The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) is pleased and excited that the Foundation’s online learning platform, the Fire Hero Learning Network, has surpassed the milestone of 100,000 registered users. Since Fire Hero Learning Network went live, registered users have earned over 130,000 online learning certificates of completion. The knowledge gained from the modules better positions firefighters and officers as leaders in health and safety training in their respective departments. By taking Fire Hero Learning Network training, these professionals are living their commitment to reducing preventable line-of-duty deaths and being better prepared to handle the challenges if a line-of-duty death occurs. Chief Ron Siarnicki, Executive Director of the NFFF observed, “This milestone is a significant commentary on the value of the training provided through Fire Hero Learning Network modules. The NFFF looks forward to the site’s continued success and addition of new content that will motivate users to explore all the site has to offer.”
Visit www.fireherolearningnetwork.com to check out the platform and register now to immediately access any of the 12 free, high quality, online training modules. Each module takes less than hour to complete. Modules cover the Foundation’s key initiatives, including Courage to be Safe® and Taking Care of Our Own®, as well as hot topics in the fire service, including Responding to Violent Incidents and Stress First Aid for Fire and EMS Personnel.
In recognition of Fire Hero Learning Network reaching this milestone, the Foundation is encouraging all fire departments to take the Saco Challenge. The Saco Challenge originated at the Saco (ME) Fire Department where all full-time and call personnel have been challenged to complete a Fire Hero Learning Network module each month until all Fire Hero Learning Network modules are completed. The Saco Challenge is the brainchild of Saco Deputy Fire Chief Robert A. Martin. Deputy Chief Martin came up with the idea after taking several of the Fire Hero Learning Network modules while visiting family in Florida. With support of his fire chief, Chief John Duross, and fellow fire officers of Saco Fire, the department set aside time around responses, initiatives, and other training for members to complete Fire Hero Learning Network online modules each month. Deputy Chief Martin says, “The challenge keeps the workforce immersed in a level of safety awareness and appropriate risk-taking culture.” The Saco Fire Department is well on its way to completing the Saco Challenge and the NFFF urges all firefighters and fire departments to do the same!
