First Responder Support Resources

🎗️ On , we honor survivors, support those still in the fight, and recognize the families, friends, and caregivers who stand beside them every step of the way.

As cancer remains one of the greatest occupational threats in the fire service, the IAFF will never stop pushing for the protections our members deserve.

The National Fire Academy has immediate vacancies for the following resident classes:

🔴 Commercial Fire Sprinkler Plans Review - 7/6-7/10/2026

🔵 Fire Investigation: Interviewing (NEW 5-day) - 7/6-7/10/2026

🟡 Type 3 Incident Management Team/Organization - 7/6-7/10/2026

🟢 Command and Control of Incident Operations - 7/6-7/10/2026


All training is at the National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, MD.

How to Apply:

Apply using the electronic application form, https://training.fema.gov/netc_online_admissions/

Obtain electronic approval from the head of your sponsoring organization.

Do not plan to participate in a course until the Admissions office has notified you in writing.

If you need help completing your application, don't hesitate to contact our Admissions office by email at [email protected].

NOTE: The NFA Online system is currently unavailable. This outage my persist for an extended period. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Updates will be provided as soon as the system is restored. Thank you for your patience.

Being a first responder comes with inherent risks.

While more experienced crew members may know how to reduce those risks, new recruits often do not.

This course details why risk management is important, not just to those in leadership positions, but to all firefighters and EMS personnel.

Take this course free for a limited time in the Virtual Classroom, and consider making it required training for all newer personnel in your department.

👉 https://buff.ly/P844IbU

🗳️ Your voice matters. Your vote matters. Make your voice heard—vote in the IAFC elections. Questions about eligibility? Review your profile at community.iafc.org. Not yet a member, or has your membership lapsed? Join or renew today at 👉 iafc.org/membership

Need assistance? Contact [email protected] or call 866-385-9110.

IAFF urges Canada to strengthen support for fallen responders, emergency preparedness in federal budget - IAFF In a submission to the Canadian Government, the IAFF is calling for measures that would better support the families of fallen emergency responders, expand

🚨 New Training Tip Alert! 🚨

We’re proud to continue our Training Tips Series — providing quick, practical information focused on Health, Wellness, Safety, and Resiliency.

☕ This edition: Coffee Tips for Firefighters

The kitchen table and a fresh cup of coffee have long been staples of fire service culture. Beyond bringing crews together, research suggests that moderate coffee consumption may offer health benefits, including support for cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and overall wellness.

This Training Tip explores:
☕ The potential health benefits of coffee
🧠 How caffeine may impact alertness and performance
💧 Strategies for hydration and recovery
⚠️ Best practices for timing and consumption

📲 Scan the QR code for FREE online training
💻 Or visit: https://firstrespondercenter.org

📚 Access, reference, share, or print all Training Tips here:
⁠https://firstrespondercenter.org/trainings/training-tips/

Together, we are stronger. 💪

Attending NYSAFC this week in Syracuse?

Join Jill Holland on Friday, June 12, from 1:30–3:00 PM in Room 3 for “Stress First Aid (SFA): Supporting Fire Service Wellness Through the First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE) Program.”

Stress First Aid (SFA) is an evidence-informed, peer-driven framework developed by the FRCE to help firefighters and EMS personnel recognize, reduce, and recover from stress reactions before they become more serious concerns.

This session will explore the SFA model and its practical application within the fire service through the “7 Cs”—Check, Coordinate, Cover, Calm, Connect, Competence, and Confidence. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to identify stress reactions, support fellow responders, strengthen department wellness efforts, and build a culture of care and resilience.

If you’re attending New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC), don’t miss this opportunity to learn how SFA can enhance readiness, recovery, and overall wellness within your department.

We hope to see you there!