Frequently Asked Questions
Conflict Resolution Training For Fire Service — what departments ask us before they book.
Who is Watch Desk Strategies training for?
We help fire departments address conflict early, improve communication, and maintain operational cohesion through real-world, scenario-based training.
WDS offers courses that are customizable. From awareness-level material to departmental cultural change, we facilitating learnings applicable at every level of membership — from new recruits and backstep members to company officers, second-tier officers and Chief Officers.
What does a class actually look like?
Our training is scenario-based and built around real firehouse situations, giving members tools they can apply immediately on shift.
The Conflict Lab is an immersive opportunity that allows your members to experience and navigate real-life conflicts. Bringing the value of Flashover Simulation and Live Burns, creating exposure to conflict in a controlled environment. The impactful lab experience pairs carefully crafted scenarios with facilitator-led discussion, highlighting themes from the WDS lecture series.
How long are the courses?
The House is Burning is the 4-hour introductory course in firehouse conflict management. Commanding Conflict, the Chief Officer Course, Full Course Backstep and Full Course Recruit/Rookie are one-day courses. Courses include lecture with table-top or role-playing workshops.
Can the training be customized for our department?
Yes. WDS offers courses that are customizable. We work with your leadership team to understand your department’s structure, culture, and specific challenges before any training begins, and we have developed custom training programs for partner departments to address specific operational and organizational challenges.
Where are you based, and where do you train?
We are based in Northern Virginia, just outside Washington, DC, and we bring the training to your department.
Who teaches the courses?
Dan Loughnane is a Battalion Fire Chief with the District of Columbia Fire and EMS Department, bringing over 25 years of fire service experience. He is currently completing a Master of Science in Conflict Resolution at George Mason University’s Carter School.
Zac Murphy serves the District of Columbia as a Paramedic Technician at Engine 22 and joined the DC Fire and EMS Capitol Conflict team in 2022.
Do you offer anything beyond classroom training?
Yes. We provide practical consulting support to strengthen internal processes, improve communication, and align leadership with operational goals: program development, conflict planning, and coaching. As certified mediators, we also offer alternative dispute resolution services to help resolve workplace issues efficiently while preserving team cohesion.
What happens after the training?
We provide strategies and support to help departments reinforce skills over time, ensuring long-term impact beyond the classroom. Our goal is not just to deliver training, but to create lasting improvements in communication, leadership, and team performance.
How do we get started?
Request a consultation or a training proposal through our contact page, or call 571.722.4909. Tell us which class you are interested in, or choose “Not sure yet” and we will help you identify which courses your department could start with.