Our mission
From the preamble of the IAFF Constitution and Bylaws
Strength through united action, guided by intelligence is the hallmark of trade union organization. Believing such unity essential for the mutual protection and advancement of the interests and general welfare of fire fighters and emergency medical and rescue workers throughout the United States and Canada and other nations whose professional fire fighters and emergency medical and rescue workers share our International’s goals and ideals, we have formed this International Association the objects of which shall be to:
- organize all fire fighters and emergency medical and rescue workers;
- secure just compensation for their services and equitable settlement of their grievances;
- promote as safe and healthy a working environment for fire fighters and emergency medical and rescue workers as is possible through modern technology;
- promote the establishment of just and reasonable working conditions;
- place the members of the Association on a higher plane of skill and efficiency;
- promote harmonious relations between fire fighters and emergency medical and rescue workers and their employers;
- encourage the formation of local unions, state and provincial associations and joint councils;
- encourage the formation of sick and death benefit funds; to promote the research and treatment of burns and other related health problems common to fire fighters and emergency medical and rescue workers;
- encourage the establishment of schools of instruction for imparting knowledge of modern and improved methods of fire fighting and prevention and emergency medical and rescue technology; and
- cultivate friendship and fellowship among its members.