Who will be the next U.S. Fire Administrator? Selection process explained

U.S. Fire Administrator: A Presidential appointment process The U.S. Fire Administrator is a presidential appointee, meaning the selection follows a structured federal process. The administrator leads the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, the outgoing U.S. Fire Administrator, explained this […]
Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell reflects on tenure as U.S. Fire Administrator

Dr. Moore-Merrell addresses resignation and leadership transition On a recent episode of the USFA Podcast, Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator, reflected on her tenure and the leadership transition ahead. She confirmed that her resignation, effective January 20, 2025, is standard procedure as a presidential appointee following an administration change. Dr. Moore-Merrell shared details of […]
How to create a community wildfire protection plan: U.S. Fire Administration outlines steps

Developing community wildfire protection plans: CWPPs rooted in legislation The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recently published a detailed guide titled “Creating a Community Wildfire Protection Plan.” The guide explains the history of Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs), key components for crafting these plans, and actionable steps for community implementation. As outlined by USFA, CWPPs were […]
FOCUS 3.0 safety culture survey now available for U.S. fire departments

The FOCUS survey returns to fire departments nationwide The Center for Firefighter Injury Research & Safety Trends (FIRST) at Drexel University has relaunched the Fire Service Organizational Culture of Safety (FOCUS) survey. As reported by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), this initiative is supported by FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. It is designed to […]
U.S. Fire Administration honors National First Responders Day for dedication to public safety

USFA recognizes the essential role of first responders The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) observed National First Responders Day on October 28, honoring individuals who serve as the first line of response in emergencies. This national day commemorates firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and 911 dispatchers for their commitment to protecting communities during […]
President Biden signs bill reauthorizing the USFA through 2028

USFA’s mission and history Earlier this month, President Biden signed a bill reauthorizing the United States Fire Administration (USFA) through September 30, 2028, as reported by FEMA. For 50 years, the USFA has worked to improve fire safety in America. The USFA collaborates with federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners, as well as nongovernmental […]
Advanced incident data reporting platform NERIS set to launch by USFA

Introducing NERIS: USFA’s new incident data reporting platform As reported by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), in 2023, fire departments across the United States submitted over 30 million incident reports. Analyzing these reports provides essential insights that help improve safety measures for both firefighters and communities. This data guides policy and budget decisions at various […]
U.S. Fire Administration to gather leaders for pivotal fire service summit

The U.S. Fire Administration is set to host a significant summit for national and federal leaders. On October 10, 2023, Emmitsburg, Maryland’s National Emergency Training Center will be bustling with influential figures from the fire service sector. An interactive session awaits attendees both in-person and virtually. A deep dive into pressing fire service issues Starting […]