If a firefighter from your department dies in the line of duty, do you know what to do?

Here are important steps that a department needs to take to help the firefighter's family, members of the department, and the community.

1. Notify the family of the fallen firefighter. Once you are sure this has happened, get information to members of the department, local and state officials, and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

2. Contact the Department of Justice's Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB) Program. When you report a firefighter death, have basic information available on the incident, your department, and the fallen firefighter and his or her immediate next-of-kin.

   PSOB offers a lump sum death benefit to survivors of public safety officers who die in the line of duty from a traumatic injury or heart attack. There are many procedures that need to be followed. Call PSOB even if you are not sure whether your firefighter's family will qualify for benefits under this program.

3. Use a checklist to determine what needs to be done immediately, before and during the funeral, and longer term. Be sure you know what the requirements are in your jurisdiction for conducting an autopsy.
4. If you would like to speak directly with another senior fire officer who has lost a firefighter in the line of duty and can offer some professional and personal support, please contact the Foundation.
5. Find out what benefits exist for survivors of fallen firefighters in your state. Then start contacting the state officials for each program. Benefits may include lump-sum death payments, workers' compensation, funeral benefits, pensions and retirement programs, scholarships, and non-profit/private support.
6. At the family's request, begin preparations for a fire service funeral or memorial service. A comprehensive Funeral Guide will help you plan a fitting tribute. Download a copy or call the Foundation at (301) 447-1365 to have one sent immediately.

Let the family know about organizations that provide funeral services and fire service uniforms free of charge.