IAFC - VCOS Section
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- IAFC - VCOS Section
VCOS is the largest special interest section of the IAFC that provides education and resources to the leaders of volunteer and combination fire departments
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.
Operating as usual
10/28/2021
Today on National First Responders Day we send a special thank you to all the first responders who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. Thank you to all the firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, police officers and all other first responders for all you do everyday.
Today on National First Responders Day we send a special thank you to all the first responders who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. Thank you to all the firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, police officers and all other first responders for all you do everyday.
10/21/2021
Registration
Reconnect under the Sun with us at Symposium in the Sun in Clearwater, Florida on November 11-14. Don't miss out on the professional coaching we are offering this year. Spaces are filling quickly! Register today.
Discrimination & Harassment PolicyThe International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has zero-tolerance for discrimination and all forms of harassment, including but not limited to sexual harassment. This zero-tolerance policy means that no form of discriminatory or harassing conduct by or toward a...
10/20/2021
The IAFC-VCOS and Provident Insurance Announce the John M. Buckman III Leadership Award Winner: Assistant Chief David Lewis, Sr. (Ret.)
Congratulations to Assistant Chief David Lewis, Sr. (Ret.) of the Odenton Volunteer Fire Company for winning the John M. Buckman III Leadership Award sponsored by Provident Insurance. The award will be presented at Symposium in the Sun in November.
Congratulations to Assistant Chief David Lewis, Sr. (Ret.) of the Odenton (Maryland) Volunteer Fire Company for winning the prestigious John M. Buckman III Leadership Award. There were several strong submissions and his contributions to the fire service certainly stood out.
10/19/2021
How Electrified is Your Response Area?
Have you registered for our latest webinar yet? Don't miss "How Electrified is Your Response Area?" on Wednesday October 27 at 7 PM ET. Register today!
Tracey Steffes, Morris (Illinois) Fire Protection District, Fire Chief He started with the Morris Fire Protection District January 1989 as a volunteer firefighter. In September of 1989, he was hired as a full-time police officer for the City of Morris. He worked full-time for the City of Morris hold...
10/12/2021
Professional Coaching & Problem Solving
Do you know that we are offering professional coaching at Symposium in the Sun this year? Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to get feedback on your personal development journey, or to discuss a issue you are facing in a private and confidential manner. Register for a session today!
09/29/2021
Today we announce the release of the Lavender Ribbon Report Update. Thank you to the National Volunteer Fire Council who worked with us on this project. The report can be downloaded from the VCOS website at www.vcos.org/beatffcancer. Read the press release at: https://bit.ly/3CTyyuE
Today we announce the release of the Lavender Ribbon Report Update. Thank you to the National Volunteer Fire Council who worked with us on this project. The report can be downloaded from the VCOS website at www.vcos.org/beatffcancer. Read the press release at: https://bit.ly/3CTyyuE
09/27/2021
Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters - Memorial Weekend
Join the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation in Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters by setting a date for your tribute anytime between September 26-October 3.
Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters is part of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend sponsored by the NFFF.
09/23/2021
How Electrified is Your Response Area?
How Electrified is Your Response Area? Join us Wednesday October 27 at 7 PM ET for a webinar to discuss lessons learned, smart practices, and what we can do to keep our members safe while responding to battery emergencies.
Tracey Steffes, Morris (Illinois) Fire Protection District, Fire Chief He started with the Morris Fire Protection District January 1989 as a volunteer firefighter. In September of 1989, he was hired as a full-time police officer for the City of Morris. He worked full-time for the City of Morris hold...
09/17/2021
There's still time to nominate a chief officer for the John M. Buckman III Leadership Award!
The annual award, proudly sponsored by Provident and the IAFC - VCOS Section, is presented each November at the Symposium in the Sun in Clearwater Beach, FL. Nominations are due by September 20! Learn more and nominate a chief officer here: https://bit.ly/3gClnFI
#ProvidentAward #LeadershipAward #IAFC #VCOS #SymposiumInTheSun
09/17/2021
Awards
Take time this weekend to apply for awards being presented at Symposium in the Sun. Applications due Monday 9/20! We have not received many so your chances of winning are high! Winners’ travel and conference registration fee is paid for!
Page links: John M. Buckman III Leadership Award | William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award | Retention and Recruitment Award | Training Officer Award | VCOS Chair Award
09/15/2021
The William F. Jenaway Illness and Injury Prevention Award
Has your department focused on safety and wellness over the past year? Apply for the William F. Jenaway Illness/Injury Prevention Award presented at Symposium in the Sun. Deadline = Sept. 20
The William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award and the Retention & Recruitment Award are sponsored by VFIS. For both awards, VFIS pays the winner's travel and lodging expenses to attend the award ceremonies at the VCOS Symposium in the Sun in Clearwater Beach, Florida and VCOS will donate...
09/13/2021
VCOS Scholarship Programs
Apply by TOMORROW, September 14th, for the $1,500 James P. Seavey, Sr. scholarship to attend Symposium in the Sun in November. We haven't received any applications yet so your chances to win are very high!
Chief Robert T. Bettenhausen was a co-founder and the first secretary/treasurer of the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS). He served in that position from 1994 to 2007, after which he was bestowed the title emeritus secretary/treasurer. Chief Robert T. Bettenhausen served as the fir...
09/12/2021
Video message #4 from Chief Ron Oettel: Have a wonderful 90th birthday Chief Robert Bettenhausen! Thanks for all you have done for VCOS!
09/12/2021
Message #3 from Chief Cook: Happy 90th birthday Chief Robert Bettenhausen! We appreciate you!
09/12/2021
Message #2 from Chief Cowger: Happy 90th birthday Chief Robert Bettenhausen, VCOS Secretary/Treasurer Emeritus!
09/12/2021
Message #1 from Chief Flynn: Happy 90th birthday Chief Robert Bettenhausen, VCOS Secretary/Treasurer Emeritus!
09/10/2021
VCOS Scholarship Programs
$1,500 James P. Seavey, Sr. scholarship available to attend Symposium in the Sun in November. Your chances to win are high as we have not received many applications. Apply by Sept. 14.
Chief Robert T. Bettenhausen was a co-founder and the first secretary/treasurer of the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS). He served in that position from 1994 to 2007, after which he was bestowed the title emeritus secretary/treasurer. Chief Robert T. Bettenhausen served as the fir...
09/10/2021
Twenty Years Since the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks: What We Have Learned Since
As we reflect on the 20th anniversary of 9/11, hear from a panel of chiefs who were instrumental in the leadership and operations during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. We will never forget.
09/09/2021
VCOS Scholarship Programs
Do you know an excellent emerging fire service leader in your department or region? Have them apply for the Emerging Leader Scholarships by TOMORROW Sept. 10. Winners get $1,500 towards attending Symposium in the Sun in November!
Chief Robert T. Bettenhausen was a co-founder and the first secretary/treasurer of the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS). He served in that position from 1994 to 2007, after which he was bestowed the title emeritus secretary/treasurer. Chief Robert T. Bettenhausen served as the fir...
09/08/2021
National Volunteer Workforce Solutions
There are several Recruitment & Retention Coordinator Certification courses coming up this year and there is funding available to help pay for your travel expenses to these classes. Upcoming classes are being held in NC, VA, DE, IN and UT. Interested in attending? Learn more here:
National Volunteer Workforce Solutions helps fire departments recruit and retain volunteer firefighters. What Fuels Your Fire connects potential volunteers with fire departments.
09/06/2021
Happy Labor Day!
Happy Labor Day!
09/03/2021
‘A privilege to serve’: Reflections on my leadership role post-9/11
Chief Buckman reflects on his time as the IAFC President during 9/11.
As the newly installed IAFC president, I suddenly faced a new fire service focus on terrorism and preparedness
09/02/2021
Want to attend Symposium in the Sun in Florida in November but don’t have the funds? Apply for one of our many scholarships ASAP! https://bit.ly/2W8ySUK
Want to attend Symposium in the Sun in Florida in November but don’t have the funds? Apply for one of our many scholarships ASAP! https://bit.ly/2W8ySUK
09/01/2021
Join us September 14th at 1 PM ET for this Facebook Live discussion.
On September 14 at 1pm ET, join the NVFC and IAFC - VCOS Section for a free Facebook Live discussion on recent updates to the Lavender Ribbon Report, a resource that details 11 specific actions firefighters need to take to lessen occupational cancer risks. Registration is not required: https://fb.me/e/BZXemFcL
08/31/2021
Newsletters
Check out the newly released VCOS Summer 2021 Newsletter! Thanks to our sponsors IamResponding.com and Paratech Fire & Rescue Equipment for their support. https://www.iafc.org/about-iafc/sections/vcos/about/newsletters
08/27/2021
Photos from Al Yancey, VCOS Board Member's post
08/26/2021
Photos from National Fallen Firefighters Foundation's post
08/19/2021
VCOS Board members Chiefs Brita Horn and Norvin Collins were interviewed on America's Voice AM about the importance of volunteer firefighters. Learn more about their interview on the IAFC Blog. https://www.iafc.org/blogs/blog/iafc/2021/08/19/chiefs-reflect-on-interview-regarding-volunteer-firefighters
VCOS Board members Chiefs Brita Horn and Norvin Collins were interviewed on America's Voice AM about the importance of volunteer firefighters. Learn more about their interview on the IAFC Blog. https://www.iafc.org/blogs/blog/iafc/2021/08/19/chiefs-reflect-on-interview-regarding-volunteer-firefighters
08/19/2021
Retention and Recruitment Award
The Retention and Recruitment Award sponsored by VFIS - Firefighter & EMS recognizes success and excellence in the retention and recruitment of emergency service organization members. To be eligible the program must have been in place for at least one full year. Apply by Sept 20!
The Retention and Recruitment Award recognizes success and excellence in the retention and recruitment of emergency service organization members.
08/18/2021
The William F. Jenaway Illness and Injury Prevention Award
The William F. Jenaway Illness and Injury Prevention Award sponsored by VFIS - Firefighter & EMS recognizes success and excellence in developing and implementing an injury- or illness-prevention or vehicle-safety program. You do not need to be an IAFC member to apply. Applications are due September 20!
The William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award and the Retention & Recruitment Award are sponsored by VFIS. For both awards, VFIS pays the winner's travel and lodging expenses to attend the award ceremonies at the VCOS Symposium in the Sun in Clearwater Beach, Florida and VCOS will donate...
08/17/2021
John M. Buckman III Leadership Award
Do you know a chief officer of a volunteer or combination department who stands out on the local and/or regional level as a true professional who has demonstrated leadership, integrity and outstanding moral values within the fire service? Nominate them today for the John M. Buckman III Leadership Award sponsored by Provident Insurance.
The award recognizes a chief officer of a volunteer or combination fire department who stands out on the local or regional level as a true professional who has demonstrated leadership, integrity, and outstanding values within the fire service. The annual award is presented each November at the VCOS....
08/16/2021
Awards
This week we are announcing the opening of our three prestigious Symposium in the Sun Scholarship Awards. Stayed tuned to our social media and your inbox for more information.
Page links: John M. Buckman III Leadership Award | William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award | Retention and Recruitment Award | Training Officer Award | VCOS Chair Award
08/13/2021
Chief Robert T. Bettenhausen Scholarship
Want to come to the Symposium in the Sun, but don’t have the budget? Apply for the Robert T. Bettenhausen $1500 scholarship by Sept 14.
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08/11/2021
Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Scholarship to Symposium in the Sun
Do you ensure the wellness of your fellow firefighters – physically, mentally, & spiritually? If so, apply for the James P. Seavey Sr. $1500 scholarship to Symposium in the Sun by Sept 14.
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Address
4795 Meadow Wood Lane
Chantilly, VA
20151
General information
Our section is devoted on the representation and education of Volunteer and Combination Officers in the fire service.
Telephone
Website
Products
Lavender, Yellow, Silver, Red, Orange, Blue and White Ribbon reports.
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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 su***de 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 pe*****te 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 pe*****te 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.