Introduction to Fire Corps

Fire Corps Status This presentation and the status of the Villa Park Fire Corps is preliminary. There is no official authorization nor guaranteed funding for the group at this time. Photo courtesy of Dayna Hilton, Johnson County RFD#1 (AR)

Fire Corps Partners Citizen Corps The mission of Citizen Corps is to harness the power of every individual through education, training, and volunteer service to make communities safer, stronger, and better prepared to respond to the threats of terrorism, crime, public health issues, and disasters of all kinds. Fire Corps, C.E.R.T. & Neighborhood Watch are partner programs under Citizen Corps. Photo courtesy of Dayna Hilton, Johnson County RFD#1 (AR)

Fire Corps Mission To utilize community members in non-emergency roles to supplement fire/EMS departments Allows first responders more time to focus on training and emergency response Departments able to expand services Community members gain understanding of fire/EMS services and are better prepared in emergency situations Photo courtesy of Dayna Hilton, Johnson County RFD#1 (AR)

Helping Fire/EMS Achieve More Fire prevention/life safety education Special projects Open House, Smoke/CO Detectors Fundraising/grant-writing Assist in rebuilding/cleanup after natural disasters For example – wire down monitors / flooded streets Rehab/canteen for training drills Photography, videography, public service announcements Photo courtesy of Greater Springfield Volunteer Fire Department (VA)

Fire prevention/life safety education 63% of departments with Fire Corps programs utilize citizens for fire prevention efforts and fire & life safety education Photo courtesy of Dayna Hilton, Johnson County RFD#1 (AR)

Special projects

Fire Prevention & Safety Grants Fundraising Grant Writing Fire Prevention & Safety Grants

Fundraising Grant Writing

wire down monitors flooded streets

Rehab/canteen

Photo/Video/PSA

Active911-Scanner- Maps

Training Opportunities C.E.R.T. Training – Training for all Fire Corps Members On Line Education - Operations, Organization, Community Follow Up Training – CPR/AED, CERT Programs Fire Corps Path – Probation, Certification, Promotion 3rd Party Training - Wire Down Com Ed, METRA Train

How We Will Highlight Our Program Retain members by highlighting accomplishments and innovative activities (promotion through achievement) Program profile Volunteer spotlight Media Press Releases Social Media – Cable Network Photo courtesy of Ingleside Volunteer Fire Department (TX)

What are the First Steps? Getting Started What are the First Steps? Identify Officers (President, VP, Secretary,Treasurer) Perform needs assessment Draft an action plan – By Laws File Not-For-Profit with State of Illinois – 501 C Photo courtesy of Ingleside Volunteer Fire Department (TX)

Consider Costs: Liabilities: Applicant screening Specialized training Supplies, equipment, uniforms, etc. Recognition Liabilities: Consult legal counsel and insurance provider Utilize liability waiver or release form Consult other volunteer programs within local government agencies Applicable liability laws vary by state Refer to Fire Corps Liability Guide for additional information

Selecting Volunteers Communicate our needs to the community Use a variety of media outlets to convey your message Volunteer application form List skills, experience, and availability Screen applicants Accept/decline Photo courtesy of Macomb Township Fire Department (MI)

Retaining Volunteers Provide uniforms Recognize volunteer efforts Write letters of commendation Nominate volunteers for awards Post photos of volunteers in action Ask for feedback and act on it Photo courtesy of Macomb Township Fire Department (MI)

Share Our Success Participate in Citizen Corps Council Research local businesses or other community organizations as possible partners to support our program Submit press releases Inform government officials about successes and program contributions

Thank You! “When firefighters can stand side by side with citizens in promoting fire prevention and general safety efforts, and are able to invite citizens to assist with non- emergency responsibilities, the overall security and safety of their community is greatly enhanced.” - Chief R. David Paulison Former U.S. Fire Administrator and FEMA Director

Questions? Photo courtesy of Dayna Hilton, Johnson County RFD#1 (AR)