The International Association of Fire Chiefs and the U.S. Fire Administration have announced the release of a Guide to Model Policies and Procedures for Emergency Vehicle Safety.

This new, Web-based educational program is aimed at reducing the impact of vehicle-related incidents on the fire service and the communities they protect. The guide provides in-depth information for developing policies and procedures required to support the safe and effective operation of all fire and emergency vehicles, as well as privately-owned vehicles.

"The IAFC understands the challenges faced by fire departments with respect to emergency vehicle safety,” said IAFC President James B. Harmes. "We hope that you find the tools and resources provided in this comprehensive guide developed in partnership with the USFA of benefit to improving the safety, health, and survival of firefighters and the citizens they serve."

This program is a result of a partnership between the IAFC and the USFA related to the Emergency Vehicle Safety Initiative, a USFA project developed to reduce the number of firefighters killed while responding to or returning from emergencies.

"Vehicle crashes remain the second leading cause of on-duty firefighter deaths," said Charlie Dickinson, USFA acting administrator. "Vehicle accidents terminate the mission of all firefighters to arrive first and then assist individuals needing emergency help. A firefighter that does not get to the scene safely helps no one.”

The Guide to Model Policies and Procedures for Emergency Vehicle Safety and related program resources are available on the IAFC Web site. Additional information about the program, as well as other USFA efforts in emergency vehicle safety, may be found on the USFA Web site.