2011 VFIS News
VFIS releases Tailboard Training -
Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule
#11
(December 29,
2011) VFIS released issue #45 of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss
prevention program. Our newest issue addresses maintaining accurate
accountability of every firefighter location and status. You can find this
latest edition on our Tailboard Training
Page.
VFIS launches new Web site
(December 22, 2011) VFIS has launched a redesigned Web site with an easy-to-navigate interface. The site’s features include a new “Quick Links” toolbar that provides easy access to the most popular topics at your fingertips. Find Distance Learning, the VFIS Newsletter, Tailboard Training, Seminars and Workshops, the Online Store, the Producer Center and much more at just the click of the mouse. Also note how simple it is to connect with VFIS through Facebook, Twitter and e-mail. Keep up-to-date by subscribing to e-news alerts and get newsletters and news releases direct to your inbox.
VFIS
releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety:
Incident Commander Level - Rule #10
(December 15, 2011) VFIS released issue #44
of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue
addresses obtaining frequent progress reports and revising the action plan. You
can find this latest edition on our Tailboard Training Page.
EVDT course offered
by VFIS of North Carolina
(December 13, 2011) VFIS of North
Carolina will be offering an EVDT-Train-The-Trainer on Feb. 24 & 25, 2012.
Classroom instruction will be Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. and on Saturday
from 8 a.m to noon. Attendees will be on the driving track from 1 to 5 p.m. The
course will be held at Guildford Technical Community College, Jamestown Campus,
601 High Point Road, Jamestown, NC. The classroom is in the ERTC #3 located on
Stanford Road. For more information, please call 800-726-1228 or email jireland@vfisnc.com.
Helping the
emergency service community stay protected
(December 12,
2011) Watch
this message from VFIS President Troy Markel to learn how we pioneered an
industry and continue to be the leading insurance provider in North America.
Applications are now available for
two awards sponsored by VFIS and VCOS
(December 6, 2011) The Emergency Vehicle Safe Operations Achievement Award and
the Retention and Recruitment Award applications are now
available for download. Get the Vehicle Safe Operations
Achievement Award application and the Retention and Recruitment Award
applications here.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement
for Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #9
(December 1, 2011) VFIS released issue #43
of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue
addresses maintaining frequent two-way communications and keeping interior crews
informed of changing conditions. You can find this latest edition on our Tailboard Training Page.
Recipients
for VFIS-sponsored awards announced
(November 22, 2011) Two awards were presented at the VCOS Symposium in the Sun in Clearwater
Beach, Fla. this November. Machaca Volunteer Fire Department was selected as the
winner of the 2011 Recruitment
& Retention Award, sponsored by VFIS. The award is presented annually to
a department that has experienced excellent results to a comprehensive approach
to retaining and recruiting members during a one-year period. The Ponderosa Fire
Department was the recipient of the 2011 Emergency
Vehicle Safe Operations Achievement Award, sponsored by VFIS. This award is
presented annually to a department that has experienced zero vehicle accidents
during a one-year period.
IAFC
Foundation announces new memorial scholarship
award
(November 18, 2011) The International
Association of Fire Chiefs Foundation (IAFC Foundation) has announced the
creation of the Chief Charles A. "Chet" Henry Memorial Scholarship Award. This
annual scholarship award was established in November 2011 to honor Chief Henry
who died on June 25, 2011 after a long period of declining health. Chief Henry
led a life that epitomized his commitment to public service. He began his career
with the fire service in 1963 where he actively served his community for more
than two decades.
The recipient of the inaugural Chief Charles A. “Chet” Henry Memorial Scholarship Award is Dustin M. Lofy who is currently a Firefighter/EMT IV with the Pewaukee (WI) Fire Department and a volunteer firefighter/EMT IV at the Richfield (WI) Fire Department. Firefighter Lofy is currently pursuing a Bachelors of Science degree.
Read more
about the award or visit the IAFC Foundation Web site.
VFIS
releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety:
Incident Commander Level - Rule #8
(November 17, 2011) VFIS released issue #42
of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue
addresses acting upon reported unsafe practices and conditions that can harm
responders. Stop, evaluate and decide. You can find this latest edition on our Resources Page.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for
Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #7
(November 3, 2011) VFIS released issue #41 of Tailboard Training, a
bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses
extending VIGILANT and MEASURED risk to protect SAVABLE lives. You can find this edition on our Tailboard Training Page.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for
Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #6
(October 20, 2011) VFIS released issue #40 of Tailboard Training, a
bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses Extend LIMITED risk to protect SAVABLE property. You can find this edition on our Tailboard Training Page.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for
Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #5
(October 6, 2011) VFIS released issue #39 of Tailboard Training, a
bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses DO NOT risk
firefighter lives for lives or property that cannot be saved. Consider a
defensive strategy. You can find this edition on our Tailboard Training Page.
The VFIS Fall 2011 Newsletter is now available
(October 6, 2011) The latest edition of the VFIS newsletter and Employment
Practices Update has just been released. Highlights of the newsletter include
protecting your family from fire, professionals learning new techniques in traffic incident management, protecting your most valuable assets, the all new highway safety program kit and more. The Employment Practices Update addresses promoting diversity and avoiding discrimination in hiring claims.
Find the lastest newsletter and Employment Practices Update here.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for
Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #4
(September
22, 2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss
prevention program. Our newest issue addresses if you do not have the resources to safely support and protect firefighters, consider a defensive strategy, and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS executive vice president receives award
(September 15, 2011) William F. Jenaway, Ph.D, CFO, CFOD, executive vice president of VFIS education, training and consulting, was recently named the first recipient of the First Responder Distinguished Service Medal. Inspired by the congressionally authorized Medal of Valor for First Responders, the First Responder Institute created complimentary awards to honor the service and heroism of First Responders. This non-profit institute is the result of a grassroots movement of seasoned medics, law enforcement officers and firefighters. Jenaway has more than 40 years of fire service experience, was chairman of numerous boards, member of countless committees and is an adjunct professor at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia, Pa., California University of Pennsylvania and Columbia Southern University. Congratulations to Bill on this impressive honor!
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for
Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #3
(August
25, 2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss
prevention program. Our newest issue addresses conducting an initial risk assessment and implementing a safe action plan, and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for
Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #2
(August 11,
2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss
prevention program. Our newest issue addresses determining
the occupant survival profile, and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
Former IAFC President included in President Obama announcement of key administration posts nominees
(August 2, 2011) President Obama announced today that he intends to nominate Ernest Mitchell, Jr. as Administrator, United States Fire Administration, Federal Emergency Management
Agency, Department of Homeland Security. Mitchell is a retired fire chief and past president of the
International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). Prior to retiring, from 1998
to 2004, Mitchell served as Fire Chief and Assistant Director of Disaster
Emergency Services for the City of Pasadena, California Fire Department. Previously, from 1991 to 1998, he served as Fire Chief and Deputy City Manager
of Monrovia, California. Mitchell also served as a Battalion Chief for the
City of Compton in California. In addition to maintaining his active membership
in the IAFC, Mitchell currently serves on the International Association of
Firefighters Hazardous Materials Advisory Board and the International Fire
Service Training Association Executive Board. Mitchell holds an A.S. in
fire science from Long Beach City College, a B.P.A. from the University of San
Francisco and an M.P.A. from California State University at Northridge. Read about other nominees here.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for
Firefighter Safety: Incident Commander Level - Rule #1
(July 28,
2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss
prevention program. Our newest issue addresses rapidly conducting or obtaining a 360-degree situational size-up of the incident, and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
The VFIS Summer 2011 Newsletter is now available
(July 26, 2011) The latest edition of the VFIS newsletter and Employment
Practices Update has just been released. Highlights of the newsletter include
protecting against employee theft, the new Repurational Risk training program, FASNY joining forces with VFIS for distance learning, solar energy fire safety considerations, SAFER Grants and more. The Employment Practices Update addresses social media and how postings may compel ESOs to take disciplinary action.
Both are posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #11
(July 14, 2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses
declaring a May Day as soon as you THINK you are in danger,
and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS adds Recruiting and Retaining Emergency Service Personnel to its Distance Learning program
(July 11, 2011) Recruiting and Retaining Emergency Service Personnel is a new course that VFIS is now offering through its Distance Learning program. It focuses on staying involved, motivating and challenging members, accommodating
needs and providing rewards and recognition as well as adequate leadership. Only a decade ago, there were more than one million volunteer firefighters but the numbers have now dropped to just 800,000. This course offers several suggestions on how to recruit and retain members.
For additional information on VFIS Distance Learning or this course, click here or go to http://vfis.sju.edu.
VFIS offers new Risk Control Communiqué, Implementing Junior Member Programs
(July 8, 2011) VFIS recently released a new Risk Control Communiqué to assist emergency service organizations in implementing a junior member program. Early participation of young individuals could lead to junior members continuing with the emergency service agency as adults. The Risk Communiqué also provides ESOs with several best practice recommendations when developing these programs. View the Implementing Junior Member Programs here.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #10
(June 30, 2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses abandoning positions and retreating before deteriorating conditions harm you, and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #9
(June 16, 2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses
reporting unsafe practices or conditions that can harm you
and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #8
(June 2, 2011) VFIS released a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses
closely monitoring fireground communications for critical radio reports
and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
New VFIS program now available on Safe Backing Practices for Fire and EMS
(May 25, 2011) To help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries related to vehicle backing incidents, VFIS has developed two new tools for emergency service organizations to use. The first is a Risk Communiqué that outlines suggested best practices and the administrative and training guidelines that drivers, officers and spotters need in order to reduce the risks of vehicle backing incidents. This is available online at http://vfis.com/resources.htm by clicking on the Risk Control Communiqué tab then the Emergency Vehicle Operations tab or by clicking this link: Vehicle Backing Practices
“Safe Backing Practices for Fire and EMS” is the latest installment in the Safety and Risk Management video training series. The 18 minute instructional video outlines the hazards encountered when backing any style emergency vehicle including an ambulance and ladder truck.
The program also provides visual portrayals of several common situations that may occur while backing an emergency vehicle.
The “Safe Backing Practices for Fire and EMS” kit includes a DVD and a CD containing an Instructor’s Guide, Participant Guide and additional resources. You may obtain this program through your regional director, local agent or by visiting our online store.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #7
(May 19, 2011) VFIS releases another issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses maintaining continuous awareness of your air supply, situation, location and fire condition and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS Distance Learning offers new Reputational Risk training program
(May 17, 2011) VFIS announces the addition of its Reputational Risk course to its Distance Learning program.
This new emergency service management development program
provides a background on several issues and prevention measures surrounding reputational risk. Additionally there are results of a symposium on Reputational Risk where more details on the concept, background, challenges and solutions are discussed. This program also allows the opportunity to review the sample policy on Social Media and the preparation to implement a similar policy. The assessment can help to determine an understanding of the reputational risk issues facing emergency service organizations today.
This course is comprised of four segments. For additional information on VFIS Distance Learning or this course, click here or go to http://vfis.sju.edu.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #6
(May 5, 2011) VFIS releases a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses going in together, staying together and coming out together and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS offers new Risk Control Communiqué on Social Media
(April 26, 2011) VFIS recently released a new Risk Control Communiqué to assist emergency service organizations on ways to best handle the growing trend of social media usage. The Risk Communiqué is titled "Social Media –
Management Liability / Employment Practices Risk Management" and provides ESOs with analysis and risk management guidelines for managing difficult issues involving social media usage. It can be found at http://vfis.com/resources.htm by clicking on the Risk Control Communiqué tab then Management & Employment Practices Liability tab.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #5
(April 21, 2011) VFIS releases a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses extending
vigilant and measured risk to protect savable lives
and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
Spring 2011 VFIS Newsletter now released
(April 15, 2010) The latest edition of the VFIS newsletter and Employment Practices Update is now posted. Highlights of the newsletter include VFIS critical illness program, Intersection Driving Safety Distance Learning program, the Assistance to Firefighter's Grant program, workplace solutions, planning for a disaster and more. The Employment Practices Update covers building confidence for discipline and termination decisions. The newsletter is posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #4
(April 7, 2011) VFIS releases a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses extend limited risk to protect savable property and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #3
(March 24, 2011) VFIS releases a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses not risking your life for what is already lost and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #2
(March 10, 2011) VFIS releases a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest edition addresses Rule #2 - Determining Victim Survival Profile, and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: Firefighter Level - Rule #1
(February 24, 2011) VFIS releases a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest edition addresses Rule #1 - sizing up your tactical area of operation, and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
New Disaster Planning course offered through VFIS Distance Learning program
(February 14, 2011) VFIS announces the addition of its Disaster Planning course to its Distance Learning program. Many fire and EMS departments are not prepared for a natural disaster. This new program will help ESOs deal with the impact natural disasters have on its own organization. These impacts could possibly include the loss of facilities, personnel, apparatus, communications and data. An instructional program, useful forms and related tools are all provided in this VFIS program to help understand the process as well as the details of good disaster planning and business continuity.
This course has nine segments to complete through 6 Steps.
For additional information on VFIS Distance Learning or this course, click here or go to http://vfis.sju.edu.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety: An introduction
(February 10, 2011) VFIS releases a new issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest edition offers an introduction to the Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Safety and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
Visit VFIS at EMS Today, The JEMS Conference and Exposition
(February 2, 2011) Visit VFIS at Booth #3127 at EMS Today, The JEMS Conference and Exposition on
March 1-5, 2011 at the
Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, Md. EMS Today serves the Emergency Services Community and provides exhibits of the latest products and networking opportunities with colleagues from around the country! Click on the guest pass below and receive a
discount code for free exhibit hall registration and $50 off a conference package for anyone who completes the Standard Registration section (no customer ID number or priority code is necessary).
The latest Tailboard Training is now available - Personnel issues
(January 27, 2011) VFIS releases another issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses personnel issues and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS releases Tailboard Training - Pre-planning for unique locations
(January 13, 2011) VFIS releases another issue of Tailboard Training, a bi-weekly loss prevention program. Our newest issue addresses
pre-planning for unique locations
and is now posted at http://vfis.com/resources.htm.
VFIS announces new online course: Intersection Driver Safety
(January 5, 2011) VFIS announces the addition of its Intersection Driver Safety Course to its Distance Learning program. Intersections create a challenge for emergency responders, who sometimes hastily act in ways that result not in saving lives, but in taking them. This program stresses eight guidelines that may help reduce the number and severity of intersection accidents. It is intended for emergency service organizations responding to incidents in both department and personal vehicles.
The largest percentage of major accidents involving emergency vehicles occurs in an intersection. Even with the use of warning devices, intersections pose a serious threat to the safety of both emergency service personnel as well as the general public. All emergency service organizations should adopt and practice intersection operating guidelines during all emergency responses.
This program consists of 13 segments and an assessment. Complete the segments in their numerical order, then complete the assessment. A certificate of completion will be provided upon satisfactory completion of the assessment.
Please note: This class is for those who have already completed a comprehensive driver training program.The program takes approximately two hours to complete. St. Joseph’s University provides two CEUs for this program.
For additional information on VFIS Distance Learning or this course, visit http://www.vfis.com/Distance-Learning.htm or go to http://vfis.sju.edu.
In the News: National Hazardous Materials Fusion Center
(January 4, 2011) The National Hazardous Materials Fusion Center, a program established and supported through a cooperative agreement between the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, recently launched an innovative Web portal.
This Internet-based portal has been designed to provide responders with an opportunity to contribute to and access a suite of readily available resources. It is a one-stop shop for hazmat-response information, including training packages, reports, incident-based case studies, statistics, trends, alerts, recommendations and peer-to-peer networking. Read the article.