OSFC Newsletter | January 2026
In this issue
- Final PennFIRS Updates
- 2025/2026 Grant Agreements are now Available
- PSFA is hiring a Fire Services Technical Advisor
- Upcoming Dates and Deadlines
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Final PennFIRS Update
The National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) is being officially decommissioned effective January 31, 2026.
NFIRS incidents are no longer being accepted!
All fire incidents must now be reported in the NERIS (National Emergency Response Information System) standard.
To begin reporting in NERIS standard, follow these steps:
Step 1: Register for a NERIS account. Each department must have its own unique NERIS ID.
Step 2: Watch for a verification email and complete the verification process. This step is required to activate your account.
Step 3: Connect your NERIS account to your incident reporting software vendor.
- Instructions are available on our website for connecting NERIS with Emergency Networking, the Commonwealth-provided incident reporting system.
- If you use a different vendor, please contact them directly for their Client ID and additional setup support.
Reminder: The Office of the State Fire Commissioner has transitioned to Emergency Networking as the no-cost, NERIS-compliant reporting option for any department that chooses to use it. Departments may also continue using any vendor that is NERIS compliant.
Departments interested in Emergency Networking can register using this form.
2025/2026 Grant Agreements are now Available!
Grant agreements for the 2025/2026 Fire Company and EMS Grant Program are now available for applicants who applied during the September–October 2025 application period.
Next step: Log into the grant system using your Keystone ID and sign your agreement as soon as possible.
Didn’t receive the email notification?
Please make sure your contact information is current in your grant account. If you’re unable to access your account, submit a request through our “Contact Us” form.
Have questions?
We’re hosting two informational webinars on Tuesday, February 10 to review grant calculations and answer questions:
The OSFC is hiring in Lewistown!
We are currently accepting applications for a Fire Services Technical Advisor based at the State Fire Academy in Lewistown. The application period closes on Feb. 9th.
If you’re interested—or know someone who would be a great fit—click the link above to apply or help spread the word.
Upcoming Dates & Deadlines
- 1/1/26 [REMINDER]: All incidents must be completed using NERIS standard
- 2/1/26: NFIRS decommissioned
