The world is changing and challenging the fire service to keep up. The core missions of firefighting and fire prevention have not changed, but the environments in which those missions operate are changing faster than ever before.
Technology, sustainability, shifting demographics in recruitment and retention, and an increasing need for partnership and collaboration are among the factors that will impact the fire service and the fire industry in 2024. Let’s consider some of the big issues in play.
Technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) was a dominant force in 2023, but its impact on the fire service is just getting started. Currently, AI is being used to analyze video footage of remote locations to provide an early warning at the first sign of a wildfire.
Daily life of fire departments
The broad applications of AI ensure it will become part of the daily life of fire departments
The broad applications of AI ensure it will become part of the daily life of fire departments and firefighters in ways we can now only imagine. Another technology, virtual reality, provides a more immersive training experience and better simulations. In the hardware arena, aerial drones are providing firefighters with better visual data about an active fire, and firefighting robots can navigate dangerous environments and fight fires without risking human life.
The Power of Data. So-called predictive analytics, some incorporating AI, are increasing our ability to identify fire hazards before they occur. A flood of data is the byproduct of all the sensors, fire reports and other information that are part of today’s fire service, but we are now beginning to harness the power of that data to predict fire risks and optimize the allocation of resources.
Better budget efficiencies
Smart technology is redefining what it means to be a smart firefighter, given the availability of data to guide a more effective and efficient workforce. Using historical data and current trends enables the fire service to proactively deploy resources and prevent fires. Data analytics will also drive the use of scarce resources, enabling better budget efficiencies.
Data analytics will also drive the use of scarce resources, enabling better budget efficiencies
Sustainability and Electrification. Electric and hybrid fire trucks are the new standard, and the adoption of more sustainable apparatus will likely accelerate in the new year. Eco-friendly fire suppression materials, more effective but less harmful to the environment, are also being developed. However, the electrification trend comes with a significant downside for fire departments, that is, the increased danger of lithium-ion batteries.
More sustainable materials
Damaged batteries can erupt into flames, and badly designed charging systems have been known to cause fires. When it comes to more sustainable buildings, the use of more sustainable materials and newer, lightweight construction can make structures more prone to fire.
More Cooperation. In the firefighting and fire prevention environments, there is never enough budget to adequately address mission-critical needs. More collaboration among fire departments and even public-private partnerships can help to maximize resources. Fire departments are working with private companies to develop and implement innovative fire safety solutions.
Fire safety and prevention
Trade schools are an option, and so is involvement in the fire service
Meanwhile, departments are sharing more data, expertise, and resources, especially when it comes to large-scale fires and emergencies. There is also a growing need to engage with communities, working with other stakeholders to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention.
Attracting Talent (and Keeping Them Healthy). The fire service has a shortage of skilled personnel and drastically needs to recruit more people to careers in the fire profession. Many are questioning the value of a college education in the job market, and young people are becoming open to other career paths. Trade schools are an option, and so is involvement in the fire service.
A sales effort is needed to attract new talent and to equip the fire service to compete with other occupations for the best talent. To retain firefighters, departments need to take seriously the need to support personnel dealing with stress and trauma. Addressing other medical issues, such as cancer and heart disease, are also critical. Seeking more diversity expands the range of candidates and may help to address issues of morale and turnover.
Global medical emergency
Extinguishing flames and saving people from danger will always be a core function
The role of firefighters is changing as the world changes. Extinguishing flames and saving people from danger will always be a core function, but a firefighter also deals with hazardous materials, road traffic incidents, medical emergencies, and natural disasters such as floods. The batteries inside electric cars are changing the risks of traffic accidents.
Climate change has been credited with everything from heavier rainfall and floods to an increase in wildfires. There is a lesson to be learned from the pandemic’s impact on the fire service, and the next global medical emergency could happen at any time. As the world changes, so does the fire service.
A new generation of fire service leaders is needed to address the uncertainty and challenges of 2024 beyond, and many of them are already in the rank and file of the fire service. Beginning in 2024, their careers will be shaped by radical changes in the fire service and the world at large. It will take thoughtful leadership and enormous dedication to answer the call.
