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Resources for the Volunteer Fire Service

Almost 70% of U.S. firefighters are volunteers. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) is working with our partners to help keep volunteers healthy and safe, and to keep the volunteer fire and emergency medical services (EMS) strong now and in the future.

Health and safety

See also: USFA resources on firefighter health, safety and wellness

The volunteer fire service has its own distinct issues related to health and safety. This report identifies resources, provides references, suggests tools, illustrates best practices, and establishes goals and objectives for each issue to help departments improve firefighter safety, well-being and survival.

As a nation, we rely on the volunteer fire service every day to save lives and protect property in times of danger and disaster. In order to do so, volunteers must first be healthy, safe and able to respond.

Focus areas

  • Aging of the volunteer fire service
  • Declining number of volunteers
  • Funding
  • Rural operations
  • Time constraints
Critical Health and Safety Issues in the Volunteer Fire Service

Download or order the report

Training

Off-campus and online training opportunities

The NFA has many other courses that volunteers can take close to or at home to help meet professional development goals and reduce all-hazards risks to communities. Learn about NFA courses.