Newest KB Articles in Members Area

Website Management Roles on Firehouse Solutions

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 13:25:04 GMT

Firehouse Solutions provides a tiered website management system designed to ensure secure and efficient control over your department’s online presence. The platform includes three key administrative roles: Website Administrator, Website Manager, and Content Manager. Each role has specific permissions and responsibilities to help maintain the website’s functionality and content integrity.

Website Administrator

The Website Administrator holds the highest level of access and authority on the website. This role includes full control over all website operations, including user permissions and administrative functions.

To manage Website Administrators:

Log in to the Members Area.
Navigate to Website Security > Website Administrators.
In this section, you can add or remove members as needed.
You can also designate which administrators will serve as the billing contact for your department.
The screen displays the Last 10 Administrator Changes for accountability and tracking purposes.

Note: To make any changes to administrative roles or permissions, you must already be a Website Administrator.

Website Manager

The Website Manager role is responsible for overseeing one or more functional website modules, such as news stories, databases, display boards, and other interactive components.

To manage Website Managers:

Log in to the Members Area.
Go to Website Security > Website Managers.
Select the specific module you wish to manage.
From there, you can add or remove members for that module.

Content Manager

The Content Manager is tasked with updating and managing individual content pages across the website. This role is ideal for users responsible for keeping specific pages current, such as station information, fire prevention tips, or community event updates.

To manage Content Managers:

Log in to the Members Area.
Click on Website Security > Content Managers.
Choose the content page you wish to manage.
You can then add or remove members assigned to that page.

Important: After any changes to a member’s permissions, they must log out and log back in to the Members Area for the updates to take effect.

How to Create a Database

Thu, 11 Dec 2014 20:30:21 GMT

Guide to Creating and Managing Databases

Firehouse Solutions' Databases feature provides versatile functionality for public and member interactions. Whether you want to collect membership applications, manage inventory, or create custom forms, this tool offers secure, web-accessible data management. Below is a detailed guide to help you create, configure, and use Databases effectively.

Step 1: Creating a Database

Log In: Access the members area.
Navigate to Database Management:
- Click on Website Management.
- Select Databases.
Create New Database:
- Click the New Database button.
- Fill in the required settings (described below) to define your database.

Database Settings

When creating a database, configure the following options:

Basic Settings

Database Title: The name displayed at the top of the database page.
Description: Text shown on the database page, visible when viewing records.
Form Header: Text displayed above form fields.
Form Footer: Text displayed below form fields.

Access Settings

Public Security

No Access: Prevent public users from accessing the database.
Form: Allow public users to submit records.
Form & Data: Permit public users to view and add records.
Data: Permit public users to view records only.

Members Area Security

No Access: Restrict member access to the database.
Reader: Members can view records.
Submitter: Members can add records.
Contributor: Members can view and add records.
Author: Members can view, add, and edit their own records.
Editor: Members have full control (add, view, edit, delete all records).

Additional Settings

Sort Order: Position of the database in the Members Area menu.
Default Sort: The field used to sort records by default.
Send Notifications to: Email addresses (one per line) notified upon record submissions.
Notify on Record Updates: Enable email notifications for updates to the database.
Redirect on Record Add: URL to redirect users after successful record submission.
Database Owners: Members granted full permissions (read, add, edit, delete) for the database.

Once you complete these settings, click Add Database to proceed.

Database and Form Overview Page

On this page, you can:

View your database settings.
Add new form fields or dividers.

Key Functions

Edit Database: Modify database settings and preferences.
New Form Field: Add individual fields to your database form.
New Form Divider: Insert dividers to separate sections of the form.

Form Field Table

This table displays the following details for each form field:

Field Title: The label for the field.
Type: The field type (e.g., Text, Number, List).
Primary: Indicates if this field is visible in the main record view.
Required: Denotes if the field is mandatory.
Sort Order: Order of fields in the form and record view.

You can adjust the sort order and click Update to save changes.

Step 2: Adding Form Fields

To add fields to your form:

Click New Form Field.
Fill in the following details:

Form Field Settings

Field Title: Label displayed next to the field.
Type: Choose the field type (see options below).
Primary: Indicates if this field is highlighted in the main record view.
Required: Marks the field as mandatory for submission.
Admin Use Only: Restricts visibility and updates to database owners.
Sort Order: Determines the order of fields in the form.

Field Types

Attachment: Upload multiple files.
Checkbox: Multiple selectable options.
Date: User-selectable date (with calendar pop-up).
Date/Time: Includes both date and time entry.
Date/Time Stamp: Auto-inserts the current date and time (not editable).
Decimal: Accepts decimal numbers.
Email: Validates email address submissions.
List: Dropdown menu for single selection.
Member Multi Select: Dropdown for selecting multiple active members.
Member Single Select: Dropdown for selecting one active member.
Member Stamp: Auto-inserts the submitting member’s name.
Memo: Large text field for detailed responses.
Month/Year: User-selectable month and year (with calendar pop-up).
Multi Select: Dropdown allowing multiple selections.
Number: Accepts up to 9-digit numbers (not suitable for phone numbers).
Radio Button: Single selectable option (e.g., Yes/No).
Text: Single-line text entry.
Time: User-fillable time entry.

Once you’ve added the necessary fields, click Submit. Repeat for all required fields.

Step 3: Adding Form Dividers

Use dividers to organize your form visually.

Click New Form Divider.
Fill in the following:
- Divider Title: Text displayed above the divider line.
- Sort Order: Placement of the divider between form fields.

Dividers help separate sections like "Billing Address" and "Physical Address" for clarity.

By following these steps, you can create and manage comprehensive databases in Firehouse Solutions, optimizing your workflow and providing valuable tools for your organization.

How to Create Sign Up Sheets

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 16:42:30 GMT

How to Create and Manage Sign-Up Sheets

Firehouse Solutions' Sign-Up Sheets offer a seamless digital alternative to traditional paper sign-up sheets. This feature is versatile, suitable for managing duty crews, clothing orders, special events, fundraisers, and more. It streamlines member participation, centralizes information, and enhances administrative efficiency.

Members can view active sign-up sheets, while administrators have access to all sign-up sheets, including those that are inactive, pending approval, or expired.

Creating a Sign-Up Sheet

Navigate to the Sign-Up Sheets Section
- In the members' section, scroll to the Sign-Up Sheets area.
- Access the page to view active sheets (for members) or all sheets (for administrators).
Start a New Sign-Up Sheet
- Click "New Sign-Up Sheet" to open a blank template.
- Enter information in the fields provided, using the following guidelines:

Field Descriptions and Examples

Title
Provide a concise description of the event, item, or task. Examples:
- New Engine 372 T-Shirt Order
- Special Olympics Torch Run
- Carnival Friday Night
Status
- Pending Approval: Requires admin approval before becoming visible to members.
- Offline: Temporarily disables member access.
- Online: Default status for new sheets with an active or future date.
- Locked: Automatically assigned to expired sheets.
Closing Date
Set a date for when the sheet will no longer be accessible to members.
Point of Contact
Enter the name of the person responsible for this sheet.
Allow Notes
Enable members to add notes when signing up, such as:
- T-shirt size
- Contact information (e.g., phone number)
- Special shift requirements or guest details
Allow Removal
Check this box to let members remove themselves from the sheet if needed.
Display Slot Numbers
Adds numerical labels to entries for easier tracking.
Memo
Include detailed information about the event, item, or task.
Attachments
Attach photos, videos, or documents relevant to the event or task.
Number of Slots
Specify the maximum number of sign-up slots available for each group.
Push to Calendar
Automatically add the event to your department’s calendar by selecting a calendar option.

Group Management

Add Group
Use this button to create groups, setting specific parameters like slots, roles, or timeframes. Examples:
- Engine 271
- 7/21/2023 Shift A (0600-1200)
- Carnival - Funnel Cake Stand
Position
Assign roles within a group if needed. Examples:
- Driver
- Line Man
- Officer
Remove Group
Deletes a group and all associated slots.
Remove Slot
Deletes an individual slot from the group.

Administrator's View

Administrators have access to the following additional features:

View all offline, closed, and locked sign-up sheets.
Review a log showing the chronological history of member sign-ups and removals.
Manage pending approvals and edit existing sign-up sheets.

Support

If you need assistance with sign-up sheets, the support team is available to help. Reach out anytime for guidance.

By utilizing these steps, you can maximize the efficiency of your department’s event and task management processes with Firehouse Solutions' Sign-Up Sheets feature.

Managing the Photo Gallery

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:09:24 GMT

Guide to Managing the Photo Gallery

Managing the Photo Gallery on your fire department’s website is a straightforward process, provided you have the appropriate permissions. Follow the steps below to access and manage the gallery effectively:

Step 1: Confirm Your Role

To manage the Photo Gallery, you must have administrative privileges or be designated as a moderator for the gallery section by an administrator.

Step 2: Log Into the Member’s Area

Navigate to the Member’s Area of your website.
Enter your credentials to access the Member Home Page.

Step 3: Access the Administration Menu

On the left-hand side of the page, locate the User Menu.
Below this, find and click on the Administration Menu.
Select Website Management from the available options.

Step 4: Navigate to Photo Gallery Management

On the Website Management page, find and click on the link labeled Photo Gallery Management.
This will direct you to a page displaying all the existing galleries on your website.

Step 5: Manage Your Galleries

Select a Gallery: Choose the gallery you wish to manage from the list.
Upload Photos: Use the file browser to upload new images to the selected gallery.
Edit Captions: Add or modify captions to provide context or descriptions for the photos.
Remove Photos: Delete any images no longer needed.
Take Galleries Offline: Temporarily disable a gallery if it’s under review or being updated.

Best Practices

Optimize Images: Ensure photos are properly resized and optimized for web use to maintain site performance.
Maintain Organization: Use clear naming conventions for galleries and captions to enhance user navigation.
Regular Updates: Keep galleries current by adding recent events, training sessions, or community engagements to showcase your department's activities.

If you encounter issues or require additional permissions, contact your website administrator for assistance.

Managing News Stories

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:05:36 GMT

Managing News Stories

Accessing the Members Area

To manage your website's News Stories, you must have the appropriate permissions. This requires you to be either:

An Administrator of the website, or
A Moderator for the News Stories section, as assigned by an Administrator.

Step-by-Step Guide to Managing News Stories

Log In to the Members Area
- Navigate to the website's login page and enter your credentials.
- Once logged in, you will be directed to the Member Home Page.
Navigate to the Administration Menu
- On the left side of the Member Home Page, locate the User Menu.
- Beneath the User Menu, find and select the Administration Menu.
Access Website Management
- From the Administration Menu, click on Website Management.
- This will open a page listing all the features available for management on your website.
Select News Stories Management
- Locate the News Stories Management link on the Website Management page.
- Click on this link to proceed to the News Stories management section.
Manage News Stories Entries
- You will now see a list of all News Stories entries currently active or pending for your website.
Approve or Deny Pending Entries
- If there are any pending entries, they will be clearly marked.
- To manage a pending entry, choose the option to either Approve or Deny.
Edit, Remove, Activate, or Take News Stories Offline
- For each News Story entry, you will have options to:
  - Edit: Modify the content of an existing entry.
  - Remove: Permanently delete an entry from the website.
  - Activate: Make an entry visible to the public.
  - Take Offline: Temporarily hide an entry from the public without deleting it.

Important Notes

Only users with the appropriate permissions will have access to the News Stories Management section.
Ensure you review any changes or updates carefully before approving or denying entries.
Regularly check the News Stories section to keep content up-to-date and relevant for your audience.

By following these steps, you can efficiently manage your website's News Stories, ensuring that your content remains current and engaging for visitors.

Managing Members

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:01:33 GMT

Guide to Managing Members on Your Fire Department Website

Managing the members of your fire department’s website is a crucial task to ensure the platform remains secure, functional, and up-to-date. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help administrators navigate the process effectively:

Step 1: Log In to the Members Area

Begin by logging into your account on the website’s Members Area.
Navigate to the Member Home Page.

Step 2: Access the Administration Menu

On the left-hand side of the page, locate the User Menu.
Beneath it, you will see the Administration Menu.
Click on Website Management to proceed.

Step 3: Navigate to Member Management

On the Website Management page, you will see a variety of options.
Look for and select the Member Management link.

Step 4: Review Member Listings

This will open a list of all members associated with your website.
- Active Members: Members who currently have access.
- Pending Members: Those who have requested access but are awaiting approval.

Step 5: Managing Pending Members

To address pending membership requests:
- Click on the name of the pending member.
- Review their submitted information for accuracy and compliance with department policies.
At the top-right corner of the page, you will see two options:
- Activate Member: Approves the member’s access.
- Deny and Delete: Rejects the request and removes their details from the system.

Step 6: Edit or Update Member Information

For any member (active or pending), administrators can:

Edit Member Details: Update personal or contact information.
Remove Members: Delete a member's account.
Activate/Deactivate Accounts: Control their access status.
Change Passwords: Reset or update passwords to maintain security.

Best Practices for Managing Members

Verify Information: Always review pending members thoroughly to ensure they meet eligibility criteria.
Maintain Security: Regularly update passwords and deactivate accounts of members no longer associated with the department.
Audit Membership: Periodically review active members to confirm their continued eligibility and update any outdated information.

By following these steps, you can efficiently manage your fire department's website members, ensuring a secure and well-organized platform for your team and the community.

Managing Guestbook

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:57:10 GMT

How to Manage Your Website's Guestbook

Managing the guestbook on your website is a straightforward process but requires specific permissions. Follow these steps to ensure smooth management:

Permissions Required

You must be either:

An administrator of the website, or
A moderator specifically for the Event's section (assigned by the administrator).

Steps to Manage the Guestbook

Log In to the Members Area
- Navigate to your website's Members Area.
- Enter your credentials to access the Member Home Page.
Access the Administration Menu
- On the left-hand side of the page, locate the User Menu.
- Beneath this, find the Administration Menu and click on it.
Navigate to Website Management
- In the Administration Menu, select Website Management.
- This will open a page displaying all the features available for management on your website.
Open Guestbook Management
- Locate and click the link labeled Guestbook Management.
- This action takes you to a comprehensive list of all guestbook entries.

Managing Entries

Within the Guestbook Management interface, you can perform the following actions:

Review Pending Entries
- For any entry marked as "Pending," you can:
  - Approve the entry to make it publicly visible.
  - Deny the entry to reject it.
Edit Entries
- Modify the content of an existing entry if necessary.
Remove Entries
- Permanently delete entries that are no longer appropriate or relevant.
Activate or Deactivate Entries
- Activate entries to make them visible on the website.
- Take Offline entries to temporarily hide them without permanent removal.

Tips for Efficient Guestbook Management

Regularly Review Pending Entries: Ensures prompt responses to visitor submissions.
Monitor for Inappropriate Content: Uphold the standards of your website by removing or editing unsuitable posts.
Keep Content Fresh: Periodically review active entries to ensure they remain relevant.

By following these steps, you can maintain a well-organized and professional guestbook that enhances your website’s community interaction.

Managing the Discussion Forum

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:54:28 GMT

Managing the Discussion Forum: Step-by-Step Guide

Managing the Discussion Forum on your website is a straightforward process that requires administrative or moderator-level access. Follow these steps to efficiently oversee your forum activities:

1. Log into the Members Area

Access your website's Member Home Page by logging in with your administrator or moderator credentials.

2. Navigate to the Administration Menu

On the left-hand side of the screen, locate the User Menu.
Below it, you will find the Administration Menu. Click on this option.

3. Select Website Management

From the Administration Menu, choose Website Management.
This will lead you to a centralized page that displays all the features available for management on your website.

4. Access Discussion Forum Management

On the Website Management page, locate and click on the link labeled Discussion Forum Management.
This will take you to a comprehensive list of all current and pending Discussion Topics.

5. Manage Forum Topics

The Discussion Forum Management page allows you to perform the following actions:
- Approve or Deny Pending Topics: Review pending topics and decide whether to approve or deny them based on relevance and forum guidelines.
- Edit Topics: Update the content of existing topics to ensure accuracy and compliance with forum rules.
- Remove Topics: Delete inappropriate or outdated topics.
- Activate Topics: Enable topics that were previously deactivated.
- Take Topics Offline: Temporarily disable topics that may require review or are no longer active.

By following this guide, you can effectively oversee the forum, ensuring it remains a valuable and well-organized platform for discussion. Regular moderation helps maintain a professional environment and fosters constructive engagement among users.

Managing Community Events

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:50:44 GMT

Guide to Managing Community Events on Your Website

Managing community events is an essential task for maintaining an active and engaging website. Follow these steps to effectively oversee and update your website's Community Events section:

Step 1: Ensure Proper Access

To manage community events, you must have the appropriate permissions:

Administrator Access: Full control over the website, including event management.
Moderator Access: Permissions granted by an administrator specifically for managing the Community Events section.

Step 2: Log Into the Members Area

Navigate to your website's login page.
Enter your credentials to access the Member Home Page.

Step 3: Access the Administration Menu

On the left-hand side of the Member Home Page, locate the User Menu.
Beneath it, find and click on the Administration Menu option.

Step 4: Navigate to Website Management

In the Administration Menu, select Website Management.
This will open a page listing all features available for management.

Step 5: Manage Community Events

Click the Community Event Management link.
You will be directed to a page displaying:
- Active Events: Currently live events.
- Pending Events: Events awaiting approval.

Step 6: Take Action on Events

For Pending Events:
- Approve or deny submissions based on your website's guidelines and standards.
For Active Events:
- Edit: Update event details as needed.
- Remove: Delete outdated or inappropriate events.
- Activate: Bring previously offline events back online.
- Take Offline: Temporarily hide an event from public view.

Tips for Effective Event Management

Regularly check for pending submissions to ensure timely updates.
Maintain clear guidelines for event approval to foster a consistent and professional website experience.
Communicate with event organizers if clarification or adjustments are needed before approving.

By following these steps, you can ensure your website's Community Events section remains dynamic, accurate, and engaging for your audience.

Managing Announcements

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:44:45 GMT

Managing Announcements on Your Website

To manage the announcements section of your website, you must have administrative privileges or be designated as a "Website Manager" for the announcements feature by an administrator. Below is a step-by-step guide to access and manage your website’s announcements:

Step 1: Log Into the Members Area

Access your website’s Members Area using your credentials.
Navigate to the Member Home Page after logging in.

Step 2: Locate the Administration Menu

On the left-hand side of the Member Home Page, you will see the User Menu.
Below the User Menu, locate the Administration Menu.

Step 3: Access Website Management

In the Administration Menu, select Website Management.
This action will bring you to a list of website features available for management.

Step 4: Navigate to Announcements

At the top of the Website Management page, click on the Website Management link.
This will open the announcements management page, displaying all current announcements for your website.

Step 5: Manage Announcements

From this page, you can perform the following actions:

Approve or Deny Pending Announcements: For any announcements awaiting review, choose to approve or deny them.
Edit Announcements: Make changes to the content of existing announcements.
Remove Announcements: Delete announcements that are no longer needed.
Activate or Deactivate Announcements: Toggle the status of announcements to make them visible or take them offline.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage your website’s announcements, ensuring timely and relevant updates for your audience.