Top 10 Ways a Volunteer Fire Department Can Use a Broadcast Communication System

Volunteer fire departments have a big responsibility to protect life and property in their districts. And a lot of their success and effectiveness depends on frequent communication with each other and with the patrons they serve. But because of their volunteer status, members of a department don't always see each other regularly, and it takes extra effort to communicate and stay informed of the latest department news and trainings.

It's also easy for a department to go "unnoticed" by the public, at least until a major event happens or a fire affects them personally. Some people don't realize the time commitment involved to attend meetings, trainings, and generally prepare response protocols for the smallest of grass fires to largest of building fires. It's always helpful for departments to plan regular communications with the people they serve to remind them of that there are trained and dedicated people ready to help in times of emergencies. It's also helpful to remind patrons of the ways in which they can help prevent fires and keep themselves safe.

A broadcast communication system is a simple, yet timely and effective way to facilitate this communication, both to the public and to each member of the department. From sending reminders of fire dangers and safety precautions to announcing member meetings and trainings, a fire department can benefit short, regular contact with the public and members. Here are the top 10 ways a volunteer fire department could implement one:

1. Remind members about business meetings and training events.
2. Remind the public to check their smoke detectors on a monthly basis.
3. Notify residents of a potentially hazardous situation and implement an evacuation plan.
4. Inform residents (especially in rural areas) of high fire dangers and ask for their help in using extreme caution.
5. Recruit more volunteers to help serve the district.
6. Send out monthly fire safety tips to keep residents thinking about fire prevention.
7. Inform residents of special events happening at the fire station, such as health fairs, fundraisers, recruitment activities, etc.
8. Notify residents of road/street closures due to emergency situations.
9. Communicate with residents during times of major disasters, such as a significant fire event, tornado, hurricane, flood, etc. Departments can send messages about shelter options, food, and disaster assistance.
10. Communicate with members during significant events to coordinate response and relief efforts.