Chris Cavalier

It’s a simple message and a shame it even has to be said but it’s one often overlooked or even dismissed by some. The fire service has its fair share of those who merely occupy seats, who are content with doing the bare minimum and offering nothing beyond average effort. Don’t let these people bring you down, because this job demands more. Love the job, embrace your passion, and give it your all—the service and the citizens are counting on dedicated people like you!

Dekalb County, GA Engine 13 🔥

We NEVER wish for anyone’s misfortune or for a fire to happen, but they are going to happen regardless… we just want to be there when they do! The crews that do it more often always have better camaraderie and less drama!

No one can be 100% positive all the time but there’s a big difference between having an occasional tough moment and being negative every single day. In this job, there’s so much to be grateful for, and I firmly believe the positives outweigh the negatives. However, it takes the right mindset and attitude to truly see and appreciate those positives. Every single member of a fire department plays a role in shaping its morale and culture. While some individuals may have a greater influence, each of us has the ability—and responsibility—to control what we can. Small, consistent efforts to bring positivity to our environment can have a greater impact than we might realize. If you’re frustrated by negativity or low morale, take a moment to reflect: are you contributing to the problem, or are you part of the solution? Positivity is just as contagious as negativity, and each of us has the power to inspire those around us. Be the change you want to see. Lead with positivity, and you’ll encourage others to do the same.

Building on yesterday’s post, placing the right people in the right positions is crucial to creating and sustaining a successful culture. At its core, any organization that values its employees, shows appreciation, and provides the tools and environment for success will see employee satisfaction and performance thrive across nearly any metric. The fire service is no exception. However, some cultures can work against this ideal for various reasons, and the challenges don’t always stem from the chief or administrators—it could be anyone undermining the success of individuals or teams. Morale and culture are everyone’s responsibility, and we all have room to improve. Firefighters who enjoy coming to work will perform better, care more, and advocate for the department and its people, not against them.

Just another day in the office with the FDNY! Video credit to @vuralelibol

Leadership and authority are two different things. Much like those with good intentions are the clear choice over those who just want authority. A fire department that chooses someone’s authenticity over someone’s chase for authority will perform and function better in almost every way. It’s clear what departments understand this and those that do not…

One of the most needed traits of a firefighter in general is initiative, even beyond a probationary firefighter. This is a pretty obvious trait when someone demonstrates it and also obvious when they don’t. Some disagree that actions in firehouses don’t translate to emergencies but I would very much beg to differ. Hear me out: Of course, there’s a difference between pulling lines and taking out the trash… but while someone’s action may change depending on the situation, their mindset may not. Personally, I have NEVER seen a firefighter who was engaged and a hard worker in the station NOT have that same work ethic on the fire ground. On the flip side, people who are lazy and disengaged in the station, generally have that same attitude on the fire ground. If people can be trusted and relied upon to do small things, correctly and on their own, this will generally translate to the greater and larger tasks this job requires. If they pass up tasks or work around the station, chances are they will on scene. Hell, since most fire departments rarely fight fire anymore, sometimes the ONLY time new firefighters can actually prove themselves in some capacity is their work around the station. Is this a perfect indicator of emergency scene or fire ground performance? Maybe or maybe not, but it’s a good start in the right direction.

‼️‼️ - For all the naysayers: yes, you can prioritize citizens’ safety while still protecting yourself and your crew. Putting others first does not mean disregarding safety protocols—it’s about balance, preparation, and calculated risks. This is basic firefighter training 101. No fire department’s mission statement ever read: your safety is not our priority. But, imagine if it did? How would your community’s citizens and visitors feel in your jurisdiction? Yknow, the same people literally funding your fire department to literally protect and serve them at THEIR convenience… Our goal in any operation is to take calculated risks, not reckless ones. Training and experience are what enable us to face danger effectively. At its core, this profession is about putting others before ourselves. Whether it’s fighting fires or directing traffic, any task can be dangerous—the difference lies in how we prepare to face those dangerous. The amount of risk you are willing and able to tolerate is directly correlated to your amount of training and experience. Often, those labeling certain actions as ‘unsafe’ lack the training or experience to fully understand the context. As for putting someone else’s safety above your own—that’s the job we chose. It’s no surprise or controversy; it’s inherent to the oath we took. When the moment comes, people count on us to rise to the occasion. That’s not my opinion—it’s the very essence of what it means to be a firefighter.

Fresno getting after it! •••••• #firefighter #firefighters #fire #firedepartment #fireman #firefighting #firetruck #rescue #firerescue #firefighterlife #brotherhood #firedept #firstresponders #fdny #fireservice #thinredline #emergency #firefighterposts #pride #morale #Culture #leadership #firemen #leader #mentor #reputation #TailboardLeadership

For us, it might be just another call. For the caller, it could be the worst day of their life. Even situations we see as ‘routine’ or ‘minor’ may feel catastrophic to someone unfamiliar with such emergencies. That’s why professionalism, expertise, compassion, and a genuine commitment to serving others must be demonstrated on every single call. Most people will only interact with the fire department once or twice in their lifetime. The least we can do during that interaction is uphold the standard they expect—and deserve, that one interaction may leave a lasting impression…

It has become painfully clear, through various actions and attitudes, that too many so-called ‘firefighters’ lack genuine care for the mission, their fellow members, their department, and—most concerning—the citizens they serve. Across the world, in both volunteer and career settings, and across all generations, we see people disengaged and performing far below their potential. No, you don’t have to eat, sleep, and breathe the fire service. But there’s a vast difference between giving your best and barely caring. It’s not about perfection—it’s about pride, purpose, and accountability. So, let me be clear: Be a FIREFIGHTER, not just an employee of a fire department. This job demands heart, not just attendance. The citizens and your brothers and sisters deserve nothing less.