Recently, a PIO asked me for advice about how to get recruits and members involved in the department’s community service activities. I told him that his message must be compelling. The fastest way to grab any audience’s attention is to tell them up front what’s in it for them to do whatever it is you’re [Continue Reading…]
“Connect the Dots” Series: Who Knew Fire Departments Foster Economic Growth?
During a conversation this week about the work I do with first responder clients, a colleague asked me what value fire departments provide. Here’s how the conversation went: Pat: They save lives, protect property and the environment, and foster economic growth. Colleague: Wait – what? What do you mean they foster economic growth? How do [Continue Reading…]
Filed Under: Connect the Dots, Demonstrating Value
“Connect the Dots” Series: Let the Media Showcase Your Value
The Long Beach (CA) Fire Department’s Junior Lifeguard program is a time-honored tradition in the beach city the department’s lifeguards have served since 1906. Started in the late 1960s, the Marine Safety Division’s Junior Lifeguard program provides students from ages 9 to 17 the opportunity to learn about topics such as lifeguard rescue techniques, emergency [Continue Reading…]
Filed Under: Connect the Dots, Demonstrating Value
Introducing the “Connect the Dots” Series
Does your agency do a stellar job of demonstrating its impact on public safety? If not, then my new series “Connect the Dots” may be of interest to you. “Connect the Dots” is a series of periodic articles, case studies, and examples that illustrate the value first responders provide to their communities and suggest ways [Continue Reading…]
Filed Under: Announcements, Connect the Dots, Demonstrating Value
