Ch 2 Flashcards
What is the ultimate measure of a man according to the text?
Where he stands at moments of challenge and controversy
This highlights the importance of character in difficult situations.
Why does the fire service need leadership at all levels?
To set direction and provide vision if there are no competent leadership at the top
Competent leadership is essential for organizational survival.
How does the fire service compare to the military?
It is a paramilitary organization but does not allow leadership to blossom within the ranks
Rapid turnover of leaders hinders leadership development.
Define ‘vision’ as per Army FM 22-100.
The ultimate sense of purpose, direction, and motivation for everyone in the organization.
What properties should a solid vision possess according to Peter Senge?
- Appropriate for the organization and its time
- Sets standards of excellence
- Reflects high ideals.
What are the components of a shared vision as per Micheal V. Harper?
- Provides a vision of the future
- Incorporates a measure of success
- Provides a sense of enduring purpose
- Transcends day-to-day issues
- Suggests how we are heading in both the present and future.
What is fundamental to commitment to the vision?
If commitment does not happen, probably nothing else will.
What does organizational climate mean in the fire service?
Creating an environment of fair, consistent, and communicative leadership.
True or False: Leaders should listen to employees’ complaints.
True
Leaders must foster a positive atmosphere for organizational growth.
What happens when employees are happy and encouraged?
They are more productive.
What did the author find advantageous as a unit commander in the military?
Taking a snapshot of the command climate.
What is the old saying related to preparation?
Fail to prepare and prepare to fail.
What challenges does the fire service face post-9/11?
A world perpetually fraught with challenges.
What is ‘The Tao of Leadership’?
An interpretation of the thoughts of the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu.
What is a key role of a leader in the fire service?
To facilitate process and clarify conflicts.
What do flashy leaders lack?
Stability.
What is the difference between a profession and an occupation?
A profession requires training in the liberal arts or sciences and advanced study in a specialized field.
Does the author believe the fire service is a true profession?
No.
What could help elevate the fire service to a true profession?
Encouraging fire chiefs to achieve higher academic degrees.
What is essential for becoming more professional in the fire service?
Higher levels of education.
What must leaders in the fire service do regularly?
Publish their ideas in professionally recognized journals and magazines.
What does the author suggest about translating concepts into reality?
It is essential to take action on ideas.
What is often an impediment to progress in the fire service?
Tradition.
Why should change occur in the fire service?
Because it is a better, more efficient way to carry on one’s business.
What should fire service leaders communicate?
Education with experience makes an individual well-rounded.
How have poor fire service leaders been chosen?
By means other than merit.
What is the definition of a leader according to Webster’s New World Dictionary?
A person or thing that leads; a person who directs, commands, or guides others.
What is the difference between managing and leading?
Managers manage situations and issues; leaders lead people.
What is a sensible practice regarding hiring fire department candidates?
Candidates should ride in a fire truck during emergency situations.
What is the benefit of using temporary employees?
Allows employers to observe potential future employees before hiring.
What is the number one killer of firefighters on the fire ground?
Cardiac arrest.
What should leaders ensure about firefighters on the fire ground?
They are monitored closely to prevent overwork or stress.
What is a significant driving-related issue in the fire service?
Backing up large vehicles.
What can help reduce the frequency of vehicle accidents?
Sending all personnel through an emergency vehicle operator course (EVOC).
What is the importance of conducting safety meetings?
It is crucial for leadership; not doing so is poor leadership.
What should we not do in training firefighters?
Train harder; we must train smarter.
What is the number one killer of fire fighters on the fire ground?
Cardiac arrest
Cardiac arrest remains a significant risk for fire fighters during operations.
What must leaders in the fire service focus on to avoid losing a fire fighter on the job?
Training smarter
Emphasizing smarter training rather than just harder training is crucial.
What is a significant issue mentioned regarding leadership in the fire service?
Shortage of leaders
There is an identified shortage of effective leadership within the fire service.
According to Martin Luther King, Jr., what is the ultimate measure of a man?
Where he stands at moments of challenge and controversy
This quote emphasizes the importance of integrity and character in difficult times.
What is the fire service compared to in terms of structure?
A paramilitary organization
This comparison highlights the hierarchical nature and discipline within the fire service.
What event has significantly impacted the fire service, according to the sources?
The 9/11 World Trade Center attack
This event led to major changes in policies and practices within the fire service.
How often should operational ‘hot stove issues’ meetings be held?
Monthly
Regular meetings are recommended to address pressing operational concerns.
What type of survey is recommended to assess the general attitude of the organization?
A command-climate survey
This survey helps gauge the morale and culture within the fire service.
What must leaders do to prepare for the unknown?
Prepare for the worst and hope for the best
This mindset encourages readiness for unexpected challenges.
What can leaders learn from history?
How to avoid making the same mistakes
Historical lessons are crucial for improving future decision-making.
According to Lao Tzu, why is being a leader difficult?
Because the leader does not push the group; the leader is resisting
This perspective emphasizes the challenges of guiding others without force.
What approach to leadership does the fire service need?
A more modern, scientific approach
This approach encourages evidence-based practices in leadership.
Is the fire service a true profession?
The sources provide arguments for both sides
There are differing views on whether the fire service meets professional standards.
What level of education does the author believe will eventually be required to become a fire chief?
A master’s or doctoral degree
Higher educational requirements are anticipated for fire service leadership.
What is a ‘one-dimensional experience’?
An experience that is only focused on physical skills
This term highlights the need for broader skill development in the fire service.
What organization does the author recommend for continuing education and leadership opportunities?
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)
This organization provides resources for professional development.
What does the author believe the fire service should regularly publish?
Professional journals
Regular publications can contribute to ongoing education and knowledge sharing.
What is the most important reason why the fire service needs strong leadership?
To save the lives of fire fighters
Effective leadership directly impacts the safety and well-being of personnel.
What should be the fire service’s policy on anyone driving a fire truck without a safety belt fastened?
Zero tolerance
Strict policies are essential for ensuring safety among fire fighters.
What is the benefit of using temporary employees?
They can help a department when it is short-staffed
Temporary staff can provide flexibility and support during staffing shortages.
What is the importance of enforcing the use of seatbelts and harnesses?
It saves lives
Safety measures are critical in reducing fatalities and injuries in the fire service.
What is the fire service often an impediment to?
Progress
Organizational inertia can hinder advancements in practices and policies.
What should the fire service analyze?
The fire service culture in relation to aggressive interior fire fighting operations
Understanding culture is vital for improving safety and operational effectiveness.
What is the importance of fire ground discipline?
It prevents accidents
Discipline on the fire ground is essential for maintaining safety and coordination.
What is the importance of fire fighter rehabilitation?
It reduces stress
Rehabilitation programs are crucial for the physical and mental well-being of fire fighters.
What should strong leadership and authority tell fire fighters?
When to rest
Recognizing the need for rest is vital for maintaining operational effectiveness.
What is the quote by Albert Einstein used in the sources?
“It doesn’t matter what you think, it only matters what you do.”
This quote emphasizes the importance of actions over thoughts in leadership.
What has recent research revealed about fire fighter cooling?
Fire fighters can cool in cool water for a period of time without placing both arms and hands in the cool water
This finding can influence cooling strategies during operations.
What should fire fighters not do during or immediately following rescuing efforts?
Be returned to duty
Adequate recovery time is essential for safety and effectiveness.
What is one fire service implement for all firefighters?
Annual physicals
Other options include mandatory EKGs, psychological evaluations, and drug testing.
What can help identify potential problems before they turn into tragedy?
An annual physical assessment
Other options include a peer support program, a chaplaincy program, and a stress management program.
What should the fire service place greater emphasis upon?
Reducing wellness and tragedy in relation to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
Other options include increasing the number of firefighters, buying new equipment, and lobbying for better pay.
What must change or be challenged to enhance safety?
Attitudes
Other options include equipment, policy, and budgets.
What should never be acceptable in the fire service?
Firefighter line-of-duty deaths
Other options include property damage, injuries to civilians, and negative press coverage.
What is the fire service experiencing?
A shortage of leaders
Other options include a surplus of leaders, a decline in membership, and an increase in funding.
