Slow down, you're about to enter a reconstruction zone.

When DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff took office last spring, he ordered an intensive review of operations, policies and structures of the Department of Homeland Security organization. Results of this review were released this week and while the ink isn't dry, it appears that the changes for the fire service are positive. Trying to get a yes or no out of the government is tough, and in true Washington, D.C., tradition I suspect there will be a few more announcements late Friday afternoon (thus allowing the impact to subside by Monday morning).

If you haven't seen the Department of Homeland Security's Six-Point Agenda, go to www.dhs.gov. The first of the six points is about "preparedness" and the sixth is "maximize mission performance."

In Chertoff's speech on Thursday he said, "The Department of Homeland Security has sometimes been viewed as a terrorist-fighting entity, but of course, we're an all-hazards department. Our responsibilities certainly include not only fighting the forces of terrorism, but also fighting the forces of natural disasters."

Those who have met with Chertoff all report that he listens attentively, asks good questions, is open to suggestions and is a practical man. The fire service is hopeful, and its my impression that your pleas have been heard and certainly have been acknowledged by Chertoff.

The interesting part is the proposed organizational chart. It appears that the little box for the U.S. Fire Administration reports to an under secretary. Chertoff is also appointing a chief medical officer, again in an org box on the same level as USFA. FEMA is on another chart. This looks like some serious moving of boxes.

Where will the people come from to fill those high-level positions? A possible solution appears to be forthcoming from an unexpected, but most welcome source.

Watch this space.

Janet Wilmoth, Editor