Fire-Rescue International (FRI) 2026 is the fire service's most prestigious annual leadership conference and exposition, taking place August 12–14, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri. Organized by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), this world-class first responders conference serves as the definitive gathering for fire and emergency services professionals seeking the highest quality education, networking, and product exposition available in the industry.
Now in its decades-long history of serving the fire service community, FRI 2026 will bring together thousands of fire chiefs, company officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, and emergency management leaders from across the United States and around the world. The conference represents the full spectrum of the fire service, from career metropolitan departments and volunteer rural companies to industrial brigades and specialty rescue teams, creating a remarkably diverse and dynamic professional community.
The educational program at FRI 2026 is second to none in the firefighters conference landscape, featuring hundreds of sessions across multiple tracks including executive leadership and management, firefighter health, safety and wellness, technical rescue and special operations, EMS and emergency medical leadership, wildland-urban interface firefighting, hazardous materials response, and community risk reduction. Internationally recognized instructors and subject matter experts deliver cutting-edge content that attendees can immediately apply in their departments.
The FRI exposition hall is the fire service industry's largest showcase, featuring exhibitors displaying the most advanced apparatus, equipment, personal protective equipment, technology, and services available to fire departments. From the latest ladder trucks and pumpers to cutting-edge thermal imaging cameras, wellness programs, and leadership development tools, the exposition provides unparalleled access to the innovations driving the future of the fire service.
Kansas City, Missouri offers an exceptional conference destination with world-class hospitality, iconic barbecue cuisine, vibrant entertainment districts, and strong civic support for public safety. The Kansas City Convention Center provides state-of-the-art meeting facilities perfectly suited for this premier firefighters conference and hero community gathering.
Registration for FRI 2026 is now open through the IAFC website. Early bird pricing provides significant savings for those who register in advance. Hotel room blocks at partner hotels fill quickly — securing accommodations early is strongly recommended for this can't-miss first responders conference.
