LAS VEGAS — The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) concluded its 2025 Conference & Expo today at Mandalay Bay Convention Center. Representing the industry’s leading fire, electrical and life safety event, the conference brought together 8,600 subject matter experts and professionals, 400 exhibitors and 130 educational sessions. Over the three days, attendees were invited to assemble 1,000 stuffed teddy bears, so that they could be donated to Clark County Fire Department and Las Vegas Fire & Rescue.
On Wednesday morning, NFPA made the official donation at Clark County Fire Department’s Fire Station #33, where the event was hosted. Frequently called “comfort bears,” these plush stuffed animals serve as valuable tools for fire departments nationwide, providing emotional support to young children and older adults in moments of crisis.
“These bears are a powerful reminder that compassion and care in moments of trauma, especially in young children, can make all the difference,” said Fire Chief Billy Samuels at the Clark County Fire Department. “They allow us to create an instant bond with families and to show them that we’re there to help them on some of their worst days.”
“Events like this highlight the close partnership between both departments as we work together to care for our community,” said Senior Deputy Chief Robert Nolan at Las Vegas Fire & Rescue. “NFPA plays a critical role in shaping how we serve, providing a shared foundation that brings our departments together across jurisdictions.”
Day Three Highlights:
- Gearing Up: A Review of PPE for Female Firefighters on June 18 at 10:30 a.m.
Women comprise nine percent of all firefighters in the United States, yet most personal protective equipment (PPE) is still designed for men. Nearly 80 percent of female firefighters have indicated that their gear does not fit properly, leaving them at a higher risk of injury. This panel discussion will delve into the issue from the perspective of women in the fire service, researchers investigating PPE needs for women, and makers of PPE for women.
###
About the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)
Founded in 1896, NFPA® is a global, self-funded, nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. The association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach and advocacy; and by partnering with others who share an interest in furthering the NFPA mission. For more information, visit www.nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be viewed online for free at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.
