News - IAFF

Oct 17, 2025
Fire fighters warn single-exit housing designs put residents at greater risk

The IAFF and other fire service groups are pushing back against proposals in the United States and Canada that would allow single-stairwell residential buildings, saying they jeopardize escape routes and complicate fire fighter response.

Occupational Safety

news
Oct 17, 2025
Virginia expands cancer coverage for fire fighters after Loudoun County captain’s death

A new law clarifies that esophageal and related cancers are covered under Virginia’s presumptive statute – thanks to IAFF advocacy and Local action.

Cancer

Labor Rights

LODD

news
Oct 17, 2025
Senate passes bipartisan Honor Act recognizing fire fighter cancer as line-of-duty

IAFF-backed bill extending PSOB benefits to families of fire fighters who die from job-related cancer now moves to U.S. House.

Cancer

Legislation – US

Occupational Safety

news
Oct 16, 2025
IAFF urges Parliament to protect fire fighters and paramedics from rising violence

Union pushes for Criminal Code amendments as attacks on first responders increase across Canada.

Canada

Legislation – Canada

Occupational Safety

news
Oct 14, 2025
How to become an EMT / Paramedic: Step-by-step tips from IAFF members

Here’s how to start a career in EMS in the U.S. and Canada.

Training

news
Oct 10, 2025
Altoona fire fighters secure five-year contract with major gains in pay and staffing

New agreement adds six hires, boosts wages and wellness benefits, and strengthens public safety across the city.

Collective Bargaining

Labor Rights

news
Oct 10, 2025
Nova Scotia responds to calls for safer, stronger fire services

The tragic loss of a Truro, NS Local 1627 member in a 2019 training accident, and the advocacy of his family and the IAFF, has led to new legislation aimed at improving safety standards and strengthening fire services throughout Nova Scotia. Photo caption: Far left Truro, NS Local 1627 member Errison Blackie (brother of Skyler Blackie) and Halifax, NS Local 268 President Brendan Meagher. Center: Minister Kim Masland. Far right APPFFA VP Mike Sears and APPFFA President Joe Triff.

Canada

Legislation – Canada

Occupational Safety

Training

news
Oct 10, 2025
IAFF mobilizes to support federal members during shutdown

As federal fire fighters continue working without pay, the IAFF is pressing Congress to reopen the government and pay federal fire fighters for their work.

news
Oct 9, 2025
Irving fire fighters secure first collective bargaining agreement

With support from the IAFF and state leaders, Irving, TX Local 2073’s first collective bargaining agreement establishes a plan to achieve four-person staffing on every fire apparatus by 2029.

Collective Bargaining

Labor Wins

news
Oct 3, 2025
Outdated rigs and years-long delays: How the apparatus crisis is hitting IAFF members on the ground

Departments big and small are unable to secure new fire engines, trucks, and pumpers – and it’s putting their communities in danger.

Occupational Safety

news