1. Introduction to Fire Corps

2. 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)

3. 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)

4. 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)

5. 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)

6. 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)

7. Special projects

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

9. Fundraising
Grant Writing

10. wire down monitors
flooded streets

11. Rehab/canteen

12. Photo/Video/PSA

13. Active911-Scanner- Maps

14. 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

15. 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)

16. 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)

17. 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

18. 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)

19. 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)

20. 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

21. 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

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