Elections, Problems, Challenges, and Opportunities

几个月后,美国人民will elect a new president. Regardless of your political preferences, there will be some changes to the way things currently are, no matter who becomes the president. For the most part, national issues that affect local fire departments are not usually directly related to the day-to-day operations. However, there are issues that impact local service, and it behooves fire departments and chief officers to pay attention so that they can anticipate changes and more easily address any problems that arise. Essentially on the national level, political changes will potentially have an effect on the economy, regulations, and grant programs. As most of the funding for fire protection is from local sources, only significant downturns in the economy caused by national policies ultimately lead to problems. The political issues of significance have an indirect influence on emergency services. Further, candidates rarely offer specific information regarding issues affecting local fire departments.

From a local fire department perspective, fire and emergency issues have little if any effect on the outcome of the presidential election. There are no campaign issues, and fire protection is considered a local matter. There could be indirect consequences of policy matters-some beneficial and others maybe not. It is difficult to predict how things will shake out, but this does not mean that they should be ignored. Hopefully, regardless of who is elected, the economy will continue to improve. Many departments are still recovering from the last downturn; and should another occur, the problems would be even greater. Suffice to say, organizations and fire service personnel must pay attention to the election, even on a national level. There can be some indications of what can be expected, allowing time to adjust and address any potential issues. Getting ahead of problems is always the most beneficial approach.

This introduction brings us to the real crux of this article: Local elections have the potential to change the course of a fire department much more than a national or statewide election. It is here that fire departments and fire professionals should take notice and consider what could be presented. The departments and personnel should be some of the most educated voters in the community and must know the candidates and their positions. This allows them not only to decide personally but also to be prepared should other voters need help deciding. Often, members of the community, family, and friends are not wired into the local politics and will seek advice from those perceived to be on the inside. Being knowledgeable gives you credibility should someone ask your advice. But, as with most everything political, be aware that some people may be shopping and are looking for your opinion. Know the players, and be skeptical if a stranger or someone of whom you are not sure is looking for your opinion. You could end up on the wrong side of an elected official.