Be Your Own Advocate

Be Your Own Advocate

Dave Denniston

How often have you sat in the back of the room and complained about something, or proposed changes in your life, or the fire service, and not taken any meaningful action? How often have you sat silently at a training, or a meeting, and not contributed, or voiced your concerns, only to go out on the bay floor, or sit at the kitchen table, and complain about it for hours afterwards? Did that lead to any meaningful change? Did it correct anything?  We have all been there. We have all failed to make a difference when the opportunity was laid at our feet. Many times, we have all had the opportunity to be our own advocate but simply did not. In this inspiring, energetic, thought-provoking, and entertaining presentation, the audience will be taken on a journey that could ultimately change their lives and help them realize opportunities to build their own legacy.

In December of 2023, OSHA proposed sweeping changes to the fire brigade standard that could ultimately change the fire service forever. After learning of the proposed changes, a fire chief from a small rural farming community in upstate New York read the document and realized that not only could this change affect his department, but it would also be problematic for the majority of fire departments across the US. Chief Denniston began a crusade that would lead him to connect with firefighters, board members, and politicians across the country. This simple grassroots effort would lead to meetings with many of the most influential leaders in Washington, fire service leaders across the US, and testifying in front of Congress on the subject.Yes, one voice can, and will make a difference if you are not afraid to use it. The next voice could be yours. Are you ready for the challenge?