IL HR0247

Over 374 firefighters in the United States lost their lives in the line of duty between 2016 and 2021, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Identifies five top causal factors (NIOSH 5) contributing to line-of-duty firefighter deaths: improper risk assessment, lack of incident command, lack of accountability, inadequate communications, and lack of standard operating procedures or failure to follow them.

Urges fire departments and public safety agencies to analyze their department culture and establish practices promoting training, communication, and accountability to mitigate the NIOSH 5 factors.

Encourages departments to conduct post-fire critiques, study NIOSH reports, utilize the Firefighter Near Miss Reporting System, implement Crew Resource Management Training, and upgrade radio communication systems with Emergency Alert Button technology.

Directs copies of the resolution be sent to the Illinois State Fire Marshal, Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois, Illinois Fire Chiefs Association, and other state fire safety organizations.