For decades, we didn't ask many questions about our turnout gear. As long as it kept the heat out and the water off, it was doing its job. But in 2026, we can no longer ignore the hidden cost. The "forever chemicals" (PFAS) that gave our gear its liquid-repellent magic are now confirmed to be a primary source of toxins in our blood.
Executive Summary
As of January 1, 2026, the American fire service has officially entered a new digital age. The National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) has now replaced the 50-year-old NFIRS as the sole federal standard for incident data collection in the United States.
The Point of No Return
Learn how to Become A Volunteer Firefighter
Being willing to become a firefighter is a big decision. Are you really ready to commit yourself?
It requires countless hours of training along with a strong commitment to service.
Volunteer firefighting is an extremely rewarding and valuable approach to serve your community. It requires dedication and many hours to train to become firefighter. If you're willing to put in the commitment, you will find there are fire departments ready and available for you to serve. In the event you volunteer, you are able to go after a qualification and also broaden your horizon so that you can embrace a career.
There isn't any difference in certification between career and volunteer firefighter. In most regions of the country, you can be properly trained and state certified for free. The same thing goes for volunteer emergency medical services.
For years and years, volunteer firefighters did what they had to do to provide fire protection. Whenever they needed something, they organized a sale or a fundraiser of some kind inside the community to obtain the funding. It was this very thing that made them so respected, and appreciated in the neighborhood.
