VFIS of Arizona

07/20/2026

Today, we remember Officer/Firefighter Alan H. Hansen ( #204).

On July 19, 1973, Officer/Firefighter Hansen died of injuries he sustained two weeks earlier when a railroad tanker loaded with butane exploded in Kingman.

On July 5, 1973, Officer/Firefighter Hansen arrived on the scene of a railroad tanker fire while on duty in an AZDPS patrol car. Alan was also a Kingman volunteer firefighter and recognized the severity of the situation. He donned his firefighting gear from the trunk of his patrol car and became one of the first firefighters on the scene. Alan and 10 other Kingman firefighters worked to spray the tanker with water in an attempt to prevent an explosion. Tragically, the railroad tanker filled with butane did explode.

Alan succumbed to his injuries 14 days later on July 19, 1973, at a Phoenix-area hospital.

A total of 13 people were killed, including 11 Kingman firefighters. An additional 112 people were injured.

Officer/Firefighter Hansen is also memorialized on the Arizona Firefighters Memorial.

07/10/2026

07/05/2026

06/12/2026

Registration is NOW OPEN for the 53rd Annual Arizona Fire School! 🚒

Join firefighters from across Arizona for one of the state's premier training events, featuring more than 35 educational sessions covering Basic Firefighter Skills, Fire Prevention & Investigation, Fire Leadership, and more.

Since 1973, Arizona Fire School has provided high-quality training designed to help firefighters stay prepared, effective, and safe while serving their communities.

Scholarships are available and awarded based on demonstrated need, helping ensure firefighters have access to valuable training opportunities. Due to rise in costs, scholarships have been raised to $750. To request an Arizona Fire School-Redmond Family Scholarship, please get in touch with Eric Kriwer via email: [email protected]

Be part of a proud tradition of learning, networking, and celebrating the Arizona Fire Service.

Register today and join us in celebrating 53 years of excellence in firefighter training! https://na.eventscloud.com/website/89754/

03/30/2026

03/25/2026

👨‍🚒Many seasoned instructors fight the nagging feeling that makes them question whether they are good enough to be teaching or leading within their departments. Imposter syndrome can erode confidence, weaken effectiveness, and keep instructors from fully stepping into a leadership role. The best thing you can do to combat it? 👊Face it, HEAD ON.
https://hubs.la/Q047p_kT0

01/05/2026

January marks Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month to help increase public awareness about the risks and provide firefighters with tools, guidance, and support to both aid in cancer prevention and support those with cancer diagnoses. Learn more about how you can participate:
https://hubs.la/Q03ZbW8C0

12/16/2025

Thank you for serving your communities.

As a former U.S. Marine, Arthur J. Glatfelter fully understood what it means to give your all for others. When Mr. Glatfelter created VFIS, he emphasized the importance of building genuine relationships, going above and beyond to offer support, and understanding the lives and needs of those in the emergency service industry.

In honor of Mr. Glatfelter’s birthday, we’d like to thank those who continue to serve their communities with hard work, dedication, and care.

Happy Birthday, Mr. Glatfelter!

12/13/2025

Happy Birthday, Mr. Glatfelter!

As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, humanitarian, and founder of Glatfelter Insurance Group, Arthur J. Glatfelter’s legacy continues to emphasize the importance of going above and beyond to provide support and quality coverage to those who serve their communities.

In honor of his birthday, we’d like to thank all those who continue to uphold his legacy, as well as those who serve their communities and continue to make the world a better place.