Be a Partner, Not a Customer: Fire Service Funding and Industry Relationships

<p>Fire departments need strong relationships with both elected officials and equipment manufacturers to protect funding, make informed purchasing decisions, and meet operational needs.</p><p>Chris Mc Loone shares key takeaways from the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA) annual meeting, covering two issues that matter to fire departments: advocating for federal funding and building stronger relationships with equipment manufacturers.</p><p>Chris discusses the importance of educating elected officials about the SAFER and Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) programs, particularly as new members of Congress take office. He also explores why successful equipment purchases depend on more than price and product specifications.</p><p>Drawing on his own experience, Chris explains how trust, flexibility, and an understanding of local operating conditions can help departments and manufacturers work together to find solutions. From purchasing PPE and SCBA to specifying fire apparatus and providing feedback on new products, the goal is a lasting partnership that benefits both the fire service and the industry.</p><p>The message is simple: Be a partner, not a customer.</p><p>Subscribe to Fire Apparatus &amp; Emergency Equipment for more discussions on apparatus, equipment, technology, and fire service operations.</p><p>This episode is brought to you by RESCUE Intellitech: <a href="https://www.rescueintellitech.com/en-us/products/solo-rescue/?utm_source=clarion-fire-apparatus-emergency-equipment&amp;utm_medium=paid+&amp;utm_campaign=podcast-september-2026&amp;utm_content=solo-rescue-na" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">https://www.rescueintellitech.com/en-us/products/solo-rescue/?utm_source=clarion-fire-apparatus-emer...</a></p><p>This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: <a href="http://TheFireStore.com" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">TheFireStore.com</a></p>