From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor

CFSI is Around the Corner!

CFSI? To our readers, I ask if you know what the Congressional Fire Service Institute is?

Every year, the departments that make a difference, send a contingency of representatives to Washington, DC, to partake in the National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner. In 2023, the CFSI Symposium will take place on May 22- 23.

The purpose of CFSI is to “Educate Members of Congress about Fire and Life Safety.” Formed in 1987, the Congressional Fire Services Caucus was established to just that, educate members of Congress about the work of the fire and emergency services, which goes far beyond simply fighting fires. It is important to know that, “The Fire Caucus was created to be a bipartisan group where Republicans and Democrats could work together to learn about our nation’s fire and emergency services, improve the readiness of local first responders, and jointly recognize their valor and dedication.” Alist of Fire Caucus members can be found on CFSI’s website.

Each year, approximately 2000 fire and emergency officials participate in this event. They attend seminars, conduct meetings with members of Congress and network to build relationships. At the conclusion of the symposium, the attendees assemble in the Washington Hilton