Traditionally the FRI call for papers opens in the fall, closes before Thanksgiving and the agenda is set—not this year! While we still completed that part of the process, it was only the foundation for the FRI program for 2010.

A second call for papers was announced in early January and the submission period just recently wrapped up. This opportunity for submissions allowed the program planning council to capture emerging topics and the latest in leadership education. New presentations have been added to the agenda, including sessions you won’t see anywhere else. Hear about topics such as:

• Medical Operations in Haiti
• The “Snowpocalypse” of 2010
• The Fort Hood Incident and Response

Look for more to come on other emerging topics being covered at FRI 2010.

The IAFC and FRI continue to cover the most relevant topics facing fire chiefs. In 2009 Weathering the Economic Storm program was a huge success, and FRI 2010 will feature a new series of workshops focused on economic recovery. Many departments have made drastic budget cuts, laid-off employees and faced other difficult cost-cutting measures. But this has also made departments everywhere evaluate how things are done, and in several cases, organizations have been able to streamline processes and increase efficiencies.

Recovering From the Economic Storm will feature groups who have found opportunities in downsizing, replaced tedious tasks with inexpensive technologies, and positioned their department for success in the future. Look for more details in future blog updates.