Using Fire Department Strategies for Survival in Tight Budget Times

Proposed by: David B Holmes

Presenter: Holmes, D. B., County Extension Director Iv, NACAA Member, Ocala, FL 34470

USING FIRE DEPARTMENT STRATEGIES FOR SURVIVAL IN TIGHT BUDGET TIMES

Holmes,*D.B.
Extension Agent, Florida Cooperative Extension, Marion County, Ocala, Florida 34470

Since the 1950s Fire Departments have used a combination of marketing and public relations to portray themselves as indispensible in the community. These efforts have been so successful that during tight budgetary times, when municipalities impose hiring freezes, Fire Departments are still filling positions. While protection of property has always been a basic Fire function, safer heating alternatives have reduced the incidence of fire. Recognizing a potentially diminished market for services, Fire departments diversified adding search and rescue functions and partnering with hospitals to offer ambulance and paramedic services. Sharing good news stories and actively marketing achievements enabled Fire/Rescue to create a feeling of indispensability among the general public. In many ways, Extension departments have opportunities to borrow from the Fire model. Food production, food safety and proper nutrition are critical ingredients for public welfare. Increased obesity (68 percent of all American adults – and 32 percent of all kids – are overweight or obese ) and diabetes give statistical evidence of continued need for Extension. Backed by university research, the organization enjoys good credibility and like Fire, Extension operates with many community, business and state partners. But Extension is seldom viewed in the same light of indispensability as Fire/Rescue and consequently is among the first to undergo cuts in tight budgetary times. The local Extension system must use a combination of planning, marketing, partnering and recognition to help citizens understand the need for these services.

All Accepted Proposals