The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) is proud to announce the release of a new report detailing the Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives Matrix—a modern, comprehensive framework designed to guide the future of firefighter safety, health, and leadership. This milestone report reflects the NFFF’s ongoing commitment to reducing preventable line-of-duty deaths and strengthening safety across the American fire service.
Developed through collaboration, research, and engagement with fire service leaders and Fire Hero Families, the report introduces a reimagined matrix grounded in four pillars and three perspectives. This new structure creates a flexible, interconnected system that evolves with emerging risks, operational demands, and cultural shifts within the fire service.
Born from the 20th Anniversary Firefighter Life Safety Summit
The report builds on the work presented at the 20th Anniversary Firefighter Life Safety Summit, held August 27–29, 2024, in St. Louis, Missouri. As part of the NFFF’s long-standing commitment to preventing line-of-duty deaths, the Summit convened thought leaders, advocates, and Fire Hero Families to advance the national conversation on firefighter safety.
Development of the Matrix was informed by:
- Recommendations from the 2022 San Antonio Summit
- Insights from the Advocate “all hands” summit in Tucson, Arizona (November 2023)
- A nationwide series of virtual town halls led by the NFFF Advocate Manager
- Guidance from the Summit program planning committee
- The U.S. Fire Administrator’s call for the fire service to speak with One Voice
- Extensive conversations with Fire Hero Families and fire service members
These collective perspectives shaped a forward-thinking, responsive framework firmly rooted in lived experience and industry expertise.
A Pivotal Advancement for the Fire Service
The new Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives Matrix represents a defining moment in the evolution of fire service safety and leadership. The updated Matrix offers:
- A modernized structure to guide decision-making and cultural transformation
- Flexibility to adapt as technologies, hazards, and best practices evolve
- A unified, shared language for safety across all levels of the fire service
This report delivers the insights, recommendations, and roadmap needed to support a safer and stronger fire service community.
Fire service members, leaders, advocates, and supporters are encouraged to explore the full report and learn more about the updated Initiatives.
You can read the report and find additional resources at untileveryonegoeshome.com.
Together, we continue strengthening the fire service—and honoring our shared commitment to ensure that every firefighter goes home safely.
