Lancaster County Hosts Annual Fire Chiefs Conference

The 99th annual Eastern Division IAFC event drew over 200 attendees to the Eden Resort.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:52pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of blurred firefighters and emergency vehicles in a hazy, warm-toned setting, conveying the networking and community-building aspects of the annual fire chiefs conference.The annual fire chiefs conference brings hundreds of public safety leaders to Lancaster County each year, fostering regional cooperation and professional development.Lancaster Today

Lancaster County hosted the 99th annual Eastern Division International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) conference on Friday at the Eden Resort in Manheim Township. The event drew more than 200 fire chiefs representing Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, New York, and Washington, D.C.

Why it matters

The annual IAFC conference is a key networking and professional development event for fire service leaders across the Mid-Atlantic region, allowing them to share best practices, discuss emerging issues, and strengthen regional collaboration.

The details

The conference featured a variety of educational sessions, vendor exhibits, and social events over the course of the two-day gathering. News 8's Sarah Metts served as the emcee for the conference.

  • The conference was held on Friday, April 17, 2026.

The players

International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)

A professional organization representing fire chiefs and other leaders in the fire and emergency services industry.

Eden Resort

A hotel and conference center located in Manheim Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania that hosted the annual IAFC event.

Sarah Metts

A news anchor for WGAL News 8 who served as the emcee for the IAFC conference.

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The takeaway

The IAFC conference demonstrates Lancaster County's role as a hub for regional fire service leadership, bringing together hundreds of professionals to share knowledge and strengthen emergency response capabilities across the Mid-Atlantic.