will flow from a standpipe system and encounter scenarios that cover wet and dry systems as well as overcoming system failures or non-standpipe equipped buildings, utilizing a local parking deck. In addition, considerations and strategies for pump operators will also be presented

Break for lunch will be provided

Class hosted at the Convention Center Parking Deck

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2024

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m

Proactive RIT – North GA FOOLS (4 hrs)

To teach students the importance of proactive RIT to facilitate a faster response/rescue of a mayday situation, and prevention of a mayday by proactively softening the structure to make it more accessible for ingress and egress.

Hosted off site – Transportation to and from venue will be provided

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

GPSTC Public Safety Conference

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

2024 GPSTC Public Safety Conference

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 17:19:11 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Public Safety Training Center, its staff, and instructors are excited to announce the 2024 GPSTC Public Safety Conference hosted at our main campus on November 6 – 8, 2024.

This conference is geared toward all personnel involved in keeping Georgia communities safe. A variety of courses will be offered for all public safety disciplines. Topic areas will include but are not limited to:

Marksmanship and Tactics
Use of Force
Driver Training
Retail Organized Crime
Various Fire Service Topics
Emergency Communications
Resiliency
Instructor Presentation Skills
…and more!

Here is the link for registration:

Please share with your membership.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference Registration

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 19:31:20 GMT

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference

November 12-15, 2024

Registration Fees

Member Registration- $325

Non-Member Registration - $375

Retiree Registration - $100

Spouse/Guest Registration - $135

Chaplain Class - $50

HOT Class Registration - $20

Available HOT Classes This Year!

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2024

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Pre-Conference Class: GFSTC Evaluator

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2024

1:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

School Bus Rescue & Extrication - Leigh Hollins, Starfire Training (4 hrs)

Class to be held at Augusta Fire Department Training Center, Transportation will be arranged from host

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m

Alarms, Elevators, & Standpipes – David Bullard, Matthew Snyder (8 hrs)

Break for lunch will be provided

Class hosted at the Convention Center Parking Deck

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2024

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m

Proactive RIT – North GA FOOLS (4 hrs)

Hosted off site – Transportation to and from venue will be provided

Interact with Fire Service Vendors:

Exhibit Hall open on Wednesday and Thursday

Make plans to visit the Exhibit Hall on Wednesday afternoon during the opening reception from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. and again on Thursday from 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. to interact with the conference vendors and learn more about their products, services and programs.

Conference Hotel:

Marriott Augusta Convention Center

(Available until block is full

or October 21st)

2 10th St.

Augusta, GA 30901

Phone: 706-722-8900

Room Rate : $189

An online reservation link will be provided in your

conference registration confirmation email

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Thursday, November 14th at 12:30 p.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

If you have lost a current or retired member of your department since the last conference (September 2022), please submit their information so that they may be recognized.

All information is due by October 25, 2024.

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

Funeral Arrangements for Battalion Chief Chris Eddy

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 23:51:58 GMT

We are deeply saddened to announce the funeral arrangements for Battalion Chief Chris Eddy. The service will be held this Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the Morgan County High School Gym. Address is 1231 College Dr. Madison Ga 30650

- Visitation: 12:00 PM

- Funeral Service: 3:00 PM (immediately following visitation)

Please join us as we honor and celebrate the life of a dedicated leader and beloved member of our department and community.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 9.4.24

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 00:26:56 GMT

Acclaimed volunteer firefighter and EMS documentary Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat is hitting TVs across the nation this fall. PBS stations will air the movie in September and October commemorating 9/11, October’s National Fire Prevention Month, and National First Responders Day (Oct 28).

Watch the trailer, find airdates, and sign up to host your own in person

recruitment screening at OddHoursFilm.com

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Memorial Service

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 17:25:00 GMT

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference

November 12-15, 2024

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Thursday, November 14th at 12:30 p.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

If you have lost a current or retired member of your department since the last conference (August 2023), please submit their information so that they may be recognized.

All information is due by October 15, 2024

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 8.23.24

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 13:09:11 GMT

2024 GSFA Board & District Vice President Nominations

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 14:29:16 GMT

Submit Your Nomination to Serve on the GSFA

Board of Directors or as a District Vice President

GSFA is accepting nominations for individuals to serve on its Board of Directors. Board members will serve two year term that runs from November 2024 - 2026. For more information on the responsibilities of each position, click here .

Completed Board of Directors nomination forms must be received by September 16, 2024 . All seats on the Board of Directors are open for nominations.

The incoming President will name District Vice Presidents soon after the Georgia Fire Service Conference. GSFA is expanding its District Vice President program and would like to have several people serving in this role in each district. In addition to the responsibilities listed in the bylaws, district vice presidents will serve as part of GSFA's Membership Growth Committee which is working on member engagement strategies and expanding association participation across the state.

If you are interested in serving as a District Vice President, please submit your District Vice President nomination form should be submitted by September 16, 2024 .

Don't Forget to Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Awards Nominations Due September 15th

Since 1972, GSFA has recognized firefighters through its annual recognition program. Award recipients will be recognized at the 2025 Firefighters Recognition Day. Recognition is given for the following categories:

All nominations must be received no later than

September 15, 2024 .

Fully Involved: GSFA Awards Program

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 14:01:24 GMT

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Award Nominations Due September 15th

All nominations must be received no later than

September 15, 2024.

2024 Georgia State Firefighters Association

Fire Department Grant & Scholarship Applications

Application Deadline: September 15, 2024

Applications must be received by GSFA by the deadline. A drawing will be held at the 2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference scheduled for November 11-15, 2024 in Augusta, Georgia from those individuals that submit qualified applications meeting all scholarship eligibility & grant requirements. GSFA will award up to six scholarships in the amount of $500 and up to two grants in the amount of $1000.

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 8.6.24

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 21:47:13 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

Your Georgia Fire Academy is hosting a direct delivery of the National Fire Academy Course Shaping the Future. This course will be held on our Forsyth Campus on September 10-11, 2024.

This 2-day course is designed to assist first- and second-level supervisors and Company Officers (COs) in developing knowledge and skills in contemporary approaches to organizational problem solving. Topics include Use of creative approaches to identifying trends within their organizations. Applying problem-solving methodologies. The importance and application of continuous improvement within organizations. How to quantify problems and solutions. Factors in organizational and individual resistance to change. Strategies for implementing change. The course incorporates facilitated, student-centered methodologies, including lecture, small and large group activities, and individual assessments

Please share the attached flyer.

Use the following link to register:

Shaping the Future

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 7.30.24

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:14:05 GMT

NVFC Seeking Feedback From Volunteer Responders

Good morning,

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has developed a Retention Survey to gain insight into why volunteers stay with and leave the volunteer fire service and help inform future retention initiatives. Current volunteer firefighters and EMS providers, leaders in volunteer and combination fire departments, and those who were volunteer firefighters or EMS providers within the past five years are encouraged to participate.

The survey will close August 5. It only takes 10 minutes to complete. Access it here .

Thank you for your help in spreading the word!

Best,

Cierra Orlyk

Communications Coordinator

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 7.16.24

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 14:02:50 GMT

NERIS Next Steps: Beta Launch, API Development, and Secondary Schema Release

August 1, 2024 | 1pm-2pm EST 

We are excited to invite you to our latest webinar: "NERIS Next Steps: Beta Launch, API Development, and Secondary Schema Release," happening online on August 1, 2024, from 1pm to 2pm EST.

Hosted by the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) , part of UL Institutes, in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T) and the United States Fire Administration (USFA) , this session will cover the latest developments in NERIS, including:

NERIS Beta Launch: Overview of the onboarding of the next 50 test departments nationwide.
API Development: Highlights of the Core Schema API development efforts.
Secondary Schema Release: Preview of three new draft data schemas for a 30-day national engagement period.

Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the NERIS development team and our government partners.

Please contact NERIS@ul.org with any additional questions.

Thank you,

Steve Kerber, PhD, PE

Vice President and Executive Director

Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI)

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 6.28.24

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 13:13:26 GMT

Good afternoon,

The NVFC is excited to release our updated guide for volunteer fire service families. What to Expect: A Guide for New Firefighter Families (Second Edition) is designed to help the entire family adjust to the volunteer firefighter lifestyle. A press release is attached; please share with your audiences.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

Hazardous Materials Incident Commander

2024 Norfolk Southern Safety Train (Gainesville / Lula, GA)

Overview
This will be blended course where elements of Railroad 101 and Responding to Railroad Emergencies will be taught. This is an excellent opportunity for people who have little or no Railroad experience and those who have a more advanced background, to all gain valuable knowledge and skills. Each session will last 3 hours, and the course will be taught twice a day, each day. This will make for a shift friendly schedule for Fire and Police Departments, that may attend.

Hands-on workshops, classroom instruction and live scenario-based training.
Certificates upon successful completion will be available following the event.
Multiple Training times and opportunities

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 6.19.24

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:16:49 GMT

Great news!! S. 870 to reauthorize AFG, SAFER and USFA through September 30, 2028 just passed the Senate by a vote of 88 to 2.

It’s now on its way to the President’s Desk where he will sign it within the next 10 business days.

The two no votes were Sen. Markey and Sanders. There no votes had nothing to do with the fire grants portion of the bill. They had to do with the unrelated nuclear licensing language that was added in the House.

Thank you all for your advocacy and outreach to your Members of Congress and Senators!

Fully Involved: An important update from us. 6.11.24

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:15:10 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting a direct delivery of the following National Fire Academy Course: Hazardous Materials Incident Commander on July 8-12, 2024.

This 5-day course focuses on the duties and responsibilities of the emergency response personnel who will assume the IC role in hazardous materials emergencies above the initial response and will implement a NIMS-based ICS. Based on the current requirements of 29 CFR 1910.120 and the applicable national standards and plans, the program follows three phases of an incident: preplanning, incident operations and post-incident responsibilities. This course meets the NIMS requirements for ICS-300.

Topics include:

Negligence and liability
NIMS ICS/Emergency Operations Center (EOC) interface
Emergency response plans.
Planning

This course is designed for Departmental training officers, Chief Officers, Company Officers and regularly acting officers. Emergency response personnel who may be called upon to assume the duties of the IC at hazardous materials incidents, including fires at fixed facilities, transportation accidents involving hazardous materials

Please share with your members and use the following link to register:

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

96th SEAFC/GAFC Leadership Pre-Conference Attendee Registration

Fire Service Leaders,

I hope this email finds you well. We are excited to extend to you an invitation to join us for this year's pre-conference sessions, which promises to be an excellent kickoff for the upcoming conference.

The pre-conference sessions will provide an invaluable opportunity to engage with fellow fire chiefs, share best practices, and gain insights into the latest developments in the field. These sessions are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the challenges facing fire departments today, and we believe they will greatly benefit you and your department.

The sessions will cover a wide range of topics to include:

Navigating difficult conversations
Developing a unique leadership program through unlikely partnerships
Leading through transition- moving from part-time to full-time department

We are confident that the pre-conference sessions will offer valuable networking opportunities and set the stage for a beneficial and educational conference experience.

The details for the pre-conference sessions are as follows:

July 15 ^th , 2024

8:00 am- 4: pm

Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center

2450 Galleria Parkway SE, Atlanta, GA 30339

There is no charge for the pre conference but we do need you to confirm your attendance by registering through our conference website:

Thank you for your attention, and we look forward to welcoming you to the pre-conference sessions.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

CLICK HERE to Opt-In for: AAA On Us- Georgia State Fire Fighters Association

Fully Involved: Training Times: AAA Offer for GSFA Members

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:05:21 GMT

As an appreciation to our area's first responders, AAA on Us would like to provide one FREE Primary Classic AAA Membership for one-year to the members of the Georgia State Fire Fighters Association . Classic Associates (others in your household) can be added for $20. Primary and Associates renew at regular rates.

This is an easy 2-step process:

OPT IN   - This is the first step before you're able to join. Opt-in via the below link no later than end of day  Friday, June 21st  by entering your first name, last name, and email address. AAA needs this information to validate your Georgia State Fire Fighters Association membership once you are emailed the instructions to redeem.
JOIN  - All Georgia State Fire Fighters Association members who opted-in from step 1 will be  emailed a special link from AAA  within a week of opting-in with the full details, restrictions, and instructions on how to redeem this special offer and join AAA for free. During this join process, your first name, last name, and email address must be entered exactly as you submitted on this opt-in form. Offer to redeem the FREE Primary Classic AAA Membership will be available to those that opted-in until 6/21/24.

This offer is not transferable and is only for  active Georgia State Fire Fighters Association members who are not current AAA Members.  

Toy McCoy | Retail Sales Leader GA

The Auto Club Group

Direct: 847.708.7612

yomccoy@acg.aaa.com

http://www.aaasouth.com/yotoy.mccoy

Fully Involved: An important update from us 6.7.24

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:35:00 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting a new course entitled Introduction to Community Risk Reduction on Friday, July 19, 2024.

Introduction to Community Risk Reduction (CRR) is a one-day course that is intended to provide a basic understanding of Community Risk Reduction, how to evaluate the risks and hazards that exist in a community, and create successful CRR initiatives in any community. The students will also be introduced to evaluation concepts as well as steps to creating an organizational culture that embraces CRR.

The target audience for this course may include, but not be limited to the

following:

· Fire/EMS personnel with an interest in advancing risk-reduction efforts in their community, including firefighters, investigators, inspectors, educators and others.

· Law enforcement personnel with an interest in advancing risk-reduction efforts in their community, including community relations officers, school resource officers, patrol officers and others.

· Emergency managers.

· Allied health and community service personnel

Use the following link to register or see flyer for further: Introduction to CRR

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Fully Involved: An important update from us 6.5.24

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:15:46 GMT

Join us for a day tailored specifically for first responders! Through expert training and live battery safety demonstrations, you'll gain invaluable experience in managing lithium-ion battery fires!

Fully Involved: An important update from us.

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 14:59:17 GMT

Good morning,

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is excited to share that two exciting opportunities are now available for volunteer first responders:

The second entry period is now open for the MSA Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet Giveaway. Volunteer firefighters who are NVFC members can enter by June 30 to win a personalized Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet.
Applications are now being accepted for the 2024 CHEMTREC® HELP (Hazmat Emergencies Local Preparedness) Award. Six volunteer fire departments will be selected to receive $10,000 each to boost their hazmat incident preparedness and response.

More information can be found in the respective press releases attached. Please help us spread the word that these opportunities are available!

Cierra Orlyk

Communications Coordinator

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

E: cierra@nvfc.org

Salt Lake City, UT!

Join us out west next year as we gather for 2+ days of keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking with first responders from across the United States!

Pre-register now to get information as details are announced, including information on the call for presentations, stipend program, sponsorships, registration, and more: https://nvfc.wufoo.com/forms/2025-nvfc-training-summit-preregistration/

Hope to see you there!

Rachel Buczynski, M.S.Ed.

Chief of Training and Education

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

E: Rachel@nvfc.org

Fully Involved: 5/30/24

Thu, 30 May 2024 22:14:45 GMT

Good afternoon,

The NVFC is excited to participate in the latest episode of the podcast, The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe . Episode #387 of the podcast shines a spotlight on the volunteer fire service and encourages the public to consider joining. A press release is attached to share with your audiences.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/wNKlBFjhPTCRdnvTdnrPNA

Apply for an NVFC Scholarship to Columbia Southern University

To help more responders further their education with the benefits of online learning, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and Columbia Southern University (CSU) have partnered for the 16th year to provide scholarships to two NVFC members. Each recipient will be awarded a scholarship that will cover up to 60 credit hours towards any one CSU degree program of their choice. Scholarship recipients will be able to select from CSU’s wide range of degree programs, including fire science, fire administration, emergency medical services, emergency management, occupational safety and health, organizational leadership, and many more. Applications are due by August 18. See the full program details and eligibility requirements and apply here .

Access NVFC Resources for Commenting on the OSHA Emergency Response Standard

WANT MORE TRAINING?

View the full list of NVFC Virtual Classroom courses currently available for free. All Virtual Classroom courses are always free to NVFC Members; join for $21. Find additional training opportunities here .

Is your company interested in sponsoring a training or webinar? Click here

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Call for Papers

Tue, 28 May 2024 13:48:56 GMT

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference

November 11 - 16, 2024

Augusta, GA

Host Department: Augusta Fire Department

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Augusta!

To submit a class Click here for the electronic call for papers. We are soliciting classes for all ranks!

We are expecting a great turnout for this year’s conference and ask that you please encourage at least one member from your department to attend (we'll always take more��). We are all in the Georgia Fire Service together and this is a great way for us to come together and bond as Team Georgia Fire!

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS JUNE 17th!

Start pulling together your competition teams now!

Fully Involved: Training Times: Volunteer EMS R&R Strategies; OSHA Update

Wed, 22 May 2024 15:11:56 GMT

Roundtable Talk: Answering the Call -

Volunteer EMS Recruitment & Retention Strategies

May 22 at 2pm ET

Presenters: Dr. Candice McDonald (moderator), Eric Quinney, Jules Scadden, and Joseph Schmider

Emergency medical incidents make up the largest segment of emergency calls in most communities. Volunteer fire departments need a forward-thinking plan to maintain sufficient emergency medical services (EMS) staffing. Join the NVFC and an expert panel for a Roundtable Talk on May 22 to discuss volunteer recruitment and retention for EMS. As communities face increasing demands for emergency response, maintaining a robust volunteer force is essential. This discussion will highlight effective strategies and innovative approaches aimed at addressing this challenge, from targeted outreach programs to fostering a supportive volunteer culture.

Roundtable Talk: Proposed OSHA Standard Update and Working with Local Government

May 23 at 2pm ET

Presenters: Brett Mattson, Yucel (u-jel) Ors, and Ryan Woodward (moderator)

If adopted as written, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) proposed Emergency Response Standard would bring immense challenges to volunteer departments, and some may even be forced to shut down. This proposed rule could also have a significant broader impact on local governments. The NVFC will host a roundtable discussion with representatives from the National League of Cities and the National Association of Counties to highlight areas of mutual concerns and provide recommendations on how volunteer departments can collaborate with their local government to express these concerns to OSHA.

Apply for an NVFC Scholarship to Columbia Southern University

Access NVFC Resources for Commenting on the OSHA Emergency Response Standard

WANT MORE TRAINING?

Is your company interested in sponsoring a training or webinar? Click here

Box Alarm Alert (5/21/24)

Tue, 21 May 2024 14:35:44 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

May 21, 2024

On May 8, the House of Representatives passed an amended version of S. 870, The Fire Grants and Safety Act. This bill would reauthorize the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG), Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants, and U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) through the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2028 and extend the statutory sunset for AFG and SAFER though the end of FY 2030. If this bill does not become law before September 30, AFG and SAFER grants will shut down.

S. 870 originally passed the Senate by a vote of 95 to 2 in April 2023. The version of S.870 that passed the House on May 8 is an amended version of the Senate passed bill; it will therefore have to pass the Senate again before it can head to the President’s desk. S. 870 was amended in a bipartisan agreement that replaced its original text with the text of the House AFG, SAFER, and USFA reauthorization bill (H.R. 4090) and the text of a bipartisan nuclear licensing bill.

You may use the Action Alert below to contact your Senators and ask them to pass the House-Passed version of S. 870 and send it to the President's desk without delay.

Click the link below to view your meetings:

Fully Involved: NVFC Announces Scholarship Opportunity for Volunteer First Responders

Sat, 18 May 2024 14:36:40 GMT

Good morning,

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is pleased to share that volunteer first responders can now apply to receive a scholarship to Columbia Southern University. This marks the 16 ^th year of partnership between the two organizations. Two NVFC members will be selected to receive a scholarship in 2024.

More information can be found via the press release below.

Thank you for your help in spreading the word about this valuable opportunity!

Best,

Cierra Orlyk

Communications Coordinator

Cierra Orlyk

Communications Coordinator

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

E: cierra@nvfc.org

Command and Control of Incident Operations

Fully Involved: GFA Course Announcement - Command and Control of Incident Operations

Thu, 16 May 2024 15:57:07 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following National Fire Academy Direct Delivery:

Command and Control of Incident Operations on August 11-16, 2024.

During this training, students study the Incident Command System (ICS) and proper fire command techniques for the control and extinguishment of fires ranging from small residential structures to multi-occupancy and commercial complexes. Topics include problem solving and fire command; interagency and mutual aid; incident size-up, strategy and tactics; and incident management.

This course should be attended by Individuals who have responsibility to command incidents within their jurisdiction, Company Officers (COs) and/or newly appointed officers, including those in an acting position of CO and/or newly appointed officers from paid or combination fire departments.

Use the following link to register:

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Box Alarm Alert (5/3/24)

Sun, 05 May 2024 13:23:03 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

May 3, 2024

AFG/Safer Reauthorization will be voted on next week in the House of Representatives.

Use the following link to message your US Representative and ask them to vote yes.

https://www.votervoice.net/mobile/NVFC/Campaigns/111584/Respond

Fully Involved: Course Announcement - Residential Sprinkler Plan Review

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:01:56 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following National Fire Academy Direct Delivery: Residential Sprinkler Plan Review on June 17-18, 2024, at the GPSTC main campus in Forsyth.

This fundamental-level course looks at the following as the primary guidance for the approval of residential sprinkler systems: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes. NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Low-Rise Residential Occupancies. International Residential Code Standard P2904. Manufacturer's Data Sheets. The ability to read and interpret the design is an essential element of preventive fire safety.

Topics include:

NFPA 13
NFPA 13D
NFPA 13R
P2904

This course is appropriate for building and fire code officials whose responsibility is to review and approve residential sprinkler plans. Such officials include fire inspectors, fire marshals and building code inspectors with at least 1 year of experience on the job. The audience should understand the history of water-based fire protection systems and methods used to verify hydraulic calculation.

Use the following link to register: Residential Sprinkler Plan Review

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1bJflIPeIffga9oNol5X6ISDw_gOgGVkn1m0cQYgEhUQ/viewform?edit_requested=true

ASSESSMENT LAUNCHING MAY 1: HOW READY IS YOUR FIRE/EMS DEPARTMENT FOR PEDIATRIC CARE?

The majority of fire, EMS, and rescue departments provide emergency care for children, but pediatric calls are rare. In fact, most departments see fewer than eight pediatric patients per month. Many EMS providers don’t feel comfortable or confident when caring for children. But being “pediatric ready” – trained, equipped, and prepared for children in accordance with national recommendations – can help reduce anxiety, increase confidence, and potentially improve outcomes on pediatric calls.

The National Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Project offers free tools and resources to help fire, EMS, and rescue agencies become pediatric ready, including a national online assessment opportunity launching Wednesday, May 1. The assessment includes seven categories of questions designed to provide departments with a picture of their current pediatric readiness and identify areas for improvement. After completing the assessment, which takes approximately 30 minutes, all respondents will receive a detailed report describing any gaps and benchmarking information. Departments will have until July 31 to complete the assessment.

To learn more about the assessment:

Access a checklist and toolkit to help you prepare.
Contact the project’s leadership team at pprp@emscimprovement.center or connect with your state’s EMSC Program Manager to see what local resources may be available to support you, including workshops, trainings, and other assistance.

About the Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Project

The National Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Project is a federally funded initiative of the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program in collaboration with 15+ national organizations. It empowers EMS and fire-rescue agencies that respond to public 911 calls to improve their “pediatric readiness” or capability to care for acutely ill and injured children. The PPRP provides EMS and fire-rescue agencies with free and open-access tools and resources for improvement. Learn more at https:/bit.ly/prehospitalpedsready .

Fully Involved: Breaking the silence, Time for change

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:47:07 GMT

BREAKING THE SILENCE

TIME FOR CHANGE

Save the date, it’s time to make a change in public safety. Way too long this topic has been swept under the rug or blatantly ignored and it’s time to fix it. Come out for a fun day of speakers ranging from testimonies from current and previous public servants of their life experiences and also speakers on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of fellow peers and also ways to cope and heal yourself. Also there will be on site vendors, lunch provided, and a chance to fellowship with others. Spread the word and feel free to share! Also coming soon T-shirts will be available for purchase.

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Demorest City Hall

250 Alabama Street

Demorest, Georgia

Matt Ruark

Captain/Training Officer

Habersham County Emergency Services

Fully Involved: The NERIS Beta is On the Way. Register for the Webinar!

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 14:00:22 GMT

Dear Colleagues,

It has certainly been a fast paced and productive first quarter of 2024. I am grateful for your support of the USFA mission and initiatives we are advancing together for the nation’s fire service and the communities they protect.

One major initiative is the development and launch of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS), which will replace the legacy NFIRS. We kicked off NERIS development just 10 months ago as a partnership between USFA, DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), and in collaboration with the fire service at-large. In that short time, we’ve made tremendous progress, and I’m pleased to share with you our key accomplishments for the first quarter of 2024 in the NERIS Executive Bulletin (attached).

The NERIS Executive Bulletin outlines what we’ve accomplished, why it’s important, and outlines what’s to come by way of major milestones for the remainder of 2024. I encourage you to keep apprised of our efforts through this quarterly Executive Bulletin and share it with your agency/ organization’s leadership.

Additionally, please be sure to register for the next NERIS Webinar on May 2 , encourage others to register, and be on the lookout for the publicly accessible NERIS Newsletter which will be released in May.

Please let me know if you have questions and thank you as always for your ongoing support.

Lori Moore-Merrell, DrPH, MPH

U.S. Fire Administrator

500 C Street SW- 8NW -0804

Washington, DC 20024

O 202-212-7260

Modernizing the U.S. Fire Data System: NERIS Data Framework and Development Update

May 2nd, 2024 | 12:00 P.M. - 1:00 P.M. EST

Join the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS S&T), UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) for our third National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) webinar. This webinar will share the latest NERIS developments and explore how we're moving towards a modernized approach in managing emergency response data and analytics across the nation.

Through this virtual session, we'll cover key updates and advancements on the NERIS project, and you’ll have an opportunity to:

Learn about the latest progress and next steps for NERIS
Explore the newly launched beta version of the Core Data Schemas
Hear first-hand insights from Fire Chiefs testing the prototype version
Engage directly with the NERIS team in a Q&A segment

Featured Speakers

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell , U.S. Fire Administrator, USFA
Dr. Steve Kerber , Vice President and Executive Director, FSRI
Tom Jenkins , Research Manager, FSRI (Moderator)
Don Lombardi , Chief, West Metro Fire and Rescue (CO)
John Butler , Chief, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue (VA) and the President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)

Please contact NERIS@ul.org with any additional questions.

Fire Service Leaders,

Please help us spread the word about a very important upcoming two-day symposium entitled "Come in from the Rain: Taking Care of Ourselves", a symposium focused on behavioral and mental health of public safety employees. This event will focus on practices of resiliency to protect ourselves from the harmful effects of everyday work and life events and provide resources to address issues when they arise.

Registration is now open on the GPSTC website. While pre registering is appreciated, registrations can be processed the day of the event as well.

Come in From the Rain: Taking Care of Ourselves

Thank you for helping us get this word out.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Come in From the Rain: Taking Care of Ourselves

Fully Involved: GSFA Awards Program

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 14:16:50 GMT

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Award Nominations Due June 30th

Firefighter of the Year
Rookie of the Year
Instructor of the Year
Company Officer of the Year
Educator of the Year
Life Saving Valor Award

All nominations must be received no later than June 30, 2024. For nomination forms and more information, click here .

2024 Georgia State Firefighters Association

Fire Department Grant & Scholarship Applications

Application Deadline: June 30, 2024

Fully Involved: Announcements

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:36:34 GMT

Modernizing the U.S. Fire Data System: NERIS Data Framework and Development Update

May 2nd, 2024 | 12:00 P.M. - 1:00 P.M. EST

Through this virtual session, we'll cover key updates and advancements on the NERIS project, and you’ll have an opportunity to:

Learn about the latest progress and next steps for NERIS
Explore the newly launched beta version of the Core Data Schemas
Hear first-hand insights from Fire Chiefs testing the prototype version
Engage directly with the NERIS team in a Q&A segment

Featured Speakers

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell , U.S. Fire Administrator, USFA
Dr. Steve Kerber , Vice President and Executive Director, FSRI
Tom Jenkins , Research Manager, FSRI (Moderator)
Don Lombardi , Chief, West Metro Fire and Rescue (CO)
John Butler , Chief, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue (VA) and the President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)

Please contact NERIS@ul.org with any additional questions.

Fire Service Leaders,

Registration is now open on the GPSTC website. While pre registering is appreciated, registrations can be processed the day of the event as well.

Thank you for helping us get this word out.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Fully Involved: GFA Course Announcements: Your Firesetter Courses in Gainesville April 8-11

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 19:48:42 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following National Fire Academy Field Delivery Courses at the Gainesville Fire Department, located at 725 Pine ST, Gainesville GA. 30501

Youth Firesetter Intervention Specialist

Youth Firesetter Intervention Specialist will be held on April 8-9, 2024.

This course focuses on how identification, intake, screening, disposition, and follow-up are used to mitigate youth firesetting behavior. Course content includes understanding the motivations behind youth firesetting and how the impact of adverse childhood experiences and behavioral/mental health changes can influence firesetting behaviors. This course is for the practitioner who provides services at the program delivery level.

Use the following link to register: Youth Fire Setter Intervention Specialist

Youth Firesetter Program Manager

Youth Firesetter Program Manager will be held on April 10-11, 2024.

This course focuses on the requirements of NFPA Standard 1035 pertaining to the Youth Firesetting Program Manager. It empowers students with knowledge on how to develop, enhance or rejuvenate a youth firesetting prevention and intervention program. This course is designed for the person who is responsible or will be responsible for leading a youth firesetting prevention and intervention program. Students evaluate the existing state of their current YFS program, develop a vision for moving forward, construct an action plan, and deliver a persuasive speech to decision makers for advancing the program.

Use the following link to register: Youth Firesetter Program Manager

See attached flyers for further. Please share with you members.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Fully Involved: HB 451- letter

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 19:55:28 GMT

Please find attached the letter addressed to our legislators concerning HB 451, which is being sent out today.

This letter has been prepared following a survey conducted among our membership, with 70% voting to withdraw support for the bill.

Fully Involved: National Training Weekend Program

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 19:06:57 GMT

National Training Weekend Program

This 2-day on-campus program is like our State Weekend Program but it is open to students nationwide.

We host the weekend and provide instruction and course materials. In addition, lodging is provided at no cost to personnel from career or volunteer departments and state/local governments.

Students must pay for meals and transportation: there is no travel reimbursement for travel coming to and from this training.

Fully Involved: HB 451 Survey

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 23:11:32 GMT

GSFA Members,

As we enter the closing days of this Legislative Session, we have some decisions to make about HB 451, PTSD Insurance Coverage.

While this bill was originally designed to be similar to our Firefighter Cancer Insurance, it has been changed a few times as it has passed through committees. The House passed it with a reduction in lump sum benefit from the original $10,000 to $3,000 dollars and a long term disability benefit. This week, in Senate committee, it passed with an alteration that the $3000 is not a lump sum, but reimbursable to the covered member of public safety. It is estimated that the insurance will cost about $150 per year, per person.

Currently, the membership has expressed support of the bill.

If the bill passes the Senate, then it would go back to the House for a vote. The House does have the option of changing the language back or even something different, which would require a meeting of designees of both side to attempt to work out a compromise for a House vote. If the House passes the bill, it goes to the Governor.

We are asking for member's opinion on whether we:

Support passing the bill in the Senate and House and using data after passage to lobby for coverage changes in the future or to stop supporting the legislation.

Both have pros and cons, legislation can be "fixed" after passing in a following session, there is a chance the House is able to restore the original language, and if it does not pass, we have shown support for the bill to give it every possible chance.

Saying no, sends a message that we do not support the paring down of benefits to a reimbursable $3000, but could send a negative message to those who have supported passage along the way.

Should GSFA continue to support HB 451?

Fully Involved: Norfolk Southern Safety Train 2024

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:08:41 GMT

Good morning,

My name is Elliott Austin. I am the Manager of Hazardous Materials for Norfolk Southern Railroad for Gulf Division. I am writing to let you know that in our region, the Norfolk Southern Safety Train is scheduled to stop in Valdosta, GA. This will be a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable training and insight into Railroad related emergencies. This course will be focused on Product Identification, Equipment Identification, Incident Command, Initial Company Operations, and Incident Remediation. This is an opportunity for you, and your team, to work with real-world scenarios, taught by industry leaders and experts.

The Safety Train is a rolling classroom that measures over 600 feet long. It affords the opportunity to get hands on experience and work through basic scenarios that will be met by first responders, administration, and emergency management agencies. All levels of experience are welcomed. These are courses that are tailored to each person’s level of training. Please visit www.Transcaer.com for more information on the course. I have included the link to the course at the bottom of this email. There is a limited number of seats, so once they are filled the course will be closed.

Thank you for your time, your efforts and all that you do. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me. My contact information is located at the bottom of this email.

Valdosta, GA: https://www.transcaer.com/training/training-events/ga/norfolk-southern-safety-train-multiple-courses/35159

Elliott Austin

Manager Hazardous Materials

(Gulf Division)

Add: 1400 Norfolk Southern Dr.

Birmingham, AL 352110

Ph: 470.392.8811

Em: Elliott.Austin@NSCorp.com

Fully Involved: GA Firefighter Appreciation Lunch April 19 - All Personnel invited

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 20:48:06 GMT

Join us for an inspiring and

delicious event!

Free and Easy Parking onsite

12:00pm – Doors open, time to reconnect and network with fellow fire service

12:30pm – Lunch buffet opens featuring southern delicacies including fried chicken, meatloaf

and all the fixins!

1:00pm – 2:00pm – Program includes burn survivor speakers sharing their stories, fire service leadership updates, awards for

Give Burns the Boot 2023 department fundraising teams, door prizes.

Please RSVP by Friday April 10 , attendee numbers are very helpful to prepare for the food.

Join us Free GA Firefighter Appreciation Lunch

April 19 2024 12:00

Hosted by the Georgia Firefighter Burn Foundation

All Fire Personnel invited

Location: Emory Conference Center Hotel, 1615 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30329

Your RSVP Requested - Sign up Today!

Fully Involved: Course Announcement: Fire Investigations: First Responders

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 22:36:51 GMT

Fire Investigations: First Responders

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following course: Fire Investigations: First

Responders, April 30 - May 1, 2024 on GPSTC's main campus in Forsyth.

Course Description: This two-day course covers a basic overview of a fire investigation for the

first responder. Students will participate in a live lecture that will review the basics of fire

chemistry and develop an understanding of the role of the first responder in relation to fire

suppression and fire investigation.

Topics include:

This course also stresses the importance of fire scene awareness, evidence identification,

preservation and the basics of a fire investigation. Students will develop an appreciation of the

convergence of suppression, investigation, science and law.

Target Audience: Fire and emergency services personnel who respond to fires or might conduct

preliminary investigations into the origin and cause of fires.

Use the following link to register: Fire Investigations: First Responders.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Fully Involved: February 26, 2024

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:00:56 GMT

High-Risk Unified Commander Course

Rescue Task Force Advanced Training

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is pleased to announce we will be hosting the ISFSI course Water Mapping (Engine Company Operations: Hose line Advancement and Water Application Hands on Training.)

This course will improve the safety and effectiveness of structural firefighting and the survivability of potentially trapped occupants by preparing and providing hands-on training for suppression-based skills to be employed on the fireground. This training goes above and beyond the very basics by providing a more in depth understanding as to the mechanics of interior, exterior and attic suppression along with hydraulic ventilation and the use of specialty nozzles.

The course is designed to meet the following objectives:

1. How to manage air entrainment and effectively distribute water and map the surfaces of a structure on the approach to, and into, various interior fire compartments.

2. Strategies for utilizing different stream types, application patterns, stream angles, and methods of deflection to assist in game-time decision-making during exterior suppression operations.

3. How coordinating ventilation post-suppression can quickly return the environment to tenable conditions and provide better visibility when conducting interior operations.

4. How to properly place a stream into the eave line to quickly coat the attic while limiting the ventilation into the space.

5. How different specialty nozzles can be utilized to create more effective water distribution for fires in void spaces, basements, cocklofts, and other structure features which create challenges for typical fire service suppression methods.

This 8 hour course will be held March 20, 2024 at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center – Forsyth Campus.

Seats are limited so register today: Water Mapping (FFAA24338)

Please share the attached flyer.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

Education; grants to children of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and prison guards killed in the line of duty; provisions

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has introduced an online directory of behavioral health professionals dedicated to supporting emergency responders. This upgraded tool replaces the previous PDF provider directory, offering a more accessible way for first responders and their families to locate the support they need.

The new directory allows users to search based on criteria like location, areas of expertise, accepted insurance, provider licensing, and telehealth availability, allowing those in need to connection with providers that best fit their requirements.

There are currently 220 providers from across the United States in the directory and new providers are added monthly. Search the NVFC's Mental Health Directory https://www.nvfc.org/provider-directory/

Fully Involved: Golf Tournament - Georgia Public Safety Memorial Fund

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:26:26 GMT

Golf Tournament - Georgia Public Safety Memorial Fund

As we gear up for the upcoming Georgia Fallen Heroes' Classic Golf Tournament, I am writing to request your assistance in participation and/or promotion of this significant event.

The Georgia Fallen Heroes' Classic Golf Tournament stands as a testament to honor and remember the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our state. All proceeds will be donated to support the Georgia Public Safety Memorial Fund.

With your support, we can ensure that this year's tournament receives the attention and participation it deserves. There are several ways in which you can help us promote the event:

Social Media Promotion : We kindly ask that you share the attached flyer regarding the tournament on your organization's social media platforms.
Email Outreach : Please consider sending out emails to your respective networks and contacts, encouraging them to participate in the tournament or support it through donations and sponsorships.
Flyer Distribution : If feasible, distributing flyers in your offices can significantly increase awareness about the tournament.
Word of Mouth : Personal recommendations and endorsements go a long way. We encourage you to spread the word about the tournament among your colleagues, friends, and family members who may be interested in participating.

Your assistance in promoting this event and/or participation is greatly appreciated.

Sharla Shockley, Executive Assistant to the Director

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

1000 Indian Springs Drive

Forsyth, GA 31029

478-993-4405 | sshockley@gpstc.org | www.gpstc.org

Fully Involved: GA Firefighter Appreciation Lunch April 19 - All Personnel invited

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 14:25:21 GMT

Fully Involved: Legislative Update

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 15:04:39 GMT

Legislative Update

HB56

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Subpart 7 of Part 3 of Article 7 of Chapter 3 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to grants to children of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and prison guards, so as to provide for undergraduate full tuition grants to children of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and prison guards who were killed in the line of duty who attend institutions of the University System of Georgia and who meet certain eligibility requirements; to provide for definitions; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Last Reading

1/25/2023

No Action in 20204

HB124

Health; first responders of municipal fire departments may engage in emergency medical transportation of patients; provide

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 11 of Title 31 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to emergency medical services, so as to provide that first responders of municipal fire departments may engage in the emergency medical transportation of patients; to revise findings and a declaration of policy concerning first responders in this state; to revise and provide for definitions; to provide that first responders of a fire department of a municipality shall be granted licenses for emergency medical transportation under certain circumstances; to revise the Emergency Medical Systems Communications Program (EMSC Program); to provide for rules and regulations; to provide for licensing; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Last Reading

2/01/2023

No Action in 2024

HB451

Public officers and employees; supplemental, illness-specific insurance for certain first responders with occupational post-traumatic stress disorder; require provision

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Title 45 of the O.C.G.A., relating to public officers and employees, so as to require the provision of supplemental, illness-specific insurance to certain first responders diagnosed with occupational post-traumatic stress disorder; to provide for legislative findings; to provide for definitions; to provide for certain insurance benefits to eligible first responders; to provide for limitations and restrictions of such benefits; to provide for methods of funding; to provide for treatment of premiums; to amend Code Section 48-7-27 of the O.C.G.A., relating to computation of Georgia taxable net income, so as to provide an exemption for benefits received from such insurance coverage for first responders; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Passed House Public Safety Committee

Recommitted to House Insurance Committee 2/8/2024

HB503

Income tax; certain contributions by taxpayers to certain local firefighter foundations; provide tax credit

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 7 of Title 48 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to income taxes, so as to provide for tax credits for certain contributions made by taxpayers to certain local firefighter foundations; to provide for an aggregate annual limit; to provide for terms and conditions; to provide for applications and certifications; to provide for the revocation of qualified status; to provide for certain penalties; to provide for annual reporting requirements; to provide for rules and regulations; to provide for construction; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Last Reading 2/23/2023

No Action in 2024

HB527

Quality Basic Education Act; inclusion of certain visual safety devices in minimum facility requirements; provide

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Code Section 20-2-261 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to common minimum facility requirements for public elementary and secondary schools under the "Quality Basic Education Act," so as to provide for the inclusion of certain visual safety devices in minimum facility requirements; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Last Reading

2/23/2023

No Action in 2024

HB574

Buildings and housing; local fire ordinances may require fire sprinkles in one and two family dwellings; provide

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Code Section 8-2-4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to fire sprinklers in single-family dwelling units, so as to provide that although neither the state residential and fire building code nor any residential fire and building code shall include a requirement that fire sprinklers be installed in single-family or residential buildings, local fire ordinances may require fire sprinklers in one- and two-family dwellings; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Last Reading

2/28/2023

No Action in 2024

HB637

Fireworks; certain days and times for lawful use or ignition; provide

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 10 of Title 25 of the O.C.G.A., relating to regulation of fireworks, so as to provide for certain days and times for the lawful use or ignition of consumer fireworks regardless of any county or municipal ordinance or resolution; to provide for a definition; to provide for conforming changes; to amend Code Section 36-60-24 of the O.C.G.A., relating to sale or use or ignition of consumer fireworks products, so as to vest regulation of the dates and times for the lawful use or ignition of consumer fireworks with counties and municipal corporations; to amend Code Section 48-13-131 of the O.C.G.A., relating to excise tax imposed upon fireworks, rate of taxation, and establishment of Fireworks Trust Fund, so as to correct a cross-reference; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Last Reading

3/2/2023

No Action in 2024

HB964

Inclusive Public Service Act; enact

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 4 of Title 25, Code Section 31-11-52, and Chapter 8 of Title 35 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to firefighter standards and training, certification and recertification of, and training for, paramedics and cardiac technicians, and employment and training of peace officers, respectively, so as to provide for ethics and inclusivity training for such professions; to provide for a short title; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

House 2 ^nd Reading

1/24/2024

HB984

Insurance, Department of; Office of the Safety Fire Commissioner; update practices

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Titles 25 and 33 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to fire protection and safety and insurance, respectively, so as to update the practices of the Department of Insurance and the office of the Safety Fire Commissioner; to provide for the off-duty use of motor vehicles by certain law enforcement officers; to repeal a life insurance reserves requirement for small companies for accreditation purposes; to allow for the continuation of coverage of a developmentally disabled or physically disabled dependent child under certain policies; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Bill Status

House Committee Favorably Reported 1/31/2024

SB16

"Georgia EMS Reform Act"; enact

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 11 of Title 31 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to emergency medical services, so as to amend provisions relative to the Emergency Medical Systems Communications Program administered by the Department of Public Health; to provide for legislative findings, determinations, and declarations; to authorize local entities to establish boundaries for the provision of emergency medical services; to provide for definitions; to provide for a short title; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

In Health and Human Service Committee

Hearing 2/12/24

SB43

Georgia State Indemnification Fund; death by suicide of a public safety officer in certain instances be considered a death in the line of duty; provide

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Part 1 of Article 5 of Chapter 9 of Title 45 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to Georgia State Indemnification Fund, so as to provide that death by suicide of a public safety officer in certain instances be considered a death in the line of duty for purposes of indemnification; to provide clarification for instances of indemnification for heart attack, stroke, or vascular rupture; to revise and provide for a definition; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Senate Recommitted

1/28/2024

SB113

Municipal Corporations; the transition of services and facilities from an existing municipality to a newly incorporated municipality; provide

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 31 of Title 36 of the O.C.G.A., relating to incorporation of municipal corporations, so as to provide for the transition of services and facilities from an existing municipality to a newly incorporated municipality; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Senate Recommitted

1/08/2024

SB166

Public Officers and Employees; public employees to self-organize or to be represented by a labor organization; authorize

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 19 of Title 45 of the O.C.G.A., relating to labor practices of public officers and employees; to amend Code Section 16-8-16 of the O.C.G.A., relating to theft by extortion; to repeal and reserve Code Section 20-2-989.10 of the O.C.G.A., relating to collective bargaining not permitted or fostered; to repeal and reserve Chapter 5 of Title 25 of the O.C.G.A., relating to resolution of wages, hours, and working conditions of firefighters; to amend Code Section 45-7-54 of the O.C.G.A., relating to voluntary contributions by state employees through payroll deductions to certain not for profit organizations; to amend Chapter 19 of Title 45 of the O.C.G.A., relating to labor practices of public officers and employees; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Senate Read and Referred

2/15/2023

No Action in 2024

SB239

Landlord and Tenant; landlords to provide carbon monoxide detectors in rental units; require

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 7 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to landlord and tenant, so as to require landlords to provide carbon monoxide detectors in rental units; to provide requirements therefor; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Senate Read and Referred

2/27/2023

No Action in 2024

SB323

Special Districts for Fire Protection Services; create

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 1 of Title 36 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to general provisions regarding provisions applicable to counties only, so as to create special districts for fire protection services; to provide legislative findings; to authorize the activation of such special districts; to prohibit municipalities from undertaking certain powers within such special districts; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Senate Read and Referred

3/23/2023

No Action in 2024

SB334

"Helping Firefighters Beat Cancer Act"; enact

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Code Section 25-3-23 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to minimum requirements, equipment and clothing, and insurance relative to local fire departments generally, so as to revise qualifications for insurance coverage for firefighters diagnosed with cancer; to provide for a short title; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Senate Second Read

2/6/2024

SB157

Professions and Businesses; preclearance process in the licensing of individuals with criminal records who make an application to or are investigated by certain licensing boards and commissions; create

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Titles 20, 26, 31, 33, and 43 of the O.C.G.A., relating to education, food, drugs, and cosmetics, health, insurance, and professions and businesses, respectively, so as to create a preclearance process in the licensing of individuals with criminal records who make an application to or are investigated by certain licensing boards and commissions; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Passed Senate / Recommitted in House

3/29/2023

No Action in 2024

SB371

"Daniel D. Podsiadly, Jr. Act"; enact

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 1 of Chapter 9 of Title 34 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to general provisions of workers' compensation; to provide for definitions; to amend Article 5 of Chapter 9 of Title 45 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to law enforcement officers, firemen, prison guards, and publicly employed emergency medical technicians, so as to provide compensation to eligible peace officers from the State Indemnification Fund; to provide for related matters; to provide for a short title; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Senate Read/Referred 1/23/2024

Box Alarm Alert (2/20/24) - UPDATE

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 20:56:17 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

February 20, 2024

GSFA Members,

This could be the final meeting in the House to get HB451 to the floor for a vote. We really need to have a showing at the capital in the morning to represent the importance of this legislation. If you can make it that would be great. if you can’t and you have a contact list of firefighters and in the Atlanta area that can make this meeting that would be great. I would like to have the room full of firefighters.

Below is the agenda for the meeting. It appears HB451 will be first on the lineup at 8 AM.

Fully Involved: Urgent! Ask Congress to Save AFG and SAFER Before Feb 23!

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 16:23:38 GMT

Your Action Needed to Help Save AFG and SAFER!

If Congress does not act, AFG and SAFER grants will cease to exist on September 30. The next big opportunity Congress has to pass legislation to save AFG and SAFER will be any funding bill they assemble before the current government funding deadline of March 8.

Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) and Rep. Pascrell (D-NJ) are leading a letter between now and February 23 addressed to the leadership in the House of Representatives asking that the reauthorizations of AFG, SAFER and the U.S. Fire Administration be included in the upcoming funding bill. It is crucial that as many Members of Congress as possible sign this letter. Your Member of Congress needs to hear from you to get them to sign this letter!

Please save AFG and SAFER by using the "Contact Congress Now" button below to ask your Member of Congress to sign Rep. Bost and Pascrell's letter by February 23.

Fully Involved: February 9, 2024

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 19:11:25 GMT

National Volunteer Fire Council wanted us to share the 2 new videos on Cancer reduction to our Firefighters in Georgia.

Take the NVFC Health & Safety Survey

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is asking all first responders to participate in a survey to measure the influence of our health and safety programming. The survey should take no more than 10 minutes to complete and will be used to help increase the effectiveness of the NVFC’s health and safety initiatives and better serve volunteers across the country. Fire department leadership and firefighters/EMS personnel are invited to participate. Those who complete the survey can enter into a raffle to win a $100 gift card. Take the survey by February 25 here .

Apply Now for Free Turnout Gear and Helmets

13 fire departments will each receive four sets of gear through MSA and DuPont’s Globe Gear Giveaway

Proper personal protective equipment is critical to the safety, health, and effectiveness of firefighters, yet many volunteer fire departments struggle to find the budget to provide their firefighters with adequate, up-to-date turnout gear. MSA Safety, DuPont Personal Protection, and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) team up each year to help volunteer departments meet this need through MSA and DuPont’s Globe Gear Giveaway.

Eligible volunteer fire departments in the U.S. and Canada can apply to receive four sets of turnout gear and helmets in 2024. Now in its 13 ^th year, MSA and DuPont’s Globe Gear Giveaway will award a total of 52 jackets, 52 pants, and 52 helmets to 13 departments to help keep their members safe. In addition, MSA will provide the first 500 applicants with a complimentary NVFC membership.

“The safety of volunteer firefighters is a top priority of the NVFC,” said NVFC chair Steve Hirsch. “We’re fortunate and grateful to have likeminded partners such as MSA and DuPont that want to go that extra mile to protect our nation’s first responders.”

“This program allows us to support our valuable volunteer firefighters so they can help keep their communities safe and be there when their neighbors are in need," said Bob Apel, MSA Safety’s executive director of global fire service and digital experience. "At MSA, our mission is to help keep people safe at work, and these types of partnerships are an important part of helping us fulfill our mission."

“We are honored to give back in thanks to those that selflessly serve others and leverage our over 60 years of science and commitment to the fire service community in bringing trusted solutions to departments with limited resources,” said Stephanie Vrakas, NA emergency response segment leader at DuPont.

The application period is now open. To be eligible to apply, departments must:

Be over 50% volunteer
Serve a population of 25,000 or less
Be located in the U.S. or Canada
Be a member of the NVFC (MSA will provide complimentary memberships for the first 500 applicants)
Demonstrate a need for the gear

View the full criteria and apply by June 1 at www.nvfc.org/gear .

Winners will be announced monthly between July and December. Stay tuned to the NVFC web site , Dispatch newsletter , and Facebook , X , LinkedIn , and Instagram pages, as well as the Globe Facebook page , for details.

###

About Globe Manufacturing Company and MSA Safety

Globe Manufacturing Company, a leader in fire service protective clothing, is a subsidiary of MSA Safety Incorporated. MSA Safety Incorporated (NYSE: MSA) is the global leader in advanced safety products, technologies and solutions. Driven by its singular mission of safety, the Company has been at the forefront of safety innovation since 1914, protecting workers and facility infrastructure around the world across a broad range of diverse end markets while creating sustainable value for shareholders. With 2022 revenues of $1.5 billion, MSA Safety is headquartered in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania and employs a team of over 5,000 associates across its more than 40 international locations. For more information, please visit www.MSAsafety.com .

About DuPont Personal Protection

From first responders to industrial workers, DuPont provides a wide range of personal protection solutions, including some of the most trusted and innovative brands in the industry, such as Kevlar®, Nomex®, Tyvek® and Tychem® to meet your safety needs. More information can be found at personalprotection.dupont.com .

About DuPont

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, healthcare and worker safety. More information about the company, its businesses and solutions can be found at www.dupont.com . Investors can access information included on the Investor Relations section of the website at investors.dupont.com .

DuPont™, the DuPont Oval Logo, and all products, unless otherwise noted, denoted with ™, ℠ or ® are trademarks, service marks or registered trademarks of affiliates of DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

About the NVFC

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides critical resources, programs, education, and advocacy for first responders across the nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org .

Box Alarm Alert (2/8/24)

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:17:46 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

February 8, 2024

GFSTC is up updating their systems and needs all departments to log in to the GPSTC site and make sure all department members information is correct and up to date.

Fully Involved: Senate Bill 16 Survey

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:45:37 GMT

Senate Bill 16 Survey

Regarding Senate Bill 16, the GSFA Board seeks your valuable input to ascertain our association's position on this legislation. We kindly request your feedback outlining any approvals or concerns you may have, with specific details to ensure the most accurate representation of our membership. It is the Board's belief that further action should not be taken without the guidance of our membership.

Link to more information on SB16

Vendor Highlight - NAFECO

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 15:10:56 GMT

GEORGIA STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

Vendor Highlight: NAFECO

Paid sponsor message - served on behalf of GSFA

EXTENSIVE TRUCK SELECTION

NAFECO boasts a carefully curated selection of top brands in the Fire Apparatus industry, offering what we believe to be the best variety in the Southeast region to meet your specific needs.

RELIABLE SERVICE TEAM

Trust your equipment to our professionally trained service technicians at NAFECO. When unexpected issues arise, our service team is dedicated to providing prompt, professional, and reliable service, ensuring your equipment works seamlessly to keep you safe.

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC SALES TEAM

Our Fire Apparatus sales team at NAFECO is committed to exceeding customer expectations. With a shared understanding of your demands and a dedication to excellence, our experienced product specialists are ready to assist you in finding the perfect industry-leading fire apparatus or emergency vehicle.

Choose NAFECO for a partner that values your needs and shares your expectations.

Contact J. SHANNON SAULS for more information shannon.sauls@nafeco.com

Fully Involved: NAVRA Extrication Training

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:50:06 GMT

NAVRA Extrication Training

Fully Involved: Tactical Athlete Initiative Peer Fitness Summit

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 21:16:31 GMT

2024 Firefighters Legislative Dinner Registration

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 21:32:12 GMT

Join us for the 2024 Firefighter Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

All firefighters are invited to participate in the 2024 Firefighters Recognition Day at the Georgia Freight Depot. Firefighters Recognition Day is set by law as the first Tuesday in February and provides an opportunity to recognize and pay tribute to our fire service community. During the ceremonies, state elected officials will acknowledge and applaud contributions made by all fire service personnel in Georgia and also recognize and present commendations to award recipients of the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs, and Georgia Fire Inspectors Association. This event will be held at the State Capital in downtown Atlanta.

After the ceremony, be prepared to have the best barbecue you have ever tasted, thanks to the expert cooks from the Vienna Fire Department. The Legislative Appreciation Dinner is jointly sponsored by the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs and provides an opportunity to spend time with state leaders and legislators to network and discuss important fire service issues. There is a $20 per person ticket cost for the Georgia Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner and pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

Firefighter Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation Dinner Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Conference Room

201 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303

2:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Firefighters Recognition Day Ceremonies

Swearing in of Fire Marshals (immediately following ceremony)

South Wing of State Capitol

206 Washington Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30334

3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Firefighter Legislative Visits

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303

Thank you to our event sponsors!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

https://www.transcaer.com/training/training-events/ga/transcaer-lng-safety-highway-transportation-training/32958

Phone: 678-686-6239

GSFA Magazine Articles Due January 26th

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 22:11:27 GMT

Reminder: Spring 2024 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: January 26th

We welcome your articles, photos, ideas, and suggestions for our upcoming magazine. Persons interested in writing should be passionate about the subject matter and possess the ability to write knowledgeable articles.

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before January 26th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: 1.9.24

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 21:35:33 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Good morning everyone,

Below is a link to a course that will be held at GPSTC this month. It's a pretty good opportunity hosted and sponsored by TRANSCAER. Please share it so we can get registration up where it needs to be.

Thanks,

Lucus Harmsen

Pipeline Coordinator

Georgia Fire Academy

GPERI

Office 478-993-5935

Fax 478-993-4671

AFGP PROGRAM UPDATE | January 2024

Each month, we supply information regarding the management of current Assistance to Firefighters Grants, as well as helpful details on upcoming grant opportunities.

In this month’s update:

FY 2022 AFG Programs Status Update
FY 2023 AFG Programs Status Update
Semi-Annual Programmatic Performance Report (PPR) & Federal Financial Report (SF-425): Due Jan. 30
Did You Know? – Turndown Technical Assistance
January Fire Prevention Message – Fire is Fast. Plan Ahead to Save Lives!
Grant Management Training – Grants Management Technical Assistance FY 24
Closeout module available in FEMA GO
AFGP Success Stories

If you would like to receive these monthly newsletters via email, subscribe here: Signup for FEMA Email Updates (govdelivery.com) .

FY 2022 AFG Programs Status Update

Awards have been completed for all the FY 2022 AFG Programs, and all funds have been exhausted. Turndown letters for all programs have been sent.

Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG)

In December, the program office held AFG Turndown Webinars to go over the evaluation process and answer questions. If you were unable to attend and would like more information about your 2022 AFG application, please view the Did You Know? section of this email or contact your Regional Fire Program Representative .

AFG Award Listings: Assistance to Firefighters Grants | FEMA.gov .

Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant

Beginning on Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 12 p.m. ET, FEMA will host a series of live Adobe Connect webinars. The webinars are designed for departments and organizations that did not receive a Fiscal Year 2022 SAFER Grant award to provide insight into the evaluation process. Preparedness Officers will be available to answer questions.

Please note that each webinar will focus on either the Hiring Activity or the Recruitment & Retention Activity and interested attendees need only attend one session that is relevant to their application. Attendees are encouraged to have their FY 22 AFG application available for review during the webinar session. Please see the schedule below for webinar dates and times.

SAFER Award Listings: Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) | FEMA.gov .

Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) Grant

If you receive a turndown letter and would like further information, please contact the Preparedness Officer assigned to your state or contact the AFG Help Desk at firegrants@fema.dhs.gov .

FP&S Award Listings: Fire Prevention and Safety | FEMA.gov .

FY 2023 AFG Programs Status Update

Fiscal Year 2023 AFG Application Period Opens Jan. 29, 2024

The FY 2023 AFG application period is expected to run Jan. 29 through March 8, 2024. The AFG Program will conduct application development workshop webinars for the 2023 AFG starting on Jan. 8, 2024. The schedule is posted HERE .

The Criteria Development Panel recommended putting an emphasis on PPE for FY 2023 AFG that is necessary to protect firefighter health and safety. It is strongly recommended that applicants attend an application development webinar or read the 2023 AFG Notice of Funding Opportunity before deciding what to apply for.

In anticipation of the 2023 AFG application period, below is a list of things that you can do NOW to start preparing.

Coordinate with your local officials to verify your organization’s SAM.gov account is Active and that no changes have been made.
Ensure grant writing staff have accounts and appropriate permissions in FEMA GO .
Attend a 2023 AFG Application Development Workshop Webinar.
Conduct a Risk Assessment to determine your greatest needs. Compare your needs to the priorities of the program once the FY23 funding notice is released to identify what you should request.
Poll vendors to start determining the costs of items you plan to request.
If requesting a vehicle, establish your committee and develop specifications.
Use the Application Checklist to gather information needed to complete the application.
Use the Self-Evaluation Sheets to start drafting the four scored sections of the application narrative. These documents provide the exact criteria that panelists will be looking for in your narrative at panel review. There is one for Operations & Safety and another for Vehicle applications.
Use the Narrative Development Toolkit (formerly the Narrative Development Guide) to help identify ways that you can address the criteria outlined in the Self-Evaluation Sheets.
Write your narrative. It is easily pasted into the application once the application period opens. This will allow ample time for others to review what you’ve written and provide feedback.
Contact your Regional Fire Program Representative with any questions.

Semi-Annual Programmatic Performance Report (PPR) & Federal Financial Report (SF-425)

Due Jan. 30

PPR

Recipients who received an award through the FEMA Grants Outcome (FEMA GO ) system must prepare and submit the PPR through FEMA GO for the following programs:

Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG)
Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grants; and
Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants

PPR requirements have changed from FY 2018, FY 2019, and FY 2020 AFG NOFO per Information Bulletin 468 . PPR deadlines are:

No later than July 30 (for the period Jan. 1 – June 30)
No later than January 30 (for the period July 1 – Dec. 31)
Within 120 calendar days after the end of the Period of Performance

Recipients must submit programmatic performance reports as a condition of their award acceptance. Future awards and funds drawdown may be withheld if these reports are delinquent.

TIPS FOR PPR SUBMISSION:

The PPR forms can be found at Semi-Annual Performance Report | FEMA.gov .
The PPR task will not appear in "My to do list." Go to "Grants" at the top of the page and in the "I want to..." dropdown next to your grant, indicate "Submit performance progress report."
SAFER grant recipients should be cognizant of the separate forms for Hiring and the Recruitment & Retention activities and ensure selection of the correct form before submitting.
For more information on completing a PPR, view the FEMA GO Programmatic Performance Report Guide.

Contact the AFG Helpdesk toll-free at 1-866-274-0960 if you have problems completing the report.

SF-425

Recipients are required to submit a Federal Financial Report (FFR or SF-425) on a semi-annual basis. The FFR must be submitted through FEMA GO based on the calendar year beginning with the period after the award is made. Grant recipients are required to submit an FFR throughout the entire period of performance of the grant and for closeout. Reports are due:

No later than July 30 (for the period Jan. 1 – June 30)
No later than Jan. 30 (for the period July 1 – Dec. 31)
Within 120 days after the end of the Period of Performance

PLEASE NOTE: The SF-425 will not appear in "My to do list. Click on the "Financial reports" link on the left-hand side of your "Manage grants" landing page, then click on "Actions" to open the report.

A detailed instructional guide for completing an SF-425 report can be found on the Grants.gov website at Post-Award Reporting Forms | GRANTS.GOV . On the Grants.gov website, please select the Instructions document for "Federal Financial Report (SF-425)."

Future awards and fund drawdowns may be withheld if these reports are delinquent, demonstrate lack of progress, or are insufficient in detail.

If the period of performance for your award has expired, and you have not yet formally closed the grant, you do NOT need to submit a semi-annual SF-425 report. You will submit the FINAL SF-425 report when you submit your grant's final close outreport. If the online closeout report for your grant is not yet available, you will be notified by e-mail when it is released.

Did You Know?

There is technical assistance available to help understand the reasons your 2022 AFG application was turned down.

Hopefully you were able to take advantage of the 2022 AFG turndown webinars held last month. These are intended to provide you with the tools to review your application for obvious things that may have caused you not to score as well. In some cases, those reasons may not be so obvious.

Therefore, the AFG program provides additional data to regional fire program specialists so that they can assist you further in understanding how your application could be improved. This assistance can include understanding what caused you not to score well in the computer pre-score phase or if you made it to panel, panelist comments on what they did or did not see in the scored narrative sections. If you are interested in this additional technical assistance, you are encouraged to reach out to the regional fire program specialist that covers your state. A listing of regional contacts is located HERE .

January Fire Prevention Message

Escape Planning: Fire is fast. P = Plan Ahead to Save Lives.

Key messages:

The increasing severity of home fires due to modern building contents and open space configurations makes it crucial that people are prepared to leave their homes immediately in the event of fire. Residents could have less than 2 minutes to escape a home fire once the smoke alarm sounds. Use these messages and free materials to teach your community about the importance of making and practicing a home fire escape plan.

For more information, please visit the U.S. Fire Administration’s website for Fire Prevention and Community Risk Reduction HERE .

Grants Management Training

Grants Management Technical Assistance

The K0705 Fundamentals of Grants Management is a virtual course offered by FEMA to grant recipients. Although not a requirement for accepting an AFG award, the course is designed to assist organizations strengthen their grant management practices. Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

Improve collaboration among policy, program and financial staff to integrate grant management functions;
Identify applicable regulations and navigate and apply the Code of Federal Regulations, including 2 CFR Part 200;
Apply proven business practices related to the grant lifecycle to increase efficiency and meet grant management priorities, such as strategic planning, organization, program implementation, staff training, monitoring, reporting and audits;
Develop or revise policies, procedures, and practices in critical areas of grants management, such as monitoring, procurement, source documentation, payments, and equipment inventory; and
Prepare for federal monitoring and sub-recipient monitoring.

To Apply: National Emergency Training Center Online Admissions Application (fema.gov)

Questions: fema-gpd-training@fema.dhs.gov

Closeout Report Available in FEMA GO

The closeout module has been released in FEMA GO for recipients that have received AFG awards from 2018 to 2020. Recipients with awards that are no longer open will have 90 days to complete the module. If an award still has an open period of performance (POP), the recipient will have to wait until the POP ends to initiate the closeout process and will have 90 to 120 days to complete the process. Do not start your closeout if there is a chance that more funds or an amendment could be requested as these functions will no longer be available. A tutorial on the closeout process is available by clicking here .

For closeout help, contact your Regional Fire Program Representative or the AFG Helpdesk toll-free at 1-866-274-0960 or email  firegrants@fema.dhs.gov

AFGP Success Stories

Township of Spring Fire & Rescue Services – West Lawn, Pennsylvania

Awarded items: 2020 AFG award for extrication equipment

Submitted by: Chief Colin Hackman

The Township of Spring Fire Rescue Services was in need of portable battery-operated hydraulic rescue tools. We were awarded an Assistance to Firefighters Grant to purchase a battery powered cutter and spreader, which was placed in service on October 8, 2021.

On October 29, 2021, we were dispatched to assist Western Burks Fire Department with a motor vehicle crash with entrapment on Papermill Road in Lower Heidelberg Township. The incident involved one vehicle that had left the roadway and went down an embankment and into the woods. Due to the location where the vehicle came to rest, the recently purchased battery-operated tools were pivotal in the successful extrication of one patient in critical condition and another that was deceased.

The battery-operated cutter and spreader made possible by the AFG grant was a great asset to the outcome of this rescue and many more to date.

SHARE YOUR SUCCESS STORY

Do you have a Success Story regarding a FEMA Grant that you’d like to share with everyone? Contact us at  gpd-comms@fema.dhs.gov or through Twitter @FEMAGrants  using a private message.

NERIS – as a reminder the latest NERIS webinar hosted by UL’s FRIS has been posted and can be found here. I know it’s an hour long and time is valuable but is important that we are all engaged in this process, updating our members, and providing feedback to the developers based on the volunteer experience. Around the 51 minute mark, there is a great viewer question about how NERIS will affect small departments under 10,000 members. Please note they are requested feedback on the data schemas for NERIS by January 19. Please use this link to do that.

Fully Involved: GFBF First Responder Family Weekend

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 15:56:33 GMT

First Responders Family Weekend

It’s January, and that means it is Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month . We’re honored to partner with the International Association of Fire Fighters ( IAFF ) to provide a month-long education and advocacy campaign to reduce occupational cancer risks all across North America.

Each week of the month focuses on a specific theme. Each theme builds upon the previous week’s theme. By the end of the month, firefighters with have the knowledge and resources to understand how firefighters are exposed to carcinogens, what happens when they are exposed, how to prevent exposures, make culture changes in their department, and assist those who are diagnosed with cancer.

Check out the #FFCAM weekly schedule below. Print it out and post it on your station fridge. Forward this email to other firefighters across the country. Spread the word, knowledge, and resources, so we can eliminate cancer from the fire service together.

Fully Involved: 12.21.23

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:42:52 GMT

On Demand Access to NERIS Draft Data Framework Webinar

On Dec 14th, 2023, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate, UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) hosted our second National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) webinar. This session was a deep dive into the proposed NERIS data framework, and it detailed the process for engagement and feedback to follow.

Featured Speakers

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator, USFA
Dr. Steve Kerber, Vice President and Executive Director, FSRI
Rebecca Harned, Advisor, USFA
Craig Weinschenk, Principal Investigator, FSRI
Tom Jenkins, Research Manager, FSRI (Moderator)

NOMINATE OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS FOR THE NVFC’S FOUR NATIONAL AWARDS

November 21, 2023

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is accepting nominations for its annual fire service achievement awards. Recognize the contributions of a lifetime volunteer firefighter, a leader in health and wellness, an outstanding junior firefighter, or a successful junior firefighter program.

Nominations are due by 5pm EST on January 19 for the following awards:

Lifetime Achievement Award

2024 Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner Registration

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 00:12:17 GMT

Join us for the 2024 Firefighter Recognition Day &

Legislative Appreciation Dinner

February 6, 2024

Firefighter Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation Dinner Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Conference Room

201 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303

2:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Firefighters Recognition Day Ceremonies

Swearing in of Fire Marshals (immediately following ceremony)

South Wing of State Capitol

206 Washington Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30334

3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Firefighter Legislative Visits

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303

Thank you to our event sponsors!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Purchase your Atlanta Falcons Holiday Pack Here

Phone: 678-686-6239

Fully Involved: Fighting For Families

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 18:39:31 GMT

Fighting For Families

March 1-3, 2024

Ted Lowe

$365 per couple includes lodging, meals, programming, and taxes.

A dedicated retreat for military, first responders, and other couples

Join Serving Marriages for this retreat dedicated to serving those that serve our country. While you guard our freedom, and our families, allow us to help you guard your marriage.

Ted Lowe will be joining us for this year’s retreat. Through humor, transparency, biblical wisdom, research, and a massive amount of practicality, Ted will help us focus on what he calls "The 5 Boss Thoughts of Marriage." Based on scripture and research, these five guiding thoughts will help set your mind to love in the way you want and your spouse needs.

Ted Lowe, speaker, author, and founder of marriedpeople.org , an organization whose mission is to help make marriage real, fun, and simple. Prior to founding MarriedPeople, Ted served for 10 years as the director of MarriedLife at North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. Ted is the author of the book, Your Best Us . He is a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary, in Pasadena, California. He lives in Cumming, Georgia, with his five favorite people: his wife, Na ncie, and their four children.

Fully Involved: Atlanta Falcons Holiday Pack Offer

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:01:30 GMT

Happy Holidays! We have one last special ticket offer that I wanted to share with you, the Atlanta Falcons Holiday Pack! Each pack will include a Falcons’ game ticket for December 24 ^th at 1pm against the Indianapolis Colts and an exclusive Atlanta Falcons Scarf. The scarfs are limited, so make sure to secure yours as soon as possible.

This is a great opportunity to invite your family and friends out to a game during the Holidays or surprise your loved ones with an exclusive Falcons’ Scarf! ��

Thank you,

Molly Olsofka

Group Sales Executive

Atlanta Falcons

470-341-5304│ AtlantaFalcons.com

1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Fully Involved: Come in from the Rain Video Podcast

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 17:24:57 GMT

Come in from the Rain Video Podcast

Fully Involved: Atlanta Gladiators First Responders Discounted Tickets

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:23:31 GMT

Hello Georgia State Firefighters Association Members,

The Atlanta Gladiators are hosting our annual First Responders Game on December 15 ^th , highlighting our support and appreciation for all of the hard working first responders in our area. As a member of the Georgia State Firefighters Association, we’re offering discounted tickets to the game through the special portal below:

GSFFA Discounted Ticket Portal – First Responders Night

Please contact Alex Mornhinweg at 770-497-5108 with any questions, or via email at amornhinweg@atlantagladiators.com . We look forward to seeing you there!

Fully Involved - 12.4.23

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:52:34 GMT

Do you know a volunteer firefighter who has served at least 20 years and has achieved significant accomplishments in the volunteer fire service? Nominate them for the NVFC’s Lifetime Achievement Award! https://nvfc.org/awards

The NFPA is seeking public comments on the current draft of NFPA 1020, tentatively titled Standard for Fire and Emergency Services Instructor, Fire Officer, and Emergency Medical Services Officer Professional Qualifications. This standard is the result of the NFPA’s consolidation project to streamline existing standards and to create the much-requested EMS Officer professional qualifications. Under NFPA 1020, separate chapters have been added for EMS Officers. These additional chapters eliminate previous concerns about creating an undue burden on Fire Officers by adding EMS language in the existing NFPA 1021.

Read the NFPA's article on the new standard, written by Chelsea Rubadou

�� https://www.nfpa.org/News-Blogs-and-Articles/Blogs/2023/11/28/EMS-Officers-Welcomed-to-the-NFPA-World-of-Professional-Qualifications

Submit comments �� https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/1/0/2/1020?l=33

Volunteer fire/EMS departments can now apply to receive a FREE refurbished laptop thanks to a collaboration between the NVFC and CHEMTREC ! This is a great opportunity for any departments that don’t have a laptop or need an upgrade.

Learn more and apply by December 11: http://www.nvfc.org/laptop-giveaway

GFBF First Responder Family Weekend

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:46:32 GMT

First Responders Family Weekend

Are Your Antiquated Rules Driving Volunteers Away:

Panel Discussion

Fully Involved: GFBF First Responder Family Weekend

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 14:37:49 GMT

Good morning!

Attached is the information for the upcoming Firefighter Family Weekend through our partnership with Camp Twin Lakes on November 17-19 at their Will-A-Way facility in Winder, GA.

Our intention is this program would allow firefighters and their families to experience a weekend of fun, rest, and connection with other first responder families. Family can be defined however someone chooses, whether it means parents/children, spouses, siblings, etc.

Registration is at https://bit.ly/firefighterfamwknd and feel free to provide my contact information for any questions!

PS: if your schedule allows, we would love for you/your family to attend the weekend��.

Best,

McKenzy Williams, MSW

Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation

Fully Involved: Mark your Calendars - 2024 Georgia Fire Service Events

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:57:41 GMT

Mark your Calendars 2024 Events and Programs

The Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association (GSFA) are pleased to announce the following 2024 events.

Annual Firefighter Recognition Day and Legislative Dinner- February 6, 2024 Atlanta, GA
Southern Association of Fire Chiefs & Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs present the SEAFC 96th Annual Leadership Conference and GAFC Spring Executive Training Session - July 16-18, 2024 Atlanta, GA
Georgia Fire Service Fall Conference - November 12-16, 2024 Augusta, GA

Be sure to save these dates, registration information coming soon.

Fully Involved: AFG and SAFER Grants

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:33:41 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

We recently had members of our North American Training Directors Association (NAFTD) attend the Congressional Fire Service Institute (CFSI) AFG/SAFER Reauthorization Event and National Advisory Council Meeting in DC. They heard repeatedly how the current Congress is facing challenges never seen before. One of the potential impacts is the inability to get the AFG/SAFER programs reauthorized in this session, resulting in both programs sunsetting next year.

Many of us have received AFG and SAFER funds. For over 20 years, the AFG and SAFER programs have served as a vital source of funding for many career, combination, and volunteer departments that continue to do more with less. With these grants, departments can increase staffing, purchase equipment, training, and other departmental needs. These grant programs cannot be allowed to wither away.

Here is the Call to Action:

Click the link below and take five minutes to write about the positive impact AFG/SAFER funds have made in your organization. Share success stories about how AFG, SAFER, and/or the USFA has impacted you as a member of the Fire Service. Let them know why these programs are so important and how they have helped improve fire and life safety in your community.

Share your AFG and SAFER stories with Congress today! - Congressional Fire Services Institute (cfsi.org)

Take 5 minutes right now and share your story! Protect the funds that the fire service has access to annually.

Do this today to ensure your voice is heard!

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Hello NCOAA Friend –

Want to let you know about an urgent opportunity. We are holding a webinar to explain the CO Safety Grant open to state, local and tribal governments. It will be held in partnership with the Fire Service and held this Thursday October 26, at 11 am.

Would you please forward this email invite to your medical, health, wellness, injury prevention advocate friends? Please note, while the grant is specifically open to state, local and tribal governments, any organization can partner with the fire service to add CO Alarms and CO Public Education into an already existing health- and/or community-based program.

Register now: CO Safety Grant Webinar: What You Need to Know on October 26 at 11 am Eastern hosted by NCOAA, NASFM, CFSI and the CO Research Trust and sponsored by Rely. Learn more about this grant opportunity and register at … www.ncoaa.us/cpsc-webinar

Yours in CO Safety!

Charon McNabb

248-417-5185

www@ncoaa.us

Donate & be part of the CO solution!

Fully Involved: First Responders Family Weekend Nov 17-19 - Fun and Respite

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 14:58:13 GMT

First Responders Weekend

Fully Involved: Life Safety Code Course - Pickens County

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 00:11:57 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is offering our course Life Safety Code on November 7-9, 2023 in Pickens County, Georgia. The course will be held at the Pickens Community Center, 1329 Camp Rd, Jasper, Georgia, 30143, in Room 3.

This course will provide the student with an introduction and overview of the Life Safety Code and how it applies to fire inspections and code enforcement activities.Students will review the specific requirements of each section of the code, determine building and fire protection requirements, egress requirements, and apply the code to practical activities based on occupancy and hazard classification.

This course is designed for public safety personnel who will have the primary responsibility of conducting Fire and Life Safety Code Inspections and Fire Service Plans Review.

Attendance of this course is recommended, but not required, prior to attending Georgia Fire Inspector I.

Students must provide:

1. NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, (Current - Adopted Ed.)

2. Calculator with square root function.

Use the following link to register: Life Safety Code

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

GSFA Magazine - Now Online

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 22:29:43 GMT

Good Afternoon,

The board has made the decision to only print two (Winter and Spring) of the four magazines that we publish annually. Going forward you will now have access to all published GSFA magazines online! The first issue offered on the online platform is the 2023 Summer Issue.

To access the magazines online you will need to go to the GSFA website: https://www.gsffa.org/ Once you are on the website, you will hover over the Membership dropdown in the menu at the top of the page and select "Member Magazine." Once you have selected "Member Magazine" it will prompt you to enter a password.

The password is: FIRE2023

Please let us know if you have any questions or have trouble accessing the new magazine page.

Fully Involved: 2023 Georgia Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:34:42 GMT

Good Morning,

We cordially invite you to attend the 2023 Georgia Fallen Firefighter Memorial Ceremony scheduled for Friday, October 6, at 11:00 a.m. in the Auditorium at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, located at 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia.

This year's memorial will honor the following:

2022 Honorees

Last Name First Name Department EOW

Medina Efrin St. Mary's Fire Department 04/17/2021

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference Survey

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 16:56:05 GMT

2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference Survey

The GSFA and GAFC Boards would like your feedback on the upcoming 2024 Georgia Fire Service Conference dates. Due to some scheduling issues, we have two options available, please take a quick minute to complete the survey and let us know which dates would work best for you.

Deadline: Sunday, October 8th at 5:00 pm

GSFA Magazine Articles Due October 4th

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 20:08:43 GMT

Reminder: Winter 2023 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: October 4th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before October 4th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: NVFC First Responder Helpline

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 15:39:12 GMT

NVFC First Responder Helpline

With September being Suicide Prevention Month, and Mental Illness Awareness Week coming up on October 1-7, the NVFC wants to raise awareness of an important resource for the emergency services community. The NVFC First Responder Helpline acts similar to an EAP to provide behavioral support services for firefighters, EMS providers, and their household families who need assistance. Attached is a press release with more information. Please share this with your audiences.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P : 202.887.5700

https://www.fema.gov/event/fema-seeks-public-feedback-simplifying-fema-preparedness-grants

FEMA Seeks Public Feedback on Simplifying FEMA Preparedness Grants

Event Details

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) aims to improve the management and administration of its preparedness grant programs to continue to assist the nation in building and sustaining capabilities to prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to terrorist attacks and other hazards. FEMA is issuing this Notice and Request for Information (RFI) to seek public input on simplifying and streamlining its preparedness grant process to improve the efficiency and accessibility of its suite of preparedness grant programs.

This national engagement provides an opportunity for interested parties to provide input as part of the DHS 2023 priority to improve management and administration of grant programs by simplifying application processes and improving customer service, while ensuring greater accessibility and equity for under resourced populations.

Interested persons may submit comments responsive to this RFI electronically through the Federal eRulemaking Portal . Follow the instructions for submitting comments and use Docket ID: FEMA-2023-0024. Submitting this information makes it public; you may wish to read the Privacy and Security Notice . Comments are due no later than 5 p.m. ET on Nov. 7, 2023.

Fully Involved: GPSTC Public Safety Conference

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:53:32 GMT

2023 GPSTC Public Safety Conference

Fully Involved: Course Announcement: Command and Control of Incident Operations

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:25:28 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following National Fire Academy Direct Delivery: Command and Control of Incident Operations on October 15-20, 2023.

Course Description: During training, students study the Incident Command System (ICS) and proper fire command techniques for the control and extinguishment of fires ranging from small residential structures to multi-occupancy and commercial complexes. Topics include problem solving and fire command; interagency and mutual aid; incident size-up, strategy and tactics; and incident management.

See attached flyer for details or use the following link to register:

https://access.gpstc.org/student/classes/register?courseNumber=FFAD23925

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: New Online Course - Residential Safety Surveys

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 13:56:54 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy has launched the new online class Residential Safety Surveys for Fire Departments. Residential safety surveys are a proven way to reduce fire injuries and deaths. This 1-hour online course will help firefighters lower the risk of home fire deaths by doing what they do best: helping people with simple actions that save lives. This includes installing smoke alarms and other alerting devices, helping families understand the need to keep them working, and helping them create and practice an escape plan so they will know what to do if those alarms sound.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fire Service Leaders,

Working with GEMA, the Georgia Fire Academy is hosting Hazard 3's course: Risked-Based Response to Battery Emergencies. We have three offerings for this course over the next several months.

The dates are as follows and will be held at the GPSTC Forsyth Campus from 0800-1700.

September 6, 2023
October 11, 2023
December 7, 2023

This 8-hour course includes classroom and hands-on training to prepare responders to conduct risk-based response to battery emergencies for multiple types of batteries including Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion). The course covers batteries found in transportation including passenger vehicles, ground transport, air and sea shipping, as well as residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

See the attached flyer for further information or use the following link to register today.

Risked-Based Response to Battery Emergencies

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: New Fire Chief I, II, and III NFA Direct Deliveries

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 23:51:51 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following National Fire Academy Direct Delivery Courses coming in the near future. The classes we are hosting are as follows:

New Fire Chief I: Challenging Issues on October 3-4, 2023

New Fire Chief II: Administrative Issues on October 10-11, 2023

New Fire Chief III: Contemporary Issues on October 17-18, 2023

See the attachments for further information and registration links.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: GFSTC Proposed Rule Changes

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 18:16:08 GMT

GFSTC Proposed Rule Changes

Please see the attached Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training proposed rules changes. Please review and contact them direct if you have any concerns or send your concerns to a Georgia State Firefighters Association Board member, and we will bring your concerns forward.

Fully Involved: Joint Statement Opposing AFG and SAFER Cuts

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 19:02:43 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Joint Statement Opposing AFG and SAFER Cuts

Good afternoon,

The NVFC has joined with other fire service organizations on a joint statement opposing proposed cuts to AFG and SAFER. The statement is attached along with an article from the NVFC that includes a link where people can take action by contacting their legislators to oppose the cuts. Please share with your audiences.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P : 202.887.5700

Vendor Highlight - Active911

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 20:02:14 GMT

GEORGIA STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

Vendor Highlight: Active911

Paid sponsor message - served on behalf of GSFA

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference Event Registration

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:59:24 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 22-25, 2023

The Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association invite you to join us for the 2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference set for August 22-25, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia.

Pre Conference classes are scheduled for August 22nd & 23rd.

The official conference training agenda will be August 23-25, 2023.

The Conference Agenda is Now Available!

NEW for 2023!

Recruit your fellow firefighters to join you at the upcoming conference! Not only will they have the opportunity to learn and network with others in the field, but you will have the chance to win a $200 travel voucher and a complimentary registration for the 2024 Georgia Fire Service conference. Spread the word and increase your chances of winning!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

Annual Firefighters Competition:

Put your team together now and prepare to join in the fun to claim your place in the annual Firefighters Competition! Up to ten departments from across the state can compete for bragging rights as they navigate through four obstacles. There's plenty of time between now and September to set up the drills and practice your skills. Each team may include up to seven members, so pick your players and get them started today!

Registration Deadline: August 11, 2023

Interact with Fire Service Vendors:

Exhibit Hall open on Wednesday and Thursday

Make plans to visit the Exhibit Hall on Wednesday afternoon during the opening reception from 4:45 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. and again on Thursday from 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. to interact with the conference vendors and learn more about their products, services and programs.

Firefighters from the local area who are not registered for the conference but would still like to visit the Exhibit Hall are welcome to join us during the Thursday hours (lunch will only be provided for conference participants).

Conference Hotel:

Marriott Augusta Convention Center

(Available until block is full or July 31)

2 10th St.

Augusta, GA 30901

Phone: 706-722-8900

Room Rate : $179

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Thursday, August 25th at 8 a.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

If you have lost a current or retired member of your department since the last conference (September 2022), please submit their information so that they may be recognized. All information is due by July 15, 2023.

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Thursday, August 25th at 8 a.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference Registration

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 17:44:07 GMT

Are you registered for the 2023 Fire Service Conference? If not, do so today and secure your hotel reservations. The hotel has extended the room block for any late registrants until close of business today. Click here to reserve your room at the Augusta Marriott arriving Wednesday, August 23, - departing Saturday August 26.

Below is what you don’t want to miss.

Keynote Speaker – Dr. David Griffin presenting on The Charleston 9
Conference - If you haven’t registered, please click here to view the Conference web page and you are one click away from most anything about the event
Agenda
Online Registration/Paper Form Registration
Hotel Reservation Link (closes TODAY)
Competition Information for Thursday, August 24
Award Ceremony Information Friday, August 25

Conference Hotel:

Marriott Augusta Convention Center

2 10th St.

Augusta, GA 30901

Phone: 706-722-8900

Room Rate: $179

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

Fully Involved: Safety and Health Conference

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 16:40:45 GMT

Anheuser-Busch Delivering More Than 42,000 Cans of Emergency Drinking Water to 18 Georgia Fire Departments

Anheuser-Busch and its wholesaler partners are teaming up with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) for the fifth consecutive year to donate emergency drinking water to local fire departments nationwide. This summer, more than 42,000 cans will be donated to 18 fire departments across Georgia to help them prepare for and respond in times of crisis and long incident at home.

Firefighters and first responders in our communities rely on clean drinking water to stay hydrated in times of need; yet volunteer fire departments often lack the budget and resources to supply. The water donations to Georgia fire departments are designed to deliver on this critical need, as well as to support the communities where Anheuser Busch’s customers and more than 700 employees live and work.

“Access to clean drinking water is essential for firefighters to operate at their best while battling wildfires or other emergencies in the summer heat,” said Curt Pechloff, Chief of the Northwest Harris Volunteer Fire Department. “We’re grateful for the dedication of our community partners Anheuser-Busch, the NVFC, and the numerous wholesalers who have delivered over 40,000 cans of water to 18 fire and rescue departments across Georgia to support our mission to serve and protect.”

Now in its fifth year, the partnership between Anheuser-Busch and the NVFC is expanding its reach to provide 2.5 million cans – more than ever before – to over 600 volunteer fire departments (VFDs) across 48 states, with a goal of reaching more than 1,000 VFDs before the end of the year. The initiative’s expansion represents a significant evolution in the brewer’s 30-year-strong commitment to disaster relief, as well its deep appreciation for the first responders who are keeping their communities safe.

“Showing up for our communities and first responders has long been part of Anheuser Busch’s legacy – that’s who we are. We’re proud to continue building on that tradition by working with our wholesaler partners and NVFC to support our neighbors, friends, and families,” said Cesar Vargas, Chief External Affairs Officer at Anheuser-Busch.

“Emergency drinking water is critical for firefighters’ safety and ability to respond to crises at home each year,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “We appreciate Anheuser-Busch’s increased commitment to supplying our nation’s fire service with this much-needed resource and for their continued partnership in keeping our communities safe.”

In Georgia, the donations of emergency drinking water will be made to 18 volunteer fire departments including Buena Vista Fire Rescue, Cross Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Cook County Fire Department, Ideal Fire and Rescue, and Morgan County Fire Rescue.

Since 2019, Anheuser-Busch and its national network of independent wholesalers – including local partners , AB Beverage Co. Inc., Albany Beverage Co., Atlanta Beverage Co., Bibb Distributing, Eagle Rock Distributing, La Grange Grocery Co., Leon Farmer & Company, Johnson Distributing Co., and Southern Eagle Distributing Co. – have partnered with the NVFC to donate more than 6.4 million cans of clean, safe drinking water to more than 960 fire departments across 49 states to support disaster response needs.

“At Lagrange Grocery Company, we’re proud to support the dedicated members of the Northwest Harris Volunteer fire department with this delivery of emergency drinking water in partnership with Anheuser-Busch,” said Al Zachary, President of Lagrange Grocery Company. “We hope it provides some relief as they battle fires and other emergencies throughout the year.”

The emergency drinking water is sourced from Anheuser-Busch’s breweries in Cartersville, Georgia and Fort Collins, Colorado which periodically pause beer production to can clean, safe drinking water to support disaster relief efforts in partnership with the American Red Cross and NVFC. Since the creation of its emergency drinking water program in 1988, Anheuser-Busch has donated more than 90 million cans of clean drinking water to U.S. communities affected by natural disasters and other crises.

Learn more about the Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters Program at www.nvfc.org/water .

ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life’s moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and make a meaningful impact in the world. We hope to build a future that everyone can celebrate, and everyone can share. For more than 165 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 18,000 colleagues across the United States. We are home to several of America’s most loved beer and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA, Cutwater Spirits, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Bud Light as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .

ABOUT THE NATIONAL VOLUNTEER FIRE COUNCIL

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, emergency medical, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides critical advocacy, resources, programs, and education for first responders across the nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org .

Vendor Highlight: NAFECO

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 18:40:17 GMT

GEORGIA STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

Vendor Highlight: NAFECO

Paid sponsor message - served on behalf of GSFA

With our SV1 image optimization and unique Mixed Gain mode, you'll get higher detail, better contrast, and more edge clarity, while clearly seeing the entire temperature range without freezing and switching modes. Firefighters can trust that they're using a camera that meets the highest industry standards for performance and reliability.

Contact J. SHANNON SAULS for more information

shannon.sauls@nafeco.com

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Memorial Service

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 20:18:01 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 22-25, 2023

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Thursday, August 24th at 8 a.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

If you have lost a current or retired member of your department since the last conference (September 2022), please submit their information so that they may be recognized.

All information is due by August 1, 2023

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

Fully Involved: Register Now! An Introduction to NERIS with Live Q&A

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:57:47 GMT

Modernizing the U.S. Fire Data System: An Introduction to the National Emergency Response Information System

July 13, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EDT

Join the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (DHS), UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) for a virtual discussion with Q&A on July 13, 2023 to hear first-hand from leaders about the vision, purpose, and impact of the new National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).

During the session, you will be provided with information about the NERIS platform itself, the new data standard on which it will be based, and the approach to development, along with key milestones and timing. You will also have the opportunity to have your questions about NERIS answered live.

Featured Speakers

Dr. David Alexander, Senior Science Advisor for Resilience, DHS Science and Technology Directorate
Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell , U.S. Fire Administrator, USFA
Dr. Steve Kerber , Vice President and Executive Director, FSRI
Commissioner Adam K. Thiel, Philadelphia Fire Department (Moderator)

About Fire Safety Research Institute

The Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) strives to advance fire safety knowledge and strategies in order to create safer environments. Using advanced fire science, rigorous research, extensive outreach and education in collaboration with an international network of partners, the organization imparts stakeholders with knowledge, tools, and resources that enable them to make better, more fire safe decisions that ultimately save lives and property. To learn more, visit fsri.org . Follow the Fire Safety Research Institute on Twitter , Instagram , Facebook , and LinkedIn .

About UL Research Institutes

UL Research Institutes is a nonprofit research organization dedicated to advancing the UL public safety mission through scientific discovery and application. With best-in-class experts, we are the world’s premier safety science research organization. We conduct rigorous independent research, analyze safety data and explore at the edges of technology to be the first to uncover and act on emerging risks to human safety. To learn more, visit ul.org.

Join our community

UL Research Institutes is a leading independent safety science organization with global reach. Dedicated to exploring vital questions related to public safety, we sense and act on risks to humanity and our planet.

Since 1894, our trusted research has engaged the ingenuity of top minds across scientific disciplines to engineer a safer and more sustainable world. Science builds the knowledge required to mitigate increasingly urgent safety problems like environmental and chemical pollution or artificial intelligence inequities — and our rigorous, objective investigations uncover that knowledge.

In collaboration with a global network of scientists and safety professionals, we define the safe and sustainable use of things ranging from legacy materials to new and emerging technologies. Our discoveries support the development of practical standards and policies by UL Standards & Engagement. Together, we are advancing safety science for the greater good.

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference Firefighters Competition

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:08:11 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 22 - 25, 2023

The Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association (GSFA) invite you to join us for the 2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference set for August 22-25, 2023 in Augusta, GA.

Annual Firefighters Competition:

Registration Deadline: August 11, 2023

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

Fully Involved: Nationwide Release of Odd Hours Film

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 13:22:43 GMT

Nationwide Release of Odd Hours Film

The NVFC is excited for the nationwide release of the new volunteer fire service documentary Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat. New information about the theatrical and streaming release this summer has been announced. Please see the attached press release and share with your audiences. The trailer for the film is also available here . If you would like to interview the filmmakers or get additional video clips or artwork for the movie, you can contact publicist Annie Jeeves at annie@cinematicredpr.com or on her cell at 310-995-3834.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P : 202.887.5700

Fully Involved: Safety and Health Conference

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:15:25 GMT

Fully Involved: GSFA Awards Program

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 22:32:18 GMT

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Award Nominations Due June 30th

Since 1972, GSFA has recognized firefighters through its annual recognition program. Award recipients will be recognized at the 2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference and the 2024 Firefighters Recognition Day. Recognition is given for the following categories:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqTTMaPzdmg

All nominations must be received no later than June 30, 2023.

For nomination forms and more information, click here .

2023 Georgia State Firefighters Association

Fire Department Grant & Scholarship Applications

Application Deadline: June 30, 2023

Applications must be received by GSFA by the deadline. A drawing will be held at the 2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference scheduled for August 22-25, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia from those individuals that submit qualified applications meeting all scholarship eligibility & grant requirements. GSFA will award up to six scholarships in the amount of $500 and up to two grants in the amount of $1000.

Fully Involved: THIS WEEK: L-Ion FIRES: Firefighter Stand Down (The Secret List)

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 18:26:19 GMT

All,

The 2023 Firefighter Safety Stand Down runs this week, June 19-24.

This year’s theme is “Lithium-ion Batteries: Are You Ready?”

PLANNING THIS WEEK:

Each weekday will cover a different topic relating to lithium-ion battery response and safety, which will be broken down into five daily focus areas w/ training plans/fact sheets and intro videos:

TODAY....

DAY 1 MONDAY 6/19/2023-Recognition of Hazards

DAY 2 TUESDAY 6/20/2023-Firefighting Operations

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KT7v3LduZtU

DAY 3 WEDNESDAY 6/21/2023-Firefighter Safety

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otifnrck-NU

DAY 4 THURSDAY 6/22/2023-Post-Incident Considerations

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfFFS_Yxyf8

DAY 5 FRIDAY 6/23/2023-Public Education

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEbFAdJD92s

Planning Schedule & Resources: https://www.safetystanddown.org/event-planning/

Everything You Need For The Week is HERE:

https://www.safetystanddown.org/

Additional:

https://www.safetystanddown.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Safety-Stand-Down-2023.pdf

Departments are asked to suspend all non-emergency activities during the week to focus their attention on these efforts. Resources and training videos are available at safetystanddown.org to help departments implement Safety Stand Down strategies.

Firefighter Safety Stand Down is a joint initiative of the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ (IAFC) Safety, Health and Survival Section, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA).

Take Care. Be Careful. Pass it On.

BillyG

The Secret List 6/19/2023-0800 Hours

www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com

Fully Involved: DripDrop Hydration Giveaway

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 14:46:12 GMT

DripDrop Hydration Giveaway Now Open for Volunteer Firefighters

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is pleased to announce we've partnered with DripDrop Hydration, PBC, for the fourth year to provide dehydration relief to volunteer firefighters. In 2023, a total of 2,500 boxes (500,000 servings) of DripDrop’s electrolyte drink mix will be given away to 1,250 volunteer fire departments.

More information can be found via the press release attached to this email. We appreciate your help in spreading the word to your audiences that this opportunity is now available.

Thank you!

Cierra Orlyk

Communications Coordinator

National Volunteer Fire Council

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

P: 202.887.5700

E: cierra@nvfc.org

Vendor Highlight - NAFECO

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 16:20:46 GMT

GEORGIA STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

Vendor Highlight

Paid sponsor message - served on behalf of GSFA

Contact J. SHANNON SAULS for more information.

shannon.sauls@nafeco.com

ChemTrec Help Award

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 15:32:14 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

ChemTrec HELP Award

About the HELP Award

CHEMTREC® is the world’s leading source of 24/7 call center support and information during hazardous materials incidents. For over 50 years, our engagement with emergency responders around the world has been the engine that drives our success. In light of that relationship, CHEMTREC has partnered with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to award $10,000 each to four volunteer fire departments in the U.S. that are also members of the NVFC. The awards are intended to help the fire departments enhance their response capabilities and increase local preparedness to respond to and prepare for hazardous materials incidents.

GSFA FD Cancer Survey

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 17:11:32 GMT

FD Cancer Survey

We are working to gather information from departments around the state, to collect data on cancer rates and correlations from Fire Departments in Georgia. This information will be anonymous, with no department or individual’s name required.

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference Registration

Tue, 30 May 2023 17:36:30 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 22-25, 2023

The Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association invite you to join us for the 2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference set for August 21-25, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia.

NEW for 2023!

Conference Agenda Coming Soon!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Applications & More Information

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Augusta!

Interact with Fire Service Vendors:

Exhibit Hall open on Wednesday and Thursday

Conference Hotel:

Marriott Augusta Convention Center

(Available until block is full or July 31)

2 10th St.

Augusta, GA 30901

Phone: 706-722-8900

Room Rate : $179

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter for Recognition

Each year, the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association (GSFA) annually recognize firefighters at all levels for their leadership, accomplishments and acts of valor. Award recipients will be announced at the Awards Reception at the Georgia Fire Service Conference on Friday, August 25th. They are also invited to receive a special commendation from Governor Brian Kemp during the 2024 Firefighter Recognition Day. Take a look around your department and consider nominating someone today!

GSFA Annual Awards

Firefighter of the Year

Rookie of the Year

Instructor of the Year

Training Officer of the Year

Educator of the Year

Valor Award

Deadline: June 30, 2023

GAFC Annual Awards

Fire Chief of the Year

Chief Officer of the Year

Fire Chief / Fire Officer Certifications

Deadline: August 1, 2023

Watch for more information coming soon!

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Thursday, August 25th at 8 a.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

NVFC First Responder Helpline

Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:21 GMT

NVFC First Responder Helpline:

Confidential Assistance When You Need It

The NVFC First Responder Helpline, offered through Provident, provides PTSD and mental health services to every National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) member and their household family.

Find 24/7, confidential counseling, resources, and referrals to assistance for a range of issues, including:

Stress management
Depression
Family conflict
Anxiety
Relationships
Financial or legal concerns
Substance misuse
Grief or loss
Problem gambling
Child or elder care

The First Responder Helpline can provide up to five telephone coaching sessions (or the number of sessions allowed by state law) with master’s degreed counselors who identify stress triggers, teach coping techniques, and develop an ongoing stress management plan.

In addition, this program offers consultation, resources, and referrals for the everyday concerns that can cause distractions and loss of focus when a first responder needs it most, including:

Family – Childcare, elder care, adoption research and referrals

Legal – Access to attorneys are for 30-minute phone or in-person legal consultation

Financial – Referrals to consultants to assist with debt management, credit problems, retirement planning, or college funding

How to Access the NVFC First Responder Helpline:

If you are an NVFC member, go to the NVFC web site and login to the members-only section. Go to the membership benefits page to find the number.

If you are not an NVFC member, join for just $21 at www.nvfc.org/join to access the First Responder Helpline and all membership benefits.

Chiefs: The First Responder Helpline has many features similar to an employee assistance program and can be a great resource for your department. Consider providing NVFC membership, which includes this benefit, for your department's members. It's only $21 per person per year!

** Note: The NVFC First Responder Helpline is a benefit for NVFC members and their household family that replaces the Fire/EMS Helpline that had previously been offered. Departments still displaying the old Fire/EMS Helpline number should remove those materials as that line has been discontinued. **

Chief Lee Kirkland Firefighter Training Conference

Wed, 24 May 2023 21:02:37 GMT

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS EXTENDED TO MAY 26th!

Thu, 18 May 2023 14:35:12 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 21 - 25, 2023

Augusta, GA

Host Department: Augusta Fire Department

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Augusta! To submit a class Click here for the electronic call for papers. We are soliciting classes for all ranks!

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS

EXTENDED TO MAY 26th!

Start pulling together your competition teams now!

The GSFA would like to know when you are having any recruit graduations, station dedications, conferences, awards, and any other events. Please contact the GSFA Office at info@gsffa.org so we can get your events added to our event calendar.

Fully Involved: May 5, 2023

Mon, 08 May 2023 17:21:58 GMT

Fully Involved: May 5, 2023

Fri, 05 May 2023 14:17:22 GMT

Join the US Fire Administration for a series of webinars as we share success stories and best practices from fire departments on how they are using data to better protect communities and firefighters. Each day of National Fire Data Week will feature different a theme. We hope that you can participate in one of the sessions below.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/about/usfa-events/2023-05-15-national-fire-data-week.html

Fully Involved: GSFA Awards Program

Wed, 03 May 2023 19:37:34 GMT

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Award Nominations Due June 30th

Introduction to Community Risk Reduction

All nominations must be received no later than June 30, 2023. For nomination forms and more information, click here .

2023 Georgia State Firefighters Association

Fire Department Grant & Scholarship Applications

Application Deadline: June 30, 2023

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Call for Papers

Tue, 02 May 2023 17:33:25 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 21 - 25, 2023

Augusta, GA

Host Department: Augusta Fire Department

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Augusta! To submit a class Click here for the electronic call for papers. We are soliciting classes for all ranks!

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS MAY 12th!

Start pulling together your competition teams now!

Fully Involved: May 1, 2023

Tue, 02 May 2023 17:27:05 GMT

Fire Service Leaders.

The Georgia Fire Academy is proud to announce the first offering of our new course; Introduction to Community Risk Reduction. This is a new 8-hour course that is being offered on May 5, 2023, at the GPSTC Forsyth Campus.

Introduction to Community Risk Reduction (CRR) is a one-day course that is intended to provide a basic understanding of Community Risk Reduction, how to evaluate the risks and hazards that exist in a community, and create successful CRR initiatives in any community. The students will be introduced to evaluation concepts as well as steps to creating an organizational culture that embraces CRR.

The expected outcome of this course is to augment the skills and knowledge of students to promote a change in culture for community risk reduction programs. The benefit of students embracing this need to act will potentially result in a reduction of injuries, deaths, and property loss, thus reducing civilian fire fatalities and potentially reducing the number of Line of Duty Deaths of emergency personnel.

Use the following link to register:

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Save the Date

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:30:10 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 21 - 25, 2023

Augusta, GA

Host Department: Augusta Fire Department

Mark your calendars for August 21-25, 2023! The 2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference is coming to Augusta, GA and you won't want to miss it. Get ready for a week of exciting and informative sessions, networking with colleagues, and exploring the latest innovations in the fire service industry.

Make plans now to join us for this must-attend event. More details will be coming soon, so stay tuned for updates!

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Call for Papers

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:27:16 GMT

2023 Georgia Fire Service Conference

August 21 - 25, 2023

Augusta, GA

Host Department: Augusta Fire Department

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Augusta! To submit a class Click here for the electronic call for papers.

We are soliciting classes for all ranks!

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS MAY 12th!

Start pulling together your competition teams now!

Fully Involved: April 21, 2023

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 17:52:36 GMT

NVFC still has stipends available for the 2023 Training Summit in Oklahoma City.

2023 NVFC Training Summit Travel Stipends provide reimbursement of up to $900 for eligible expenses, including:

Up to three nights hotel at the conference hotel block rate
Travel, including round-trip airfare, cab/shuttle fare, and/or mileage
The conference registration fee

This event is an opportunity to participate in valuable classroom training and share ideas and best practices with emergency responders from across the U.S. Chose from breakout sessions addressing key topics in first responder health, safety, leadership, recruitment, and retention; participate in general sessions and hear from keynote speakers; and attend networking events.

This expanded Training Summit incorporates the NVFC’s Recruitment & Retention Experience, previously offered as a separate event, to allow more first responders the opportunity to take advantage of courses on a variety of topics.

Apply here: Stipends: 2023 NVFC Training Summit (swoogo.com)

Fire Service Leaders,

Please join us for the 2023, Georgia, Michigan, Indiana, and Kentucky Firefighter Weekend at our National FIre Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. This year's weekend will be held July 15 and 16, 2023. I have attached a flyer with the details for the event.

If you have any questions contact Jorge Roque at jroque@gpstc.org .

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: GSFA Awards Program

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 20:00:53 GMT

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Award Nominations Due June 30th

Tell Your Senators to Support AFG/SAFER

All nominations must be received no later than June 30, 2023. For nomination forms and more information, click here .

2023 Georgia State Firefighters Association

Fire Department Grant & Scholarship Applications

Application Deadline: June 30, 2023

Fully Involved: April 17, 2023

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:59:11 GMT

Action Alert: Urge Your Senator to Support A Clean AFG/SAFER Reauthorization

Since the Senate is considering S. 870, the Fire Grants and Safety Act the week of April 17, we are reflagging the Action Alert for this important legislation. This bill would reauthorize the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) and Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) programs. The authorizations for these programs end in September.

The NVFC has heard that there may be some amendments added to S. 870 on the Senate floor, which may slow the bill's progress as it moves through Congress. If you have not done so already, please urge your Senators via this action alert to support clean passage of S. 870 when it is considered on the Senate floor this upcoming week.

Click the link below to log in and send your message:

https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/8qvKsTTrT698l3IR-q2L3Q

Chief Lee Kirkland Firefighter Training Conference

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 21:48:50 GMT

Chief Lee Kirkland Firefighter Training Conference

June 10, 2023

Vidalia, GA

Hands On Training Experience

2023 Georgia Firefighter Appreciation and Awards Luncheon

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 14:16:48 GMT

2023 Georgia Firefighter Appreciation and Awards Luncheon

April 27 RSVP Required

All fire service personnel across the State are invited to attend a luncheon hosted by the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation on Thursday, April 27, 2023 from 12 Noon – 4 p.m., held at the stunning Emory Conference Center Hotel, located at 1615 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30329.

Free event and parking. Seating is limited.

Click here for full details , RSVP required to attend

GSFA Magazine Articles Due April 11th

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 15:06:44 GMT

Reminder: Summer 2023 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: April 11th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before April 11th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: March 29, 2023

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 17:20:33 GMT

Fully Involved: March 23, 2023

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 14:03:35 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

Working with GEMA, the Georgia Fire Academy is hosting Hazard 3's course: Risked-Based Response to Battery Emergencies. This course will be held April 12, 2023 at the GPSTC Forsyth Campus from 0800-1700.

See the attached flyer for further information or use the following link to register today.

Risked-Based Response to Battery Emergencies

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: March 16, 2023

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 16:16:20 GMT

Organizational & Behavioral Health Assessment - Interested in how you're doing

All,

The Center for the Advancement of Military and Emergency Services (AMES) Research at Kennesaw State University is Georgia's only first responder research agency. We are currently working with agencies to identify needs. Through funding from the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health, we will provide free assessments of your organization’s health and readiness.

Again – this is no cost and will be useful in understanding the health of an organization and shaping grant applications, behavioral and wellness programming, and even hiring and retention. An example of the report you will receive is attached (see Example OHA report)

Below is one paragraph about who we are and a second paragraph about what we are offering to any active first responder agency in Georgia.

About AMES : The AMES Research Center at Kennesaw State University develops solutions to the complex occupational and behavioral health concerns that negatively impact Georgia’s military and emergency services personnel, their families, and communities. We use cutting-edge, multidisciplinary scientific expertise to design and execute tailorable, scalable, and culturally aligned research. Our vision is to be the nexus for translational military and emergency services health and wellness research implementation in the state of Georgia. A more comprehensive overview of who we are is attached.

What we are offering: An organizational health assessment and report at no cost to you. We are able to provide this assessment and report at no cost because of funding provided by the Centers for Disease Control and the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health Developmental Disabilities. The A.M.E.S. Organizational Health Assessment (OHA) is a brief (5-7 minute) assessment that can be completed on any device with internet access. All responses are anonymous and designed to examine group-specific behavioral health issues at the organizational and individual levels. We recognize that first responders face many barriers to seeking behavioral health services (i.e., stigma or organizational requirements). The A.M.E.S. OHA is an anonymous survey that is voluntarily completed and helps inform future services and interventions. Topics addressed include PTSD, sleep health, chronic pain, suicidality, substance use, and organizational health concerns.

If anyone is interested in this service – please have them reach out directly to me (Dr. Brian Moore at Brian.Moore@Kennesaw.edu or

912-678-8540). My network is by no means comprehensive. Please send this to anyone you think will be interested.

We look forward to serving you and appreciate all you do to keep our communities and Georgia safe.

Respectfully,

Brian A. Moore, Ph.D.

Director, Center for the Advancement of Military and Emergency Services (AMES) Research

Assistant Professor of Psychology

Kennesaw Campus

3217 Campus Loop Rd.

Kennesaw, GA 30144

Phone: (470) 578-7281

Email: Brian.Moore@Kennesaw.edu

Fully Involved: March 15, 2023

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 23:06:35 GMT

Apply for Clean Drinking Water for Your Crew This Wildfire Season

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has partnered with Anheuser-Busch for the fifth year to provide canned drinking water to volunteer fire departments that respond to wildfires. The Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program will provide 1.5 million cans of clean drinking water to departments in 2023 to help them be ready for wildfires and other long incidents.

Hydration is critical to keep firefighters at their best during wildfire response and protect them from heat-related illness and injury. The water donation program helps departments meet this need while allowing them to save critical funds for other resources and necessities. The program is an expansion of Anheuser-Busch’s longstanding tradition of providing emergency drinking water and supplies for disaster relief efforts. Since partnering with the NVFC in 2019, Anheuser-Busch has distributed 6.5 million cans of water to more than 1,400 departments across nearly all 50 states.

To apply for the emergency drinking water, departments must be located in the U.S., annually respond to wildfires, be over 50 percent volunteer, and serve a population of 25,000 or less. Departments in declared emergencies due to wildfire will also be able to request water outside of the application period to help with their immediate wildfire response needs.

The general application period is open through March 31 . Visit www.nvfc.org/water to apply and learn more about the program.

###

About Anheuser-Busch

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life’s moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and make a meaningful impact in the world. We hope to build a future that everyone can celebrate, and everyone can share. For more than 160 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 19,000 colleagues across the United States. We are home to several of America’s most loved beer brands, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob ULTRA and Stella Artois, as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit http://www.anheuser-busch.com/ or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .

About the NVFC

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides critical resources, programs, education, and advocacy for first responders across the nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org .

Fully Involved: February 21, 2023

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 14:53:08 GMT

NVFC TRAINING SUMMIT

Expanded event combines the NVFC’s two signature conferences, the Health & Safety Training Summit and the R&R Experience

EVENT OVERVIEW

WHEN: Friday, June 23 – Saturday, June 24, 2023

WHERE : Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel | Oklahoma City, OK

PURPOSE: This event will provide an opportunity to participate in valuable classroom training and share ideas and best practices with emergency responders from across the U.S. Attendees will have their choice of breakout sessions to attend, with sessions addressing key topics in first responder health, safety, recruitment, and retention. The event will also feature keynote speakers, general sessions, networking events, and a vendor expo. This expanded Training Summit incorporates the NVFC’s Recruitment & Retention Experience, previously offered as a separate event, to allow more first responders the opportunity to take advantage of courses on a variety of topics. The Summit is an excellent value! View an investment vs. value breakdown here.

NETWORKING EXPO : The NVFC Training Summit features an evening networking social with vendor expo on Friday, June 23 – a chance to relax and connect with your colleagues. The social includes refreshments and a mini-expo. Families are welcome. Sponsorships are available !

WHO SHOULD ATTEND : The conference is open to all volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, department leadership, and other fire department personnel from across the United States.

AGENDA : View the draft agenda . (Updated Jan. 31, 2023)

REGISTER : The Summit registration fee of $129 covers two full days of training from nationally-known instructors, networking lunches, breaks, and a networking event. Space is limited – click here to register now.

New! Bringing a family member or other guest? There is now a guest registration option, which covers all breaks and meals over the two day conference for $29. Is your guest just attending the Networking Expo? No charge – please just use the link to register so that we can save a seat for your guest!
Attendee cancellation policy: Registration fees are fully refundable until June 1. From June 2-20, half of the fee will be refunded. No refunds after June 21.

Box Alarm Alert (2/15/23)

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 22:08:11 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

February 6, 2023

Please find attached a flyer advertising the Northeast Georgia Volunteer Fire Training Expo coming up in Cleveland, GA on Saturday March 11th. As stated in the flyer, classes have been posted to the GPSTC website where you can go and register. We are looking for a great day of training and hoping to see you and your departments represented.

As of today, below are the current registration numbers. We are in need of better numbers by March1 ^st or the classes other than PCFC could be in jeopardy of being canceled. Please encourage your career and volunteer staff to consider this opportunity.

Box Alarm Alert (2/6/23)

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 14:20:50 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

February 6, 2023

UPDATE: GSFA would like to make a correction on the last post senate bill 168 the “Moe Baxter” This bill would allow the elimination of state tax on any cancer benefit received by firefighters. GSFA will be in contact with our congressional representatives and address this misfortune of federal taxation on this benefit.

The Michael Moe Baxter Act to stop cancer benefits from being taxed has been introduced!!!!!

PLEASE contact your State Representative to support HB 168.

The "Chief Michael Moe Baxter" Act

Context: Georgia Firefighters are currently require to have a cancer insurance policy, however they are also required to pay taxes on the benefits of this policy. The passing of this bill will allow the benefits of the firefighter cancer bill to be tax free.

Thank you for your support in alleviating the financial stress many in the fire service face while battling cancer.

House of Representative Kasey Carpenter introduced an Amendment to the Firefighter cancer bill to help eliminate taxes paid on the Lump Sum amount after being diagnosed with cancer.

Chief Moe told us on November 30th, after he shared his cancer testimony, that if we could change the taxed part, that would be great for our Georgia Firefighters. He had to pay $6600 on taxes for Federal and lump sum from his $25,0 00 he received.

Fully Involved: February 3, 2023

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 17:47:58 GMT

Expanded event combines the NVFC’s two signature conferences, the Health & Safety Training Summit and the R&R Experience

EVENT OVERVIEW

WHEN : Friday, June 23 – Saturday, June 24, 2023

WHERE : Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel | Oklahoma City, OK

PURPOSE : This event will provide an opportunity to participate in valuable classroom training and share ideas and best practices with emergency responders from across the U.S. Attendees will have their choice of breakout sessions to attend, with sessions addressing key topics in first responder health, safety, recruitment, and retention. The event will also feature keynote speakers, general sessions, networking events, and a vendor expo. This expanded Training Summit incorporates the NVFC’s Recruitment & Retention Experience, previously offered as a separate event, to allow more first responders the opportunity to take advantage of courses on a variety of topics. The Summit is an excellent value! View an investment vs. value breakdown here.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND : The conference is open to all volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, department leadership, and other fire department personnel from across the United States.

AGENDA : View the draft agenda . (Updated Jan. 31, 2023)

New! Bringing a family member or other guest? There is now a guest registration option, which covers all breaks and meals over the two day conference for $29. Is your guest just attending the Networking Expo? No charge – please just use the link to register so that we can save a seat for your guest!
Attendee cancellation policy: Registration fees are fully refundable until June 1. From June 2-20, half of the fee will be refunded. No refunds after June 21.

The 2023 Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner Registration

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 18:32:30 GMT

Join us for the 2023 Firefighter Recognition Day &

Legislative Appreciation Dinner

All firefighters are invited to participate in the 2023 Firefighters Recognition Day at the Georgia Freight Depot. Firefighters Recognition Day is set by law as the first Tuesday in February and provides an opportunity to recognize and pay tribute to our fire service community. During the ceremonies, state elected officials will acknowledge and applaud contributions made by all fire service personnel in Georgia and also recognize and present commendations to award recipients of the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs, and Georgia Fire Inspectors Association. This event is typically held at the State Capital, but this year it will be held at the Georgia Freight Depot in downtown Atlanta.

After the ceremony, be prepared to have the best barbecue you have ever tasted, thanks to the expert cooks from the Vienna Fire Department. The Legislative Appreciation Dinner is jointly sponsored by the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs and Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation and provides an opportunity to spend time with state leaders and legislators to network and discuss important fire service issues. There is a $15 per person ticket cost for the Georgia Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner and pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

Firefighter Recognition Day & Legislative

Appreciation Dinner Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Building

(201 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Fire Marshal Swearing In Ceremony

Rotunda State Capitol Building

4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Connecting with the Vendors

Georgia Freight Depot

(65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Fire Service Awards & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

Thank you to our event sponsors!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

APPLY FOR A TRAVEL STIPEND

Phone: 678-686-6239

Fully Involved: January 19, 2023

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 17:07:28 GMT

Apply for a Travel Stipend for the

NVFC Regional Wildland Symposium

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) will host a Regional Wildland Symposium on March 17-18 in Box Elder, SD. This event will bring together fire and EMS personnel from across the region and country to participate in valuable classroom training and idea exchange relating to wildland fire mitigation and response in the Plains region.

The symposium will provide an opportunity to learn from interactive classroom training and share ideas and best practices with wildland firefighters and other stakeholders from across the Plains region. The agenda includes breakout sessions, keynote speakers, general sessions, and a networking reception with vendor expo. View full agenda .

To help more first responders attend, a travel stipend of up to $600 is available that will reimburse expenses related to the conference, including hotel, transportation, and the registration fee. The deadline to apply for a stipend has been extended to January 20, with notification by February 10. To be eligible for the travel stipend, you must be a member of the NVFC. Not a member? Learn about member benefits and join for just $21 here .

Fully Involved: January 12, 2023

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 15:38:17 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following National Fire Academy Direct Delivery: Shaping the Future on March 7-8, 2023.

This course is designed to assist first and second level supervisors in developing knowledge and skills in contemporary approaches to organizational problem-solving.

Topics include:

Use of creative approaches to identifying trends within their organizations.
Applying problem-solving methodologies.
The importance and application of continuous improvement within organizations.
How to quantify problems and solutions.
Factors in organizational and individual resistance to change.
Strategies for implementing change.

Target Audience:

First and second level supervisors who are upwardly mobile within their organizations and whose department head wishes to prepare them for increased managerial responsibility.
Administrative officers who are responsible for significant staff functions within the organization and who report directly to top management.
Emergency service workers assigned to positions with decision-making responsibilities.

See attached flyer or use the following link to register:

Shaping the Future

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

January 10, 2023

2023 Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner Registration

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:50:25 GMT

Join us for the 2023 Firefighter Recognition Day &

Legislative Appreciation Dinner

After the ceremony, be prepared to have the best barbecue you have ever tasted, thanks to the expert cooks from the Vienna Fire Department. The Legislative Appreciation Dinner is jointly sponsored by the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs and Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation and provides an opportunity to spend time with state leaders and legislators to network and discuss important fire service issues. There is a $15 per person ticket cost for the Georgia Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner and pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

Firefighter Recognition Day & Legislative

Appreciation Dinner Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Building

(201 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Fire Marshal Swearing In Ceremony

Rotunda State Capitol Building

4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Connecting with the Vendors

Georgia Freight Depot

(65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Fire Service Awards & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

Save the Date: Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 21:30:13 GMT

Save the Date:

Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner

February 7, 2023

Plans are well underway for the annual Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner set for Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

We are currently waiting to hear back from the Governor's Office on the availability of the capital for our annual event. Please be on the lookout early next week for finalized details of the 2023 Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner.

We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/r5trauma-tecc-tickets-472419247687

Phone: 678-686-6239

Fully Involved: December 12, 2022

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 16:56:29 GMT

NVFC First Responder Helpline:

Assistance When You Need it Most

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

2 pm Eastern Time

Hosted by: The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC)

Presented by: Representatives from the NVFC, Business Health Services, and Provident

The NVFC and Provident teamed up to offer the NVFC First Responder Helpline for NVFC members and their household family. The helpline provides immediate assistance in a crisis moment as well as confidential counseling, resources, and referrals to assistance for a range of work-life stresses. This free webinar will feature a conversation about the NVFC First Responder Helpline, including why it is needed, what it offers, how to access it, and resources available for a range of issues. Your questions will also be answered – ask live during the session or submit your questions anonymously in advance here .

Good Morning,

Working with the Region 5 Regional Trauma Advisory Committee (RTAC), the Georgia Public Safety Training Center is hosting the following courses. These courses are designed to better prepare public safety personnel to respond to Active Shooter /Active Attack situations. There are 5 different courses being offered, some of which will have multiple deliveries. Below are the courses and the details for each. Further can be found in the attached flyers.

High-Risk Unified Commander (HRUC) – 8-Hour INTERACTIVE Workshops – Four Opportunities

Multidisciplinary workshops designed to improve integration between law enforcement, fire, and EMS responders during active shooter and intentional mass casualty events. The HRUC program was developed to provide contemporary and realistic strategies, tactics, and related information that front-line supervisors and training officers can use to simultaneously "stop the killing, dying, and crying."

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS command staff, supervisors, training officers - trauma system partners are also welcome

When: Tuesday, January 3rd; Wednesday, January 4th; Thursday, January 5th; and Saturday, January 7th

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: $50.00 – Includes workshop, lunch, and bleeding control kit or comparable IFAK

Registration: www.r5trauma.org or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/high-risk-unified-commander-hruc-tickets-465521656807

Special Considerations: Participating organizational representatives are welcome and encouraged to attend the program with their local response partners. The same information will be provided each day to enable agencies to send multiple supervisors and training officers. This program is being made available thanks to Georgia Trauma Commission and Regional Trauma System Improvement grant funding.

TACTICAL EMERGENCY CASUALTY CARE (TECC) – 16-Hour COURSE

NAEMT's TECC course is endorsed by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma, is consistent with the current guidelines established by the Committee on TECC (Co-TECC), and meets all of the updated National Tactical Emergency Medical Support Competency Domains .

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS responders - trauma system partners are also welcome

When: Tuesday, December 20th through Wednesday, December 21st

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: $50.00 – Includes workshop, lunch, and bleeding control kit or comparable IFAK

Registration: HTTPS://TINYURL.COM/R5TECC22 or

Special Considerations: Participating organizational representatives are welcome and encouraged to attend the program with their local response partners. We will provide working lunch workshops for those participants interested in learning more about becoming TECC and STOP THE BLEED® Instructors. The NAEMT course registration fee is Georgia Trauma Commission and GEMSA grant funded.

TACTICAL EMERGENCY CASUALTY CARE for Law Enforcement and First Responders (TECC - LEO) – 8-Hour COURSE – TWO Opportunities

NAEMT's TECC LEO course is endorsed by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma and is consistent with the current guidelines established by the Committee on TECC (Co-TECC). An 8-hour classroom course specifically designed for law enforcement officers and other first responders and covers materials found in the 16-hour TECC provider course at a level appropriate for first responders and includes interactive lectures, skill stations, and patient simulations

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS responders - trauma system partners are also welcome

When: Tuesday, December 20th through Wednesday, December 21st

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: $50.00 – Includes workshop, lunch, and bleeding control kit or comparable IFAK

Registration: HTTPS://TINYURL.COM/R5TECCLEO or

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/r5trauma-tecc-leo-tickets-472402928877

RESCUE TASK FORCE INSTRUCTOR

The Region 5 RTAC Region 5 Regional Trauma Advisory Committee (RTAC) is seeking to expand its multidisciplinary cadre of qualified Rescue Task Force (RTF) instructors. The RTF course is designed to teach students driving tactics, command and control considerations, essential on-scene functions, as well as reasonable expectations for success during active violence incidents.

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS supervisors and educators may apply – see the program announcement for qualifications and prerequisites

When: Thursday, January 6th

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: NO COST

Apply by December 16 ^th : www.surveymonkey.com/r/2023RescueTaskForceInstructor

Special Considerations: Limited capacity. Admission is competitive. Please see the program announcement for qualifications and prerequisites.

STOP THE BLEED® LIVE ONLINE TRAINING - 1-Hour WEBINARS - SEVEN Opportunities

The STOP THE BLEED® Course is designed for those with little or no medical training who may be called upon to provide initial trauma care and bleeding control before the arrival of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). This 1-hour program is FREE and instructed by highly trained and experienced STOP THE BLEED® educators and trauma providers from Georgia's Trauma System.

Intended Audience: Appropriate for all audiences (everyone that bleeds red)

When: Tuesday, January 3rd; Wednesday, January 4th; Thursday, January 5th – Multiple Offerings Each Day

Where: Online

Cost: FREE

Registration: www.stopthebleedgeorgia.org or

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stop-the-bleed-live-online-training-tickets-468892860167

Special Considerations: This webinar series is being hosted by our Trauma System Partners at Ogeechee Technical College. Paramedic Technology Instructor Laura Coleman has graciously agreed to moderate our multidisciplinary team of experienced STOP THE BLEED® educators. Hands-on practice and skills training is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED and necessary to obtain a "full" STOP THE BLEED® certification; These webinars are not intended to replace any planned in-person STOP THE BLEED® courses.

Box Alarm Alert (12/7/22)

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:33:37 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

December 7, 2022

Due to unforeseen circumstances, this meeting has been canceled. We will look to reschedule the meeting in the new year.

District Meeting (Area 4)

Butts County Fire EOC

206 S Mulberry S

Jackson Ga 30233

December 08 ,2022

1900 Hrs

Meal Provided (Need RSVP)

Contact person- Mark Ware
770-823-0526
mware@buttscounty.org
mware@pacesga.com

Fully Involved: November 30, 2022

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 20:27:07 GMT

Good afternoon:

We are looking forward to all of our coming Active Shooter & Active Attack training events from the Region 5 RTAC, Georgia Trauma System, and the Georgia Public Safety Training Center. Please take a few moments to review the attached announcements and share them with your local response partners. Not only that, but we also strongly encourage all of you to make plans to attend one or more of these offerings WITH your local response partners.

High-Risk Unified Commander (HRUC) – 8-Hour INTERACTIVE Workshops – Four Opportunities

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS command staff, supervisors, training officers - trauma system partners are also welcome

When: Tuesday, January 3rd; Wednesday, January 4th; Thursday, January 5th; and Saturday, January 7th

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: $50.00 – Includes workshop, lunch, and bleeding control kit or comparable IFAK

Registration: www.r5trauma.org or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/high-risk-unified-commander-hruc-tickets-465521656807

TACTICAL EMERGENCY CASUALTY CARE (TECC) – 16-Hour COURSE

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS responders - trauma system partners are also welcome

When: Tuesday, December 20th through Wednesday, December 21st

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: $50.00 – Includes workshop, lunch, and bleeding control kit or comparable IFAK

Registration: https://HTTPS://TINYURL.COM/R5TECC22 or

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/r5trauma-tecc-tickets-472419247687

TACTICAL EMERGENCY CASUALTY CARE for Law Enforcement and First Responders (TECC - LEO) – 8-Hour COURSE – TWO Opportunities

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS responders - trauma system partners are also welcome

When: Tuesday, December 20th through Wednesday, December 21st

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: $50.00 – Includes workshop, lunch, and bleeding control kit or comparable IFAK

Registration: https://HTTPS://TINYURL.COM/R5TECCLEO or

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/r5trauma-tecc-leo-tickets-472402928877

RESCUE TASK FORCE INSTRUCTOR

Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire, and EMS supervisors and educators may apply – see the program announcement for qualifications and prerequisites

When: Thursday, January 6th

Where: Georgia Public Safety Training Center, 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia

Cost: NO COST

Apply by December 16 ^th : www.surveymonkey.com/r/2023RescueTaskForceInstructor

Special Considerations: Limited capacity. Admission is competitive. Please see the program announcement for qualifications and prerequisites.

STOP THE BLEED® LIVE ONLINE TRAINING - 1-Hour WEBINARS - SEVEN Opportunities

Intended Audience: Appropriate for all audiences (everyone that bleeds red)

When: Tuesday, January 3rd; Wednesday, January 4th; Thursday, January 5th – Multiple Offerings Each Day

Where: Online

Cost: FREE

Registration: www.stopthebleedgeorgia.org or

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stop-the-bleed-live-online-training-tickets-468892860167

Visit www.r5trauma.org or www.stopthebleedgeorgia.org to learn more. You are also welcome to contact me directly at 478-288-0708 if you have any questions or concerns.

Thank you for all you do to keep your communities safe. We are looking forward to these exciting opportunities and hope you will plan on joining us for one or more of these training sessions.

We are looking forward to seeing YOU there!

------Kristal

Kristal Claxton Smith, BS, NRP

Region 5 Regional Trauma Advisory Committee

Project Coordinator

478-288-0708

Fully Involved: November 21, 2022

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 22:06:06 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is conducting an Introduction to Community Risk Reduction course November 30, 2022 in Forsyth from 08:00 - 17:00.

This course is a one-day course that is intended to provide a basic understanding of Community Risk Reduction, how to evaluate the risks and hazards that exist in a

community, and create successful CRR initiatives in any community. The students will also be introduced to evaluation concepts as well as steps to creating an organizational culture that embraces

CRR.

The target audience for this course may include, but not be limited to the following: Fire/EMS personnel with an interest in advancing risk-reduction efforts in their community, including firefighters, investigators, inspectors, educators and others. Law enforcement personnel with an interest in advancing risk-reduction efforts in their community, including community relations officers, school resource officers, patrol officers, Emergency managers, allied health, and community service personnel.

To sign up, use the following link: Introduction to Community Risk Reduction

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: November 15, 2022

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 16:20:39 GMT

Good morning,

I am excited to announce that the NVFC, VCOS, and ISFSI have joined together to release a new operational training guide for the fire service. The guide is designed to help fire departments develop a training program that meets the needs of the community and the individual firefighter with safety and relevancy at the forefront. Please help us get the word out by sharing the attached press release with your audience.

Thanks,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

P : 202.887.5700

Please note our new mailing address:

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

Fully Involved: November 9, 2022

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 20:41:21 GMT

The NVFC is pleased to announce that nominations are now being accepted for our annual fire service achievement awards. Attached is a press release to share with your audience.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

P : 202.887.5700

Please note our new mailing address:

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

Summit on Youth Firesetting Prevention & Intervention

Fully Involved: November 1, 2022

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 21:03:58 GMT

District Meeting (Area 4)

Butts County Fire EOC

206 S Mulberry S

Jackson Ga 30233

December 08 ,2022

1900 Hrs

Meal Provided (Need RSVP)

Contact person- Mark Ware
770-823-0526
mware@buttscounty.org
mware@pacesga.com

Fully Involved: October 21, 2022

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 16:29:12 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting a Summit on Youth Firesetting at the Training Center in Forsyth on Wednesday, November 7, 2022.

This 8-hour workshop will introduce the subject of youth firesetting to those individuals and professions who may not be aware of its importance. Topics to be discussed include the categories of firesetting, the motivation for firesetting, the importance of recognizing youth firesetting, and the appropriate methods for working with these children and youth, and their families. Additional topics include an overview of the juvenile justice system, and youth firesetting assistance provided from the Georgia State Fire Marshal's Office.

This Summit is for all disciplines and we hope that by attending you will improve partnerships within our State's communities between the fire service, law enforcement, mental health providers, social services and juvenile justice to address the issue in a broader fashion.

Your can use the following link to register now:

Feel free to share the attached flyer with your partners.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697
Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: October 17, 2022

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 14:34:43 GMT

First Responders Night

ATL Hawks vs. OKC Thunder | Monday, December 5 ^th | 7:30pm

Join us at State Farm Arena for First Responders Night on Monday, December 5 ^th as the Atlanta Hawks take on the Oklahoma City Thunder. Each ticket includes $10 worth of food and beverage credit. Tickets can be purchased through the provided link below.

Purchase your tickets:

hawkspromos.com/firstresponders

For groups of 10 or more or for tickets to a different game, please contact Ryan Coller

at ryan.coller@hawks.com or at 404-878-3714. *Ticket prices and availability are subject to change, so order your tickets today! Tickets are mobile only. TICKETS WILL SELL OUT!

Fully Involved: October 14, 2022

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:35:38 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

We cordially invite you to attend the 2022 Georgia Fallen Firefighter Memorial Ceremony scheduled for Friday, October 14, at 11:00 a.m. in the Auditorium at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, located at 1000 Indian Springs Drive, Forsyth, Georgia.

This year's memorial will honor the following 16 firefighters.

Please feel free to share with your organization.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Good morning,

Today, on World Mental Health Day, the NVFC is excited to announce the launch of the NVFC First Responder Helpline! This new benefit for NVFC members and their household family provides immediate assistance in a crisis moment as well as confidential counseling, resources, and referrals for a range of behavioral health issues and work-life stresses. Please help us get the word out about this new resource. A press release is attached.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

P: 202.887.5700

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81665790263?pwd=L2s3MGRIczJpUkJVQ29MUnczL0xQUT09

Fully Involved: October 6, 2022

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 00:39:58 GMT

USFA to Host Fire Administrator's Summit on Fire

Prevention and Control

Media release: Oct. 3, 2022

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), a component of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in partnership with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), will host the U.S. Fire Administrator's Summit on Fire Prevention and Control: State of Science on Oct. 11, 2022, from 1 to 6 p.m. EDT.

The summit marks the 75th anniversary of the 1947 President Truman Conference on Fire Prevention and Control that launched the America Burning report and established the USFA. Many of the outcomes from the original Truman Conference hold true today. For example, as outlined in the original Truman Conference Proceedings Report:

The nation's fire problem is exacerbated by (A) the indifference with which some Americans confront the subject; (B) the nation's failure to undertake enough research and development into fire and fire-related problems; (C) the scarcity of reliable data and information; (D) the fact that designers and purchasers of buildings and products generally give insufficient attention to fire safety; (E) the fact that many communities lack adequate building and fire prevention codes.

“In 2022, the climate crisis fuels more frequent, destructive and deadly wildfire. In addition to the growing burdens of wildfire, the demands on our nation's local fire departments continue to increase, further exacerbating daily fire impacts on all our communities. Thus far in 2022, fires have killed more than 1,600 people nationwide. Additionally, firefighters pay a high price with 73 firefighters killed on duty so far this year,” said USFA Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell.

“The NFFF is proud to work with the USFA in providing an opportunity for the fire service—and more importantly, the public—to understand the impact of fire on communities across the country,” said NFFF Executive Director Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki.

A first-of-its-kind livestreaming event from the National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Maryland, the Fire Administrator's Summit on Fire Prevention and Control: State of Science features presentations from the country's most prominent fire service leaders and researchers. The livestream event is for reporters, the public, the fire service, and local, state and national policy makers who want a better understanding of the challenges and recommended solutions to the critical fire problem in America. The summit kicks off the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week.

The first 2 speakers for the State of Science are Philadelphia Fire Department Commissioner Adam Thiel and the City of New York Fire Department's Acting Chief of Training Frank Leeb. Both cities began 2022 with structure fires that killed 17 and 12 people, respectively. They will discuss the impact of those fires on their communities and fire departments.

Viewers of the livestream will then be introduced to topics such as the risks associated with the evolution of high-risk structures like lithium-ion energy storage facilities and massive shipping warehouses with robotic technology. The livestream event will also cover the training that structural firefighters need to respond to the new hazards associated with wildfires in the urban interface. It will highlight the recruitment and retention challenges faced by fire departments across the nation. Nationally renowned researchers will discuss the impact of the growing number and intensity of fires on the physical and mental health of firefighters, including the prevalence of cancer and suicide among the ranks.

Confirmed State of Science speakers

Dr. Jeff Burgess, University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health
Chief John S. Butler, Fairfax County (VA) Fire and Rescue Department
Dr. Kenneth Fent, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Karl Fippinger, International Code Council
Chief Brita Horn, Rock Creek (CO) Volunteer Fire Department
Dr. Sara Jahnke, Center for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research
Dr. Steve Kerber, Fire Safety Research Institute
Deputy Assistant Chief Frank Leeb, City of New York Fire Department
Dr. Susan M. Moore, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Patrick Morrison, International Association of Fire Fighters
Chief John H. Oates, International Public Safety Data Institute
Chief Shane Ray, National Fire Sprinkler Association
Dr. Denise L. Smith, Health and Human Physiological Sciences, Skidmore College
Rick Swan, International Association of Fire Fighters
Michele Steinberg, National Fire Protection Association
Commissioner Adam K. Thiel, City of Philadelphia Fire Department

About the U.S. Fire Administration

The USFA was established by Public Law 93-498, the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974. The act called for the establishment of the National Fire Academy to advance the professional development of fire service personnel and others engaged in fire prevention and control activities. The act also called for a national system for the collection, analysis and dissemination of fire data necessary to assist local fire departments to establish research and action priorities. The USFA, as a component of FEMA, has a mission is to support and strengthen fire and emergency medical services and stakeholders to prepare for, prevent, mitigate and respond to all hazards.

About the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Congress created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to honor America's fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the non-profit Foundation has developed and expanded programs that fulfill that mandate. Our mission is to honor America's fallen fire heroes; support their families, colleagues, and organizations; and work to reduce preventable firefighter death and injury. www.firehero.org .

Contact information:

FEMA Jeremy Edwards at jeremy.edwards@fema.dhs.gov
USFA Teresa Neal at teresa.neal@fema.dhs.gov
NFFF Kelly Lynch at klynch@firehero.org

Questions? Contact Us

Manage Preferences or Unsubscribe / Help

Announcement:

Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council Meeting

The next Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council Meeting will be held on

10/4/2022. The Council Meeting will be held at GPSTC in Forsyth at 11:00 AM in the Courtroom.

THE AGENDA ITEMS WILL BE:

OPENING OF THE MEETING

ESTABLISH QUORUM

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

AGENCY UPDATE

OLD BUSINESS

Update on “Georgia K9 Accelerant Dog and Handler” certification
Philip Wilbur Reinstatement

NEW BUSINESS

ADJOURN

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 816 6579 0263

Passcode: 159128

Join by Phone

402-921-2133 PIN: ‪575 784 084#

One tap mobile

+16465588656 ,,81665790263#,,,,*159128# US

Fully Involved: September 28, 2022

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 14:42:30 GMT

Greetings,

We are excited to be back in person at an annual conference, in Columbus. We have been monitoring the weather and feel with the eastward shift of Hurricane Ian, we can hold our conference. The Board met today, and agreed to move forward with elections, understanding that some candidates may not be able to make the conference in person, due to storm related duties at home. Also, we fully understand any attendees that cannot attend due to having to manage responsibilities due to Hurricane Ian.

Our Elections Committee met today, with information presented from a candidate for office, who had mistakenly been deemed ineligible to run due to a lapse in membership. That candidate provided information on a renewal being sent, prior to their lapsing date in 2020. The revised slate of announced candidates is below.

As a reminder, the by-laws state that the voting delegate and alternative delegate must provide a letter from their fire chief designating them as such, and each department gets one vote per ten members, up to ten votes.

The announced candidates are as follows:

President – Gary Clark, Marion McDaniel

1 ^st VP- Mark Ware, Mike Byrd

2 ^nd VP – Craig Dukes

3 ^rd VP - Jeff Hardin

Director at Large – Jason Amerson, Otis “Calvin” Hitchcock

Treasurer – Bruce King, Tyshon Reed Sr.

Any still interested running for office, can be nominated from the floor at the first GSFA Business Session of the conference. Our board looks forward to seeing you in Columbus!

In Service,

GSFA Board of Directors

Announcement:

Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council Meeting

The next Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council Meeting will be held on

10/4/2022. The Council Meeting will be held at GPSTC in Forsyth at 11:00 AM in the Courtroom.

THE AGENDA ITEMS WILL BE:

OPENING OF THE MEETING

ESTABLISH QUORUM

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

AGENCY UPDATE

OLD BUSINESS

Update on “Georgia K9 Accelerant Dog and Handler” certification
Philip Wilbur Reinstatement

NEW BUSINESS

ADJOURN

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81665790263?pwd=L2s3MGRIczJpUkJVQ29MUnczL0xQUT09

Meeting ID: 816 6579 0263

Passcode: 159128

Join by Phone

402-921-2133 PIN: ‪575 784 084#

One tap mobile

+16465588656 ,,81665790263#,,,,*159128# US

Fully Involved: September 22, 2022

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 16:28:06 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is partnering with the 2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference to offer the following Hands-on-Training (HOT) courses Saturday, October 1 ^st . These courses are free of charge and do not require a conference registration to attend. Please see below course descriptions and links to register. Please share with your members.

Swift Water Tactics - Swift Water Tactics is a hands-on-training class that covers rope skills, hydrology, and rescue techniques. Attendees will be presented an overview of swift water operations strategies and tactics.

Special Note: Students must provide PPE to participate: Water Helmet, Type V PFD with Knife, Water Gloves, Water Shoes, Water Clothes (bathing suit and rash guard at a minimum). A wet or dry suit is acceptable but not required.

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Swift Water Tactics

Forcible Entry: The Basics of B&E - This hands-on-training class covers the different methods for the art of breaking and entering within the Fire Service. Attendees will receive a basic overview of the conventional methods of forcing doors and buildings using hand tools.

Special Note: Students must provide positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus and full structural firefighter protective clothing to include boots, coat, pants, gloves, helmet, and hood. All clothing and equipment must be in good condition and meet applicable NFPA standards. No shorts or sleeveless shirts may be worn.

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00p.m.

Forcible Entry: The Basics of B&E

Volunteer Firefighter Survival Skills- Maze - This Course is designed to instruct the firefighter in the effective and safe methods of firefighter survival. Students will practice techniques for “MAYDAY” procedures, searching for an exit, negotiating wire entanglement, and restricted passages. The evolutions will take place in the Georgia Fire Academy Volunteer Initiative Program SCBA Confidence Trailer. Attendees will receive training to enhance their firefighter survival skills.

Time: There will be two, three-hour sessions.

8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Morning session: Volunteer Firefighter Survival Skills- Maze (AM)

Afternoon Session: Volunteer Firefighter Survival Skills- Maze (PM)

Volunteer Passenger Vehicle Initial Fire Attack - This course is designed realistic training program to instruct the firefighter in the effective techniques for suppressing a passenger vehicle fires. Attendees will receive training to enhance their firefighting survival skills.

Time: There will be two, three-hour sessions.

8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Morning session: Volunteer Passenger Vehicle Fire Attack (AM)

Afternoon Session: Volunteer Passenger Vehicle Fire Attack (PM)

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

The NVFC is excited to announce that we will be holding a Regional Wildland Symposium on March 17-18. Pre-registration is now open. Those who want to present at the conference have until October 15 to submit a proposal. A press release is attached to share with your audience.

Thanks,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

P: 202.887.5700

Please note our new mailing address:

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

GSFA Magazine Articles Due September 19th

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 15:17:59 GMT

Reminder: Fall 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: September 19th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before September 19th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: September 14, 2022

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 12:17:15 GMT

Greetings,

As we move into the latter days of summer, we are excited to be back in person at an annual conference, in Columbus. We have an exciting line up of classes, both in person and hands on. The hands-on classes can be attended separate from the full conference, at no cost.

The hands-on classes are forcible entry, basic to advanced search, Swiftwater rescue techniques, Volunteer Passenger Vehicle Initial Fire Attack, and Volunteer Firefighter Survival Skills - Maze. These classes will all occur on Saturday October 1.

GSFA will be having elections and the voting delegate form is attached and will also be available at Credentials on site. As a reminder, the by-laws state that the delegate and alternative delegate must provide a letter from their fire chief designating them as such, and each department gets one vote per ten members, up to ten votes.

The announced candidates are as follows:

President – Gary Clark

1 ^st VP- Mark Ware, Mike Byrd

2 ^nd VP – Craig Dukes

3 ^rd VP - Jeff Hardin

Director at Large – Jason Amerson, Otis “Calvin” Hitchcock

Treasurer – Bruce King, Tyshon Reed Sr.

Any still interested running for office, can be nominated from the floor at the first

GSFA Business Session of the conference. Our board looks forward to seeing you in Columbus!

In Service,

GSFA Board of Directors

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference - FREE Hot Classes

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 22:19:25 GMT

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference

Columbus, GA

The hot classes are in danger of being canceled! Take advantage of these FREE classes and register TODAY!

Available Hot Classes:

Saturday, October 1, 2022

From Basic to Advanced Search – Chris Shore

From Basic Search to VEIS covers an array of topics ranging from performing a basic oriented search to walking the walls and conducting expanded VEIS operations coupled with victim removal. This class places an emphasis on communication and team dynamics. Students will be presented with the opportunity to challenge themselves to think on their feet and do more than go through the motions of searching. Students will be shown that there is more to searching than a conga line hugging the wall. Our class allows students to utilize our prop to repeatedly breach a window during the VEIS portion and addresses expanding the search beyond the initial point of entry. The TIC assisted section of our course provides students the opportunity to learn the benefits and limitations of this technology. In another station we focus on utilizing an anchor person who coordinates the search and leads the way during the oriented search part of the class. We also cover basic two person search in a back to basics refresher that helps reinforce the fundamentals to ensure a successful search is completed or what to do when conditions do not allow for more advanced techniques. In the back to basics portion we focus heavily on thinking about what you are encountering while searching as well as developing a victim profile when you locate a victim and ensuring that you use any information gained to potentially locate additional victims.

Swift Water Tactics – Daniel Macon

This class is a overview of swift water operations strategies and tactics. The course will be hands on course that covers rope skills, hydrology, and rescue techniques. Join us in the largest urban white water course in the Southeast.

Forcible Entry: The Basics of B&E – Joe Thurmond

We will conventionally force our way into doors and buildings using hand tools. However, when there is an obstacle or obstruction, what do you do? We will discuss and train different methods for the Art of Breaking and Entering within the Fire Service. We will utilize the use of saws and equipment found on most Fire apparatus.

Vendor Highlight - FirstNET

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 14:05:42 GMT

GEORGIA STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

Vendor Highlight

Paid sponsor message - served on behalf of GSFA

FirstNET and Family

Connecting Both Your Worlds

With FirstNet and Family:

FirstNet and Family gives public safety the mission-critical network of FirstNet and your family the world-class connectivity of AT&T to keep your worlds connected.

With FirstNet and Family:

FirstNet delivers prioritized connectivity for first responders and public safety professionals – never competing with commercial traffic
Families save 25% off AT&T lines with FirstNet and Family*
Hassle Free: One bill, one app, and dedicated, US-based support
Make your world a little smaller today - and save.

*See full details. Click here for flyer

Contact your FirstNet Specialist Consultant for more details.

Jennifer O'Neal jb8990@att.com or 706.498.0500 or

Ben Abbasi ba254t@att.com or 404.906.7710

Fully Involved: August 16, 2022

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 15:23:53 GMT

Hey everyone,

As many of you know, MAFFC 2022 was a huge success and was a welcomed event considering everything we’ve dealt with the past couple of years with Covid. The MAFFC committee is already working hard and has started the planning process for MAFFC 2023. This will be our 14 ^th annual Metro Atlanta Firefighters Conference! In order to provide the quality training classes that we like to provide, we need instructors to teach these classes. When MAFFC first started back in 2009, we wanted to not only provide great classes for our personnel to attend, but we also wanted to provide opportunities for some of our up and coming instructors to hone their skills teaching at MAFFC which hopefully opens up additional opportunities for them to go teach at other departments and conferences as well. Here’s your chance. MAFFC 2023’s Call for Instructors is now open. Here’s the link that will take you to the application: MAFFC 2023 Instructor Application The deadline for MAFFC 2023’s Call for Instructors will be October 31 ^st .

Thanks for your dedication and good luck,

Reminder: Winter 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: September 16th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before September 16th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

2022 Georgia Fire Service Memorial Service

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 23:06:24 GMT

The Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association (GSFA) invite you to join us for the 2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference set for September 28 - October 1, 2022 in Columbus, GA.

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Friday, September 30th at 8 a.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

If you have lost a current or retired member of your department since the last conference (September 2019), please submit their information so that they may be recognized. All information is due by August 15, 2022.

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Local Assistance State Team

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Columbus!

Fully Involved: July 26, 2022

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 16:53:27 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

In an effort to expand the Georgia Local Assistance State Team (L.A.S.T.) The Georgia Fire Academy will be hosting the National Fallen Firefighters Line of Duty Death Response: Local Assistance State Team (L.A.S.T.) training Course beginning August 1, 2022.

The Local Assistance State Teams are comprised of members from all areas of public safety, as well as families affected by line-of-duty deaths and volunteers from all lines of work. They are passionate about helping those who have suffered the loss of a family member or department member in the line of duty. The primary mission of LAST is to provide assistance and comfort to the family and the department after a line-of-duty death and to help with filing for federal, state and local benefits.

This program will introduce Fire Service organization leaders to the resources developed by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation that addresses readiness as it pertains to an organization’s response to Line of Duty Deaths (LODD). Topics discussed in this delivery will include familiarization with the Local Assistance State Team that assists in LODD response, LODD benefits, and different resources available to the family and the organization.

Attached is a brochure that provides further details about the L.A.S.T. program.

To register for this class use the following link:

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Reminder: Winter 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: September 16th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: July 22, 2022

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 21:22:09 GMT

I just wanted to share a recent press release about VFDs in GA receiving water from the Anheuser Busch Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program to distribute to your networks. https://www.anheuser-busch.com/newsroom/2022/06/nvfc-emergency-drinking-water-ga/

While the general application is currently closed, if a department is in a declared emergency due to wildfire, they can still request water. We’re hoping to open up another general application period early next spring. Departments can join us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nvfc1 and sign up for our newsletter at http://bit.ly/2rVETnu for announcements when another general application period becomes available.

Please let me know if you have questions.

Thanks!

Lori Shirley

Program Manager

National Volunteer Fire Council

P: 202.887.5700

E: Lori@nvfc.org

Please note our new mailing address:

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

Reminder: Winter 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: September 16th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: July 13, 2022

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 19:35:18 GMT

Don't Forget to Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Awards Nominations Due July 15th

Since 1972, GSFA has recognized firefighters through its annual recognition program. Award recipients will be recognized at the 2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference and the 2023 Firefighters Recognition Day. Recognition is given for the following categories:

Firefighter of the Year
Rookie of the Year
Training Officer of the Year
Company Officer of the Year
Educator of the Year
Life Saving Valor Award

All nominations must be received no later than July 15, 2022. For nomination forms and more information, click here .

Fully Involved: July 6, 2022

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 22:45:40 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Fire Department Leadership and Trainers,

LGRMS worked with Lt. David Bullard, GSFA President and NVFC State Director, and Michele Ice, FCSN Georgia State Director, to develop and implement the 2022 Firefighter Cancer Awareness Plan. Our focus this year is on rolling out a train-the-trainer program for the course Taking Action Against Firefighter Cancers.

The train-the-trainer course is about two hours and covers all aspects of firefighter cancer risks and controls. Attendees will be provided lesson plans, PowerPoints, and all needed training materials required to train their agencies. LGRMS already conducted these train-the-trainer courses at multiple locations across the State of Georgia.

LGRMS continues to use an incentive program to encourage the awareness of hazards and controls surrounding firefighter cancer across the State of Georgia. Thus, we will award two fire departments up to $5,000 in reimbursement, toward the purchase of equipment that will assist in the reduction of firefighter cancer risks (e.g. washer extractor, ventilation equipment, etc.).

Eligibility Requirements:

The fire department must be a member of GMA’s or ACCG’s Firefighters’ Cancer Benefit Program.
Complete the application.
The fire department must have at least one person attend the Taking Action Against Firefighter Cancers train-the-trainer course.
Show proof of training documentation – Training must be completed for at least 80% of the department’s firefighters (based on insured population).
Application must be submitted by October 31, 2022. Your application should be submitted electronically to Dan Beck of LGRMS at dbeck@lgrms.com .

Link to 2022 Application:

https://www.lgrms.com/Resources/LGRMS-Firefighter-Cancer-Awareness-Incentive-Progr/Firefighter-Cancer-Awareness-Brochure_010322_Filla.aspx

Thank You, Stay Safe & Healthy

Dan Beck

The NVFC is excited to partner with DripDrop again in 2022 to provide dehydration relief to volunteer firefighters. Active volunteer firefighters can request up to two 80-count multi-flavor packages of DripDrop oral rehydration solution to use in their department. A press release with additional information is attached. Please share with your audience.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

P: 202.887.5700

https://www.nvfc.org/recruitment-retention-experience/

Fully Involved: June 27, 2022

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 16:21:35 GMT

NVFC is partnering with Color to promote fire departments becoming COVID-19 testing sites. Departments will receive $250 for participating, $50 for every month their site is sending tests, and $5 for every test at their site. A flyer promoting the program is attached.

Also, registration is open for the NVFC Recruitment and Retention Experience

2022 Nominations - Governor's Public Safety Awards

Dear Governor’s Public Safety Awards Committee Member,

It’s time for us to finalize the list of nominees for the Governor’s Public Safety Awards. This letter is intended as a reminder that anyone may nominate a candidate for this award in either category: heroic actions or overwhelming contributions to the profession. As the nominations review meeting fast approaches, we ask for your help identifying individuals who should be recognized for outstanding service to their community and profession.

The criteria can be found at: http://www.georgiagovernorspublicsafetyawards.org/selection-criteria/ .

Act of Heroism Award: When submitting a nomination for this award you need to ask yourself the question…. Is this truly a heroic act or is it merely in the line of duty?
Act of Heroism Award: The act of heroism must have occurred within the previous fiscal year July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022 to qualify.
Contribution to Profession Award: Anyone nominated for this award should have a minimum of 25 years of service and be someone who has made a significant contribution to the betterment of their profession.
These categories are not intended to recognize employees for merely “doing a good job”, or responding to a call, but to recognize employees who actually go beyond the ordinary to protect Georgia’s citizens and property, or who contribute significantly to the public safety profession.
When submitting a nomination via the website a letter of support from the agency head, statewide association or statewide board should be uploaded with the supporting documents of the nomination. If one cannot be provided, then the nomination cannot be accepted!

Please visit our website to complete the nomination form.

1. Go to http://www.georgiagovernorspublicsafetyawards.org/ and click on Submit a Nomination

2. You will be prompted to Create a New User (enter your information as the nominator) and create a password.

3. Fill out the New Nominee Form-Click Save

4. Upload supporting documents related to the incident or contribution to profession, this must also include a letter of support from the agency head, statewide association or statewide Board-Click Add Files

5. Upload supporting documentation and Click Save

The deadline for submission of nominations is Friday, August 5, 2022.

_______________________________________

Sharla Shockley

Executive Assistant to the Director/Legislative Liaison

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

1000 Indian Springs Drive

Forsyth, GA 31029

478-993-4405 | sshockley@gpstc.org | www.gpstc.org

Fully Involved: 2022 Nominations - Governor's Public Safety Awards

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 19:44:35 GMT

2022 Nominations - Governor's Public Safety Awards

Dear Governor’s Public Safety Awards Committee Member,

The criteria can be found at: http://www.georgiagovernorspublicsafetyawards.org/selection-criteria/ .

Act of Heroism Award: When submitting a nomination for this award you need to ask yourself the question…. Is this truly a heroic act or is it merely in the line of duty?
Act of Heroism Award: The act of heroism must have occurred within the previous fiscal year July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022 to qualify.
Contribution to Profession Award: Anyone nominated for this award should have a minimum of 25 years of service and be someone who has made a significant contribution to the betterment of their profession.
These categories are not intended to recognize employees for merely “doing a good job”, or responding to a call, but to recognize employees who actually go beyond the ordinary to protect Georgia’s citizens and property, or who contribute significantly to the public safety profession.
When submitting a nomination via the website a letter of support from the agency head, statewide association or statewide board should be uploaded with the supporting documents of the nomination. If one cannot be provided, then the nomination cannot be accepted!

Please visit our website to complete the nomination form.

1. Go to http://www.georgiagovernorspublicsafetyawards.org/ and click on Submit a Nomination

2. You will be prompted to Create a New User (enter your information as the nominator) and create a password.

3. Fill out the New Nominee Form-Click Save

5. Upload supporting documentation and Click Save

The deadline for submission of nominations is Friday, August 5, 2022.

_______________________________________

Sharla Shockley

Executive Assistant to the Director/Legislative Liaison

Georgia Public Safety Training Center

1000 Indian Springs Drive

Forsyth, GA 31029

478-993-4405 | sshockley@gpstc.org | www.gpstc.org

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference Registration

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 17:40:25 GMT

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference

September 28 - October 1, 2022

Pre-Registration is now open if you would like to register via PDF form. The Online Registration link will go live the week after July 4th.

Conference Agenda Coming Soon!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Applications & More Information

Phone: 678-686-6239

We look forward to seeing you in Columbus!

Interact with Fire Service Vendors:

Exhibit Hall open on Thursday and Friday

Make plans to visit the Exhibit Hall on Thursday afternoon during the opening reception from 4:45 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. and again on Friday from 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. to interact with the conference vendors and learn more about their products, services and programs.

Firefighters from the local area who are not registered for the conference but would still like to visit the Exhibit Hall are welcome to join us during the Friday hours (lunch will only be provided for conference participants).

Conference Hotels:

Columbus Marriott

(Available until block full or August 29)

Click here for website

800 Front Ave

Columbus, GA 31901

Phone: 706-324-1800

Room Rate: $159

Hotel Indigo

(Available until block full or August 31)

Click here for website

21 West 14 ^th Street

Columbus, GA 31901

Phone: 706-780-7800

Room Rate : $159

Nominate a Deserving Firefighter for Recognition

Each year, the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association (GSFA) annually recognize firefighters at all levels for their leadership, accomplishments and acts of valor. Award recipients will be announced at the Awards Reception at the Georgia Fire Service Conference on Saturday, October 1. They are also invited to receive a special commendation from Governor Brian Kemp during the 2023 Firefighter Recognition Day. Take a look around your department and consider nominating someone today!

GSFA Annual Awards

Firefighter of the Year
Rookie of the Year
Instructor of the Year
Training Officer of the Year
Educator of the Year
Valor Award

Deadline: July 15, 2022

GAFC Annual Awards

Fire Chief of the Year
Chief Officer of the Year
Fire Chief / Fire Officer Certifications

Deadline: August 1, 2022

Watch for more information coming soon!

Recognize Fallen Firefighters

Submit Information for the Annual Memorial Service

Each year as part of the Georgia Fire Service Conference, firefighters who passed away during the previous year are recognized at the annual Memorial Service, scheduled this year for Friday, September 30th at 8 a.m. Firefighters do not have to have been a member of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs or the Georgia State Firefighters Association to be recognized.

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference - Call for Papers

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 15:18:09 GMT

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference

September 27 - October 1, 2022

Columbus, GA

Host Department: Columbus Fire & Emergency Medical Services

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Columbus! To submit a class Click here for the electronic class for papers. We are soliciting classes for all ranks!

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS JUNE 17th!

Start pulling together your competition teams now!

GSFA Magazine Articles Due June 10th

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 14:30:07 GMT

Reminder: Fall 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: June 10th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before June 10th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

The NVFC is pleased to partner with CHEMTREC for the 2022 HELP Awards. Through this grant program, two eligible volunteer fire departments will receive a $10,000 grant to enhance their response capabilities and readiness for hazmat incidents. The application period is now open, and attached is a press release to share with your audiences.

In addition, the NVFC has partnered with MSA to give away a Cairns® XF1 Fire Helmet in June. A press release is also attached to share with your audience.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Best,

Kimberly

Kimberly Quiros

Chief of Communications

National Volunteer Fire Council

P: 202.887.5700

LifeSafety Code - Columbus - June 2022

We have the pipeline courses that you request set up. Below you will find links to register your personnel online. Please try to have some personnel registered by at least the week before class so we can produce a roster. The registration can be changed into the start of class to include changes for shift personnel attendance. Feel free to invite any surrounding jurisdictions and share the links if need be. The courses can also be found on the GPSTC training calendar for registration purposes. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns that arise. Thank you for hosting pipeline training.

July 25

July 27

July 29

Lucus Harmsen

Pipeline Coordinator

Georgia Fire Academy

GPERI

Office 478-993-5935

Fax 478-993-4671

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 17:53:32 GMT

2022 Georgia Fire Service Conference

September 27 - October 1, 2022

Columbus, GA

Host Department: Columbus Fire & Emergency Medical Services

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Columbus! To submit a class Click here for the electronic class for papers. We are soliciting classes for all ranks!

DEADLINE FOR CALL FOR PAPERS JUNE 17th!

Start pulling together your competition teams now!

GSFA Magazine Articles Due June 10th

Tue, 31 May 2022 15:59:36 GMT

Reminder: Fall 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: June 10th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is conducting a Hazardous Material Technician course starting on June 6, 2022. We currently have low enrollment and do not want to have to cancel this offering.

During this 10-day delivery, students will be trained to the minimum training requirements necessary to respond to incidents involving hazardous materials/WMD. Responders to these incidents are expected to perform technically advanced operations to mitigate the emergency. This course is designed to address these requirements and prepare the emergency responder to respond in a safe manner to protect themselves and their community. Topics covered include: identifying hazardous materials/WMD materials and their characteristics and toxic effects if released, PPE selection and use, tactics to confine and contain, as well as decontamination of responders and civilians.

This offering will be held at the G.P.S.T.C. main campus in Forsyth with the first week conducted June 6th – June 10 th , and the second June 13 th – 17th at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.

Use the following link to register: Haz-Mat Technician

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: May 26, 2022

Thu, 26 May 2022 14:40:44 GMT

Don't Forget to Nominate a Deserving Firefighter!

GSFA Annual Awards Nominations Due July 15th

Firefighter of the Year
Rookie of the Year
Training Officer of the Year
Company Officer of the Year
Educator of the Year
Life Saving Valor Award

All nominations must be received no later than July 15, 2022. For nomination forms and more information, click here .

Submit Your Nomination to Serve on the GSFA

Board of Directors or as a District Representative

GSFA is accepting nominations for individuals to serve on its Board of Directors. Board members will serve two year term that runs from August 2022 - August 2024. For more information on the responsibilities of each position, click here .

Completed Board of Directors nomination forms must be received by June 15, 2022. All seats on the Board of Directors are open for nominations.

The incoming President will name District Representatives soon after the Georgia Fire Service Conference. GSFA is expanding its District Representative program and would like to have several people serving in this role in each district. In addition to the responsibilities listed in the bylaws, district representatives will serve as part of GSFA's Membership Growth Committee which is working on member engagement strategies and expanding association participation across the state.

If you are interested in serving as a District Representative, please submit your District Representative nomination form should be submitted by June 15th.

Fully Involved: May 21, 2022

Sat, 21 May 2022 20:39:47 GMT

Submit Your Nomination to serve as a

GSFA District Representative

If you are interested in serving as a District Representative, please submit your District Representative nomination form to the GSFA Office by June 15th.

We learn best from our peers; teach a class in Columbus! We are soliciting classes for all ranks! Stay tuned for the link to submit your "call for papers" coming soon!

Start pulling together your competition teams now!

Fully Involved: May 12, 2022

Thu, 12 May 2022 17:33:15 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

Cobb Fire and Emergency Services is hosting Anthony Avillo's Fireground Strategies & Full Contact Leadership Conference in June. This training is free of charge and will have two offerings.

For more information or to register, please click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/311984673557

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the course Life Safety Code June 7th through June 9th, 2022 at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center – Columbus Campus, 3001 Macon Road; Columbus, GA 31906..

This course will provide the student with an introduction and overview of the Life Safety Code and how it applies to fire inspections and code enforcement activities. Students will review the specific requirements of each section of the code, determine building and fire protection requirements, egress requirements, and apply the code to practical activities based on occupancy and hazard classification.

This course is designed for public safety personnel who will have the primary responsibility of conducting Fire and Life Safety Code Inspections and Fire Service Plans Review.

See attached flyer for further or use the following link to register:

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: May 3, 2022

Wed, 04 May 2022 14:25:22 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following course: Best Practices in Community Risk Reduction on May 31 – June 1, 2022.

This two-day course demonstrates to students nationally recognized principles that, when used appropriately, can lead to community risk-reduction programs that can measure success in local communities. This course will give students the opportunity to explore programs from communities across the United States that have been showcased at Vision 20/20 symposiums. This program demonstrates what nationally recognized organizations identify as examples of “best practices” in community risk reduction.

Target Audience:

Fire and emergency services personnel who help develop and deliver fire prevention and community risk-reduction programs.
Fire and emergency services staff with an interest in advancing risk-reduction efforts in their community.
Allied health and community service personnel who help develop and deliver risk-reduction programs.

There is a pre-course assignment due one week before class that should take about one hour to complete. Students will receive the assignment two-weeks before class.

Use the following link to register:

Best Practices in Community Risk Reduction

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: April 25, 2022

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 18:23:52 GMT

District Fish Fry

Monday, May 9th

Please RSVP to hkennedy@wrga.gov no later than May 2nd.

Good afternoon,

The NVFC’s Health & Safety Training Summit is quickly approaching on June 24-25 in Orlando, Florida and we need your help getting the word out. We still have space available at this event, and travel stipends are also still available to help offset the cost of attendance. If you could please share the attached flyer with your state associations, member lists, your department colleagues and friends, we would greatly appreciate it! We have an excellent line up of speakers and some great networking opportunities and we’re looking forward to another wonderful event!

Best wishes,

Sarah

Sarah Lee

Chief Executive Officer

National Volunteer Fire Council

P: 202.887.5700

Please note our new mailing address:

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

The NVFC is here for you. For the latest on COVID-19

resources, training, and membership, visit www.nvfc.org

Fully Involved: April 20, 2022

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:25:58 GMT

Good afternoon,

Best wishes,

Sarah

Sarah Lee

Chief Executive Officer

National Volunteer Fire Council

P: 202.887.5700

Please note our new mailing address:

712 H Street, NE, Ste. 1478

Washington, DC 20002

Introduction and Leadership, Course I

The NVFC is here for you. For the latest on COVID-19

resources, training, and membership, visit www.nvfc.org

Fully Involved: NVFC Health & Safety Training Summit - Stipend Deadline April 15

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 13:14:59 GMT

Vendor Highlight

Paid sponsor message - served on behalf by GSFA

Attention Georgia volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, and rescue workers! The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is hosting its next Health & Safety Training Summit on Friday, June 24 and Saturday, June 25 in Orlando, FL. The conference focuses on critical topics impacting first responder wellbeing and is open to all volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, department leadership, training officers, and other fire department personnel.

This premiere educational event is an opportunity to learn from leading subject matter experts as well as share ideas and best practices with responders from across the U.S. Sessions address a wide range of fire service health and safety topics, including fireground safety, behavioral health, leadership, roadway safety, risk reduction, and more. The conference will also feature keynote speakers and networking opportunities.

To help with the costs of attending, travel stipends are available for NVFC members. The stipend will reimburse up to $750 for conference related expenses, including transportation/mileage, lodging, and the registration fee. There's only a few days left to apply for a stipend - the deadline is April 15 . Not a member? Join for just $21 at www.nvfc.org/join .

Connect with us

Fully Involved: April 8, 2022

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 15:20:09 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the Wildland Urban Interface: Fire-Adapted Communities Series this coming May. This series is made up of three, two-day courses designed to introduce students to the national wildland urban interface (WUI) fire problem and motivate them to initiate action to address the problem within their local community.

The attached flyer contains additional information.

Use the following link to register:

Strategies for Developing a Fire-Adapted Community, Course II

Developing a Community Wildfire Protection Plan, Course III

Please share with your members.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

All,

We want to share this very cool opportunity for COMPANY OFFICERS to share your thoughts and potentially make $3000.00....:

COMPETITION: What Would A Company Officer Do?

Leadership in the Fire Service from the COMPANY OFFICER Perspective.

HERE IS THE CHALLENGE:

Leadership today is complex and transcends the fire station. In 2,500 words or less, tell us how a company officer can exhibit exceptional leadership.

THE WINNER receives $3,000.00 and a special feature experience with Darley.

Second place: $2,000.00

Third place: $1,000.00

What: Tell us how a company officer can exhibit exceptional leadership. and write it in 2,500 words maximum

Who: Anyone in the fire service

When: Entries accepted until May 20th; winners announced in July, 2022.

Where: www.darley.com/contest (link below)

How: Essay, submission open until May 20th

Here is a chance to put in writing all the thoughts you have when sitting at the firehouse kitchen table...but now get some cash for those ideas...

https://info.darley.com/contest

A cool opportunity to share your opinion-and make some cash ...but ya gotta be in it to win it.

Take Care. Be Careful. Pass It On.

BillyG

The Secret List 4/8/2022-0830 Hours

www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com

Fully Involved: April 1, 2022

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:45:52 GMT

2022 Firefighter Cancer Awareness Action Plan

Members of the Georgia Firefighters’ Cancer Benefit Program (GFCP) are encouraged to build awareness of the hazards and controls of firefighter cancer within their fire departments.

The loss control provider for the Georgia Firefighters’ Cancer Benefit Program, Local Government Risk Management Services (LGRMS) is working with Lt. David Bullard, GSFA President and NVFC State Director, and Michele Ice, FCSN Georgia State Director, to develop and implement the 2022 Firefighter Cancer Awareness Action Plan. The focus this year will be on rolling out a train-the-trainer program for the course Taking Action Against Firefighter Cancers.

This course is about two hours and covers all aspects of firefighter cancer risks and controls. Attendees will be provided lesson plans, PowerPoints, and all needed training materials required to train their agencies. LGRMS will schedule these train-the-trainer courses at multiple locations across the State of Georgia. Dates, times, and locations will be communicated in February of 2022.

LGRMS will continue to use an incentive program to encourage the awareness of hazards and controls surrounding firefighter cancer across the State of Georgia. Thus, two fire departments will be awarded up to $5,000 in reimbursement toward the purchase of equipment that will assist in the reduction of firefighter cancer risks (e.g. washer extractor, ventilation equipment, etc.).

Registration Info Here:

https://gfcpinsurance.com/incentiveprogram.php

Announcement:

Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council Meeting

Location and virtual joining update.

The next Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council Meeting will be held on 4/5/2022. This meeting has been scheduled as a Work Session and will be held at GPSTC in Forsyth in Tiered Classroom 112 at 11:00 AM.

THE AGENDA ITEMS WILL BE:

OPENING OF THE MEETING

ESTABLISH QUORUM

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

AGENCY UPDATE

OLD BUSINESS

NEW BUSINESS

Fireworks Tax Grants

ADJOURN

To join virtually:

Topic: Location and sharing update: GFSTC Council Work Session 4/5/2022

Time: Apr 5, 2022 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89143529554?pwd=KzZGYXZNVkpXdVFsYU04WUgzVktPdz09

Meeting ID: 891 4352 9554

Passcode: 170523

One tap mobile

+16465588656,,89143529554#,,,,*170523# US (New York)

+13017158592,,89143529554#,,,,*170523# US (Washington DC)

Dial by your location

+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

Meeting ID: 891 4352 9554

Passcode: 170523

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcLslJUwl

Fully Involved: March 9, 2022

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 18:15:39 GMT

Deadline for scholarship applications is this Friday, March 11, 2022 by 5:00 pm.

The wait is over, it is time for Camp Oo-U-La! We excitedly look forward to a fun and meaningful camp week June 5-10 2022 at Camp Twin Lakes Will-A-Way in Winder, GA!

After two years apart, we cannot wait to celebrate help, hope, and healing beyond the burn together at camp! As we plan and prepare for a fantastic week, there are important and difficult changes made to ensure a safe, healthy, and effective program.

Please click here for full details , including volunteer staff applications. Camper applications are available on March 21!

For questions or concerns, contact McKenzy Williams at mwilliams@gfbf.org or 404-320-6223. GFBF provides camp at no cost to burn‐injured children and their sibling(s).

Why is Stress Management So Important?

Join Us Virtually - Tuesday March 8, 7pm-8pm EST

GFBF is committed to staying connected by expanding our reach and deepening impact, so that no one ever feels alone on their journey.

GFBF Talks Virtual Conversation webinar series is scheduled for the 2 ^nd Tuesday of each month. The goal of these educational and entertaining events is to encourage and inspire through relaxed conversation that evolves into an honest exchange of feelings and thought.

Fully Involved: March 2, 2022

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 17:44:02 GMT

GSFA Members,

We want to congratulate former Warner Robbins Fire Lieutenant and Mayor, Randy Toms as the new Executive Director of Georgia Firefighter Standards Council. We wish him well and offer our support and input for his success in the role.

His appointment opens a seat on the Council, for a representative of a municipal government. Under OCGA, GSFA can submit up to three names for recommendation to the Governor for this appointment. If you have a municipal elected official that you feel would do well and be interested in this role, please submit them to dbullard@columbiacountyga.gov by March 18.

In yesterday's meeting the GFST Council thanked us for our letter an input and vowed to work with us and the GAFC to gather feedback on proposed rules changes.

Also, GSFA has appointments to the NFPA 1001 technical committee for a principal and alternate representative. If you have an interest representing GSFA in this role, please also submit to dbullard@columbiacountyga.gov by March 18.

Diligently,

GSFA Board of Directors

ANHEUSER-BUSCH EMERGENCY DRINKING WATER

FOR WILDLAND FIREFIGHTERS

Anheuser-Busch has a longstanding tradition of providing emergency drinking water and supplies for disaster relief efforts. Every year, Anheuser-Busch periodically pauses beer production to can emergency drinking water to be ready to lend a helping hand during natural disasters and other crises. Building on this commitment, the brewer teamed up with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) in 2019 to create the Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program.

Keeping firefighters hydrated during long incidents or disasters such as wildfires is a critical need for fire departments, yet many volunteer departments struggle with limited budget and resources. To help departments meet this need, Anheuser-Busch is continuing its commitment in 2022 and has pledged to donate 1.5 million cans of clean drinking water this year to help keep our wildfire responders hydrated as they protect and strengthen our communities. Since the program began, nearly 4.9 million cans of water have been distributed to more than 960 departments across nearly all 50 states.

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS FOR THE HEATHER SCHAFER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP BY MARCH 31

New training scholarship is sponsored by ADT

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) will recognize four deserving fire and EMS personnel this year through the inaugural Heather Schafer Memorial Scholarship. With training the most requested resource by NVFC members, the scholarship is designed to make in-person training accessible for volunteer emergency responders. Nominations are due March 31.

The Heather Schafer Memorial Scholarship, sponsored by ADT, recognizes exemplary emerging leaders in public safety who are committed to improving the fire and emergency services in the areas of health, safety, recruitment, retention, department culture, and emergency response. The scholarship covers the cost of the registration fee, airfare (or mileage), meals, and lodging, up to $1,500, for one of the NVFC’s annual training events. In 2022, there will be two scholarships available for the NVFC Health and Safety Training Summit, taking place June 24-25 in Orlando, FL, and two scholarships given for the NVFC Recruitment and Retention Experience, scheduled for September 16-17 in Mesa, AZ. View full criteria and submit your nominations by March 31 at: www.nvfc.org/heather-schafer-memorial-scholarship

Heather Schafer joined the NVFC in 1993 and took on the role of CEO in 1994, a position she served for 27 years until her death in 2021. During her tenure, the NVFC grew immensely – from hundreds of members and a staff of two, to over 25,000 members and a staff of 11. Under her leadership, the NVFC prospered and flourished, offering groundbreaking programs and resources to the volunteer fire and emergency services. She led the development of the Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program, Fire Corps, Share the Load program, Make Me A Firefighter program, and more. She also formed many partnerships and collaborations that benefited the volunteer emergency services community. This scholarship program continues her mission to elevate the voice of local fire and EMS personnel who have made an impact in their community.

The Summit and Experience both have smaller travel stipends available through a rolling application process. Heather Schafer Memorial Scholarship nominees may also apply for the stipend but are only eligible to receive one award per event. Submit your nomination here.

Fully Involved: February 28, 2022

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 19:49:15 GMT

The Board of Directors have heard your feedback on the proposed rules changes by GFSTC and submitted the following letter to the Council on behalf of the membership of GSFA

Fully Involved: February 24, 2022

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 17:00:11 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

Cobb Fire has asked us to share this information about an upcoming training opportunity. This training is open to all local departments. The training is free, but they ask that you register so they have an accurate headcount.

You may register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-functional-fire-company-conference-tickets-237519686777 .

Please reach out to Chief Hancock at 770-528-5661 or thomas.hancock@cobbcounty.org for more information.

Plan to Plume

Critical Tasks Associated with Emergency Response to Ammonia Releases

Wednesday, March 9th – 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Attendance Target : 16 fire & emergency services personnel / 64 conference attendees

Overview : ASTI instructors will teach and demonstrate the “Plan to Plume” response logic and explain how to manage an ammonia emergency using plume models that evolve over the four emergency stages (Discovery, Initial Response, Sustained Response, and Termination).

Exercise Format : Participants will receive an opening instructional session from Gary Smith, retired fire chief and President/CEO of ASTI and Manny Ehrlich with 60 years of chemical management experience that includes a four year term as a U.S. Chemical Safety Board, and Kent Anderson, President emeritus of IIAR and past President of the ASTI Board. The instruction will be followed by a demonstration of the method of monitoring an ammonia release with predeveloped plume models and a live session with the Drager X-Site plume development system using live ammonia detection and plume plotting methodology. Instructors will discuss the impact of plume flank and core readings, incident action plan tasks, and safety measures.

Groups will be assembled using the “Tripod Concept,” collaborating industry, government, and public safety representatives. The group leader will select command team members who will address the challenges and roles involved in each stage of emergency response (Incident Commander, Lead Responder, Notification Unit Leader, Evacuation Group Leader, and Local Emergency Manager).

1. Discovery Stage (the first fifteen minutes of an incident) - facility response with a pre-developed ALOHA plume model that displays a worst-case scenario. The focus will be on the immediate facility command team size-up, notification of local, state, and federal response, and employee escape to a rally point and the most appropriate inside or outside evacuation staging area.

2. Initial Response Stage (the second 15 minutes of an incident). The plume is heading off site. The focus will be on engaging an emergency system control plan. The group will see how wind variance and confidence line perimeter reveal the ammonia plume.

3. Sustained Response (successive 30 minute plans that lead to controlling the emergency event) - the plume becomes “steady state” and the team must deal with challenges associated with off-site exposure to critical receptors. The first IMAAC plume model arrives. Draeger X-Site system will read flank and core plan impact as the plume begins to recede.

4. Termination/Recovery (the fourth stage of an incident) - Crisis management and debriefing on the benefits of addressing key life-safety and environmental impacts of the release.

REGISTRATION IS FREE – TO REGISTER, EMAIL DAVID BULLARD ( Dbullard@columbiacountyga.gov )

Questions – Contact Chief Gary Smith (831) 288-0576 or (831) 818-1321

Fully Involved: February 22, 2022

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 20:28:55 GMT

Anyone wanting to provide us feedback for the GFSTC proposed rules changes, needs to send it to dbullard@columbiacountyga.gov by Friday.

Fully Involved: February 21, 2022

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 15:12:41 GMT

2022 Legislative Update

HB 968 Requires diversity training for public safety and compliance

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/61244

GSFA consensus that this is a local issue

HB 855 Adds PTSD Coverage to Workers Comp

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/60949

GSFA Supports, working with partner associations and ACCG/GMA

House Insurance Commitment has sent it to Workers Comp Review Board

SB 484 mirrors this, but allows for scientific rebuttal

Assigned to Senate Insurance and Labor

HB 1056 Allows more Georgia Firefighter Pension Fund investments to be of alternative means

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/61409

GSFA Supports

Passed House Retirement Committee

HB 992 Exempts law enforcement from paying state income tax

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/61322

GSFA Watching

Assigned to House Ways and Means Committee, the bill sponsor has agreed to expand to all public safety, but will most likely not be a total exemption of income tax.

HB 1145 Adds Covid 19 death to indemnification if occurred between March 2020 and Dec 2021 within 45 days of being on duty.

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/61576

GSFA Supports

House Public Safety Committee

HB 247 Strengthens penalties for distracted driving

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/59233

Senate Public Safety

HB 275 Drug testing requirements for former inmate firefighters

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/59284

GSFA did not support in 2021, has been assigned to Senate Public Safety until then

SB 468 Add suicide within 30 days of the last day of duty to indemnification

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/61817

GSFA Watching

SB 358 Covers reimbursement of certain expenses occurred by former military personnel undergoing basic law enforcement training

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/61216

GSFA awaiting answer if this would be beneficial to basic fire training, fire may possibly already be covered.

HB 302 Limits fees charged by local governments for inspections and plans review

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/59342

Passed House in 2021, assigned to Senate Finance in March 2021

GSFA Opposed

Reminder: Summer 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: February 25th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before February 25th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: February 17, 2022

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 14:35:51 GMT

Travel stipends are available

Registration is open for the National Volunteer Fire Council’s (NVFC) 2022 Health & Safety Training Summit. The Summit will take place Friday, June 24, and Saturday, June 25, in Orlando, FL. The conference is open to all volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, department leadership, and other fire department personnel from across the United States. Click here to register now .

This two-day classroom-based training event is an opportunity to learn from leading subject matter experts, share ideas and best practices, and network. Attendees will be able to select up to seven breakout sessions to attend, addressing behavioral health, fireground safety, leadership, roadway safety, and more. The conference will also feature keynote speakers and networking opportunities. Full course information and instructor details are available on the registration page. Additional event details will continue to be announced at www.nvfc.org/summit .

The registration fee for the Summit is $129, which provides two days of training from nationally recognized instructors, lunches, light refreshments, and the networking social event. To help more first responders attend, travel stipends are available for select attendees. The stipend will reimburse up to $750 for conference and travel-related expenses, including the registration fee, lodging, and transportation. Applications will be reviewed on a monthly basis, with deadlines March 15 and April 15.

The conference will be held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Lake Buena Vista Resort, an all-suite hotel featuring family-friendly amenities such as a splash park, evening dive-in movies, a putting green, and more. Guests can also enjoy free cooked-to-order breakfast, a nightly reception, free WiFi, and a Disney theme park shuttle. The NVFC has negotiated a room rate of $149 for conference attendees. Find more travel information here .

As in previous years, the NVFC will offer a networking social event after class concludes on Friday, June 24. The reception will include a vendor area featuring sponsors and partners.

Find detailed information, register today, and apply for a travel stipend at www.nvfc.org/summit . Questions? Contact Rachel Buczynski, NVFC conference planner, at 202-887-5700 or Rachel@nvfc.org .

About the National Volunteer Fire Council

The NVFC is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides critical resources, programs, education, and advocacy for first responders across the nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org .

Reminder: Summer 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: February 25th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: February 15, 2022

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 22:09:19 GMT

Deadline Extended

GFSTC 2022 Fireworks Tax Grant Announcement

February 16, 2022

Georgia Fire Departments:

GFSTC has received extra grant monies through the 2022 amended budget.

Due to a combination of these additional funds and the low number of applications received we are extending the application deadline for one week.

Applications are now due by the close of business, 5:00 PM on February 23, 2022.

Any applications received after that date and time will not be considered in the 2022 process.

There is still a $25,000.00 limit with a 10% department match.

The application link is available on our website, on Facebook and has been emailed to the chiefs and training officers.

Please follow the link the the announcement and application.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeEyUhwI6ZW4IrAqEwC53Dv_ybh99dpRahf4fQtQWrHEFrUhQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

GSFA Magazine Articles Due February 25th

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 22:00:52 GMT

Reminder: Summer 2022 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: February 25th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

Fully Involved: February 7, 2022

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 14:56:47 GMT

Post Annual Business Meeting Letter

On February 1 ^st and 2 ^nd , we had our Business Meeting in Atlanta and the 50 ^th Annual Firefighter Recognition Day and Legislative Dinner. The combined Recognition Day/Dinner was one of the largest attended to date. The awards presentations were performed by Representative Micah Gravley and Senator John Albers. Representative Gravely is not seeking reelection and was bestowed Legislator Emeritus for GSFA. Also, Senator Bruce Thompson and Representative Gerald Greene were presented Legislator of the Year awards.

During the business meeting, items were brought forth with resolutions and for good of the association. Two of these, we want to have members of the association serve in a committee role to provide input. First, is a review of our current voting and election bylaws. This committee will report their suggestions back to the Board in time to be voted on for any potential bylaws changes to be presented at the conference in Columbus this September. Second, was a resolution to research the allowance of paid per call volunteers to draw their pension when eligible and continuing in that role. This will potentially help with retention on volunteer agencies. The findings of this committee will be presented to the Board and then to the Georgia Pension Fund Board of Trustees. Anyone interested in serving in these committees, please email dbullard@columbiacountyga.gov by March 1. At the conclusion of the Day 1 meeting, Shane Bentley of Bearers of the Oath presented “What’s Your Plan.” As the meeting was held in Atlanta, the city of resurgence, our plan as GSFA is to emerge from the Pandemic with a new energy and a commitment to every firefighter, every fire department, every day.

Also, departments are reporting getting their stipends/supplements sent back from the office on planning a budget. Many of thee are because the GFSTC roster is missing with the application. If the roster has more names than submitted names for stipends/supplement, highlight the matching ones on the roster and then submit.

In Service,

GSFA Board of Directors

Fully Involved: February 4, 2022

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 15:58:24 GMT

GFSTC 2022 Fireworks Tax Grant Announcement

January 27, 2022

Georgia Fire Departments:

This is the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council announcement and policy for the 2022 Fireworks Tax Grants. Please understand that we have a limited amount of monies and while all departments are welcome to make application, those departments that demonstrate the most financial and operational need will be the primary consideration in the Grant Review Committee’s and Council’s decision-making process. There is a $25,000.00 limit with a 10% department match.

The Grant Application period will begin on January 27, 2022 and must be received in the GFSTC office by the close of business, 5:00 PM, on February 16, 2022. Applications will be accepted electronically. Any applications received after that date and time will not be considered in the 2022 process. The application link is available on our website, on Facebook and has been emailed to the chiefs and training officers.

Please follow the link the the announcement and application.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeEyUhwI6ZW4IrAqEwC53Dv_ybh99dpRahf4fQtQWrHEFrUhQ/viewform

NFA Managing Officer Program

Fire Service Leaders,

Eriks Gabliks, the Superintendent of the NFA, asked that I pass along the following information to you.

The National Fire Academy (NFA) has opened the application window for those interested in being considered for the Managing Officer (MO) Program. The application period is now OPEN! Those interested in being considered must apply by April 15 for courses that begin in fiscal year 2023 (October 2022 – September 2023).

The NFA’s Managing Officer Program is a multiyear curriculum that introduces emerging emergency services leaders to personal and professional skills in change management, risk reduction and adaptive leadership. Acceptance into the program is the first step in your professional development as a career or volunteer fire/emergency medical services (EMS) manager, and includes all four elements of professional development: education, training, experience and continuing education.

There is NO FEE for anyone to attend this program! Your cost is meals while on campus and your time. For those accepted in the program the NFA will reimburse for your travel, provide housing and classroom materials, deliver a world-class professional development experience, and you will develop a network of peers from around the nation.

Want more details or interested in applying: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/training/nfa/programs/mo_program.html

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 15:46:42 GMT

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

If you are not able to attend the Annual Business Meeting with us next week in person,

you can join the meeting virtually via Zoom!

Topic: GSFA Annual Business Meeting - Day 1

Time: Feb 1, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85947997081?pwd=TFRrZnh6WjBPQ21vbS85M2w2bllLQT09

Meeting ID: 859 4799 7081

Passcode: 193999

One tap mobile

+17207072699,,85947997081#,,,,*193999# US (Denver)

+12532158782,,85947997081#,,,,*193999# US (Tacoma)

Topic: GSFA Annual Business Meeting - Day 2

Time: Feb 2, 2022 08:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84237499796?pwd=MkRZa2NiZXRUV2VBUytBSGJhWnZtZz09

Meeting ID: 842 3749 9796

Passcode: 470329

One tap mobile

+13462487799,,84237499796#,,,,*470329# US (Houston)

+17207072699,,84237499796#,,,,*470329# US (Denver)

2022 Firefighter Recognition Day:

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner February 1, 2022

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR REGISTRANTS

Please check the registration list to confirm you are pre-registered - If you aren't please register before 8:00 am Monday, January 31, 2022 Click here for Mini-Conference Registration List ---- Firefighter Recognition Day and Legislative Dinner Registration list both are in order by the last name.
The City of Atlanta has a Mask Ordinance - MASK ARE REQUIRED!
PARKING: The Mini-Conference will be held at the GMA Building located at 201 Pryor St, SW Atlanta, GA 30303 - the parking deck has limited parking and has 7ft ceilings; Additional PAID parking is across the street you would turn left on Trinity and the parking lot is on the left.
Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation Dinner- will be held at the Georgia Freight Depot located at:
65 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 directions

Mini-Conference Training Session -presented by Shane Bentley

What's Your Plan? It's Okay to Care About Each Other!

How often do you consider the oath you took when you came into this profession? Are we really fulfilling our commitment as servants? Are we putting in the hard work that it takes to be successful? What type of example are we setting for others to follow? This course will give insight to these questions and produce a better understanding of personal motivation that leads to relationship-based inspiration for others to follow.

We certainly hope that you are planning to join us next Tuesday, February 1, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm for Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation Dinner for the opportunity to pay tribute to our fire service community and connect with our state’s elected officials.

Commendations to award recipients of the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs, Georgia Fire Investigators Association and Georgia Fire Inspectors Association will be delivered. After the ceremony, be prepared to have the best barbecue you have ever tasted, thanks to the expert cooks from the Vienna Fire Department!

The event is held at the Georgia Freight Depot in downtown Atlanta -

tickets cost $10 and pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

Mini-Conference $25 includes lunch and dinner - Limited Spots available - February 1 10:00 am – 1:45 Mini-Conference – full agenda below. Receive training credits with an Educational Session provided by Shane Bentley of Bearers of the Oath, lunch, and admission to Firefighter Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

(201 Pryor Street, SW, Atlanta, Ga 30303)

11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Boxed Lunch

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Educational Session: Shane Bentley of Bearers of the Oath

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Break

2:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Firefighter Recognition Day Ceremony

Georgia Freight Depot

(65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Voting for 2021-2023 GSFA Officers

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85947997081?pwd=TFRrZnh6WjBPQ21vbS85M2w2bllLQT09

Phone: 678-686-6239

Registration deadline January 26th date for Fire Mini Conference – Final Details

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 00:12:50 GMT

2022 Firefighter Recognition Day:

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner February 1, 2022

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR REGISTRANTS

Please check the registration list to confirm you are pre-registered - If you aren't please register before 8:00 am Monday, January 31, 2022 Click here for Mini-Conference Registration List ---- Firefighter Recognition Day and Legislative Dinner Registration list both are in order by the last name.
The City of Atlanta has a Mask Ordinance - MASK ARE REQUIRED!
PARKING: The Mini-Conference will be held at the GMA Building located at 201 Pryor St, SW Atlanta, GA 30303 - the parking deck has limited parking and has 7ft ceilings; Additional PAID parking is across the street you would turn left on Trinity and the parking lot is on the left.
Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Appreciation Dinner- will be held at the Georgia Freight Depot located at:
65 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 directions

Mini-Conference Training Session -presented by Shane Bentley

What's Your Plan? It's Okay to Care About Each Other!

The event is held at the Georgia Freight Depot in downtown Atlanta -

tickets cost $10 and pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

(201 Pryor Street, SW, Atlanta, Ga 30303)

11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Boxed Lunch

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Educational Session: Shane Bentley of Bearers of the Oath

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Break

2:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Firefighter Recognition Day Ceremony

Georgia Freight Depot

(65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Voting for 2021-2023 GSFA Officers

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

If you are not able to attend the Annual Business Meeting with us next week in person,

you can join the meeting virtually via Zoom!

Topic: GSFA Annual Business Meeting - Day 1

Time: Feb 1, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 859 4799 7081

Passcode: 193999

One tap mobile

+17207072699,,85947997081#,,,,*193999# US (Denver)

+12532158782,,85947997081#,,,,*193999# US (Tacoma)

Topic: GSFA Annual Business Meeting - Day 2

Time: Feb 2, 2022 08:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84237499796?pwd=MkRZa2NiZXRUV2VBUytBSGJhWnZtZz09

Meeting ID: 842 3749 9796

Passcode: 470329

One tap mobile

+13462487799,,84237499796#,,,,*470329# US (Houston)

+17207072699,,84237499796#,,,,*470329# US (Denver)

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

https://www.samhsa.gov/grants/grant-announcements/ti-22-001

Phone: 678-686-6239

Fully Involved: January 27, 2022

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 17:27:03 GMT

The International Association of Fire Chiefs

Volunteer Combination Officers Section, Alabama Fire College, Huguley Fire, East Alabama Fire and NW Florida Volunteer Firefighter Weekend presents:

Beyond Hoses & Helmets

An officer leadership training course

Current and Future Officers!

Join us

on Saturday, February 19 and Sunday, February 20

for FREE two-day officer leadership training.

This course will be presented at:

City of Valley Community Center

130 Sportsplex Dr.

Valley, AL

This instructor taught course gives valuable insight to:

Leadership techniques

Recruitment and retention ideas

Problem solving skills

Training development

Conflict resolution

Principles of negotiations

Effective communication techniques and much more!

This course was brought to you by the continuous support of VCOS by Pierce Manufacturing. When researching new apparatus, please contact Pierce and let them know you heard about them at a VCOS

“Beyond Hoses & Helmets” course.

REMEMBER IT IS NOT TO LATE TO REGISTER FOR NEXT WEEK'S
Mini-Conference and Firefighter Recognition and Legislative Dinner

Click here

for more information and registration link

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the course Life Safety Code March 8-10th, 2022. This 3 day course is being held at the at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center – Pickens Campus, 339A West Church Street;

Jasper, GA 30143

This 24-hour course will provide the student with an introduction and overview of the Life Safety Code and how it applies to fire inspections and code enforcement activities. Students will review the specific requirements of each section of the code, determine building and fire protection requirements, egress requirements, and apply the code to practical activities based on occupancy and hazard classification.

This course is designed for public safety personnel who will have the primary responsibility of conducting Fire and Life Safety Code Inspections and Fire Service Plans Review.

Please see attached flier for further information or use the following link to register: Life Safety Code - GPSTC Pickens

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: January 24, 2022

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 14:57:54 GMT

Rural EMS Training Grant Program

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration will award grants of up to $200,000 each to support the recruitment and training of EMS clinicians in rural areas.

The grant program has a focus on addressing mental and substance use disorders, and the training efforts the grants fund can last up to a year.

SAMHSA grants totaling $5,400,000 are available to fund rural EMS training. (Getty)

“SAMHSA recognizes the great need for emergency services in rural areas and the critical role EMS personnel serve across the country,” an agency statement reads.

The total dollar amount of anticipated available funding is $5,400,000 and SAMHSA expects to award 27 grants.

Rural EMS agencies operated by local or tribal governments and nonprofit EMS agencies are eligible. Fire department-based agencies that meet those criteria also are eligible.

Applicants also must send a Public Health System Impact Statement to the appropriate state and local health agencies by the application deadline.

The deadline to apply to the Rural EMS Training Grant program is Feb. 14.

Firefighters Recognition Day: Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner Registration

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 15:21:37 GMT

Join us for the 2022 Firefighter Recognition Day:

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

All firefighters are invited to participate in the 2022 Firefighters Recognition Day at the Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters & Georgia Freight Depot. Firefighters Recognition Day is set by law as the first Tuesday in February and provides an opportunity to recognize and pay tribute to our fire service community. During the ceremonies, state elected officials will acknowledge and applaud contributions made by all fire service personnel in Georgia and also recognize and present commendations to award recipients of the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs, and Georgia Fire Inspectors Association. This event is typically held at the State Capital, but this year it will be held at the Georgia Freight Depot in downtown Atlanta.

After the ceremony, be prepared to have the best barbecue you have ever tasted, thanks to the expert cooks from the Vienna Fire Department. The Legislative Appreciation Dinner is jointly sponsored by the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs and Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation and provides an opportunity to spend time with state leaders and legislators to network and discuss important fire service issues. There is a $10 per person ticket cost for the Georgia Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner and pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

(201 Pryor Street, SW, Atlanta, Ga 30303)

11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Boxed Lunch

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Educational Session: Shane Bentley of Bearers of the Oath

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Break

2:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Firefighter Recognition Day Ceremony

Georgia Freight Depot

(65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Voting for 2021-2023 GSFA Officers

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

Course Announcement - Life Safety Code in Tifton

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the course Life Safety Code February 22nd through February 24th, 2022. This 3 day course is being held at the at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center – Tifton Campus, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) 49; 2802 Moore Highway; Tifton, GA 31793-2601

This course is designed for public safety personnel who will have the primary responsibility of conducting Fire and Life Safety Code Inspections and Fire Service Plans Review.

Please see attached flier for further information or use the following link to register: Life Safety Code - TIFTON February 2022

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

THE LATEST
News from the NVFC's Make Me A Firefighter Campaign

The NVFC is creating several new video public service announcements (PSAs) for the Make Me A Firefighter (MMAF) campaign and searching for a department interested in participating. These videos will be used by the NVFC to promote the campaign on a national level and used by departments locally to support their recruitment efforts. The requirements include a diverse department and native Spanish speakers, as one of the PSAs will be in Spanish. Apply here .

Train Strong Webinar Series

Roadway Incident Safety and Survival for Fire and EMS, Jan 25 at 2pm ET. Struck-by-vehicle incidents continue to be a serious hazard for firefighters and EMS providers. Presenter Jack Sullivan will offer guidance on how to conduct various types of operations on rural roads and highways to help protect emergency personnel, the victims they are responding to, and other motorists. Register here .

Events

In conjunction with Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, the NVFC is hosting the Facebook Live discussion Firefighter Cancer: Actions to Reduce Risks tomorrow, January 18 at 3pm ET. Panelists will discuss the threat cancer poses, how firefighters can reduce their cancer risk, and share personal stories about cancer in the fire service. Learn more here .

Tips

A blog post from the National Fire Protection Association highlighted a promising trend when it comes to recruiting volunteer firefighters. Google Trends designated the search term “how to become a volunteer firefighter” as a breakout trend in November 2021, meaning the search term saw more than 5,000% increase than usual. Take advantage of increased interest in volunteering with MMAF campaign recruitment tools .

Grant Opportunities

The application period is currently open for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants, and the application period will open soon for the Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) grant. These FEMA grant programs fund critically needed resources to equip and train emergency personnel, enhance efficiencies, and support community resilience. Learn more about the grants and the application periods here .

The SAFER grants are specifically designed to help departments recruit and retain firefighters. Did you know you can use the Make Me A Firefighter campaign as part of your application? Find out more here .

Reminder

Do you have a question about social media and your department, grants, or junior firefighter programs? Join the NVFC's members-only discussion forum, Volunteer Voices, to read advice and answers to a host of different questions or post a question of your own! If you are not an NVFC member, join today to access Volunteer Voices and other member benefits.

Firefighters Recognition Day: Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner Registration

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 16:59:58 GMT

Join us for the 2022 Firefighter Recognition Day:

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner

After the ceremony, be prepared to have the best barbecue you have ever tasted, thanks to the expert cooks from the Vienna Fire Department. The Legislative Appreciation Dinner is jointly sponsored by the Georgia State Firefighters Association, Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs and Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation and provides an opportunity to spend time with state leaders and legislators to network and discuss important fire service issues. There is a $10 per person ticket cost for the Georgia Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner and pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

Mini Conference & Legislative Appreciation Dinner Schedule of Events

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

(201 Pryor Street, SW, Atlanta, Ga 30303)

11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Boxed Lunch

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Educational Session: Shane Bentley of Bearers of the Oath

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Break

2:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Unification Partners Meeting

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Firefighter Recognition Day Ceremony

Georgia Freight Depot

(65 M.L.K. Drive, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303)

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Fire Service Legislative Appreciation Dinner

Georgia Freight Depot

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

GSFA Annual Business Meeting

Voting for 2021-2023 GSFA Officers

Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

Phone: 678-686-6239

Fully Involved: January 11, 2022

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 18:09:46 GMT

Dawson County Emergency Services

Job Posting for Fire Inspector

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL 5PM JANUARY 18, 2022

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following course: Residential Sprinkler Plan Review, February 22-23, 2022. This course looks at the following as the primary guidance for the approval of residential sprinkler systems:

National Fire Protection Association 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes.
NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Low-Rise Residential Occupancies.
International Residential Code Standard P2904.
Manufacturer's Data Sheets.
The ability to read and interpret the design is an essential element of preventive fire safety.

This course is appropriate for building and fire code officials whose responsibility it is to review and approve residential sprinkler plans. Such officials include fire inspectors, fire marshals, and building code inspectors with at least one year of experience on the job. Attendees should have an understanding of the history of water-based fire protection systems and methods used to verify hydraulic calculation.

To register use the following link: Residential Sprinkler Plan Review

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following courses: EMS Functions in ICS on March 15-16, 2022. In this two-day course, students will practice use of the Incident Command System (ICS) in coordination with other public safety responders.

This course will present scenarios requiring responders to structure their emergency medical services (EMS) resources within the guidance of National Incident Management System ICS, as appropriate to the needs of the different incident types.

The target audience for this course is emergency response personnel with responsibilities to implement the initial EMS functions of an ICS at medium- or large-sized incidents.

To register use the following link: EMS Functions in ICS

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Submit Your Nominations for the NVFC Fire Service Achievement Awards by January 14

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) recognizes achievement in the volunteer fire and emergency services through its annual awards program . Honor outstanding volunteers from your department by submitting your nominations by January 14. Categories include lifetime achievement, health and wellness leadership, junior firefighter, and junior firefighter program.

NVFC Lifetime Achievement Award : Sponsored by ADT, this award honors a volunteer firefighter who has served at least 20 years and has made a major contribution or achieved significant accomplishments in the volunteer fire service at the local, state, and/or national level.

Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Health and Wellness Leadership Award : Sponsored by VFIS and Ward Diesel Filter Systems, this award honors an active volunteer firefighter, EMS provider, or rescue worker who has served as a leader in creating or promoting emergency responder health and wellness programs or initiatives in areas including, but not limited to, firefighter cancer, heart health, behavioral health, and overall health and wellness.

Junior Firefighter of the Year Award : Sponsored by California Casualty, this award honors a junior firefighter, cadet, or Explorer who has shown extraordinary dedication, commitment, and achievements as a youth member of the fire service.

Junior Firefighter Program of the Year Award : Sponsored by California Casualty, this award recognizes a department that has an outstanding junior firefighter program. The program must have been in operation for at least one year, and departments must demonstrate creativity and community impact for the program.

These prestigious national awards are designed to highlight the accomplishments and dedication of fire service volunteers who go above and beyond in their service to their department and community. Each recipient gets a personalized award and national recognition in honor of their achievements.

The recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Health and Wellness Leadership Award, and Junior Firefighter of the Year Award will receive a trip for themselves and a guest to the NVFC spring meeting awards banquet in April 2022 in Arlington, VA. The Junior Firefighter Program of the Year will be honored at a local recognition ceremony so that all of their members can attend.

View full criteria and submit your nominations at www.nvfc.org/awards by January 14.

Award Sponsors

About the National Volunteer Fire Council

About ADT

ADT is the most trusted brand in smart home and small business security. Through innovative products, partnerships and the largest network of smart home security professionals in the United States, we connect and protect what matters most to our customers at home, work and on the go. For more information, visit www.adt.com .

About California Casualty

Founded in 1914, California Casualty provides auto and home insurance to firefighters, peace officers, educators, and nurses in 44 states. The company routinely maintains a 99 percent customer service rating and a 96 percent claims rating. Learn more about their exclusive coverage and discounts at www.calcas.com .

About Provident

Since 1928, Provident has been a leader in providing customized insurance solutions for emergency services organizations. We continue to be a pioneer in developing insurance programs for fire departments, EMS entities, search and rescue, arson investigators, police officers, public safety, and other emergency services providers. With a strong commitment to tailored insurance coverage and excellent claims service, we focus on building long-term relationships with our clients. To learn more, please visit us at providentins.com or call us at (800) 447-0360.

About VFIS

VFIS is the largest provider of insurance, education, and consulting services to emergency service organizations such as fire departments, ambulance and rescue squads, and 911 centers. We have a long history of helping the emergency service community protect their assets and manage their exposure to loss. We pioneered the first tailored insurance package and formed a program for emergency service organizations. VFIS drafted the first specialized insurance policy in 1969 and continues to be the leader in the industry, insuring more emergency service organizations than any other provider. www.vfis.com

About Ward Diesel Filter Systems

Automatic and vehicle-mounted, Ward Diesel NO SMOKE Systems offer diesel exhaust protection on scene, in the station – anywhere you need it. Building modifications are not required for installation and there are no mechanical pieces to be attached by the firefighter when exiting and returning to the station. NO SMOKE is the only diesel exhaust removal solution on the market today that provides complete protection against harmful diesel exhaust both inside and outside the fire station. Visit us online at www.warddiesel.com or call 800-845-4665 to learn more.

Save the Date: Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 23:24:30 GMT

Save the Date:

Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner

February 1, 2022

Plans are well underway for the annual Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner set for Tuesday, February 1, 2022 .

Since the 2021 Fire Service Conference in September was canceled due to covid. We are planning to have our Annual Business meeting and elections in conjunction with the Firefighters Recognition Day & Legislative Dinner.

Please be on the lookout for more details on the event after the 1st of the year!

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner

If you have questions about the AFG funding notice or application process, call or email the Fire Grants Help Desk, which is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Phone: 678-686-6239

The GSFA Office would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! The GSFA office will be closed on December 23rd through January 3rd to enjoy the season with family. We hope you all have a safe and Happy Holiday!

Fully Involved: December 16, 2021

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 13:43:16 GMT

Application Period Extended for FY21 Assistance to Firefighters Grants

FEMA is working with the General Services Administration to resolve interface issues related to SAM.gov that are affecting applicant ability to begin inputting fiscal year 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program applications into the FEMA GO System. This issue included applicants that received error messages stating their organizations were not found and that their Unique Entity Identifier/Electronic Funds Transfer combination did not exist despite the applicants’ SAM.gov accounts being fully active.

New Application Deadline is Jan. 21, 2022

As this issue is ongoing, the FY 2021 AFG Program application period will remain open until 5 p.m. ET January 21, 2022. All applicants will automatically be granted this extension. This ensures that applicants affected by the Unique Entity Identifier/Electronic Funds Transfer issue will have sufficient time to complete the online application. The extension to the application period will not affect the award timeline.

FEMA continues to strongly encourage applicants to review the FY 2021 AFG Program funding notice and the associated tools posted on the FEMA website here: FY 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Application Guidance Materials | FEMA.gov . In preparation for application submission, applicants may also draft their narratives separately and copy them into the appropriate areas of FEMA GO once the SAM.gov interface issue is resolved. Questions asked in the narrative section may be found in the FY 2021 AFG Program Narrative Get Ready Guide .

Fire Grants Help Desk

Twitter @FEMAGrants

Share Your Success Story

Do you have a Success Story regarding a FEMA Grant that you’d like to share with everyone? Contact us at gpd-comms@fema.dhs.gov or through Twitter @FEMAGrants using a private message.

The Southwest Georgia Fire Chief’s Association has donated $1,500 to Peanut Proud for the Kentucky Tornado Relief effort. The Southwest Georgia Fire Chief’s Association is a group of Fire Service leaders who meet monthly to discuss the latest equipment, trends, and policies in firefighting tactics. With our Fire Department’s receiving so much support during Hurricane Michael, the Chief’s Association members wanted to help return support to those in need. In addition, the Chief’s Association members know the importance of feeding victims and the first responders during these large-scale incidents. The peanut butter from Peanut Proud is a high-protein, easy-to-store food product that can be used with many meal options. What better way to say that Southwest Georgia is thinking of you than with peanuts!

###

http://www.sowegachiefs.org/

https://www.peanutproud.org/

Contact Information

Jamie Sullivan

Fire Chief

Camilla Fire Department

80 West Broad Street

Camilla, GA 31730

(229) 336-7138 Office

(229) 319-3454 Cell

L-R: Jamie Sullivan, Bill Bullard

On behalf of the Southwest Georgia Fire Chief’s Association, City of Camilla Fire Chief Jamie Sullivan presents Peanut Proud team member Bill Bullard of Birdsong Peanuts a check for the Kentucky Tornado Relief effort.

Submit Your Nominations for the NVFC Fire Service Achievement Awards by January 14

View full criteria and submit your nominations at www.nvfc.org/awards by January 14.

Award Sponsors

About the National Volunteer Fire Council

About ADT

About California Casualty

About Provident

About VFIS

About Ward Diesel Filter Systems

Fully Involved: December 10, 2021

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 18:17:56 GMT

Dear NVFC EMS/Rescue Section Member,

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), in association with Advanced Problem Solving (APS), is seeking to identify volunteer fire departments willing to participate in a grant-funded program to improve pediatric EMS education.

The purpose of the grant is to provide online pediatric EMS training to volunteer firefighters serving as EMS providers in rural or underserved communities. The grant will fund 1,000 licenses for one year access to the APS learning platform, including its library of over 100 video-based EMS CE courses.

Paramedics, AEMT’s and EMT’s are all eligible to benefit from the free licenses, although preference will be given to fire departments that (1) are rural, (2) are primarily volunteer, (3) do not currently provide a Learning Management System or online training services to their staff, and (4) have ALS providers on staff even if those ALS providers are paid.

Recipients of the free licenses will complete an online pediatric EMS training course (40 minutes) for CE credit and respond to a short online survey. Once they do this, they will be granted access to utilize the complete APS EMS CE training library with more than 100 accredited courses.

Fire departments selected to participate in this program will also have free access to other features of the APS platform. For more information visit www.advancedproblemsolving.org .

Interested parties should contact David Andrews at david@advanceproblemsolving.org . Please include the following information in your message:

Your name and rank/role
The name of your fire department
The number of ALS and BLS providers in your department (two separate figures)
Whether your department currently provides online learning through a Learning Management System

We anticipate distributing the first 250 free licenses in January 2022, with the remaining 750 free licenses to follow shortly thereafter.

Dave Finger

NVFC Staff Liaison to the EMS/Rescue Section

dave@nvfc.org

Deadline for entry of training hours 2021

is quickly approaching!

Hello everyone!

It's that time of year again; December 31, 2021, the deadline for entry of training hours, is quickly approaching. Please, do not procrastinate and wait until the last minute to enter your department's training hours. We don't mind helping but if we receive an abundance of last minute calls it will be nearly impossible to assist everyone. If you have any questions let our office know. We can all work to get these training hours behind us so we can all look forward to the holidays and the start of a new year- let's make 2022 a great one!

Fully Involved: November 24, 2021

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:38:34 GMT

GSFA Members,

In this season of thanks, I want to let you know how much I appreciate all you do! This year has been so challenging for many of us, but we keep moving forward, doing what we can to help and be here for others.

Please know you are appreciated!! Enjoy your Thanksgiving!!!

Taylor Moore

GSFA Executive Director

GMAG Annual Statewide Meeting

GMAG will hold their Annual Statewide Meeting for 2022 at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center on January 13th at 10 am in Room C-115. Please plan to attend or send a representative for your department.

There will be an election held at this meeting for positions on the Executive Board and open Area Coordinators. If you are interested in one of the open positions please contact Chief Zaydel or Chief Buckholts.

Upcoming NVFC Webinars

December 1 | 2pm eastern

Webinar: Changes to the Assistance to Firefighters Grants

The application period for FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program is open from Nov. 8-Dec. 17. There are important changes with this year’s program that departments need to know about before applying. Come learn what you need to know to help make your department successful in acquiring AFG funding to meet your department’s equipment needs. Presenter David Lewis will review the basic requirements for the AFG grant program, discuss the data that must be collected prior to applying for a grant project, and provide an overview of the application review process and how successful applications are considered.

December 7 | 1pm eastern

Webinar: Fireground Communications

This free webinar hosted by 3M Scott Fire & Safety Application Engineering Team will discuss the importance of fireground communications, common barriers to successful communications, and addressing common communications issues.

Post Critical Incident Seminar (PCIS)

Bi-annually, the Office of Public Safety Support will host a Post Critical Incident Seminar (PCIS). The PCIS is a three-day training seminar for officers who have been through highly traumatic events. The event is experiential in format, providing officers the chance to talk through a particularly horrific or troublesome event in the presence of the law enforcement peers. The group receives training in first responder survival of traumatic stress and coping, as well as one-on-one support from members of the PCIS Peer Team. If you wish to speak with an officer who has been through PCIS, names and numbers are available upon request. We also facilitate with sending Georgia officers to seminars in neighboring states.

https://dps.georgia.gov/divisions/office-public-safety-support/post-critical-incident-seminar-pcis

PREREGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR THE 2022 NVFC HEALTH & SAFETY TRAINING SUMMIT

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is pleased to announce that the next Health & Safety Training Summit will take place June 24-25, 2022, in Orlando, FL. Pre-register here to get updates as event information becomes available.

Launched in 2014, the Health & Safety Training Summit provides an opportunity for first responders from across the country to participate in valuable classroom training as well as exchange ideas and best practices with their peers. The NVFC’s signature annual conference is open to all volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, department leadership, and other fire department personnel. General and breakout sessions will address critical issues in first responder health and safety, recruitment and retention, leadership, and fire prevention. More details, including a stipend program, travel information, and registration, will be available soon. Pre-register to stay informed of new event details.

The NVFC is now accepting proposals from qualified instructors and speakers for presentations to educate first responders about critical issues in the fire and emergency services. Learn more and submit your proposal by December 5, 2021.

Get a glimpse of the Summit by reading about the 2019 event, held in Portland, OR, here . Questions? Contact Rachel Buczynski, conference planner, at Rachel@nvfc.org or 202-887-5700.

Fully Involved: November 22, 2021

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 17:11:23 GMT

Please keep the family of Justin Hicks and the Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services in your thoughts and prayers.

Firefighter Justin Hicks has been a member of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Service for over 6 years. He has consistently been recognized as happy, funny, loved by many. Chief Robinson described Justin as always a highly motivated, energetic individual who deeply loved his job as a firefighter and consistently worked to do better and be better every day. The hearts of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency are broken as they mourn the loss of a member of their brother and his lovely wife, Amber.

Any departments that are sending apparatus to the service are asked to arrive at the church before 12:30 hours on Tuesday:

Location : His Hands Church

Address : 550 Molly Lane Woodstock, GA 30189

Obituaries: https://www.thescfh.com/obituary-listing

Service Details

Visitation

When

Monday, November 22nd, 2021 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Location

His Hands Church

Address

550 Molly Lane

Woodstock, GA 30189

Get Directions : View Map

Second Visitation

When

Tuesday, November 23rd, 2021 11:00am - 1:00pm

Location

His Hands Church

Address

550 Molly Lane

Woodstock, GA 30189

Get Directions : View Map

Service

When

Tuesday, November 23rd, 2021 - 1:00pm

Location

His Hands Church

Address

550 Molly Lane

Woodstock, GA 30189

Get Directions : View Map

Officiant Pastor Justin McTeer

Interment

Location

Rolling Hills Memory Gardens

Address

4355 Highway 92

Acworth, GA 30102

Get Directions : View Map

Fully Involved: November 11, 2021

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 15:53:01 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the presentation of The Winecoff Hotel Fire - 75th Anniversary 1946-2021 December 7 ^th , 2021.

This presentation will discuss the history behind the Winecoff Hotel Fire and how the fire itself changed code requirements in Georgia as it applies to the field of Fire Prevention and Code Enforcement. This is a one (1) day delivery and will be held December 7 ^th , 2021 at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center – Forsyth Campus - Auditorium 1000 Indian Springs Drive; Forsyth, GA 31029.

Use the following link to register or see flyer attached:

The Winecoff Hotel Fire - 75th Anniversary 1946-2021

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Vacancies in Upcoming NFA Classes in Emmitsburg

Fire Service Leaders,

The Superintendent of the National Fire Academy has us to share the following vacancies in upcoming classes being offered at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg.

R0243 – Hazardous Materials Incident Management – 1/16-21/2022

R0670 – Community Risk Reduction: A Policy Approach – 1/23-28/2022

R0378 – Demonstrating Your Community Risk Reduction Program’s Worth – 2/27-3/4/2022

R0335 – Administration of Public Assistance for Community Recovery – 3/6-11/2022

R0629 – Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention – 3/27-4/1/2022

R0673 - Service Area Risk Reduction – 3/27-4/1/2022

Please take a look at https://apps.usfa.fema.gov/nfacourses/vacancies

All National Fire Academy classes are offered FREE of charge to career and volunteer fire and EMS providers from across the nation. The NFA will reimburse for travel, provide dormitory lodging, and provide world-class training. The only cost for those selected to attend is their time and the cost of meals.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Fully Involved: November 5, 2021

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 14:14:22 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the course Fire and Life Safety Educator I November 15 ^th through November 17 ^th , 2021.

This course has recently been revised and is now a 24-hour course designed to prepare students to successfully perform the duties of, and obtain certification at, the Fire and Life Safety Educator I level as described in NFPA 1035.

See the attached flyer for further or use the following link to register:

Fire and Life Safety Educator I - FFAB21613 - Nov 15-17 2021

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Grant Writing Training Delivered Online

December 9-10, 2021

Grant Writing USA and our esteemed hosts will present a two-day grant writing training delivered online via Zoom on December 9-10, 2021. The class will also be available as an on-demand replay for 30 days.

This grant writing class covers how to write grant proposals start to finish and how to locate and track relevant grant opportunities. Beginning and experienced grant writers are encouraged to attend. For this event only, class examples will be geared toward fire and emergency management agencies.

We are offering all fire and emergency management agencies a special tuition rate of $405, no discount code required. Groups of 5 or more will receive an additional $50 discount per person. Discounts for Grant Writing USA alumni are also available. Please call for details.

Checks, credit cards, and purchase orders are welcome. Agencies have 30 days after the training to pay.

Click here for complete details and registration .

If you prefer friendly, personal service:

Grant Writing USA Client Services

800.814.8191 PT

cs@grantwritingusa.com

Fully Involved: October 28, 2021

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 18:56:55 GMT

GSFA Members,

In September, with the Governor’s announcement of the pay supplement for career public safety and a stipend for volunteer firefighters, we have received numerous questions. Late last week, the full guidance, templates, and a tutorial video were released (see below.) If you are a department that is part of a local government, work within your administration on applying. If you are a private entity, then you are encouraged to work with your local government to apply. Public Safety personnel can only receive one payment. If you have members who are with other agencies, then they should be applied for via their primary agency. If someone were to receive two or more payments, they have an a obligation to return all overpayments, because the monies are subject to federal audit. Part time employees are not included in the pay supplement but paid per call volunteers are (based on how they are listed with GFSTC). On the template for submitting a roster, it asks for a certification number, that would be the GFSTC number for all eligible members of the fire service. This payment is designed to offset cost incurred during the COVID-19 surge of August 2021, so only rostered and certified members from August are eligible.

It has been asked, and we inquired, why the volunteer stipend is a different amount. The payment is, again, based solely on August 2021 and not a reflection that training requirements or severity of calls is any different for a volunteer versus career firefighter. The $300 was a prorated amount based on an estimated average of an 8hr time commitment per week for a volunteer.

Our board is here to help where we can to further answer questions and assist and we will hold a training session for our district reps to assist as well.

Diligently,

GSFA Board of Directors

Required Training Hours 2021

The Council voted 10/22/2021 to keep the 24 training hour requirement in place for 2021.

Training hours must be entered by midnight on 12/31/2021.

If a firefighter does not have the 24 required training hours by January 1, 2022, that firefighter's certification will lapse.

Georgia Public Safety Officials and First Responders Supplement Grant

Overview

Governor Kemp has announced a Public Safety Officials and First Responders Supplement Grant using funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. This program was established in recognition of the sacrifice and dedication public safety officers and first responders have shown in serving Georgians and their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant will provide a $1,000 pay supplement for all eligible sworn law enforcement officials and first responders and a $300 supplement for all active volunteer firefighters in Georgia serving during August of 2021. Eligible organizations and eligible employees include:

Eligible organizations: State government agencies and authorities, municipal and county governments, volunteer fire departments, and emergency medical services agencies licensed by the Department of Public Health.

Eligible employees: A certified employee of one of the above organizations who actively served full-time as a public safety officer or first responder during the month of August, 2021 in a position which requires active certification as a law enforcement officer, corrections officer, juvenile corrections officer, jail officer, probation officer, parole officer, communications officer, firefighter, or emergency medical services worker by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (POST), Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council (GFSTC), or Department of Public Health (DPH).

9/11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMBS RETRACE HEROIC STEPS

Georgia 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb to be held on November 13, 2021

ATLANTA, GA October 26, 2021 – As Americans reflect on the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks this year, nearly 50 cities across the U.S. will pay tribute to the New York Firefighters killed at the World Trade Center. They will do so by symbolically retracing their heroic steps in the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.

Each 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb involves participants - to honor the 343 FDNY firefighters killed in the 9/11 attacks. Some stair climbs take place inside building stairwells, with participants climbing up and down stairs until they reach 110 stories, or 2,200 steps, the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. Others occur in outdoor arenas and stadiums. Often, participants wear full firefighter gear and breathing apparatuses while others take part in exercise clothes.

Viewpoint Master and Residential Tower will host this year's Georgia 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

Address: 855 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta, GA

Date: 11/13/21

Regional Coordinator: Pascale Kowalski pascale.elkhourhi@fsresidential.com

Onsite Registration: 7:45 am

Opening Ceremonies: 8:30 am

Climb Start: 8:46 am

Please visit: https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/georgia to register for this event

###

About the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation:

The United States Congress created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to remember America's fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the nonprofit Foundation has developed and expanded programs to honor fallen fire heroes and assist their families and co-workers. The Foundation also works closely with the U.S. Fire Administration to help prevent and reduce line-of-duty deaths and injuries. For more information on the NFFF and its programs, visit www.firehero.org .

Join an all-star fire and emergency management host line-up for this two-day grant writing training delivered online via Zoom

December 9-10, 2021

7:30 - 2:30 MT, 8:30 - 3:30 CT or 9:30 - 4:30 ET

Checks, credit cards, and purchase orders are welcome. Agencies have 30 days after the training to pay.

Click here for complete details and registration .

If you prefer friendly, personal service:

Grant Writing USA Client Services

800.814.8191 PT

cs@grantwritingusa.com

Regional hosting partners for this event:

· Baldwin County Emergency Management, AL

· Chandler Fire Department, AZ

· Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association, LA

· Poudre Fire Authority

· Saint Joseph Fire Department, MO

· South Charleston Fire Department, WV

· Virginia Fire Chiefs Association, VA

More than 10,000 agencies across North America have turned to Grant Writing USA for grant writing and grant management training.

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 17:34:25 GMT

BOX ALARM - GSFA NEWS ALERT

Important Information from the Georgia State Firefighters Association

First Responder Supplement Program

Greetings:

On September 27, Governor Kemp announced a supplement plan for Georgia’s Public Safety Officials and First Responders.

The Law Enforcement and First Responder Supplement Program provides a one-time $1000 pay supplement for full-time law enforcement, firefighters, communications officers, and EMS personnel. Also included is a stipend of $300 for volunteer fire personnel. Public Safety entities may apply for the funds from October 1 through December 31, 2021.

The Office of Planning and Budget is responsible for administering the program. This program was established in recognition of the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices by Public Safety during the COVID 19 Pandemic.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is authorized to help address the economic impact of the pandemic, including helping provide economic relief and stabilization for households impacted by the pandemic. While the ARPA allows funds to be used expressly to provide premium pay to essential workers, this grant program would not be directly providing premium pay. Instead, it would seek to address the negative economic impact of the pandemic on law enforcement by providing a pay supplement to offset expenses these employees likely may have incurred because of working in a frontline law enforcement or public safety capacity. This could include expenses such as:

Potential out of pocket rapid testing to return to work
Childcare costs incurred while working on the front lines to support our communities with essential services during the pandemic
Unanticipated dependent care expenses due to duties during COVID-19
Additional home decontamination or disinfecting services due to COVID-19
Additional health and diagnosis costs such as co-pays
Isolation lodging due to COVID-19
Other cost(s) associated with COVID-19 duties/deployment that impacted the responder

Employers of first responders will be responsible for applying for the program and disbursing funds to their eligible employees. Eligible employers include state agencies, counties, cities, and private ambulance services. Cities and counties will be responsible for applying on behalf of all eligible departments within their jurisdiction. This could include police, fire, or sheriff’s departments, jails, emergency medical services, etc. Payments will be based on the number of full-time public safety or first responder personnel on the department as of August 2021 during the most recent COVID-19 surge.

The portal for the application and instructions will be at https://opb.georgia.gov/law-enforcement-and-first-responders-supplement

If you need assistance, GSFA will be here for you. Our Board and District Reps will be briefed on the process and help to make this process as smooth as possible. We are a diverse state, with several types of department makeups, so there may need to be guidance offered along the way.

Diligently,

The Board of Directors

Georgia State Firefighters Association

GFA Course Announcement - Wildland

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:42:37 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following direct delivery courses from the National Fire Academy in October. The WUI for The Structural Company Officer currently has low student numbers and is in danger of being canceled.

October 19-20, 2021 - Wildland Urban Interface Firefighting for the Structural Company Officer

This two-day course identifies operational activities and safety concerns for

structural Company Officers (COs) assigned to a wildland urban interface (WUI) incident.

Topics covered include:

Introduction to WUI firefighting,
Interface environment,
Wildland fire behavior,
Command and control issues of WUI firefighting.
Tactics.

October 26-27, 2021 - Command and Control of Wildland Urban Interface Fire Operations for the Structural Chief Officer

This two-day course is designed to provide students with the essential tools and skills to operate safely in a wildland/urban interface (WUI) incident.

Topics covered include:

Interface incidents.
Fire behavior.
Safety and operational considerations.

See attached flyers for more info or click the course title to register.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Command and Control of Wildland Urban Interface for the Structural Chief Officer Oct. 26-27, 2021

Wildland Urban Interface Firefighting for the Structural Company Officer on October 19-20, 2021

Reminder: Winter 2021 GSFA Magazine Articles

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 17:01:54 GMT

Winter 2021 GSFA Magazine Articles

DEADLINE: September 24th

If you are interested in writing and have an idea to contribute, please contact Taylor Moore at taylor@gsffa.org .

Articles are due on or before September 24th to Taylor Moore at the e-mail address above. Articles should be sent as a word document with any images attached separately to the e-mail. Article lengths are flexible.

Please contact Taylor with any other questions you have. GSFA reserves the right to accept or reject articles submitted for publication and editing of content may occur.

Thanks for your consideration of contributing to our magazine!

COVID Letter

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 18:29:26 GMT

Members of GSFA:

We are saddened to learn of the recent deaths of several members of the Georgia fire service due to COVID or complications related to COVID. In an email last week, it was shared about the possibility of qualifications for the Public Safety Officers Benefit for Line of Duty Deaths. In the month of August, there were 43 fire service deaths reported to the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation that may meet these parameters. Nearly one-quarter of these are from Georgia. In light of this, we ask that you remain vigilant and take precautions for the health and safety of yourself, your family, and your fellow department members. Many of your departments are facing strain from members having to quarantine or who are ill and also from the stress that the pandemic has put on our EMS and hospital system. We ask that you stay focused and stay strong during these times, with compassion for mankind and eyes toward the future.

Diligently,

Board of Directors

Georgia State Firefighters Association

GFA Course Announcement

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:08:39 GMT

Fire Service Leaders,

The Georgia Fire Academy is hosting the following direct delivery courses from the National Fire Academy in October:

October 19-20, 2021 - Wildland Urban Interface Firefighting for the Structural Company Officer

This two-day course identifies operational activities and safety concerns for

structural Company Officers (COs) assigned to a wildland urban interface (WUI) incident.

Topics covered include:

Introduction to WUI firefighting,
Interface environment,
Wildland fire behavior,
Command and control issues of WUI firefighting.
Tactics.

October 26-27, 2021 - Command and Control of Wildland Urban Interface Fire Operations for the Structural Chief Officer

This two-day course is designed to provide students with the essential tools and skills to operate safely in a wildland/urban interface (WUI) incident.

Topics covered include:

Interface incidents.
Fire behavior.
Safety and operational considerations.

See attached flyers for more info or click the course title to register.

Ike McConnell

Division Director, Georgia Fire Academy

Office.....478-993-4697

Cell........678-776-4719

Command and Control of Wildland Urban Interface Fire Operations for the Structural Chief Officer Oct 26-27, 2021

Wildland Urban Interface Firefighting for the Structural Company Officer on October 19-20, 2021

Provident Webinar Series

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 15:28:26 GMT

Topic :

Understanding Fire Apparatus Braking Efficiency & the Importance of Brake Adjustment

Description:

A key element of safe fire apparatus vehicle operations is an understanding of total stopping distance and the unique issues associated with air brakes. Join Chris Daly, author of "Drive to Survive: The Art of Wheeling the Rig" as he'll provide you with a better understanding of fire apparatus stopping distance and the importance of proper brake inspections. Register today for this great learning opportunity!

Time:

Sep 27, 2021 01:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Attention Volunteer Service Requirements

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 21:31:50 GMT

Due to the spike in COVID-19 cases, the Board of Trustees has waived the department training requirement for calendar year 2021. To earn creditable service for 2021, only attendance to calls will be required in the creditable service calculation (at least 50%). If a member did attend any group training offered by their department during the year, those hours attended may be used in their creditable service calculation.

COVID Notice

Sat, 28 Aug 2021 12:51:28 GMT

To our membership,

Unfortunately, over the past couple of weeks, we have lost several our fellow Firefighters to this current wave of Covid. Remember that Covid may be a line of duty death under the guidelines of the Federal Public Safety Officer's Benefit, and a family member could receive a benefit that could help these families during this difficult time. Reach out to Dennis Thayer either by email at: gafallenfirefighters.org or phone at 678-787-2635, so he can assist the family with the benefits.

Thanks

The Board of Directors of GSFA

2021 Georgia Fire Service Conference POSTPONED

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 17:24:07 GMT

The GAFC and GSFA Boards have made the difficult decision to postpone the upcoming 2021 Fire Service Conference scheduled for September 7-12, 2021 in Rome, Georgia. The factors used to make this decision are outlined below:

The rise of COVID-19 cases in Georgia including those hospitalized and admitted to the ICU due to COVID-19.
Many agencies are facing staffing shortages and travel restrictions due to COVID-19.
One of the first missions of public safety is to protect life, property, and personnel.

We plan on working with our partners in Rome to select a postponed date that will work for everyone.

What do you need to do?

Reach out directly to the hotel that you booked and cancel your hotel reservations . The association cannot cancel individual reservations on your behalf.
Reply to us (below) and let us know if you want a refund or if you want to keep the registration active until we reschedule.

Thank you in advance for understanding, and we look forward to seeing you later this year.

Yalonde & Taylor

Questions? Contact:

GSFA Business Manager Taylor Moore

Email: taylor@gsffa.org

Phone: 770-914-7774

GAFC Business Manager Yalonde Tanner