The USFA's association with the DHS brought a number of new opportunities to represent the nation's fire service. The National Operation Center (NOC), for example, works closely with the U.S. FA in order to create a safe environment for citizens. The Center provides the DHS with data regarding national and global situational awareness. According to Dickinson, it is vital that the fire service be represented in this organization, as it can only protect the country's citizens properly if it has access to the most relevant, up-to-date information regarding threats to the country.

Another contribution by the USFA within the Preparedness Directorate is the Incident

Management Teams created in order to handle emergencies. These teams are trained according to the best, most up-to-date training techniques of the fire service. The USFA staff are also making important contributions to the Emergency Support Function #4 of the National Response Plan. Training, data collection, prevention and preparedness, and ensuring that firefighters are prepared for the challenges of terrorism form further parts of the functions the USFA performs within the DHS and the Preparedness Directorate. In terms of the terrorism threat, the fire service is therefore much more involved in the politics of prevention and response than the case had been before 9/11.

In terms of natural disaster, Hurricane Katrina has been the worst in many years. Like 9/11, it shook the nation to its core. Also like 9/11, the fire department, along with other...

One of the interesting results of Katrina is the focus on preparedness of firefighters themselves and their families. If firefighters are concerned about their families and their own safety, they cannot be properly focused on response. Furthermore, the fire department also needs to plan for a continuity of operations in the midst of local disaster. The public relies on this service to help them when disaster strikes. Therefore it is essential that the fire department keeps itself as safe and protected as possible, especially during disasters such as Katrina or 9/11.
In conclusion, the United States has faced particularly difficult times during the last decade. These times have provided the fire service with valuable lessons regarding preparedness and response. Along with other services, it acts as the protector of its local community and the general public. In terms of response, the fire department should therefore be optimally prepared for any contingencies at all times to such an extent that even in disasters such as 9/11 or Katrina, it is able to provide the public with immediate response and protection.

Sources

Dickinson, Charlie. USFA Transition to the Federal emergency Management Agency (FEMA). United States Fire Administration, May 4, 2007. http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/about/chiefs-corner/

Nicholson, John. Fire Service and homeland security. NFPA Journal, Mar/Apr. 2003. Online database: FindArticles.com