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 MEMBER NEWSTFCA held its annual elections this past month, with the 3rd Vice President, Secretary, and seven Director positions on the ballot. Over 100 fire departments participated in the election, and we thank them as well as all of the candidates for their participation in this important aspect of your organization. Those who were elected are:
The Texas Fire Chief’s Association (TFCA) is now accepting nominations for its Annual Awards. To select the honorees, each department will have one vote for each of the awards/achievements listed below: • Fire Chief of the Year
• Lone Star Achievement • Fire Safety • Valor Award 
As leaders, your experiences and perspectives are what guide the future of the fire service. By taking this short survey, you’ll help strengthen the camaraderie, values, and priorities that unite us across departments statewide.
The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) is a 501C3 that was created and designed to help our heroes in the community with homeownership. Firefighters, EMS personnel, police, teachers, and veterans all qualify based on profession. It provides down payment and grant assistance toward a purchase of a home anywhere in Texas. It may also include a Mortgage Credit Certificate. For information, check with a mortgage professional for guidance. Visit TSAHC.ORG or reach to me stacylynn@highlandsmortgage.com for more information.
Twenty years ago, the Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives and NFFF Advocate Program were created to reduce preventable line-of-duty deaths and injuries. Passionate volunteers from all ranks and departments drive our mission forward. Our presence across the nation is more important than ever as today’s firefighters face growing challenges. We need dedicated advocates in every state and U.S. territory! YOU can help us impact survival and improve the fire service. Benefits of being an NFFF Adocate include: Advocates will be expected to represent their state in the promotion, presentation, and awareness of Firefighters Life Safety Initiatives. They will serve as the eyes and ears of the Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives Program for their state. To apply and for more information visit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
UPCOMING EVENTSTexas Fire Chiefs Workshop is a comprehensive networking opportunity for current Fire Chiefs (Head of Department). Earn the Additional 20 Hours Required by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection with your peers in one event!
1st Responder Conferences, co-hosted by Galveston County CISM Team, presents a multi-faceted two-day seminar and networking event for improving the mental health and wellness of our first responders. This is our 62nd conference and we are glad you will be joining us!
Inspired by the Texas Fire Chief’s Annual Workshop, this gathering is designed specifically for the Second in Command. Attendees will tackle common challenges encountered in their position and will discuss innovations and strategies used in departments throughout Texas. Past history shows that these formal and informal conversations provide dynamic networking opportunities made possible by the diverse and talented professionals of the Texas Fire Service.
Fire Department administrative staff carry a heavy burden. Without a strong administrative staff, organizations cannot achieve their full potential and operate efficiently. The goal of this conference is to provide position-specific training and development opportunities and to help connect FIRE/EMS administrative staff members, enabling them to provide the highest level of support possible.
INDUSTRY NEWSWildfire Today (10/27/2025)
A UC Berkeley study found Sonoma County farmworkers face health risks working in wildfire zones due to economic pressure, lack of protective gear, and weak oversight of emergency programs, highlighting urgent need for stronger protections and disaster pay.
NFPA Blog (10/22/2025)
School safety inspections often overlook key fire code issues like blocked exits, improper storage and outdated systems. Risk managers must ensure compliance through regular audits, staff training and collaboration with fire officials to reduce liability and enhance safety.
TEXAS STATE NEWSKHOU 11 (10/27/2025)
A maintenance worker fell about 30 feet from the second floor of a Houston fire station while performing duties, sustaining multiple broken bones. The incident highlights workplace safety risks and the need for stringent fall protection protocols.
Myhighplains.com (10/26/2025)
Assistant Amarillo Fire Chief Robert “Bob” Schwab was honored for decades of dedicated service, leadership and mentorship. His legacy includes a deep commitment to public safety and community impact.
 Cy-Fair Fire Department was recognized on First Responders Day, Oct. 28, by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation with the Ronald J. Siarnicki Seal of Excellence Award for commitment to firefighter survivability and quality of life. Cy-Fair FD demonstrates this commitment through embodiment of the original 16 Firefighter life-safety initiatives and migration toward the revised LSI model.
TCFP UPDATESThe Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) has seen a remarkable increase in workload and productivity over the past five years. The increases in funding, staffing and equipment, provided during the 88th Legislative session were greatly appreciated and has enabled us to make tremendous strides in the services we provide. Due to the continued growth of the Texas Fire Service, we are struggling to meet our mandated inspections while managing injury and complaint investigations.
TCFP offers “regional meetings” throughout the year in a variety of locations around the state. These meetings are opportunities for members of nearby fire departments and other regulated entities to meet some of our staff in person. We want to answer your questions, listen to your concerns, and give timely updates related to commission news. In addition, through a partnership with TEEX, CE will be awarded for your attendance at these meetings. For a list of all upcoming meeting dates, visit the Regional Meetings webpage.
TEEX NEWS
Online continuing education is a powerful tool that helps fire departments stay mission-ready while supporting professional growth. It offers flexible, cost-effective access to high-quality training that fits around demanding schedules and limited budgets. By delivering standardized, up-to-date content aligned with national best practices, online learning ensures firefighters are equipped with the latest knowledge and tactics. It also enables rapid response to emerging threats and evolving standards, while fostering career advancement and retention through accessible development opportunities. Investing in online education is an investment in safer communities and a stronger fire service.
The Texas Fire Chiefs Association (TFCA) is proud to announce a cooperative program with the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) that provides one TFCA member with the opportunity to attend the prestigious Fire Service Chief Executive Officer (FSCEO) program via a scholarship. Applications are due by October 31, and all applicants must meet the FSCEO program requirements. Complete the TEEX application, and submit a 500-word original statement explaining why you should be considered for this opportunity. This initiative reflects TFCA’s commitment to investing in the professional growth and leadership development of fire service leaders across Texas.
FIRE LAW BLOGIn this episode of Fire Law Roundup for October 27, 2025, Brad and Curt discuss a suit by five California firefighters a fire department’s failure to investigate a hidden camera; a jury award of $500k to a Florida chief who was improperly forced to resign; an ADA suit filed by a former Nashville Fire Department medic with PTSD; an appellate decision reinstating a $500k jury verdict against the driver of a Newport News Fire Department vehicle involved in a 2021 collision; and criminal charges brought against a Houston firefighter for using a colleagues credit card.
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