NFFF's Taking Care of Our Own is being presented in Abbeville County

November 21, 2025

An important training opportunity designed to help departments prepare for the unthinkable is coming up in the new year. On January 31, 2026, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) will host its Taking Care of Our Own program at Erskine College in Due West.

No department ever wants to face a line-of-duty death or serious injury, but preparation is one of the most meaningful ways we can support our firefighters, their families, and our communities. This daylong program provides departments with the tools, guidance, and best practices needed to navigate these critical moments with compassion, clarity, and respect.

Fire departments seldom know when tragedy may strike. The question becomes: Are you ready?
This course helps agencies develop or strengthen a plan by addressing key questions:

• Do you have a structured notification process for survivors?

• Are personnel records complete and up-to-date?

• Do you understand how to access federal, state, and local benefits for families?

• Is your department prepared to support grieving coworkers and families?

Attendees will learn about pre-incident planning and preparing for potential line-of-duty incidents, survivor notification protocols, emotional and logistical support for families and coworkers, and available benefits, resources, and guidance for survivors.

The Taking Care of Our Own training provides more than information; it offers the peace of mind that comes from being prepared. We encourage all departments to participate and ensure that, should the worst happen, they are ready to care for their own with dignity and support.

Register today