National Fire Service Research

Agenda Symposium, June 1-3, 2005, 

Emmitsburg, MD

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

P.O. Drawer 498 

Emmitsburg, MD 21727 

NIST GCR 08-918

NIST GCR 08-918

National Fire Service Research 

Agenda Symposium, June 1-3, 2005, 

Emmitsburg, MD

Prepared for 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

Building and Fire Research Laboratory 

National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8661

By 

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

P.O. Drawer 498 

Emmitsburg, MD 21717

 June 2005 

 Issued November 2008 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

Carlos M. Gutierrez, Secretary 

National Institute of Standards and Technology 

 Patrick D. Gallagher, Deputy Director 
Notice 

This report was prepared for the Building and Fire Research Laboratory of the 

National Institute of Standards and Technology under Award Number 

60NANB4D1131. The statement and conclusions contained in this report are 

those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National 

Institute of Standards and Technology or the Building and Fire Research 

Laboratory. 
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

National Fire Service 

Research Agenda Symposium 

Report of the National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

June 1 – 3, 2005 

Emmitsburg, Maryland 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

On June 1, 2 and 3, 2005, The National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium was 

conducted at the National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The 

Symposium was conduct by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and funded by a 

grant from the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) through the Center for 

Fire Research. This work was performed under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of 

Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Award No. 60NANB4D1131. The 

United States Fire Administration provided the facilities to host the symposium and was directly 

involved in the planning and all other aspects of the symposium. 

The purpose of the symposium was to produce a document that will identify and prioritize the 

areas where research efforts should be directed to support improvements in firefighter life 

safety. The emphasis on efforts to address firefighter safety and health concerns coincides with 

the mission of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, as well as the goal of the United 

States Fire Administration to reduce line-of-duty deaths by 25% within fire years and 50% within 

ten years. This document is intended to be used as a guide for both research organizations and 

sponsoring agencies to support the mission of reducing firefighter fatalities. 

The overall scope of the symposium included firefighter health and wellness; structural 

firefighting; wildland firefighting; firefighter training; emergency vehicle design and operations; 

and reduction of fire risk occurrences. The 53 symposium attendees represented several 

segments of the research community, including fire protection, building construction, 

occupational medicine and behavioral science; fire service organizations, individual fire 

departments and allied professionals. (A listing of all attendees and their affiliations is included 

at the end of this paper.). Attendees identified opportunities for sharing efforts and results, and 

organizations that currently or could potentially sponsor, conduct and participate in various 

projects aimed at improving firefighter life safety. 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

 

PROBLEM STATEMENT 

Each year, more than 100 firefighters are killed in the line of duty in the United States, and 

approximately 100,000 firefighter injuries are reported. To that end, the United States Fire 

Administration has adopted a goal of reducing firefighter fatalities by 25% within the next 5 

years and 50% within the next 10 years. 

The genesis for this symposium was the identification of 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives at a 

National Summit on Firefighter Life Safety that was convened by the National Fallen Firefighters 

Foundation in March of 2004. The 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives identify the key strategies 

that must be implemented to meet the US Fire Administration’s goal. More than 230 

participants were involved in developing the 16 Initiatives to form the basis of a major effort to 

reduce the risks of fire fighting and emergency service delivery. The NFFF accepted the 

responsibility to lead the effort to implement all of the initiatives, in cooperation with all of the 

organizations that are concerned with firefighter health and safety. 

One of the initiatives specifically called for the development of a national research agenda to 

support the implementation of advances in firefighter health and safety. Thus, the product of the 

symposium will be a published comprehensive fire service research agenda with 

recommendations for accomplishing the Initiatives. The efforts of several individuals and 

organizations resulted in the award of Grant 60NANB4D1131 to the National Fallen Firefighters 

Foundation to plan and conduct the National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium and 

produce this report. 

Summit participants concentrated their efforts on six different areas: structural fire suppression; 

wildland fire suppression; research and training; vehicles and equipment; health, wellness and 

physical fitness; and incident reduction. Within each of these areas, research issues were 

identified. In many cases, the research priorities identified by different groups were inter-related 

and suggested areas of study that could support multiple objectives. In other cases, existing 

research efforts were recognized that should be expanded and coordinated with other efforts. 

There were additional references to research projects that are being conducted for other 

purposes that could be adapted to meet the needs of the fire service. 

SYMPOSIUM PROCESS 

A planning group was assembled to develop the concept and the detailed plans for the 

symposium. The members of the planning committee included:

Jason Campbell Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute 

Dennis Compton International Fire Service Training Association 

Rich Dimmick US Army Research Laboratory 

Steve Edwards Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute 

John Gould Bureau of Indian Affairs 

Robert Kilpeck National Volunteer Fire Council 

Dan Madrzykowski National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Janet Maker Oklahoma State University, Fire Protection Publications 

Lori Moore International Association of Fire Fighters 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Chris Neal Oklahoma State University, Fire Protection Publications 

Brad Pabody United States Fire Administration 

Kevin Partridge International Association of Fire Chiefs 

David Prezant, M.D. Fire Department of New York, Bureau of Health Services 

Gordon Routley National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

Robert Saba Fire Fighting Task Force 

Ronald Siarnicki National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

Gary Tokle National Fire Protection Association 

April Walker Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute 

In addition to developing the symposium process, this group identified the broad areas of 

research that should be included and the list of individuals and organizations to be invited. 

The proposed research issues were developed by four separate discussion groups, which then 

presented their recommendations to a meeting of all the symposium participants. The individual 

groups were asked to focus on issues relating to: 

• Firefighter Health, Wellness and Fitness 

• Training and Incident Management 

• Technology Applications, Fire Apparatus and Equipment, and Transportation 

• Fire Prevention, Public Education and Data 

Each group was provided with a list of topic areas that had been identified in advance of the 

symposium; however they were not limited to these specific subjects. The discussion groups 

were encouraged to identify additional subject areas and potential projects based on the 

knowledge and experience of the participants. Each group was asked to develop a number of 

project proposals for presentation to the general assembly and to provide an indication of the 

relative urgency and anticipated benefits of each project or area of research. 

The group ratings of individual issues were represented by numerical values: 

• Priority 1 for the most urgent and critical issues 

• Priority 2 for less urgent, but still highly important issues 

• Priority 3 for highly valuable issues without urgency 

After presentation of the group reports to the general assembly, all of the identified issues were 

listed on a printed ballot and all of the symposium participants were invited to vote on the 

relative priorities. This provided an opportunity for all of the participants to consider all of the 

issues that were identified by all of the groups. In addition, the general assembly was asked to 

identify any additional critical issues that might have been missed by the group assigned to that 

particular field of study. 

The general assembly ranking is presented as three levels, representing the number of 

prioritization votes cast for each issue. This system provides a reasonable expression of the 

relative distribution of votes. The issues receiving the greatest number of votes were placed in 

the “A” category, the next highest were placed in the “B” category and the next group were 

placed in the “C” category. When considering these priority rankings, it must be remembered 

that, from the beginning, the participants were asked to limit their discussion to high priority 

research issues, so a lower ranking for an issue only indicates that the participants considered 

other issues as more critical. 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

The order of presentation in this report reflects the assignments of topics to the four discussion 

groups, with some adjustments to place related issues together. As anticipated, there were 

several instances where different groups identified similar or related research topics. In 

compiling this report, an attempt was made to group the related issues and topics. The order of 

presentation does not infer any prioritization of the issues. 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Firefighter Candidate Selection & Assessment 

Need: Collect nationwide data on effectiveness of the IAFF/IAFC Candidate Physical Ability 

Test (CPAT) programs, analyze findings and publish results. Use this data to expand outreach 

and provide education regarding the effectiveness of CPAT and NFPA 1582 - Standard on 

Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments. 

 Conduct a study of physical, psychological, medical, behavior issues relating to 

candidate selection and assessment. Determine best use of the data and implement 

findings to refine or improve candidate selection and assessment. 

 Develop baseline data to define the profile of a healthy firefighter, including physical, 

psychological and attitudinal factors.

Background: Firefighter candidates must have the capacity to function safely and effectively in 

the fire service. Physical, medical, psychological and behavioral factors must be considered. 

NFPA fire service health & wellness standards should reflect current research and findings. 

Comments: A continuous process is required to keep this information current. 

Group Priority: 1

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Health Maintenance 

Need:

 Collect nationwide data on effectiveness of the IAFF/IAFC Fire Service Joint LaborManagement Fitness Wellness Initiative. Use this data to expand outreach and provide 

education regarding the effectiveness of CPAT and NFPA 1582 Standard on 

Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments. 

 Develop a cost-benefit analysis of Firefighter Health & Wellness programs. Define and 

analyze collateral loss factors for firefighter injuries and fatalities, including both active & 

retired members 

Background: Fitness-wellness programs are designed to maintain healthy firefighters 

throughout their careers. 

Comments: A continuous process is required to keep this information current. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Risk Factors Relating to Cardiovascular Disease in the Fire Service 

Need: Conduct analysis of traditional/standard and novel risk factors relating to cardiovascular 

disease in the fire service. Consider cumulative stress (psychological & physical), the 

relationship between risk factors and cardiovascular events, and potential risk reduction 

strategies. 

Background: There are three categories of risk factors: 

1. Non-modifiable risk factors (age, sex, family history, ethnicity) 

2. Modifiable risk factors (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, physical 

inactivity, smoking) 

3. Novel risk factors (blood markers, specifically CRP (C-reactive protein), fibrinogen, 

apolipoprotein a, homocysteine). 

While there is a general understanding of the relationships between these risk factors and the 

risk of cardiovascular events in the general public, very little is known about the specific 

relationship between these risk factors and cardiovascular events in the fire service. The 

firefighter’s strenuous activity and hostile work environments could alter the more general 

relationships. 

Both modifiable and novel risk factors are known to be positively affected by diet and exercise, 

which suggests that greater knowledge of these factors and a commitment to health and 

wellness programs (i.e., IAFF-IAFC programs) could lead to significant reductions in 

cardiovascular deaths and disabilities. 

Comments: A continuous process is required to keep this information current. Results should 

be valuable to the appropriate NFPA committees. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Physiological & Psychological Effects of Heat Stress 

Need: Research should examine the physiological and psychological effects of heat stress on 

firefighters, as well as methods to mitigate heat stress. 

The analysis should include: 

 effective hydration 

 acclimatization 

 effectiveness of incident scene rehab to address heat stress 

 effectiveness of alternative Emergency Incident Rehabilitation strategies and 

technologies 

 Work/Rest Cycles 

Background: Heat stress is recognized as a significant risk factor for firefighters. Heat stress is 

known to limit physical performance, increase the cardiovascular stress related to muscular 

work and impair cognitive functions. Although the professional sports industry and the military 

have performed extensive work in this area and the resulting information has been widely 

published, there is still important research that needs to be done to document the effect of heat 

stress on firefighters. 

It has been documented that the combination of heavy muscular work and hyperthermia 

present an extreme challenge to the cardiovascular system, but it is not known how the heat 

stress associated with firefighting (in particular the rapid increase in body temperature) affects 

various systems, including the cardiovascular, immunological, hormonal or neural systems. 

Given that conditions of extreme heat and rapidly rising body temperatures are encountered by 

firefighters more than any other occupational industry and often very suddenly, this issue 

warrants considerable research effort. Also, given the known dangers of heart attacks during 

emergency activities, and the cardiovascular stress related to the combination of heat and 

muscular work, research efforts need to be devoted to understanding the specific relationship 

between heat stress and acute cardiac events. In addition to studying the effects of heat stress, 

research in this area should also be directed to finding effective solutions to mitigate against the 

detrimental effects of heat stress. 

Comments: A continuous process is required to keep this information current. Results should 

be valuable to the appropriate NFPA committees and the USFA. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Acute Physiological Response to Emergency Incidents. 

Need: Firefighters are often required to respond very quickly from low intensity to maximum 

output, causing extreme physiological stress. Expanded research should focus on new variables 

and technologies. 

Background: Firefighters can be called upon to respond to an emergency at any time of the 

day or night. Although there is considerable anecdotal evidence about the stress related to 

going from a resting state to a heightened state of anticipation (when the alarm sounds) to 

maximal work (as often occurs at a fire), there is little systematic research in this area. Most of 

the research involving actual fires was done long ago and involved the collection of few 

variables on a limited number of subjects. Additional studies should be conducted using more 

advanced physiological research techniques. 

Furthermore, there is very little research that documents the extent to which firefighting activity 

causes changes in physiological function and how long it takes for these variables return to a 

normal or safe level. A firefighter may remain on duty for many hours after responding to an 

incident and could respond to subsequent emergency incidents during the recovery period. 

Research into this important area should include physiological monitoring prior to the incident, 

during firefighting activities and during the recovery period. 

Comments: A continuous process is required to keep this information current. Results should 

be valuable to the appropriate NFPA committees and the USFA. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: B 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Functional Capacity Evaluation testing 

Need: Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) refers to a series of tests to monitor heart rate and 

physiological response to stress. The results are used for injury prediction and prevention. This 

model is currently used in sports and some large manufacturing operations and could be 

applicable to the fire service. 

Background: This type of total body performance evaluation used in professional sports for 

contract issues. The research project would consider a new application for an existing 

evaluation tool. 

Comments: A continuous process is required to keep this information current. Results should 

be valuable to the appropriate NFPA committees and the USFA. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Substance Abuse & Mitigation; Tobacco Products (smoking and smokeless). 

Need: Identify risk behaviors for the fire service as a result of using tobacco products. Define 

substance abuse and mitigation programs. Identify cultural and human behavior issues with an 

emphasis on prevention, identification, & intervention. 

Evaluate effectiveness of smoking/tobacco use cessation programs, such as FDNY model. 

Identify better awareness and coping strategies 

Background: Research has indicated there is a relationship between substance abuse 

associated with high stress levels. It is generally known that there is a high use of tobacco 

products in the fire service. 

Comments: A continuous process is required to keep this information current. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: C

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Reproductive Health Issues 

Need: Data mining of past history - Still births, birth defects, conception anomalies and infertility 

issues involving firefighters. 

Background: Anecdotal reports indicate high incidences of reproductive health issues involving 

firefighters and clusters of related problems in particular groups. Some by-products of 

combustion and some hazardous materials have been identified as taratogens. The research 

would examine the available data possible links and predictive indicators. 

Comments: Keeping it current - Continuous process. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: C

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Analysis of Fire Service Culture. 

Need: Identify attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that contribute to high-risk behaviors and 

resistance to changes that would improve health and safety. Also identify effective motivators to 

promote positive changes. 

Background: The current fire service culture is widely recognized as a barrier to making 

important improvements in firefighter safety and health. Cultural values often place bravado 

and heroism ahead of firefighter safety. 

Comments: This issue is believed to be one of the key factors in reducing firefighter’s injuries 

and fatalities.

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Development of a Scientifically Based Community Risk Assessment Tool 

Need: The role of the fire service has expanded to include response to emergency medical 

incidents, hazardous materials incidents, technical rescue situations, terrorist acts and a broad 

range of risks and potential disasters. Each type of service or potential situation introduces new 

challenges and risk factors. Fire department leaders need the ability to systematically identify 

and assess the specific risk factors that are present in a particular community in order to 

develop emergency response systems that will be able to respond safely, efficiently & effectively 

to events that can be anticipated to occur. 

Background: A variety of fire risk assessment systems and software packages have been 

developed, however the methodologies were not scientifically derived and have not been 

extensively validated. The intent of this study would be to provide a scientific foundation for 

community risk assessment, which could then be incorporated into improved software 

packages. 

Comments: Community risk analysis is an essential component in the development of a fire 

service resource deployment analysis methodology. This study would establish a scientific 

foundation for the community risk assessment process. 

RHAVE (Risk, Hazard and Value Evaluation) was developed for the Commission on Fire 

Accreditation International (CFAI) as a tool to conduct a fire risk analysis of individual properties 

within a community. A more advanced community risk assessment software package, known as 

VISION, is currently under development by CFAI. The scientifically based risk assessment 

process should be compatible with VISION and could be applied to future models and 

processes. 

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Design A Strategic Emergency Response Model based on Known Community Risks. 

Need: A systematic process is needed to model the capabilities of alternative fire service 

resource deployment strategies in relation to identified risks and desired performance levels. 

This process would allow an agency or jurisdiction to evaluate the anticipated performance of 

alternative resource deployment decisions and/or determine the resource levels that are 

required to provide an acceptable level of service in relation to scientifically measured risks and 

defined performance objectives. The application of this model would allow a community to 

predict the impact of resource deployment decisions in relation to local risk factors and service 

delivery expectations. The impact of various alternatives on firefighter health and safety would 

be incorporated into the process. 

Background: This model should provide valuable assistance to support strategic planning and 

budgetary decision-making at the local level. Increasing service demands and public 

expectations, coupled with expanding risk factors, have challenged the ability of fire 

departments and local public officials to make sound resource allocation and service level 

decisions. The desired model would predict the consequences of resource allocation decisions 

in relation to the identified and measured risk factors in the community. 

Comments: This project would be directly supported by the development of a scientifically 

based community risk assessment tool. 

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Develop Emergency Response System Performance Measures for Use by Fire and 

Rescue Departments 

Need: This study would produce a standardized system of performance measures and 

indicators for fire and rescue service organizations. The standard performance measures and 

indicators would be clearly defined and could be used by all fire and rescue organizations to 

measure and report their performance. The resulting system would be particularly valuable to 

local public officials charged with making budget and resource allocation decisions. It would also 

provide a common platform for defining, measuring and comparing the performance of different 

service delivery systems and organizations. 

Background: The fire service currently uses a variety of performance measures and indicators, 

most of which lack standard definitions. Many of the commonly used indicators are of 

questionable value in relation to actual performance measurement. A standard system to 

measure performance would support a well-informed decision making process for budget and 

resource allocation, as well as operations analysis and strategic planning for internal 

management of the organization. 

Examples – Standard definitions of response time, time to assemble an effective fire 

suppression force on scene and “knock-down” time. 

Comments: This system would directly support the development of a strategic emergency 

response model based on known community risks. 

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Identify Fire Ground Factors that Contribute to Fire Service Injuries and Fatalities. 

Need: The first phase of this project would be directed toward systematically identifying and 

analyzing the factors that cause or contribute to firefighter injuries and fatalities. It would involve 

detailed analysis of individual cases that result in injuries or fatalities, as well as “close call” 

situations; as well as statistical analysis of associated data at the local, regional, national and 

international levels. 

The second phase of the project would be directed toward developing mitigation strategies to 

address the critical risk factors and reduce injury and fatality rates. 

Background: The rate of firefighter injuries and fatalities occurring on the fire ground is a critical 

concern. The research component of this effort would be directed toward identifying critical 

factors that result in firefighter deaths and injuries. After these factors are identified, effective 

mitigation efforts, such as training programs, can be developed to address them. 

Comments: 

 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Application of Risk Management Techniques to Incident Management. 

Need: A core set of guidelines and procedures must be developed to apply basic risk 

management concepts in the context of emergency incident management. These procedures 

will allow the incident manager to apply the principles of risk management in a manner to 

reduce firefighter injuries and fatalities. 

Background: The theory that realistic risk management concepts should be applied to incident 

management in order to reduce firefighter injuries and fatalities has been widely accepted. The 

current challenge is to develop a standard systematic approach to ensure that the risk 

management principles are consistently applied at all incidents. 

 

Comments: This effort must clearly identify the applicable risk management principles in a 

manner that is directly applicable to emergency incident management and can be routinely 

utilized by on-scene command officers. Training and orientation processes must be developed 

to ensure that the principles are widely adopted and applied. 

Group Priority: 1

Symposium Ranking: C

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Technology to Support Incident Command 

Need: Apply the best available technology to support incident command in a manner that will 

improve safety and operational effectiveness at incident scenes. Research, identify, deploy and 

provide training in the use of integrated tools and technologies that will assist the incident 

commander to better plan, organize, monitor and control emergency operations. The objectives 

include improved safety, greater operational effectiveness and more efficient utilization of 

resources. 

Background: The fire service has developed and refined an incident management system 

model that has been broadly adopted and integrated into the national incident management 

system (NIMS). Many technological applications have been developed to assist or support the 

incident management process and many additional advances can be anticipated. Some of the 

individual applications include support for enhanced communications and interoperability, 

information management, resource tracking, scene surveillance, physiological and spatial 

monitoring of personnel, and monitoring of structural integrity. The challenges include identifying 

the most valuable and critical capabilities, refining their integration into the incident management 

process, making them available to fire departments and training fire officers to use them 

effectively. 

Comments: There could be significant opportunities for transferring military technologies to fire 

service use in relation to this initiative.

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Educational Methodologies to Effectively Reduce Fire Service Injuries and Fatalities. 

Need: Identify educational methodologies that will effectively reduce fire service injuries and 

fatalities and also reduce the risks associated with firefighter training. The analysis should 

address inadequacies in current training programs and methods and also research approaches 

that could enhance training in the future. 

The project should include (but not be limited to) the following considerations: 

 Practicality of alternative methodologies 

 Cognitive versus manipulative skills 

 Effectiveness of e-based training 

 Quantifiable means of evaluation 

 Measurement of impact on skills, practice, health, & safety 

 Adult learning styles 

Background: Training is a fundamental issue for the fire service and a critical component of 

any plan to address firefighter health and safety concerns. Training methodologies are currently 

determined by local jurisdictions, based on available resources, facilities and funds, as well as 

preferences and traditions. This project would be directed toward identifying the most effective 

educational methodologies to promote important changes within the fire service. 

Comments:

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: B 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Professional Development for All Fire Service Personnel. 

Need: An effort is required to focus on the development of appropriate leadership and 

management skills at all levels within the fire service. These skills include: 

 Decision making 

 Management best practices 

 Empowerment 

 Political science 

Background: Fire service members at the lower- and mid-levels are not receiving sufficient 

training and education in the areas of leadership and management skills. In most cases this 

type of decision making and empowerment training is only offered to upper level fire command 

officers through the EFO program or college classes. Selection processes do not allow many 

firefighters and officers to obtain this valuable training in their early career development. In 

addition to adequately preparing them for advancement, they would be better equipped to make 

appropriate field decisions that could contribute to improved personnel safety – and positively 

influence the overall fire service culture. 

Comments:

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Recruit Level Training; Design and Effectiveness 

Need: Investigate variables that impact the effectiveness of recruit level training, with a 

particular emphasis on reducing firefighter death and injury rates. The considerations should 

include (but not be limited to): 

 effective supervision 

 course length 

 levels of training 

 educational methodologies and regional acceptance 

 cultural impacts 

 interrupting unsafe practices 

 acceptable safety competencies (Knowledge, skills and abilities). 

Background: In many cases recruit training is inadequate, ineffective and too short in duration. 

There are several different training standards in effect and many jurisdictions have no specific 

training requirements. Injury and fatality data indicate that less experienced firefighters are at 

greater risk than those with more experience. 

Comments: Recruit training establishes the basic orientation of every new firefighter and is a 

key factor in future performance. 

The project should evaluate the use of paramilitary psychology/mentality and alternatives to 

paramilitary disciplinary techniques 

Users must recognize that different generations may have different learning styles 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Instructor Evaluation and Professional Development 

Need: There is a need to determine the critical knowledge, skills, and abilities that an effective 

instructor must possess. Methods should also be developed to regularly evaluate the 

performance of instructors. 

Background: The ability of fire service instructors to effectively and safely design and deliver 

training to fire service personnel is a key component in addressing firefighter death and injury 

rates. 

Comments: The existing fire service instructor standards should be carefully evaluated with 

respect to their impact upon firefighter death and injury incidents. 

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: C

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Document Failures & Lessons Learned from Live Fire Training Deaths and Close Calls 

Need: This project should analyze research obtained from deaths, serious injuries, and close 

calls to firefighters at live fire training events. The findings should be prioritized, coordinated, 

and disseminated to make all firefighters aware of the issues and to reinforce changes or 

modifications to current live fire training procedures. 

Background: Live fire training can be extremely valuable; however it also exposes the trainees 

to many of the same risks as actual emergency incidents. Over the years live fire training has 

resulted in many firefighter deaths and serious injuries. Most of these situations are predictable 

and should be preventable. Unsafe training methods promote the use of equally unsafe 

emergency operational methods. 

Comments:

 

Group Priority: 1

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Effective Integration of Simulation into Training 

Need:

 Research existing simulation training programs 

 Determine their applicability to fire fighting and the fire service 

 Identify most critical and commonly encountered issues from actual incidents 

 Develop virtual reality training scenarios based on item 3 

 Implement the simulation training with multi-station participation 

 Measure effectiveness of training to a present standard of best practices response to 

actual real life incidents. 

Background: The military and private sector organizations have made tremendous advances 

in simulation programs. This project should examine the applicability of existing simulation 

capabilities to the fire service and also identify priority areas for the development of specific fire 

service applications. 

 

Comments: Carnegie Mellon University (Edutainment Dept) has worked with FDNY and most 

recently with Pennsylvania’s Region 13 Weapons of Mass Destruction Task Force to develop 

and critique effective simulation programs. 

Group Priority: 3 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Situational Awareness of Firefighter Physiological and Environmental Conditions.

Need: The ability to continuously monitor the location and physiological status of firefighters 

who are working in hazardous areas is a critical life safety issue. The ability to monitor external 

conditions within the firefighters’ work environment is equally important, in order to identify 

imminent threats and changing conditions. The information should be available to the firefighter 

and should also be transmitted to an external command post, where it can be monitored and 

recorded. 

Background: Each year, over a period of 15 years, an average of 11 firefighters have died 

from asphyxiation or burns while performing interior structural firefighting operations. Many of 

these fatalities occur in scenarios that involve factors of disorientation, physical exhaustion, 

running out of air and/or being overcome by rapidly changing conditions while operating within a 

dangerous environment. The basic technological capability to monitor several individual factors 

currently exists. The challenge is to integrate and adapt these technologies to operate 

effectively and reliably in the firefighter’s work environment. The desired solution would make 

the firefighter aware of dangerous situations and transmit the data in real time so that it could be 

monitored and recorded outside the hazardous area. 

Comments: This effort involves the adaptation and refinement of several existing technologies. 

Location tracking and the ability to transmit data to and from the firefighter inside buildings are 

high priority research issues at this time. Data transmission is problematic inside many 

buildings. The ability to measure and monitor the firefighter’s physiological condition and 

environmental factors requires a parallel effort to adapt existing technologies.

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Fire Department Communications - Operability

Need: The ultimate goal of this project would be to improve fire department communication 

systems and procedures in order to enhance scene safety and prevent firefighter deaths and 

injuries, as well as to promote effective tactical operations. A comprehensive analysis of 

operational communications requirements must be conducted in order to document all of the 

required capabilities. 

An effective incident scene communications system must provide the ability to coordinate 

operations, provide warning of dangerous situations and request assistance when firefighters 

are in imminent danger. The ability to provide reliable two-way radio communications with all 

firefighters operating on the scene of an incident is a critical life safety issue. 

The communications system must also support the overall management of the incident, 

providing reliable communications with the dispatch center and with all units assigned to the 

incident, including units that are still en route. This need also includes effective communications 

procedures and the ability to transmit data and critical information to support incident scene 

operations. 

Background: Inadequate dispatch and incident scene communications are often cited as 

contributing factors in fatality and injury investigation reports. The need to improve operational 

communications systems and procedures has been identified on several occasions. Most fire 

department communications systems have evolved without an overall plan for systems 

integration or utilization. This project requires a comprehensive analysis of the operational 

communications issues that must be addressed by fire departments and the evaluation of 

several technological alternatives. The desired outcome would be the definition of one or more 

fully integrated solutions that meet all of the identified requirements. 

Comments: Despite technological advances in radio communications, several recent incidents 

involving firefighter fatalities demonstrate failures to provide effective operational 

communications at emergency incidents. In many cases important information is not adequately 

communicated to the incident scene or among units operating on the scene. Inadequate 

communications can have a negative impact on the safety of emergency personnel as well as 

civilians. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Fire Department Communications - Interoperability

Need: This project would focus on issues relating to communications interoperability among 

agencies and organizations involved in emergency operations. The needs of all participating 

agencies must be defined and integrated into overall system performance requirements. In 

addition, procedures must be adopted to provide effective, clear, and understandable 

communications at all levels of emergency response. 

Background: While a major emphasis has been directed toward enhanced communications 

interoperability since 9-11, most of the effort has been directed toward technology. While 

technological solutions can provide a tremendous range of interoperable communications 

capabilities, the actual needs of individual agencies and organizations involved in emergency 

response communications have not been well documented and integrated. Where a 

technological solution has been provided, there are often problems involving coordination and 

standardization of procedures. 

Comments: Several projects have been conducted by federal, non-profit, and industrial 

organizations and on-going efforts continue to provide substantial research in communications 

technology. The gap appears to be adequate analysis of user requirements and operational 

issues.

Group Priority: 3

Symposium Ranking: C

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Data Access to the Information Infrastructure 

Need: Analysis of user needs, technological capabilities and interoperability issues involved in 

providing useful information to the incident commander from multiple data sources. Tremendous 

quantities of potentially useful information exist in variety of technological infrastructures. 

Potential uses for this information include pre-incident planning, real-time monitoring of building 

systems, resource tracking, response routing and remote monitoring of complex situations. The 

emphasis of this project would be to identify the types of information that are available, where it 

is located, how it can be accessed and how it can be used effectively in the management of 

emergency operations. 

Background: The fire service needs to take advantage of the rapidly expanding resources of 

data that can be obtained from building systems, GIS systems, traffic cameras, surveillance 

systems and similar systems to enhance the effectiveness and safety of emergency operations. 

Comments: This effort should address data that can be obtained from private and individual 

sources, as well as community and public access systems. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

 

Issue: Respiratory Protection

Need: Efforts must be directed toward continuing technological improvements in respiratory 

protection equipment for firefighters. As enhanced technological capabilities are developed and 

proven, they must be integrated and made available to the fire service. Particular efforts should 

be directed toward: 

 integrated intra-squad communications system; 

 lightweight and longer duration SCBA; 

 environmental monitoring for threats and hazardous conditions; 

 improved open circuit SCBAs; 

 technology development of closed circuit SCBAs; 

 development of high flow rate power air purifying respirators (PAPR); 

 development of combination SCBA/PAPR systems. 

Background: Respiratory protection is the most critical component of a firefighter’s protective 

ensemble. Continuing efforts are required to develop and incorporate technological 

improvements in respiratory equipment. 

Comments: Research and development of respiratory protection equipment should be a 

continual process. Numerous independent research studies and technological improvements 

are currently in progress. This effort should be directed toward coordination of various efforts 

and systems integration as improvements are developed. 

Technological advances that could increase air supply in order to extend the duration of SCBA 

use are under development. The user duration issue should be linked to the development of 

definitive standards with respect to firefighter rest, recovery and rehabilitation, as well as 

physiological and environmental monitoring capabilities.

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: PASS Failure Analysis

Need: Conduct an analysis of user experience involving PASS (Personal Alert Safety System) 

failures and unreported performance issues. Concerns have been noted with failures to alarm at 

high temperatures, and failures caused by moisture getting into electronics and battery 

components. 

The findings could lead to changes in performance standards (e.g. NFPA 1982 – Standard on 

Personal Alert Safety Systems PASS) and certification tests that more closely simulate 

fireground heat and moisture conditions. 

Background: Anecdotal reports indicate a significant incidence of failures involving PASS 

devices, including PASS devices integrated into self-contained breathing apparatus.

Comments: This is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention.

Group Priority: 1

Symposium Ranking: A

 

31 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Firefighter Fatalities and Injuries Involving Motor Vehicle Accidents. 

Need: Conduct a detailed analysis of firefighter fatalities and injuries resulting from motor 

vehicles accidents in order to identify causal and contributing factors. This analysis should 

include, but not be limited to: 

• Fire department vehicles

• Privately owned vehicles responding to emergency incidents;

• Vehicle age and design;

• Applicable design standards

• Vehicle inspection records;

• Compliance with traffic laws and response procedures;

• Time of day and weather conditions;

• Road surface;

• Seat belt usage;

• Mechanism of injury;

• Driver training and certification;

• Cause of accident.

Background: Detailed information on emergency vehicle accidents is often collected for 

individual incidents, however it is not compiled or analyzed nationally. This project would involve 

an effort to obtain and conduct extensive analysis of emergency vehicle accident data. 

Comments: The analysis should examine civilian fatality and injury data as well as firefighter 

injuries and fatalities resulting from emergency vehicle accidents

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Improved Extinguishing Agents and Delivery Systems

Need: Develop advanced firefighting agents that can effectively extinguish different classes of 

fire, while reducing the need to exposing firefighters to excessive heat and products of 

combustion. 

Background: The primary objective of this research should be to reduce the exposure of 

firefighters to the risks of interior fire suppression by developing more effective extinguishing 

agents and systems. These advances should also result in reductions in civilian fire deaths and 

injuries as well as property damage. 

Comments: This initiative should include research on more effective use of water as an 

extinguishing agent, such water-mist technology, as well as foams, wetting agents, gels and 

other water additives. 

Group Priority: 3 

Symposium Ranking: C

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Development of Advanced Fire Detection and Extinguishment Methods.

Need: Develop new technologies to interrupt the oxidation process in order to prevent fires 

from growing beyond incipient stage. 

Background: The current methods for fire control are virtually 100% reactive. There is seldom 

any intervention of fire before it grows to the open flame mode.

Comments: Research exists and needs to be extended to make unwanted fire a thing of the 

past. 

Group Priority: 3 

Symposium Ranking: B

34 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Balance of Active Versus Passive Fire Protection in Buildings 

Need: A study should be conducted to compare the effectiveness of alternative fire protection 

methods for buildings, particularly comparing active versus passive systems approaches. The 

analysis should include cost-effectiveness issues, taking into account the life cycle expectancy 

of each alternative as well as maintenance costs. A standard methodology is needed to 

calculate and compare the costs and benefits of fire protection alternatives. 

 

Background: The pendulum continues to swing from one extreme to the other as it relates to 

fire protection in buildings. This is a result of a dearth of quantifiable data on the effectiveness 

of the available options. Over reliance on any one system has the potential for disaster. 

Comments: The correct balance is necessary to provide the highest level of firefighter safety 

possible under our current system. 

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: C

35 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Flashover and Structural Collapse Prediction. 

Need: This effort should be directed toward the development of systems that will accurately 

predict flashover and structural collapse at fire scenes, providing adequate time for firefighters 

to evacuate.

Background: Flashovers and structural collapse incidents are involved in a significant number 

of firefighter fatalities. Technology should be able to provide incident commanders with valuable 

assistance to determine when interior operations should be abandoned. 

Comments: The need for this technology grows as the number of fires drops. Due to the 

decreasing frequency of structure fires, incident commanders are often lacking in practical 

experience and less skilled at making predictions through observation of fire conditions. The 

development of technological solutions must be linked to continuing research and development 

of predictive models and indicators. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: B

36 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Code Adoption and Enforcement Policies; Interpretation of Codes and Standards 

Need: Study relationships involving inconsistent code adoption and enforcement policies and 

interpretation of codes and standards to determine their impact on preventable fires, deaths and 

injuries. Conduct an analysis to examine the impacts on fire death and injury rates associated 

with: 

 code adoption; 

 alternative codes; 

 code enforcement efforts and policies; 

 interpretation of codes and standards. 

Background: There is no nationally required minimum fire safety standard. States and local 

jurisdictions have considerable discretion in the adoption and enforcement of codes and 

standards. Where codes have been adopted, there are often issues relating to the adequate 

staffing and training of enforcement agencies. 

Comments: Political influence is a significant factor in these issues. 

Urban-wildland interface issues should be included in this study; there has only been limited 

analysis of the impact of codes on fire protection in these zones, while the losses have been 

substantial in recent years. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: C 

37 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Public Awareness of the Impact of Codes and Standards 

Need: The benefits of codes and standards to the consumer are not widely recognized. An 

effort should be directed toward educating the general public on the positive impact of safety 

codes and standards on everyday lives. Better informed consumers could become advocates 

for a safer built environment. 

Background: There is no baseline data on consumer knowledge of codes/standards. In many 

cases codes and enforcement have a negative connotation. People rely on builders to take care 

of their safety needs. 

Comments: Information technology could be utilized to efficiently make information available to 

consumers. 

Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: C

38 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Data Requirements to make Quality Fire Safety Decisions 

Need: This effort should examine issues relating to resistance and obstacles to documentation 

of accurate fire problem data that could be used to make quality decisions relating to fire safety. 

Background: The project should examine the value of documentation to fire departments and 

the use of data in planning and execution efforts. Attention should be directed toward methods 

that would encourage fire departments to collect, report and utilize data more effectively. 

Comments: Data collection and analysis techniques should be included in the training 

curriculum for future leaders and managers. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

 

Issue: Capture Data to Determine Firefighter Exposure to Fire Problems. 

Need: The existing fire service census information needs to be improved in several areas. The 

data for volunteer firefighters should include time on duty, number of responses and additional 

activity data. The time committed to prevention and public education activities should also be 

documented. 

A study (by telephone survey) of unreported fires should be conducted to determine the 

circumstances and document went right in those situations. 

Background: We lack the data that is needed to compare career versus volunteer exposure to 

fire risks and problems. 

We presume lack of commitment to prevention is part of the overall problem, however we do not 

have data on the overall prevention effort. 

We assume that effective public education and awareness programs result in more fires being 

extinguished in the incipient stage and not being reported. 

Comments: The ability to relate data to fire service goals would be valuable. Efforts are 

needed to determine what data needs to be collected. 

Group Priority 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

 

Issue: Data Sharing Opportunities 

Need: Determine the systems and agencies that are gathering similar or related data that could 

be useful in fire prevention, code enforcement and public education efforts. Determine who has 

what data, how it could be obtained and shared and how it could enhance the quality and 

timeliness of information. Identify and develop analytical tools to make effective use of shared 

data. 

Background: It is unknown what other valuable information could be available and accessible 

to fire departments. Local fire departments have limited ability to analyze local and/or 

comparative data. 

Comments: 

Group Priority: 2

Symposium Ranking: C

41 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Fire Prevention and Public Education Efforts to Target Identified Problem Areas. 

Need: Develop the ability to more effectively identify target audiences and refine fire prevention 

and public education to reach those audiences with the appropriate messages and programs. 

Identify how public education programs can be more effective in reduction of fires. Evaluate the 

effectiveness of existing fire prevention messages, both positive and negative. Determine root 

causes of behaviors and attitudes that contribute to fires, injuries and fatalities. 

Background: Cultural and economic barriers may prevent messages from reaching the target 

audiences. More research should be directed toward identifying social and cultural factors that 

could be used to direct efforts toward specific problems. 

Comments: Include public perceptions of the role of the fire department in public safety. 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

 

Issue: Standardized Criteria for the Evaluation of Public Education Programs 

Need: Develop a process and criteria for evaluating public education programs. This would 

facilitate sharing those programs that have demonstrated success. 

Background: There are no standardized criteria for evaluating public fire safety education 

programs and no national effort to share effective programs. More than 1,000 different 

programs have been funded through FIRE Act grants, totaling approximately $150 million over 

the last 4 years. The programs that have demonstrated a positive impact should be identified 

and replicated in other communities. 

Comments: 

Group Priority: 1 

Symposium Ranking: A

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Issue: Risk of firefighter fatalities during wildland firefighting operations.

Need: Analysis of the impact of fire risk regulation in wildland/urban interface zones on 

firefighter safety. Determine where fire safe practices are in place and enforced and where they 

are absent. Examine why regulations are not adopted or adequately enforced in different areas. 

Background: Constantly expanding interface zones are resulting in greater fire dangers to 

communities and higher risks to firefighters. 

Comments: The fire service must make structure protection a priority over wildland protection. 

Where adequate regulations are not in place, firefighters may be jeopardizing their safety 

unnecessarily to protect structures.

Group Priority: 2 

Symposium Ranking: B

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

 

Additional research topics listed, but not fully documented: 

1. Effectiveness of incident scene rehabilitation procedures 

2. Physiological monitoring at the incident scene 

3. Impact of work/rest cycles and sleep deprivation on firefighter safety 

4. Health effects of cellular telephone towers at fire stations 

5. Impact of safe cigarette legislation on firefighter injuries and fatalities. 

45 
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

46 
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

List of Attendees:

Amy Acton The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors 

Rich Anderson National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

Allen Baldwin Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission 

Jim Beecken Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service 

Richard Bower Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service 

Denis Bramblette Responder Magazine/Responder Technology Division 

Nelson Bryner National Institute of Standards and Technology 

James Burns New York State Office of Fire Prevention & Control 

Robert Carnahan Reality Response, Advanced Interactive Systems 

Peg Carson Home Safety Council 

Dawn Castillo National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health 

Phil Chovan Fire Department Safety Officers Association 

Dennis Compton International Fire Service Training Association 

Rich Dimmick U.S. Army Research Lab 

Rich Duffy International Association of Fire Fighters 

Steven Edwards Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute 

Rita Fahy National Fire Protection Association 

Ronald Farr International Fire Marshals Association 

Manuel Fonseca International Association of Hispanic Firefighters 

Brian Gray International Association of Arson Investigators 

Randall Griffin Department of Homeland Security 

Bill Haskell National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health - NPPTL 

Christopher Hebert Firehouse.com 

Chris Jelenewicz Society of Fire Protection Engineers 

William Jenaway Volunteer Firemens Insurance Services 

Dennis Jones Tampa Fire Rescue 

Ron Kanterman Merck Emergency Services 

Thomas Kennedy Center for Technology Commercialization, Inc. 

Robert Kilpeck National Volunteer Fire Council 

Cynthia Leighton Motorola Inc 

Murrey Loflin Virginia Beach Fire Department 

Daniel Madrzykowski National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Pam Marshall-Bramblette Responder Magazine/Foundation for Fitness 

Tiffany Melton Tampa Fire Rescue 

Ernie Mitchell Center for Technology Commercialization 

Lori Moore International Association of Fire Fighters 

Ronald Morales International Association of Hispanic Firefighters 

Chris Neal Oklahoma State University, Fire Protection Publications 

Brad Pabody United States Fire Administration 

Kevin Partridge International Association of Fire Chiefs 

Pam Peterson The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors 

Nathan Queen International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters 

Jeff Resch Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association 

Kevin Roche Phoenix Fire Department 

Gordon Routley National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

Robert Saba Fire Fighting Task Force 

Timothy Sendelbach International Society of Fire Service Instructors 

Ronald J. Siarnicki National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

Denise Smith University of Illinois Fire Services Institute 

Jim Tidwell International Code Council 

Gary Tokle National Fire Protection Association 

Bill Troup United States Fire Administration 

Robert Tutterow Charlotte Fire Department 

Allen Williams Anne Arundel County Fire Department 
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives 

Since the 2004 Summit, the 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives have received broad support 

throughout the fire service and from related organizations. The 45-member organizations that 

belong to the National Advisory Committee to the Congressional Fire Services Institute voted 

unanimously to endorse the 16 initiatives, and several other organizations have taken similar 

action. 

1. Define and advocate the need for a cultural change within the fire service relating to safety; 

incorporating leadership, management, supervision, accountability and personal 

responsibility. 

2. Enhance the personal and organizational accountability for health and safety throughout the 

fire service. 

3. Focus greater attention on the integration of risk management with incident management at 

all levels, including strategic, tactical, and planning responsibilities. 

4. All firefighters must be empowered to stop unsafe practices. 

5. Develop and implement national standards for training, qualifications, and certification 

(including regular recertification) that are equally applicable to all firefighters based on the 

duties they are expected to perform. 

6. Develop and implement national medical and physical fitness standards that are equally 

applicable to all firefighters, based on the duties they are expected to perform. 

7. Create a national research agenda and data collection system that relates to the initiatives. 

8. Utilize available technology wherever it can produce higher levels of health and safety. 

9. Thoroughly investigate all firefighter fatalities, injuries, and near misses. 

10. Grant programs should support the implementation of safe practices and/or mandate safe 

practices as an eligibility requirement. 

11. National standards for emergency response policies and procedures should be developed 

and championed. 

12. National protocols for response to violent incidents should be developed and championed. 

13. Firefighters and their families must have access to counseling and psychological support. 

14. Public education must receive more resources and be championed as a critical fire and life 

safety program. 

15. Advocacy must be strengthened for the enforcement of codes and the installation of home 

fire sprinklers. 

16. Safety must be a primary consideration in the design of apparatus and equipment.
National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 

Congress created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) to lead a nationwide effort 

to honor America's fallen firefighters and provide resources to assist their survivors in rebuilding 

their lives. Since 1992, the non-profit Foundation has developed and expanded programs to 

fulfill that mandate. The Foundation’s new emphasis on preventing line-of-duty deaths is a 

natural extension of those efforts, which are directed equally toward all firefighters and involve 

no other mission or constituency. 

When Congress established the NFFF, it provided neither funding nor financial assistance to 

carry out its mission. However, since 1992, the non-profit Foundation has developed and 

expanded programs that fulfill that mandate: 

Sponsor the annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend 

Each October, the Foundation sponsors the official national tribute to all firefighters who 

died in the line of duty during the previous year. Thousands attend the weekend 

activities held at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The Weekend 

features special programs for survivors and coworkers along with moving public 

ceremonies. 

Help survivors attend the Weekend 

The Foundation provides travel, lodging, and meals for immediate survivors of fallen 

firefighters being honored. This allows survivors to participate in Family Day sessions 

conducted by trained grief counselors and in the private and public tributes. 

Offer support programs for survivors 

When a firefighter dies in the line of duty, the Foundation provides survivors with a place 

to turn. Families receive emotional assistance through a Fire Service Survivors Network, 

which matches survivors with similar experiences and circumstances. Families receive a 

quarterly newsletter and specialized grief publications. Our Web site provides extensive 

information on survivor benefits, Foundation programs, and other resources. 

Award scholarships to fire service survivors 

Spouses, children, and stepchildren of fallen firefighters are eligible for scholarship 

assistance for education and job training costs. 

Help departments deal with line-of-duty deaths 

Under a Department of Justice grant, the Foundation offers training to help fire 

departments handle a line-of-duty death. Departments receive extensive pre-incident 

planning support. Immediately after a death, a Chief-to-Chief Network provides technical 

assistance and personal support to help the department and the family. 

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National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium 

Work to prevent line-of-duty deaths 

With the support of fire and life safety organizations, the Foundation has launched a 

major initiative to reduce firefighter deaths. The goal of the Firefighter Life Safety 

Initiatives Program is to reduce line-of-duty firefighter deaths by 25 percent in 5 years 

and 50% within 10 years. 

Create a National Memorial Park 

The Foundation is expanding the national memorial site in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to 

create the first permanent national park honoring all firefighters. The park includes a 

brick Walk of Honor that connects the Memorial Chapel and the official national 

monument. 

50