Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
As a National and internationally respected department, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue is one of only three agencies worldwide that is accredited, holds an ISO 1 rating, and serves a population of over one million.
Nearly 1,500 uniformed men and women operate from thirty-nine fire and rescue stations strategically positioned throughout Fairfax County. Additionally, about 180 civilians provide key support functions from headquarters and other locations.
Introduction to the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
More About the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
Fairfax Fire Chaplains
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Support Fire Service personnel and their families, spiritually, emotionally and physically through qualified chaplains.
“A MINISTRY OF PRESENCE NOT PRESSURE”
The role of chaplains in the fire service today is closer to that of a counselor than that of religious advocate. They are called on to counsel people of all faiths in moments of personal crisis, which can occur for emergency responders as well as civilian victims. The presence of Chaplains at emergency scenes always projects a sense of calmness during those chaotic and emotional times that occur during emergency operations. We have witnessed some of the most burley and rugged firefighters remove their helmets and bow their heads when the chaplain enters a burned-out room to administer last rites to a fire victim. This simple gesture seems to place some perspective into the loss of a human life at that fire. It serves at once the needs of the firefighters and the deceased fire victim.
A fire chaplain’s ministry takes the form of ministering to crisis victims, fire department funerals, severe injury and death notifications, confidentiality, critical incident stress counseling, and integrating themselves into the fire department. An effective chaplain will become part of the very fabric of the department he serves and will build a strong scene of trust with the public. He attends promotional ceremonies, award ceremonies, some training programs, funerals, and hospital visits and assists with Red Cross and similar organizations. Most importantly, he is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Tailboard – Building Health, Wellness and Resiliency – A Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department publication with a goal to discuss topics and issues related to the challenges of our profession and connect you with resources and strategies to combat the negative impacts and increase overall resiliency.