Fire Engineering’s Training Volunteer Firefighters to Be Combat Ready spotlights a new NVFC/VCOS guide aimed at strengthening volunteer and combination departments. The series opens with Section 1: Training Delivery and Engagement Methods, emphasizing that firefighters volunteer to serve and protect communities, not for pay. The guide provides chiefs and training officers with practical tools to build a program that makes responders combat ready without overburdening volunteers. Key ideas include outcome-based training, needs and capability assessments, and a clearly defined set of performance objectives. The article argues for a blended approach—combining reading, online coursework, drills, and in-person practice—to accommodate busy volunteers while maintaining high standards. Instructors should harness the experience of seasoned members as mentors, and programs must include evaluation to verify skills on scene. The NVFC and IAFC VCOS joined to publish a resource designed to protect communities and volunteers alike, enabling sustainable, effective training for years to come ahead. For More Information https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighter-training/training-volunteer-firefighters-to-be-combat-ready/
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