PPE — we all know we need it. But do we really know how to use it properly? How to care for it? Store it? What’s new in materials, technology, and protection research? And how should we respond and stay safe during EV fires?

So many questions — and even more options! Join us to get the answers and discover how to protect yourself, your coworkers, and your family. Because when it comes to safety, knowledge is your best defense.

FULL SYMPOSIUM: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday (half day)

Registration Fee: Fire Service Early Bird $595 - Non Fire Service Early Bird $795

Early Bird ends Jan 16, 2026 - Don't Delay!

Registration Includes Networking Reception Monday Night, Breakfast (Tues/Wed/Thurs), Exhibit Hall Grand Reception Tuesday night, Lunch (Tues/Wed), Professionally bound Resource Manual, and electronic copies of all presentations.

PRE SYMPOSIUM SEMINARS - MONDAY

PPE Fundamentals & Program Management ($250) -  This full day, multi session, seminar is perfect for both new PPE program managers and experienced PPE specialists. Topics will include a comprehensive overview of the NFPA process, current (and possible future) NFPA 1851 requirements, how/why to conduct risk assessments and wear trials, how to develop gear specs that meet your departments needs, explanation of third-party verification and testing processes, and more! The seminar will conclude with a Q&A with the subject matter experts.

OR

Advanced Gear Inspection Hands-on-Training Session ($250) - (Space is limited to 30 participants) This full day seminar, lead by Chief Bruce Varner and Engineer/Paramedic Tim Tomlinson, will be a hands-on seminar on how to thoroughly and properly conduct an inspection of your PPE. Very few firefighters know how to conduct an inspection that is compliant with NFPA 1851 to provide the level of protection their members deserve. Participants will have clean gear available to conduct an inspection under the guidance of Bruce and Tim. Every fire department should have a few members that are properly trained to conduct an inspection. They will also cover other pertinent parts of caring for your PPE. This is a tremendous opportunity and it sells out quickly.

The fees include: Breakfast, lunch, each day, a welcome reception on Monday evening, an exhibit reception on Tuesday evening, and a hard-copy of our Resource Manual..

HOTEL - Hyatt Regency Downtown Greenville, SC

Link for reservations

SPONSORS/EXHIBITORS

Click on the Sponsor/Exhibit Info tab on the left to learn about sponsorship opportunities. Then you can click and view the 2026 Prospectus to see all the awesome details! Click on the Sponsor/Exhibitor Registration tab to register!!

• Set up Tuesday between 10am and 4:30pm. Exhibit Tuesday evening for the opening reception, and Wednesday. Tear down Wednesday late afternoon.