Fire

It’s almost time: the upcoming launch of NERIS Version 1

posted on Nov 25, 2024 in Fire

On October 29, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Fire Safety Research Institute, and the U.S. Fire Administration hosted an informational webinar, NERIS Version 1: Platform Launch and…

(Q3/2024) ESO Updates: Quarterly Product Enhancements

posted on Oct 18, 2024 in EMS

Welcome to this quarter’s product updates. Our customers are at the heart of what we do, which is why it’s incredibly important for us to keep you in the loop…

The Threat of WUI Fires and How to Prevent Them

posted on Oct 15, 2024 in Fire

As communities expand near forests, grasslands, and other natural areas, wildland fires–also known as wildland-urban interface (WUI) fires–are becoming more frequent and difficult to manage. Data from the 2024 ESO…

FAQs About NERIS: What Your Department Needs to Know

posted on Oct 01, 2024 in Fire

As fire departments prepare for the transition to the National Emergency Reporting Information System (NERIS), we understand there are many questions about how this new standard will fit into your…

Still on Track: NERIS Beta Launch and Latest Developments

posted on Sep 05, 2024 in Fire

Good news! The National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) is on track! On August 1, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Fire Safety Research Institute, and the U.S….

2024 ESO Trend Reports  

posted on Aug 05, 2024 in EMS

Get Informed. Be Prepared. Stay Ahead.  The ESO Trends Reports give a first glance into the advancements and innovative initiatives that are on track to transform the EMS, Fire Services,…

Reinventing Emergency Response: ESO’s Acquisition of Logis

posted on Jul 25, 2024 in EMS

  “The ability for us to link data from the 9-1-1 call through the hospital visit and post-acute care for the very first time is exciting and will help us…

(Q2/2024) ESO Updates: Quarterly Product Enhancements

posted on Jul 03, 2024 in EMS

Our customers are at the heart of what we do, which is why it’s incredibly important for us to keep you in the loop on the exciting changes to come….

ESO’s Safety Week: Key Insights and Learnings

posted on May 13, 2024 in EMS

ESO kicked off the month of May with its inaugural Safety Week, held from May 6th to May 10th, 2024. The week-long celebration and educational initiative united our organization, emphasizing…

It’s Happening: The Latest NERIS Development Updates

posted on May 09, 2024 in Fire

The National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) remains on track to be active by Q1 of 2025. On May 2, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Fire Safety…

Wave 2024 Recap: Top 6 Key Topics in EMS & Fire Industries

posted on Apr 19, 2024 in EMS

From April 2-5, the top fire services and EMS industry thought leaders and data analysts gathered at Wave 2024 to share what trends they’re forecasting for both fields and how…

(Q1/2024) ESO Updates: Quarterly Product Enhancements

posted on Apr 02, 2024 in EMS

Thanks to your continued feedback and dedication to helping us improve ESO products, we have so many highlights to share from Q1.  Additionally, we are excited to give you a…

2024 ESO Fire Service Index

posted on Apr 02, 2024 in Fire

Big changes are happening in the fire service industry and data is at the forefront. On the industry level, the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) is set to replace…

Protecting Your Firefighters’ Physical Health

posted on Jan 31, 2024 in Fire

January is Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the critical issue of increased cancer risk among firefighters, along with the importance of effective safety and…

(Q4/23) ESO Updates: Quarterly Product Enhancements

posted on Jan 11, 2024 in EMS

Happy New Year! As 2024 begins, there are many things we are looking forward to in the new year, including a quickly approaching Wave 2024 featuring ESO Training Academy, as…

Protecting Your Department’s Mental Health

posted on Dec 14, 2023 in EMS

Just as important as EMS clinicians’ and firefighters’ physical health, is the protection of their mental health. According to the Ruderman White Paper on Firefighter mental health and wellness, the…

(Q3/23)ESO Updates: Quarterly Product Enhancements

posted on Nov 09, 2023 in EMS

In listening to feedback from our users and customers, we’ve recognized that many of you want to stay in the loop on ESO product improvements. Our intent is to provide…

Does your department’s response performance stack up?

posted on Aug 31, 2023 in EMS

In both fire and EMS services, response time is obviously a crucial part to a successful resolution of an incident. However, it’s just one of a few different factors to…

Introducing ESO Logistics Management

posted on Aug 16, 2023 in EMS

With ESO Logistics Management software, you can increase efficiency through smarter workflows and automating time-consuming tasks, while decreasing spending by optimizing your inventory and equipment. This is your platform for…

Product Spotlight: ESO Logistics Management

posted on Aug 14, 2023 in EMS

Streamline your entire operation by tracking processes, inventory, and equipment all in one place with ESO’s integrated logistics management solution. The benefits of ESO Logistics Management Combine three of ESO’s…

The Importance of Accurate Property Loss Reporting

posted on Aug 11, 2023 in EMS

In 2022, 80% of all fires reported took place on residential properties. Since these fires accounted for the vast majority of fire calls and a total estimated property loss of…

It’s Coming: The New NERIS Standard

posted on Jul 25, 2023 in Fire

The National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) is set to replace NFIRS by Q1 of 2025 – marking the biggest change to emergency response standard in the last 50 years….

Compassionate Care for Genderqueer and Transgender Trauma

posted on Jun 27, 2023 in EMS

LGBTQIA individuals face significant levels of health inequalities and disparities – and are at a higher risk for traumatic events and injuries resulting in hospitalization than cisgender individuals, regardless of…

The Fire Service’s Role is Changing.

posted on Jun 21, 2023 in EMS

In early 2023, we aggregated data from over 4,527,591 calls received by 1,461 fire departments nationally in 2022, using this data to track shifts in collective incident types and compare…

Introduction to ESO Asset Management

posted on May 07, 2023 in EMS

With ESO’s Asset Management, you can ensure you make the most out of your expensive equipment with everything from maintenance reminders, user-friendly checklists, lifetime recordkeeping, and more. Do you want…

Introduction to ESO Inventory Software

posted on May 07, 2023 in EMS

With a job as important as theirs, your team deserves to have everything they need for a successful patient outcome. With ESO Inventory, you can ensure they’re stocked and ready…

Introduction to ESO Checklists

posted on May 07, 2023 in EMS

Stop tasks from slipping through the cracks by keeping track of your day-to-day operations, maintenance, and equipment checks in one secure, digital location. Think your organization can benefit from ESO…

2023 ESO Fire Service Index

posted on Mar 21, 2023 in Fire

A logical way to measure the performance of a fire department is to gauge how quickly they respond to emergencies—turnout time, travel time, response time, etc. While these are important…

2023 Fire Service Predictions

posted on Jan 25, 2023 in Fire

Our ESO fire service experts looked at emerging trends and predictions fire departments should prepare for in the new year. Two heads are better than one, they say. When it…

How to Craft a Data-driven Budget Proposal

posted on Dec 02, 2022 in Fire

Even as budgets tighten and generational difference shift the emergency services recruitment and retention landscape, communities expect exceptional customer service. Moving organizations forward toward growth and efficiency requires resolute leadership….

Community Risk Reduction: How Data-Driven Is Your Program?

posted on Nov 09, 2022 in Fire

Time to read: 4 minutes 30 seconds In the last 30 years, the number of reported fire deaths declined by nearly 50%. While the U.S. still averages 3,000 home fire…

Top 10 Reasons to Attend ESO Wave 2023

posted on Oct 20, 2022 in EMS

Building on more than a decade of annual conferences, Wave 2023 is shaping up to be one of our most exciting events to date. Hosted in the heart of Austin,…

2022 ESO Fire Service Index

posted on Apr 13, 2022 in Fire

A logical way to measure the performance of a fire department is to gauge how quickly they respond to emergencies—turnout time, travel time, response time, etc. While these are important…

Fire Data: Making the Connection from Output to Outcome

posted on Apr 12, 2022 in Fire

Datapoints and metrics continue to play an important role in the day-to-day function of fire agencies. Outputs are Useful and Important With numerous reporting requirements at national and state levels,…

IAFC Webinar: Fire Department Data Collection

posted on Mar 28, 2022 in Fire

The fire service is at the intersection of a data and technology revolution. The amount of data in the world today requires the fire service to prepare for tomorrow. Good…

How Telemedicine Is Changing Healthcare

posted on Mar 14, 2022 in EMS

The global health crisis of the last two years has pushed healthcare providers to look for creative ways to continue caring for a large number of sick patients while easing…

What to Consider Before Switching to Another Fire RMS

posted on Mar 14, 2022 in Fire

Whether you’re finally making the move from paper records to digital, or simply want to upgrade your digital record-keeping experience, switching to a new record management system for your fire…

Transitioning from Paper to Electronic Records

posted on Mar 11, 2022 in EMS

If your fire department or EMS agency is still holding on to the old-school, paper-based ways of tracking incidents, equipment checks, supply levels, and even personnel records, the good news…

The Importance of Tracking Exposure in Firefighting

posted on Mar 11, 2022 in Fire

Situational awareness is no longer just for the field. It’s a concept that can also be used after incidents and in down times. Having an understanding of your crew’s physical…

How Data Empower First Responders

posted on Mar 11, 2022 in EMS

In an information-rich age, data are constantly flowing to and from devices, towers, and satellites. While it can seem overwhelming at times, data are a valuable tool in the hands…

2022 Fire Service Predictions

posted on Jan 24, 2022 in Fire

Our ESO fire service experts looked at emerging trends and predictions fire departments should prepare for in the new year. Two heads are better than one, they say. When it…

Signs and Symptoms of PTSD

posted on Dec 23, 2021 in EMS

The concept of Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome, or PTSD, is not a new concept today; most of us associate it with combat veterans or someone who has experienced an extreme negative…

3 Things to Know About ISO Inspections for Fire Departments

posted on Nov 12, 2021 in Fire

If you’ve been in the fire industry for any substantial length of time, you’ve undoubtedly heard about Insurance Services Office (ISO) Inspections and their associated rankings. ISO’s Public Protection Classification…

5 Ways to Support Firefighter Wellbeing

posted on Oct 28, 2021 in Fire

The health and wellbeing of emergency responders is in the spotlight now more than ever. Major events like COVID-19, extreme weather, and wildfires are testing the resilience of first responders….

Top 5 Reasons to Attend Wave and ESO Training Academy

posted on Oct 26, 2021 in EMS

Back in 2010, when the first ESO Wave conference took place, we never envisioned what it would it would become. From a gathering of 100 attendees in a small hotel,…

How to Identify (and Win) Fire Department Grants

posted on Oct 12, 2021 in Fire

Fire departments, especially volunteer fire departments, are constantly faced with the challenge of keeping communities safe while staying within budget. Tightening budgets and limited resources require departments to be more…

Computer Automated & Aided Dispatch

posted on Sep 15, 2021 in EMS

In an increasingly connected world, technology is making response for prehospital care faster and more efficient than ever. Today’s computer-aided dispatch (CAD) technologies offer greater situational awareness, smarter use of…

Improving the Future of the Fire Service

posted on Aug 13, 2021 in Fire

These days, cars drive themselves, data is the new currency, and relationships are digital. As the world continuously changes, how can the fire service keep up? Better yet, how do…

Software Spotlight – ESO On-Demand Learning

posted on Jul 30, 2021 in EMS

It’s never been easier to manage and receive training on essential workplace technology than with ESO On-Demand Learning (ODL). Our online catalog includes interactive courses, recorded virtual training and access…

Introduction to ESO On-Demand Learning

posted on Jul 30, 2021 in EMS

Make it as easy as possible for your staff to master ESO’s extensive software suite, and your managers to oversee training, by giving them access to online ESO training. Not…

Buyer’s Guide: EMS Medical Supply Inventory Management

posted on Jul 13, 2021 in EMS

Selecting the ideal software to help your agency manage your EMS supply inventory can be tricky. Taking the time to review your needs and how each software product might fulfill…

How to Calculate EMS Supply Par Levels

posted on Jul 13, 2021 in EMS

The most effective way to maintain consistently optimal stock levels of EMS supplies is to use a par level range as your high (max stock) and low (reorder point) for…

7 Steps to Start Your Firefighting Career

posted on Jun 30, 2021 in Fire

A career in firefighting can be very rewarding, and it become a lifelong calling for those wanting to serve their communities. However, starting a fire career can be a challenging…

Wave 2021: Leadership Awareness & Predictive Fire Models

posted on Jun 28, 2021 in Fire

Using predictive models to identify buildings and residents most likely to experience a fire has come a long way in the last decade. In this session, we discussed how departments…

What Data Should You Look at Beyond NFPA Standards?

posted on Jun 23, 2021 in Fire

You’re likely not a stranger to NFPA 1710, but is that the only metric you should be using to measure your department’s performance? What are other helpful measurements that can…

ESO Fire Data API

posted on Jun 07, 2021 in Fire

ESO Fire Data API provides you with all your up-to-the-minute incident data the way you need it for automatic and optimized reporting. Plus, with the ability to integrate with third-party tools,…

Investing in Your Fire Department Volunteers

posted on May 20, 2021 in Fire

Today’s volunteers serve many roles in fire and EMS agencies, helping provide essential services in a challenging and stressful time for our country. Providing resources and support to your department’s…

Software Spotlight: ESO Inventory

posted on May 14, 2021 in EMS

Make sure you have everything you need right when you need it with ESO’s secure, integrated inventory management software. Benefits of ESO Inventory: Stay focused on what matters most with…

How Fire Departments Get Grants for COVID-19 Cost Recovery

posted on Apr 29, 2021 in Fire

Due to COVID-19’s disruption of daily life, fire agencies have not only had to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, but also losing money. To help fire departments get grants, we’ll…

ESO and FireRescue1’s Virtual Roundtable

posted on Apr 14, 2021 in Fire

Despite the size, location, staff makeup, call volume and leadership style, fire departments need to understand the importance of collecting and reporting fire byproduct exposure and decontamination, possible mental health…

ESO Mission: Improving Community Health and Safety

posted on Apr 14, 2021 in EMS

When minutes count and situational awareness can mean life and death, data is one of your most valuable tools. See how ESO’s Cloud-based software tools leverage the power of data…

ESO Mission: Data to Improve Patient Outcomes

posted on Apr 14, 2021 in EMS

The ability to collect, share, and analyze current data can help first response agencies adapt and adjust in real-time. This can make a real difference in handling the most intense…

ESO Mission: Improve Patient Care and Provider Well Being

posted on Apr 14, 2021 in EMS

Real-world data is key in delivering the best care to your community and protecting your providers. For example, Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management was the first to transfer a…

2021 ESO Fire Service Index

posted on Mar 29, 2021 in Fire

Our ESO fire experts looked at more than 2 million records from January 1, 2020-December 31, 2020 to create the 2021 ESO Fire Service Index report. The purpose of this…

Top Software Tools for Volunteer Fire Departments

posted on Mar 20, 2021 in Fire

Volunteer firefighters are key to keeping communities in the United States safe; in fact, volunteers make up 67% of firefighters in the country. Volunteer firefighters are particularly vital for small,…

5 Can’t-Miss Items to Document in a Fire Preplan

posted on Mar 09, 2021 in Fire

You can’t beat situational awareness when responding to a fire incident, and a key way to increase your knowledge of the involved property is by utilizing a fire preplan. The…

Best Grant Resources for Fire Departments

posted on Feb 12, 2021 in Fire

With budget cuts becoming more common, fire departments are looking for ways to infuse new dollars into their operations to improve training, recruit new crewmembers, obtain new equipment, conduct CRR…

What to Look for in NFIRS Reporting Software

posted on Feb 02, 2021 in Fire

Since the 1970s, the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) has been actively working towards its two main objectives: to 1) help state, local, tribal, and U.S. territory governments develop…

4 Ways to Increase Firefighter Retention

posted on Jan 14, 2021 in Fire

Among the many things that keep a fire chief up at night, retention of quality fire fighters most likely ranks at the top of the list. With an average turnover…

2021 Report on Fire Service Trends and Predictions 

posted on Jan 04, 2021 in Fire

Our ESO fire service experts looked at emerging trends and predictions fire departments should prepare for in the new year Two heads are better than one, they say. When it comes…

5 Features You Need in Fire Inspections Software

posted on Dec 31, 2020 in Fire

A large portion of a fire department’s service to its community is fire inspection. From new construction to regular checks on existing properties, fire professionals’ time making buildings safer pays…

5 Reasons NFIRS Data Matters to Your Fire Department

posted on Dec 23, 2020 in Fire

It’s a regular part of the business for fire departments these days: collecting and submitting data to the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) regularly. And while NFIRS has its own top 3…

What is NFIRS?

posted on Dec 21, 2020 in Fire

Data is a powerful tool in painting an accurate picture of the U.S. fire industry for creating helpful and necessary legislation, planning budgets, and more. But just like any set…

Fire Asset Management Explained

posted on Dec 18, 2020 in Fire

Firefighting technology continues to evolve rapidly, with advancements in vehicles, apparatus, SCBA, and other gear making the work “smarter” and more efficient every year. This new technology undoubtedly creates a…

Testimonial: Why You Should Make the Switch to ESO

posted on Dec 15, 2020 in EMS

Put your data to work for you by utilizing a single software solution that optimizes operations from start to finish. Whether you are collecting data on incidents, managing your personnel,…

See What Complete EMS & Fire Software Can Deliver

posted on Dec 15, 2020 in EMS

Put your data to work for you by utilizing a single software solution that optimizes operations from start to finish. Whether you are collecting data on incidents, managing your personnel,…

Smarter Software, Better Insights with ESO

posted on Dec 15, 2020 in EMS

You may have used several record management systems over your career, so what makes ESO tools stand apart? Experienced health professionals agree that the reporting capabilities coupled with the configurable,…

4 Ways to Keep Your Fire Station Organized

posted on Dec 15, 2020 in Fire

A fire department is much more than the image of firefighters running to the fire truck and speeding off to a burning building. While that is, of course, the most…

Scheduling Tools Solve Unique Challenges in the Firehouse

posted on Dec 10, 2020 in Fire

A firefighter knows going into his or her career that shift work in the fire industry is anything but typical. Long and varied hours, time away from home, and emergency…

ET3 and Your ESO Software

posted on Nov 20, 2020 in EMS

ESO is honored to support partners nationwide in the upcoming Emergency Triage, Treat, and Transport (ET3) pilot program and looks forward to serving participating agencies on January 1, 2021. We…

Introduction to ESO Hydrants

posted on Nov 13, 2020 in Fire

Take the guesswork out of managing your hydrants. ESO Hydrants tracks status and flow rates allowing your team to improve situational awareness, provide data for ISO requirements, and keep your…

What is a Fire Preplan?

posted on Nov 11, 2020 in Fire

Firefighters are accustomed to making their best assessment of a structure when they arrive at a fire incident. They base their response tactics and expectations on generalized construction concepts, community…

Winter is Coming: COVID-19

posted on Oct 13, 2020 in EMS

The end of October represents an inflection point in the most prestigious COVID-19 models, with predictions ranging from a substantial surge in cases by January 1, 2021 to a marked…

Components of CRR: The 5 E’s of Community Risk Reduction

posted on Oct 12, 2020 in Fire

A fire department knows its community probably more intimately than almost any other organization out there. From going inside people’s homes on medical calls, to inspecting new construction, to driving…

From Patient Zero to Present Day

posted on Oct 12, 2020 in EMS

Imagine receiving the following phone call:  you’ve got the first novel coronavirus patient in the U.S. in your jurisdiction, and you need to coordinate transport to the hospital. What’s your first move?    …

7 Scheduling Must-Haves for EMS & Fire Departments

posted on Sep 30, 2020 in EMS

One of the unique – and often challenging – elements of running an EMS agency or fire department is the complexity of scheduling requirements. Whether you’re deciding which staff members…

Shaping COVID-19 Response with EMS Data

posted on Sep 23, 2020 in EMS

As COVID-19 cases gained traction across the United States, agencies began planning their response. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) was able to leverage data from their existing data…

5 Mistakes to Avoid when Buying a New Fire RMS

posted on Sep 16, 2020 in Fire

For fire departments looking to improve efficiencies and get more use out of their own data, a digital fire records management system (RMS) can make getting insight into operations easier…

Spreadsheet vs. Software: What’s Best for Asset Management?

posted on Sep 10, 2020 in Fire

If you’ve spent any significant amount of time working in a fire department, you’re well-familiar with an important (but sometimes tedious) job of asset management. Hours spent meticulously doing checks…

How Analytics Help EMS Agencies Make Better Decisions

posted on Sep 10, 2020 in EMS

Whether your EMS agency is working to develop your next QI project or need a quick overview of all the agencies in your system, real-world data is key in making…

How to Share Your EMS & Fire Story with Data

posted on Sep 10, 2020 in EMS

Large-scale change and legislation are important in driving improvements in the fire and EMS industry. However, a key component of making change happen is in the ability of fire departments…

Improving EMS & Fire Department Employment Retention

posted on Sep 10, 2020 in EMS

Emergency response jobs are some of the most demanding in the world. Responders often risk their own personal safety and health on a daily basis, while working long shifts that…

How Software Helps Firefighters & EMS Work Smarter Together

posted on Sep 10, 2020 in EMS

Better communication between healthcare providers and first responders along the spectrum of care – both prehospital and hospital– can have real benefits for patients, communities, and agencies. Learn how ePCR,…

Dream Team: Who Should Help Select Your Next ePCR?

posted on Sep 04, 2020 in EMS

Purchasing a new electronic patient care record (ePCR) tool can be an investment for your agency on many levels. Besides the initial cost of purchase and training, you’ll use this…

Introduction to ESO Activities

posted on Sep 04, 2020 in EMS

Simplify your day to day tasks with the help of ESO Activities. You already provide exemplary clinical care for your community, and now you can highlight your non-response activities to…

Software Spotlight – EMS1 & FireRescue1 Academy

posted on Sep 03, 2020 in EMS

EMS1 and FireRescue1 Academy provide the resources you need to stay on top of continuing education requirements. You’ll find more than 900 full-length training courses on topics that span from airway…

Feature Highlight – ESO Scheduling and COVID-19

posted on Aug 28, 2020 in EMS

ESO Scheduling keeps you and your crew connected during COVID-19. Review new features designed to help you manage schedules with ease and adapt to changing policies related to coronavirus and health….

5 Tips for Planning Your Fire Department’s Budget

posted on Aug 28, 2020 in Fire

Fire departments across the country are feeling the squeeze of tighter budgets and making do with less. Sometimes pitching your budgetary needs can feel like going into battle, but it…

Software Spotlight – ESO Properties & Inspections

posted on Aug 28, 2020 in Fire

Whether you have a small engine company or run complex inspections, ESO Properties & Inspections will help you keep track of the data you need to prepare for emergency responses. It gives you…

Software Spotlight – ESO EHR for Fire

posted on Aug 27, 2020 in Fire

Say goodbye to your old ePCR and hello to ESO Electronic Health Record (EHR), the world’s easiest EMS clinical documentation software. It was created by medics for medics and works intuitively with your workflow. Never fill out multiple reports for the same…