Monrovia Volunteer Fire/Rescue presented black helmets to JT Taylor, Tanner Bell, and Connor Cook, recognizing their completion of Fire Fighter I This course requires a tremendous amount of dedication to complete 160 contact hours, accomplished over many months while balancing work, school, and family time Monrovia Volunteer Fire/Rescue is an ISO Class 5 fire department that responds to over 2,600 fire/rescue and medical emergencies every year Learn more about this department at www MonroviaFire org
INVISIBLE DISABILITIES TRAINING GUIDANCE
Effective January 1, all certified career & volunteer firefighters are required to complete training for Invisible Disabilities within six months of being certified, and every other year after that.
Register your department for this free training!
The training is free for departments. Each department must sign an MOU with the vendor for this training, KultureCity (The agreement references a cost of $1000 for training and $30 per took kit However, the training and tool kits are provided for free by KultureCity )
A representative of the department will register, not individuals. KultureCity will send the department a training link to forward to their personnel. All personnel should complete the training. Training may be completed as a group but each individual must complete their own test. Once 50% of a department’s personnel receive the training, the department qualifies to receive the tool kits. The kits include items to help an individual to cope with sensory overload. Each department is responsible for ensuring their personnel receive training every two years. AFC will incorporate this training into all Fire Fighter I programs for career and volunteer firefighters which will satisfy the requirement that firefighters receive this training within six months of certification While the certificate issued by KultureCity indicates the training is valid for one year, the state law says firefighters must complete the training every two years The EMS section of the law indicates EMS personnel must complete the training annually We suggest you defer to the biennial requirement for firefighters We understand that this creates some confusion as most career firefighters are also EMT’s We are working to have this clarified Register your department: www kulturecity org/apply-for-sensoryinclusive-first-responder-certification If you need additional guidance, please contact Reid Vaughan at rvaughan@alabamafirecollege org
On January 18, 2025, Dora Fire & Rescue Service responded to a structure fire. Heavy smoke and fire were evident upon arrival. The occupants' prompt actions ensured all residents were safely outside. West Jefferson Fire and Cordova Fire assisted, leading to a rapid control. The teamwork demonstrated reflects the high standards of these agencies. Crucially, functioning smoke alarms were installed, facilitating the residents' escape and the fire departments' swift response.
ALABAMA’S FIRE-RELATED DEATHS DECREASED IN 2024
Jonathan Ledbetter, Get Alarmed, Alabama! Program Mgr. www.alabamafirecollege.org/smokealarms
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of fire departments across the state, we’ve seen a significant decrease in firerelated fatalities this year. Fire deaths have dropped from 97 in 2023 to 67 in 2024 – a remarkable improvement. While I anticipate this number may rise slightly as departments finalize their reports, it remains a substantial decrease that highlights the impact of our collective efforts
Additionally, I am proud to report that there were four documented life-saves this year directly attributed to smoke alarms installed through this program These success stories reinforce the importance of the work we do and the value this program brings to Alabama communities A special acknowledgment goes to Mobile Fire for installing the most smoke alarms for the third consecutive year. Their continued leadership and commitment to fire safety serve as an example for departments statewide.
AFC INSTRUCTIONAL UPDATES
Web-Enhanced Skills Testing: AFC is beginning digital skills testing on campus We are piloting our ability to load skills sheets onto a tablet so that evaluators can grade skills sheets in real-time and have results at the conclusion of each individual skills evaluation The results will then be uploaded for processing by Certification staff This will reduce the paperwork burden and processing time in preparation for testing and reduce processing time and shipping costs after testing The outcome should be shorter turn-around time for processing and receipt of results
Student Documentation Management: We have implemented electronic processes to require students to provide accurate information (ex first day rosters) Accurate and complete information assists staff when preparing end of course testing, preparation of skills sheets for testing, processing prerequisites so that certifications can be issued in a timely fashion, and issuance of certifications upon course completion Students will receive automated reminder emails to complete their documentation and submit prerequisites 3 weeks out in the event they need to withdraw from a course (without paying tuition), 1 week out as a reminder to ensure they have accurate and complete information in the database, and the day before a course as a welcome to training
Reminder for Instructors: You are required to check attendance every day to ensure all students who registered are attending the course This allows us to send the correct number of hard copies of tests or provide passwords for electronic testing at the conclusion of each course If someone attends a course all week, but is not listed on a roster, we will not be able to send them a test, have their prerequisites verified, etc This delays issuance of certification for all students
Personnel Standards & Education
Commission: Work Session & Quarterly Meeting
Critical Care Academy
Fire Service Briefing
Fire College Weekend:
Work Session: January 21 @ 12:30pm
Quarterly Meeting: January 22 @ 9am
Personnel Standards & Education Commission work sessions and meetings are open for public attendance Meetings dates and other information can be found at www alabamafirecollege org/commission
Opens February 8. Register now at www.alabamafirecollege.org/cca
March 11 @ 10am Zoom link posted at www alabamafirecollege org/events
North Alabama - March 14-16 (Registration will open soon )
PUBLIC EDUCATION UPDATES FROM NFPA
The nomination period is open for the NFPA Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year Award. This prestigious award is presented to a dedicated educator from a local fire department or fire marshal’s office in the U S or Canada Nominees must consistently and creatively utilize NFPA’s materials and demonstrates outstanding service in reaching out to the community to address their evolving fire safety needs Deadline is March 3, 2025 For more information, and to apply: https://www nfpa org/about-nfpa/awards/Educator-of-the-Year-Award
Website Updates and Seasonal Topics
Heating, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months. Nearly half of all home heating fires occur in January and February, and December. Put a freeze on winter fires by reviewing our safety information. Learn more. Visit Sparky.org for a fun winter color by number sheet. The winter months are a great time to remind families the importance of having a home fire escape plan, including those who live in buildings with more than one level. Check out A Guide to Fire Safety in the City printable and video on sparkyshoolhouse.org.
Professional Development Opportunities and Conferences
Join us at the Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE) Conference for a three-day program designed to address the unique challenges of delivering fire and life safety education in diverse communities. Learn strategies and insights from leading experts, connect with peers who share your commitment, and gain valuable, actionable skills to elevate your outreach efforts Monday, June 16 – Wednesday, June 18 | Las Vegas, NV Register today
NFPA News
In response to the ongoing wildfires affecting the Los Angeles area, NFPA is providing resources for reporters covering these fires, as well as information about how to reduce homeowners’ risk for wildfire damage Learn More
WEEKEND CLASSES FOR VOLUNTEER FIRE FIGHTERS
The following classes are offered to Alabama VFFs on a weekend-based schedule. Tuition is waived; student is responsible for books Call 1(800)241-2467 to register
Vehicle Rescue Awareness, Operations, and Technician: April 12, 13, 26, 27
Fire Apparatus Operator: Mobile Water Supply: May 3-4
Fire & Emergency Services Instructor I: June 7, 8, 21, 22
Fire & Emergency Services Instructor II: July 12, 13, 26, 27
Fire Apparatus Operator: Pumper: August 9, 10, 23, 24
Fire Officer II: September 3, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, 27, and 30; via Zoom
EXPLORER WEEKEND
NFA PUS
Best Practices in Community Risk Reduction: January 27-28
Decision Making for Initial Company
Operations: March 8-9
Strategies and Tactics for Initial Company Operations: April 28-29
Preparation for Initial Company Operations: July 26-27
Youth Firesetter Program Manager: September 22-23
NATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS TRAINING FOUNDATION
Upcoming Training Dates
January 28: Initial Actions At Large Residential Structures: Mobile, AL | (FREE) | Register Instructor: Jonathan Brumley (Denver, CO)
February 28: Cruel Intentions: Mobile, AL (FREE) Register | Instructor: Kyle Romagus (East Montgomery Co , TX)
Upcoming Training Dates
January 25: Basics of Fire Chaplaincy Anniston Regional Training Center FREE | Register
February 7-8: Assisting Individuals in Crisis
This behavioral health awareness online course will educate students regarding critical incident stress management and peer support, signs and symptoms of behavioral and emotional distress, the benefits of psychological support and education, understanding mental health diagnosis and treatment, and suicide awareness This course meets the prerequisite for the following courses: Fire Fighter I/II, Peer Support Member, TRP: Rope Awareness & Operations Rescue, & Volunteer Fire Fighter
SPONSORED BY THE ALABAMA FIRE COLLEGE
FEB 12 Trussville
FEB 26 Dothan
FEB 27 Huntsville
MAR 12 Fultondale
MAR 19 Anniston
APR 23 Jasper - RPS
MAY 7 Talladega Superspeedway
MAY 21 Birmingham
JUNE 11 Hoover
JUNE 25 BREMSS
ALABAMA FIRE COLLEGE
Regional Services
It’s our goal to extend training opportunities into every county in Alabama To accomplish this objective, we have a network of regional coordinators to facilitate training at the local level The regional staff is available to answer questions, set up training, and respond to the needs of fire service across the state
REGION 1: Danny Southard dsouthard@alabamafirecollege.org (256)434-0459
REGION 2: Mike Hill mhill@alabamafirecollege.org (256)590-6647
REGION 3: Skip Kittrell skittrell@alabamafirecollege.org (205)960-2793
REGIONS 4 & 7: Rudy Rooks rrooks@alabamafirecollege.org (256)463-8469
REGION 5: Jeff Roberts jroberts@alabamafirecollege.org (205)292-5531
REGION 6: Baine Vaughn bvaughn@alabamafirecollege.org (334)301-2491
REGION 8: Jeff Ludlam jludlam@alabamafirecollege org (251)680-7883
REGIONS 9 & 10: Dwayne Yelder dyelder@alabamafirecollege org (334)549-3692
Fire Fighter II (includes: Volunteer Fire Fighter, Fire Fighter I/II, Fire Fighter I/II
Bridge, Fire Fighter I Recertification, Fire Fighter Reciprocity)
Marine Fire Fighter
Airport Fire Fighter
Fire Apparatus Operator courses: EVD, Pumper, Aerial, Mobile Water Supply, ARFF
NFPA 1081
Facility Fire Brigade courses
NFPA 1550
Fire Department Safety Officer: Health and Safety Officer
Fire Department Safety Officer: Incident Safety Officer
The 2025 Fire Fighter Distinctive License Plate “Tag List” was released to career and combination departments on Sep. 9. The volunteer department tag list is maintained by the Alabama Forestry Department and can be accessed at forestry.alabama.gov/Pages/Fire/VFD.aspx Questions? Email certification@alabamafirecollege.org
www.alabamafirecollege.org
Vestavia Hills Fire Department presents Capt. Bill Gustin
MANAGING OPERATIONS FOR ASPIRING AND CURRENT COMPANY OFFICERS
FEBRUARY 10 @ Vestavia Hills
Civic Center
This course is designed for aspiring and current company officers who are looking to sharpen their leadership, management, and operational skills in the fire service. Led by Captain Bill Gustin, a 49-year veteran of the Fire Service, the course draws on his extensive experience to provide practical insights and strategies that address the unique challenges faced by company officers Captain Gustin shares lessons learned from his career to guide participants through common hurdles in managing teams, making decisions under pressure, fostering effective communication, and ensuring operational success. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, attendees will gain valuable knowledge on how to navigate the complexities of leadership in dynamic, high-stress environments.
www.alabamafirecollege.org/gustin
ISO PUBLIC PROTECTION CLASSIFICATIONS
FEBRUARY 10 @ Hyatt Regency Birmingham (The Wynfrey Hotel)
This course is intended for individuals to that would like to learn how to lower the Public Protections Classifications (PPC) score for their community. The course will teach the calculations necessary to be able to predict PPC based on many factors. The course will cover preparation for a field visit, what documentation is needed, and ways to earn full points
www.alabamafirecollege.org/iso
Fire Department Operations, Strategies, & Tactics: A View from Alabama
This free course targets fire officers and fire fighters operating in non-urban environments facing staffing challenges on fireground incidents. This course will not only look at the strategies and tactics view but also the general operation view items such as the “why’s” of what we do We will have interactive computer simulations throughout the program, with everything presented from the platform of how most of us realistically provide service. Attendees will participate and focus on the important questions of: Why are we here today, in this job, in my department? What is this job? Who do we/I serve? Am I doing my best? Who is at fault? Why are we paid less? Why do we provide EMS? Why do we provide EMS transport? When did I last train myself, my crew?
www.alabamafirecollege.org/cafca-view
Cullman Leadership Conference
March 31-April 1 @ Cullman First Baptist Church
Join Cullman Fire & Rescue for an engaging seminar focused on meaningful leadership training designed to empower your team with essential tools for success in today’s challenging and dynamic environment. This seminar aims to enhance our collective skills and insights, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and growth.
Topics: Leadership Under Pressure, The Role of Physical Fitness in Leadership, The Role of Innovation in Leadership, Building and Leading High-Performance Teams, Crisis Management and Adaptability, Leading Through Change, and more!
Speakers: Chief Tyler Seehusen, Chief Tim Love, Chief Buddy Wilks, Chief Clay Bentley, Battalion Chief Brent Cooper, Battalion Chief Tim Lawson, Colonel Mike Taylor www.alabamafirecollege.org/cullmanleadership
Spring Conference @ Lake Guntersville State Park March 5-7, 2025
2025 FIRE CHIEFS TRIP TO WASHINGTON, DC
Alabama Association of Fire Chiefs
To all who are interested in participating in this year's DC trip to meet with our federal legislators on March 10-13, we need you to fill out the interest form below This will help us with meeting and hotel planning, which will have to be accomplished ASAP
If you have not been before, this is a tremendous experience, and well with the effort. Your costs will be flights and hotels, and some meals. We will work on getting most meals taken care of and handle official trips to and from the meetings.
Click HERE or scan the QR code > to fill out your information if you have intentions of attending
CURRENT FOOD TRUCK INSPECTION MODEL PER STATE CODE
Jesse Clifton, Fire Marshal Trussville Fire & Rescue 205-655-0105 jesse.clifton@trussville.gov
Although the Alabama Fire College does not offer traditional scholarships or financial aid, we have compiled resources that may assist with funding your education. Scan the QR code to visit our webpage dedicated to outside resources.
Jefferson County is taking bold steps to address a critical need in its emergency medical services (EMS) sector To help meet this challenge and strengthen the EMS workforce, the Jefferson County Commission, in collaboration with the United Way of Central Alabama, is offering a tuition-free training program for individuals pursuing certification as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs), and Paramedics.
Addressing the EMS Shortage
The shortage of qualified EMTs, AEMTs, and paramedics in Jefferson County has been a growing concern, made worse by the demands of the COVID-19 crisis. With emergency medical professionals working tirelessly on the front lines, the need for new recruits has never been greater This new initiative offers a valuable opportunity for individuals interested in entering the EMS field, ensuring that Jefferson County has a steady pipeline of qualified, trained personnel ready to serve the community
Thanks to the partnership between the Jefferson County Commission and the United Way of Central Alabama, the cost of tuition and necessary supplies will be covered for eligible individuals This scholarship program is available for those who live in Jefferson County or work in Jefferson County in the EMS field, and are admitted into an EMS program at Alabama Fire College. Programs include training for EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics. This initiative is designed to help reduce financial barriers for prospective EMS professionals and accelerate their path to certification and employment.
Who is Eligible?
To take advantage of this opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a legal U S resident, 18 years or older
Live in Jefferson County OR be employed within the county in the EMS field
Have a high school diploma or GED
Be currently enrolled in an EMS program at Alabama Fire College
Complete a scholarship application
Funding and Support
This workforce development initiative is supported, in part, by federal funds through the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The Jefferson County Commission received a federal award (SLFRP1176) to help fund this important program, which is a vital part of the county's ongoing recovery efforts from the pandemic
Volunteer Rescue Student Tuition Reimbursement Program
Each year, emergency medical service agencies in Alabama hire more than 300 Emergency Medical Services Personnel (EMSP)s to offer life-saving support to their communities. In addition to these paid openings, the more than 900 volunteer fire departments and rescue squads in Alabama also rely on certified and committed EMSPs to meet their community needs. The State of Alabama created the Volunteer Rescue Student Tuition Reimbursement Program (Act 2018-524) in 2018 and modified the program in 2023 (Act 2023-353). The legislation allows for students who obtain their EMT, Advanced EMT, and Paramedic certification from an Alabama Community College, the Alabama Fire College, or the University of South Alabama to be reimbursed their tuition costs for the training
In order to qualify for the Volunteer Rescue Student Tuition Program, the applicant must commit – and show verification of a commitment – to at least two years of service to a volunteer fire or rescue squad. This increases the worker’s experience and helps local communities.
