Energy Hazard Training for Responders: Introduction to the IAFF Energy Hazard Guide Resource
The landscape of the modern fireground is changing rapidly. Legacy energy hazards like substations, transformers, switchgear, and overhead hazards have never been a priority for the fire service. This mentality has resulted in an energy hazard acumen that is literally on life support. Now, the mad dash to catch up has begun. Lithium-ion batteries have shined the spotlight on this training gap and yet the national fire service continues to deny the real scope of the gap. By and large, we do not understand legacy energy, and it is evident in the lack of training for emergencies that involve these hazards. One thing is for certain: Energy is not waiting for the national fire service to catch up. Absent the vision to recognize the magnitude of the gap and connect all the energy dots, we are unlikely to keep pace with the modernization of the energy platforms in our work environment. To address these challenges, the free resource Energy Hazard Guide (EHG) was created and released in June 2025. It is a living document intended to ensure we are prepared for both legacy as well as modern energy challenges. Learn about its content and how to use it.
