Photo by Steve Baer | FireDog Photos
Bill Heffernan is a retired West Haven Fire Department lieutenant, longtime department historian, former technical adviser and consulting producer forthe hit comedyTacoma FD, and cousin ofTacoma FD actor Kevin Heffernan.He now serves as a Connecticut state representative. His blend of frontline experience, historical insight, and behind‑the‑scenes perspective fuelsOff the Record with Cousin Bill Heffernan, where he answers your questions biweekly.
Q: Real recognition in a firehouse often isn’t a plaque; it’s respect. How should leaders recognize hard work in a way that feels authentic rather than performative?
A: One of the greatest morale boosters is the quiet recognition. During training, you put the younger firefighter in charge of teaching something. Give them some responsibility. Put them in charge of a detail you are performing in the firehouse.
This is a nod to them that they are deserving of a leadership role. It is not a promotion. It may not be something that is consistent, but it does the job. The crew may give them a hard time about it, but in the fire service, if they are giving you a hard time, they like you.
