Resources for First Responders

The Maryland Fire & Rescue Institute

The Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI) of the University of Maryland is the state’s training and education system for all-hazard responses. The Institute plans, researches, develops and delivers quality programs to prepare agencies and individuals to protect life, property and the environment.

The National Association of Firefighters

When there’s a national emergency or natural disaster — from hurricanes, wildfires, floods and tornadoes to mass casualty events and civil disturbances — fire fighters and paramedics remain on the frontlines serving their communities.

And when they — and their families — are victims of these events or experience loss, the IAFF Foundation provides disaster relief, including financial relief, food, water and other supplies, clothing and shelter, medical aid, behavioral health counseling and more.

In sacrificing their lives to save others, fallen fire fighters often leave a family behind. The IAFF Foundation provides scholarships to children of IAFF members who make the ultimate sacrifice. Every year, the Foundation helps more than 40 students pay for post-secondary education.

It is through the Foundation that we provide support to the families who attend the IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial annual observance. From the flags to transportation to the medals we give to those who’ve lost a loved one, the Foundation makes sure that the families are taken care of throughout the memorial service weekend.

When an IAFF member or family member suffers a burn injury, the Foundation provides financial assistance and a peer support network to ensure they receive proper care and treatment with their families by their side.

The Foundation also holds the International Burn Camp each year in Washington, DC. The week-long camp is a life-changing opportunity for teenage burn survivors and the fire fighter camp counselors who work to make a difference in the lives of these young people.

Your support of the IAFF Foundation is a helping hand that makes all of this work on behalf of our members possible.