With over 30 years in the fire service, Battalion Chief Chad A. Lallier of the Alexandria, VA Fire Department has seen firsthand how dedication, innovation, and community connection shape a career—and save lives. In this interview, Chief Lallier reflects on pivotal moments from responding to 9/11 to mentoring the next generation, while sharing lessons on leadership, safety, and the evolving role of the modern firefighter.

The University of Washington’s School of Social Work recently held training for firefighters and emergency medical services staff from nine fire departments across the state. The Behavioral Health Crisis Outreach Response and Education (BHCore) is a new center envisioned to fill a void in mental health and substance abuse call preparedness for frontline responders.