The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, in cooperation with Stonehouse Media, is pleased to present When an LODD Occurs: Incident Commanders Speak, our latest resource for preparing incident commanders (IC) to cope with a firefighter line-of-duty (LODD). In addition to our recent launch of the IC to IC program, which provides support to incident commanders who have experienced a LODD on their watch, this new proactive one-hour training module will prepare officers for the unique challenges that occur in the aftermath.
Through our work in supporting incident commanders, we know that when a line-of-duty death occurs, an IC may face emotional, personal, political, social, legal, and relationship effects. While no incident commander wants to be involved in a line-of-duty death, the reality is if a tragedy occurs on their watch, they are thrust into an experience like no other. Only other incident commanders who have faced these same tragedies can understand. One incident commander described it as “a very exclusive club that no one ever wants to join.”
The When an LODD Occurs: Incident Commanders Speak course incorporates this knowledge and addresses the potential psychological and operational impact of a firefighter line-of-duty death. It provides the IC with guidance for meeting the needs of the surviving family and department members, as well as tips for accessing behavioral health resources. This self-paced online course also addresses how to handle media scrutiny, prepares them to participate in an operational review of the incident, and brings awareness of potential legal issues.
“A firefighter line-of-duty death forever changes the lives of families, departments, and communities. Through this new training, incident commanders can prepare to face a tragedy if it happens in their department and be ready for any challenges that they may face,” said Chief Ron Siarnicki, Executive Director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
This program was generously supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance, Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) National Law Enforcement Survivor Support and National Firefighter and First Responder Survivor Support Program.
To access this and other valuable online training, visit and register for an account at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s Fire Hero Learning Network at: www.fireherolearningnetwork.com.
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