factors, as well as examining the benefits of capital and vehicle replacement fund allocation. Emergency Management - This module targets Emergency Management best practices and the tools necessary for participants to build an effective and efficient Emergency Management program as an integrated division of the modern, comprehensive fire department as it relates to the governing agency, the private sector, and the public. Some emphasis will be placed on legislative directives at the Federal and State levels that affect local jurisdictions and can create compliance issues, some tied to funding. This module also focuses on the major tenets of Emergency Management regarding standards and ethics, roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders and participants, the Disaster Life Cycle, and an integrated approach beyond the daily operations of the fire rescue department. An additional elective module, Community Risk Reduction (CRR), was developed to assist fire service leaders with an understanding and the tools to implement this emerging service. Each module offers 16 hours of continuing education credit applicable to Florida Fire
Service Instructor certifications. Completing all six modules grants equivalency for the Chief Officer course (BFST 9516) needed for Fire Officer III certification, as well as the Personnel Management for Fire and Emergency Services course (BFST 4045) required for Fire Officer IV certification. The Community Risk Reduction elective also supports requirements for Fire Officer IV. The ESLI program is modular by design and participants can start with any module they want. Each module is a stand-alone course, and participants can attend each module at their own pace when time permits. Currently the program is being delivered in the Central Florida area at Valencia College’s School of Public Safety. The delivery is expected to be expanded to Tallahassee and South Florida to minimize travel and increase availability for the participants. Participation in the ESLI program requires membership in the FFCA. The FFCA is not exclusive to only fire chiefs but is an organization that is inclusive of all members of the fire service. Membership opens the door to a myriad of opportunities for all ranks not only to participate in the Institute but to participate in guiding our Florida fire service. A significant benefit of the ESLI
experience is the opportunity to connect with peers and establish relationships from across Florida, representing diverse organizational roles and sizes. These relationships often span entire careers and foster a robust professional network. Modules are led by instructors chosen for their expertise and experience. These dedicated professionals volunteer their time to instruct and are committed to developing future leaders by sharing their insights and knowledge. Many of these instructors are past graduates of the ESLI program. If you want more information or are interested in registering, click here. Any questions can be directed to ffca.esli@gmail.com. Chief Downey is a 38-year veteran of the fire service retiring in 2019 as the Fire Chief with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue. Chief Downey currently serves as the Program Coordinator for the ESLI and has previously served as the Deputy Coordinator of the SERP, the Secretary/Treasurer, and the Southeast Regional Director with the Florida Fire Chief ’s Association.
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