05/29/2020
Ready to improve productivity, collaboration, and morale within your fire department? There’s still time to register for the Mesmerizing Leadership class!
IAFC - VCOS Section
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- IAFC - VCOS Section
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To represent the interests of all volunteer and combination fire/rescue/EMS agencies. We will be a dynamic organization, characterized by our integrity, customer focus and membership development, with value placed on people and the superior utilization of technology. We will excel by creating educational programs, through unrivaled networking, and by helping VCOS members further their success and reach their potential.
Mission: To provide chiefs and chief officers who manage volunteers within a volunteer or combination fire, rescue or EMS delivery system with information, education, services and representation to enhance their professionalism.
05/27/2020
Unfamiliar avenues: Engaging future volunteers
How do we engage future volunteers? Learn how leadership and communication can positively impact recruiting efforts.
It will take a unique mix of leadership, external communications and technological solutions to reverse the downward trend in volunteerism
05/26/2020
Women in Fire: EMS Week
Have you heard the @fireengineering podcast with Women in Fire in celebration of #EMSWeek2020? Listen now!
In celebration of EMS Week, Women in Fire will be talking to several amazing guests about their roles in EMS. Host Lisa Baker leads the discussion with the following guest speakers: Ann Burrell, Firefighter Paramedic, Blue Ash Fire Department Kim Phillips, District Chief, Houston Fire Department Tin...
05/25/2020
Timeline Photos
05/22/2020
Do you know a fire chief or training officer who goes above and beyond the call of duty? VCOS and TargetSolutions are pleased to announce the Training Officer Recognition Award. Submit your nomination today! https://bit.ly/2T90PZM
05/21/2020
Surviving the Job Webinar Series: Decon Procedures
Join the VCOS and NVFC to explore decon procedure options for your department. Register today for the upcoming webinar on June 9.
Join the VCOS and NVFC for a 6 part webinar series, where we will explore some of the most important information you need to know when it comes to firefighter cancer risk reduction. We will also discuss the importance of early detection and what to do when a firefighter has cancer.
05/20/2020
Time-traveling to remember your pre-COVID-19 priorities
What were your departmental goals for 2020? Even if meeting those goals might look different now, remember to preserve the intention behind them.
Don’t let the current crisis destroy your previously identified individual goals and departmental priorities
05/19/2020
While #COVID19 continues to impact all fire and emergency service agencies, it presents unique challenges for volunteer fire departments. Check out the latest iCHIEFS podcast for lessons learned and new strategies moving forward! https://bit.ly/3cfaCFj
05/19/2020
Election
The 2020 VCOS election is now open! Be sure to read each candidate’s statement and VOTE.
Current members must have their dues paid through May 31, 2020 to ensure voting eligibility. New members must join by June 10, 2020 to qualify.
05/14/2020
Managing personality types, improving communication among different generations, and instilling values within fire departments are just some of the topics included in the virtual Mesmerizing Leadership program. Sign up for the upcoming summer class today! https://bit.ly/35FDVyi
05/13/2020
Ask These Value-based Interview Questions to Screen for Culture Fit
Why ask about values in an interview? Ensuring that a volunteer candidate aligns with the core values of the department goes a long way in #retention
If a candidate and a company have opposing views, they may not be a match. Ask these value-based interview questions to dig below the surface.
05/12/2020
How volunteer leaders can best serve their members during difficult times
Skilled leadership requires a focus on positivity, communication and connection. Learn how volunteer leaders can best serve their members during challenging times.
Focusing on positivity, communication and connection can help members feel supported
05/12/2020
Keeping our mind on the mission in the face of COVID-19 fear
How do we keep our mind on the mission during times of high stress? One paramedic shares his tips for staying positive.
Tips for staying positive and focused on the community during times of high stress
05/08/2020
COVID-19: Challenges Facing Volunteer Fire Departments
In the latest episode of iCHIEFS podcasts, we're joined by Chief Kevin Cooney and Deputy Chief Edward Rush to discuss the impact #COVID19 has on volunteer fire departments, especially when it comes to staffing, equipping, training, and finances. Listen Now
While COVID-19 continues to impact all fire and emergency service agencies, it presents unique challenges for volunteer fire departments, especially when it comes to staffing, equipment, training, and finances. In this latest installment, Chief Kevin Cooney, South Windsor (CT) Fire Department, and D...
05/08/2020
VCOS News Spring 2020: COVID-19 Edition
Check out the new VCOS Spring Newsletter! This COVID-19 edition helps navigate the unprecedented challenges we face.
The Official Newsletter of the Volunteer & Combination Officers Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs
05/07/2020
At the end of the Mesmerizing Leadership class, you'll see a significant improvement in productivity, collaboration, and morale within your fire department from implementing the “Mesmerizing Leadership” strategies! Learn more and register for the upcoming summer class!
05/06/2020
05/04/2020
Learn more at survivingtothriving.me/class
05/01/2020
#daretolead
04/30/2020
200429: Ludwig Call to Action Video
Please view this special video message from @ChiefGaryLudwig calling on IAFC members to contact their congressional representatives in support of the AFG and SAFER grant programs in the next stimulus bill.
04/30/2020
Performance Evaluation of Volunteers
Why use performance evaluations for volunteers? Providing feedback to volunteers can help #retain members and help keep them motivated to serve.
Performance evaluations for volunteers provide a tool for evaluating how well a volunteer is performing on the job. Providing feedback to volunteers can potentially maximize the benefits of volunteer performance and help them remain motivated to serve the organization. Discovering the best methods f...
04/29/2020
Coronavirus COVID-19
The IAFC is conducting an Economic Impact Survey to provide data for Fire Service Leaders to ask Congress for more funding in response to COVID-19 impacts. Please take this survey to help show the need for more funding.
*Using the Enlarge Dashboard buttons on this page will take you to dashboards created by our partner, ESRI, which use their ArcGIS software. We're aware hackers are taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis; we want you to know these links and data are to and from reputable sites.
04/29/2020
Humpday Hangout: Are We Building Teams or Breaking Them?
Are we building teams or breaking them? Check out this engaging discussion about teams and leadership. #FETalk
Frank Ricci and P.J. Norwood are joined by Adam Hansen and Frank Viscuso to talk teams and leadership from the kitchen table to the tailboard critique.
04/28/2020
Leadership in Tough Times
When times are tough, it’s easy to get lost in the uncertainty. What does leadership during a crisis look like?
Leadership is easy when times are good. But when things get tough, leadership can fall by the wayside. The current crisis with the coronavirus, while scary, doesn’t mean we should abandon our usual leadership practices. It means quite the opposite. We should double down on our efforts.
04/27/2020
How firefighters can continue to train in a time of social distancing
How can firefighters continue training in a time of social distancing?
Training ideas that incorporate online learning and refocus training academies
04/24/2020
Yellow Ribbon Report Survey
Last day to complete the Yellow Ribbon Report survey! Please take this 10-minute survey to help provide resources for the mental wellness and emotional health of all fire-rescue personnel.
VCOS needs YOUR help to provide resources for the mental wellness and emotional health of all fire-rescue personnel.
04/22/2020
Missed last week’s webinar on Annual Physicals? Listen to Session 2 of the Surviving the Job Webinar Series.
https://bit.ly/33OB9pk
04/21/2020
COVID-19 and volunteer firefighters: Reducing the risk of exposure
Learn steps to help volunteer firefighters reduce the risk of exposure, cross-contamination, and the greater spread of COVID-19.
One thing we don't want to do is bring potential risk through contamination home to our families
04/17/2020
Election
View the candidates for the VCOS Board of Directors at . Voting opens May 18 to VCOS members. Be on the lookout for the ballot next month!
Current members must be paid through at least April 30, 2020 to ensure receipt of voting credentials when the election opens in May. New members must join by June 10, 2020 to qualify.
04/16/2020
Yellow Ribbon Report Survey
The VCOS needs YOUR help to provide resources for the mental wellness and emotional health of all fire-rescue personnel. Please take this 10-minute survey to help guide the 2020 Yellow Ribbon Report update.
VCOS needs YOUR help to provide resources for the mental wellness and emotional health of all fire-rescue personnel.
04/14/2020
Surviving the Job Webinar Series: Annual Physicals
Last day to register for today’s webinar! Don’t miss Session 2 of the webinar series: Annual Physicals on April 14 at 2 PM ET. We will discuss the importance of annual physicals and options available to you and your department.
Join the VCOS and NVFC for a 6 part webinar series, where we will explore some of the most important information you need to know when it comes to firefighter cancer risk reduction. We will also discuss the importance of early detection and what to do when a firefighter has cancer.
04/10/2020
Make the Sale: Recruiting Volunteers - Fire Engineering
Recruiting volunteers is all in the way you sell it. Learn key strategies for “making the sale.”
The challenge for volunteer-staffed fire departments today is to break the traditional model, seek out new ideas, and try them, writes John M. Buckman III
04/09/2020
Motivating Firefighters to Maintain Physical Fitness - In Public Safety
As we take care of our communities, we must also remember to take care of ourselves. Learn how you can develop a culture of maintaining physical fitness.
Cardiac-related events make up the highest percentage of on-duty deaths among firefighters, pointing to the need for better physical fitness choices.
04/08/2020
Account Login - Survey123 for ArcGIS
Help the IAFC evaluate the impacts of Fire and EMS services from COVID-19.
Sign in to your Survey123 for ArcGIS account. Survey123 for ArcGIS is a complete, form-centric solution for creating smart surveys & forms, collecting data via web or mobile devices and analyzing results.
04/07/2020
Join the VCOS and National Volunteer Fire Council for a 6 part webinar series, where we will explore some of the most important information you need to know when it comes to firefighter cancer risk reduction. We will also discuss the importance of early detection and what to do when a firefighter has cancer.
Register for this free webinar series at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/surviving-the-job-tickets-87141806489
Address
4795 Meadow Wood Lane
Chantilly, VA
20151
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Videos
Happy New Year
Happy New Year! #BeSafe
Merry Christmas
Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy, quiet and safe Christmas, especially for everyone working today. #BeSafe #MerryChristmas
Untitled design
Our offices close today at 12pm ET. We hope you have a happy and safe holiday and very merry new year. #BeSafe
IAFCtv Volunteer Combination Officers Section (VCOS)
At FRI 2019, Chief Charles Flynn and Chief Al Yancey, Jr., talked to IAFC TV about “You’re the New Chief; Now What?”, the variety of helpful educational sessions and offerings that are organized by VCOS, and how VCOS is marking its 25th anniversary. https://buff.ly/2ZWFOXJ
2019 IAFCtv Interview with VCOS
VCOS Chair Chief Chuck Flynn and VCOS Board Member Chief Al Yancey discuss VCOS's 25th Anniversary, VCOS initiatives on Cancer Prevention and Mental Wellness, as well as the new VCOS and EFO report: You're the Fire Chief; Now What? -- Guidance for New & Interim Chiefs.
Presentation on the latest VCOS and EFO report.
Top 10 Retention and Recruitment Tips the presentation in the Spark Zone at FRI.
Top 10 Retention and Recruitment Tips
Join the VCOS Today!
We did a private premier of this video at Symposium in the #Sun2018. We are excited to launch it live for the world. It is a great highlight of our section. #WeAreVCOS
A Pro-Active Approach to Mental Wellness
This week is suicide prevention week. Chief Flynn, VCOS Chair, shares the importance of the Yellow Ribbon Report and taking a pro-active approach to mental wellness. http://bit.ly/2tuItWi
Rest in Peace Chief James P. Seavey, Sr. He pushed the VCOS Board and section to work harder to help support volunteer and combination officers in their mission to serve each other and the public. There are no words that can fully capture his impact.
IAFC President's Award to Chief Wall
Congratulations to VCOS Chair, Chief Timothy S. Wall, for being awarded the IAFC President's Award of Recognition. #FRI2018
A Break at Symposium in the Sun 2017
Break at Symposium in the #Sun2017
Congratulations!
Break at Symposium in the #Sun2017
Walking the exhibit hall at #Sun2017.
Welcome to Symposium in the Sun 2017
Vickie Pritchett welcomed everyone to Symposium in the #Sun2017.
We are broadcasting from Symposium in the #Sun2017.
Bullying is NOT OK
Have you reminded your station that bullying is not ok recently? We challenge you to stand up and say that Bullying is Not OK. #WeServeAllIncludingEachOther #BetheChange end bullying today.
Bullying is NOT OK
Bullying is NOT OK. #BetheChange end bullying today.
Chief Wall helping out Joey Logano's pit crew before the race!
From Chief John Buckman III Another unique opportunity at the Firefighter Safety and Research Institute in Northbrook, IL. About 40 firefighters, officers and Chiefs in attendance to observe and learn about today's science of fire behavior. It is never simple to acquire an answer to a very complex issue like fire suppression strategy and tactics BUT I will tell you for the most part it is as simple as control the air coming in and get water on the fire from whatever vantage point is IMMEDIATELY accessible. Delaying water application to absorb or reduce the BTU's put off by the visible fire is not smart in todays modern fire suppression environment. What these tests have demonstrated for me is that I need to keep studying building construction and read more about the latest research in fire suppression tactics. Every firefighter whether they have one year on the job or 20 need to keep their mind in the books and magazine articles written about the new way of completing fire suppression operations. This IS NOT saying that all fires will be fought from the outside. This is not to say that all fires will be attacked from a defensive position. This video depicts the attic well involved in fire. The occupant area of the structure has no visible change or if there were occupants they would not be aware their attic was on fire. The application of water is through the soffit. The water does penetrate very well into the attic space and has a significant effect on slowing the forward progress of the fire. Water was applied initially through the gable ends with no significant change in the conditions inside the attic. Access for water into the attic area through the soffit is not always an acceptable tactic as modern building construction in many cases is sealing this area off from the exterior. As with all of this research the application of the information is in the hands of the first due company officer and their reaction to "observe, orient, decide and then act". What
From Chief John Buckman III Another unique opportunity at the Firefighter Safety and Research Institute in Northbrook, IL. About 40 firefighters, officers and Chiefs in attendance to observe and learn about today's science of fire behavior. It is never simple to acquire an answer to a very complex issue like fire suppression strategy and tactics BUT I will tell you for the most part it is as simple as control the air coming in and get water on the fire from whatever vantage point is IMMEDIATELY accessible. Delaying water application to absorb or reduce the BTU's put off by the visible fire is not smart in todays modern fire suppression environment. What these tests have demonstrated for me is that I need to keep studying building construction and read more about the latest research in fire suppression tactics. Every firefighter whether they have one year on the job or 20 need to keep their mind in the books and magazine articles written about the new way of completing fire suppression operations. This IS NOT saying that all fires will be fought from the outside. This is not to say that all fires will be attacked from a defensive position. This video depicts the attic well involved in fire. The occupant area of the structure has no visible change or if there were occupants they would not be aware their attic was on fire. The application of water is through the soffit. The water does penetrate very well into the attic space and has a significant effect on slowing the forward progress of the fire. Water was applied initially through the gable ends with no significant change in the conditions inside the attic. Access for water into the attic area through the soffit is not always an acceptable tactic as modern building construction in many cases is sealing this area off from the exterior. As with all of this research the application of the information is in the hands of the first due company officer and their reaction to "observe, orient, decide and then act". What
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Comments
This is a little late and I apologize. I had the great honor to be both the MC and provide a presentation with Joseph De Wolf over this past weekend at the 2019 Symposium in the West. It was great to see so many great people who truly want to make a difference in our craft. Special thanks to VCOS Board, Sara, and the IAFC Staff for making this a great event.
Good Morning Chief Wall,sorry to hear of your standing down and congratulations of a job well done as President/Chair of VCOS,on behalf of all firefighters in IAFC and the
Australian Rural Fire Services.