News

Inflation has become more than just a headline; it’s a daily reality affecting fire and EMS departments nationwide. Rising costs of materials, vehicles and specialized equipment means what was fully covered a few years ago might not be the same today.   The Rising Cost of Readiness  Over the past few years, the price of building materials, specialized vehicles, and equipment has climbed sharply. Lumber...

https://youtu.be/-DKa5vVxHsg Each year, our community gathers at Homer Hops Brewing for a day that blends gratitude, celebration, and purpose. The Believe 31 First Responder Day—presented in partnership with ESIP and Homer Hops—has quickly become one of the most meaningful annual traditions in our region. What began as a simple idea has grown into a powerful...

Wildfires can ignite and spread in minutes, threatening lives, property, and entire communities. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or part of a firefighting crew, preparation and awareness are vital. McNeil & Co.’s WildPro Insurance Program—the first-ever property and casualty insurance program designed specifically for the wildland fire suppression industry—goes beyond traditional coverage to promote...

Tips for Volunteer Fire Departments Supporting Community Events As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, communities across the country come together for their favorite fall traditions—pumpkin patches, apple picking, and harvest festivals. These celebrations often rely on local organizations, including volunteer fire departments, to help with setup, parking, or even sponsorship. While these...

Hitting the Road with Pets: How to Travel Safely + Why AnimalKeepers Matters Traveling with your pet over the holidays can be a joy, but it also brings added risks and responsibilities. Whether you’re relocating rescue animals, transporting pets for adoption events, or simply bringing your furry family members along, careful planning is key. McNeil...

The crunch of leaves underfoot. The chill of dawn breaking. Anticipation of opening day. For hunters, fall is more than a season, it’s tradition. Families return to deer camps, lodges welcome eager guests, and outfitters prepare to guide hunters into the woods. But every great hunt begins long before the first shot is fired. Preparation...

Fire and emergency services delivery in the United States is headed for a crisis. These are strong words, but I would challenge you to prove them unwarranted. Many of us struggle to even acknowledge it, let alone admit it or accept that our own organization could be in tough shape. Don’t get me wrong, there...

As fire and EMS professionals, we strive to make the safety of our crew and our patients a priority. We make every effort to provide the best care while not causing harm. Unfortunately, there is a very common practice we follow that can lead to injury. As though it were an unspoken tradition, many of...

You understand that each industry faces its own unique set of risks—and when it comes to animal welfare organizations, those risks are unlike any other. That’s where AnimalKeepers, a program by McNeil & Co., comes in. Tailored specifically for nonprofit organizations such as animal shelters, SPCAs, rescue groups, and humane societies, AnimalKeepers is a comprehensive insurance and...

What is an Emergency Preparedness Plan?   An emergency preparedness plan is a detailed policy that outlines procedures to follow during emergencies to ensure safety and minimize damage. It includes identifying potential risks, allocating resources, and establishing clear communication and evacuation procedures. It is an initiative-taking strategy to prepare for and respond to various emergencies.  Why is it important? ...