By Janelle Foskett
The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) announced on Monday the postponement of the 32nd Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner due to concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a statement from the organization.
The event was originally scheduled for April 29-30 in Washington, D.C. New dates have not yet been identified.
CFSI President William F. Jenaway explained the postponement: “The health and safety of our guests outweighed every other consideration in our decision to postpone the event. Even though our program takes place in six weeks, we are taking this action now based on the recommendations from local, state and federal health agencies and task forces to suspend travel and large-scale gatherings until the coronavirus has been contained.”
The annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner features federal policymakers and national fire service leaders, covering an array of important federal issues being considered by Congress or implemented by federal agencies. This year’s theme was “Recognizing Our Nation’s All-Hazards Firefighters.”
The CFSI Board has formed a Task Force with staff and members of the National Advisory Committee to focus on moving forward. Jenaway shared that they are exploring options to reschedule the program, engage the fire and emergency services with Congress, and/or utilize new and innovative ways to ensure the long-term success of CFSI.
For more information, visit CFSI.org.