Ch 2 Flashcards

1
Q

What is the ultimate measure of a man according to the text?

A

Where he stands at moments of challenge and controversy

This highlights the importance of character in difficult situations.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

Why does the fire service need leadership at all levels?

A

To set direction and provide vision if there are no competent leadership at the top

Competent leadership is essential for organizational survival.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

How does the fire service compare to the military?

A

It is a paramilitary organization but does not allow leadership to blossom within the ranks

Rapid turnover of leaders hinders leadership development.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Define ‘vision’ as per Army FM 22-100.

A

The ultimate sense of purpose, direction, and motivation for everyone in the organization.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What properties should a solid vision possess according to Peter Senge?

A
  • Appropriate for the organization and its time
  • Sets standards of excellence
  • Reflects high ideals.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What are the components of a shared vision as per Micheal V. Harper?

A
  • 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.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What is fundamental to commitment to the vision?

A

If commitment does not happen, probably nothing else will.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What does organizational climate mean in the fire service?

A

Creating an environment of fair, consistent, and communicative leadership.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

True or False: Leaders should listen to employees’ complaints.

A

True

Leaders must foster a positive atmosphere for organizational growth.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What happens when employees are happy and encouraged?

A

They are more productive.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What did the author find advantageous as a unit commander in the military?

A

Taking a snapshot of the command climate.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What is the old saying related to preparation?

A

Fail to prepare and prepare to fail.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What challenges does the fire service face post-9/11?

A

A world perpetually fraught with challenges.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What is ‘The Tao of Leadership’?

A

An interpretation of the thoughts of the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

What is a key role of a leader in the fire service?

A

To facilitate process and clarify conflicts.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What do flashy leaders lack?

A

Stability.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What is the difference between a profession and an occupation?

A

A profession requires training in the liberal arts or sciences and advanced study in a specialized field.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

Does the author believe the fire service is a true profession?

A

No.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What could help elevate the fire service to a true profession?

A

Encouraging fire chiefs to achieve higher academic degrees.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What is essential for becoming more professional in the fire service?

A

Higher levels of education.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What must leaders in the fire service do regularly?

A

Publish their ideas in professionally recognized journals and magazines.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What does the author suggest about translating concepts into reality?

A

It is essential to take action on ideas.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What is often an impediment to progress in the fire service?

A

Tradition.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

Why should change occur in the fire service?

A

Because it is a better, more efficient way to carry on one’s business.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

What should fire service leaders communicate?

A

Education with experience makes an individual well-rounded.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

How have poor fire service leaders been chosen?

A

By means other than merit.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

What is the definition of a leader according to Webster’s New World Dictionary?

A

A person or thing that leads; a person who directs, commands, or guides others.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

What is the difference between managing and leading?

A

Managers manage situations and issues; leaders lead people.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

What is a sensible practice regarding hiring fire department candidates?

A

Candidates should ride in a fire truck during emergency situations.

30
Q

What is the benefit of using temporary employees?

A

Allows employers to observe potential future employees before hiring.

31
Q

What is the number one killer of firefighters on the fire ground?

A

Cardiac arrest.

32
Q

What should leaders ensure about firefighters on the fire ground?

A

They are monitored closely to prevent overwork or stress.

33
Q

What is a significant driving-related issue in the fire service?

A

Backing up large vehicles.

34
Q

What can help reduce the frequency of vehicle accidents?

A

Sending all personnel through an emergency vehicle operator course (EVOC).

35
Q

What is the importance of conducting safety meetings?

A

It is crucial for leadership; not doing so is poor leadership.

36
Q

What should we not do in training firefighters?

A

Train harder; we must train smarter.

37
Q

What is the number one killer of fire fighters on the fire ground?

A

Cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrest remains a significant risk for fire fighters during operations.

38
Q

What must leaders in the fire service focus on to avoid losing a fire fighter on the job?

A

Training smarter

Emphasizing smarter training rather than just harder training is crucial.

39
Q

What is a significant issue mentioned regarding leadership in the fire service?

A

Shortage of leaders

There is an identified shortage of effective leadership within the fire service.

40
Q

According to Martin Luther King, Jr., what is the ultimate measure of a man?

A

Where he stands at moments of challenge and controversy

This quote emphasizes the importance of integrity and character in difficult times.

41
Q

What is the fire service compared to in terms of structure?

A

A paramilitary organization

This comparison highlights the hierarchical nature and discipline within the fire service.

42
Q

What event has significantly impacted the fire service, according to the sources?

A

The 9/11 World Trade Center attack

This event led to major changes in policies and practices within the fire service.

43
Q

How often should operational ‘hot stove issues’ meetings be held?

A

Monthly

Regular meetings are recommended to address pressing operational concerns.

44
Q

What type of survey is recommended to assess the general attitude of the organization?

A

A command-climate survey

This survey helps gauge the morale and culture within the fire service.

45
Q

What must leaders do to prepare for the unknown?

A

Prepare for the worst and hope for the best

This mindset encourages readiness for unexpected challenges.

46
Q

What can leaders learn from history?

A

How to avoid making the same mistakes

Historical lessons are crucial for improving future decision-making.

47
Q

According to Lao Tzu, why is being a leader difficult?

A

Because the leader does not push the group; the leader is resisting

This perspective emphasizes the challenges of guiding others without force.

48
Q

What approach to leadership does the fire service need?

A

A more modern, scientific approach

This approach encourages evidence-based practices in leadership.

49
Q

Is the fire service a true profession?

A

The sources provide arguments for both sides

There are differing views on whether the fire service meets professional standards.

50
Q

What level of education does the author believe will eventually be required to become a fire chief?

A

A master’s or doctoral degree

Higher educational requirements are anticipated for fire service leadership.

51
Q

What is a ‘one-dimensional experience’?

A

An experience that is only focused on physical skills

This term highlights the need for broader skill development in the fire service.

52
Q

What organization does the author recommend for continuing education and leadership opportunities?

A

International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)

This organization provides resources for professional development.

53
Q

What does the author believe the fire service should regularly publish?

A

Professional journals

Regular publications can contribute to ongoing education and knowledge sharing.

54
Q

What is the most important reason why the fire service needs strong leadership?

A

To save the lives of fire fighters

Effective leadership directly impacts the safety and well-being of personnel.

55
Q

What should be the fire service’s policy on anyone driving a fire truck without a safety belt fastened?

A

Zero tolerance

Strict policies are essential for ensuring safety among fire fighters.

56
Q

What is the benefit of using temporary employees?

A

They can help a department when it is short-staffed

Temporary staff can provide flexibility and support during staffing shortages.

57
Q

What is the importance of enforcing the use of seatbelts and harnesses?

A

It saves lives

Safety measures are critical in reducing fatalities and injuries in the fire service.

58
Q

What is the fire service often an impediment to?

A

Progress

Organizational inertia can hinder advancements in practices and policies.

59
Q

What should the fire service analyze?

A

The fire service culture in relation to aggressive interior fire fighting operations

Understanding culture is vital for improving safety and operational effectiveness.

60
Q

What is the importance of fire ground discipline?

A

It prevents accidents

Discipline on the fire ground is essential for maintaining safety and coordination.

61
Q

What is the importance of fire fighter rehabilitation?

A

It reduces stress

Rehabilitation programs are crucial for the physical and mental well-being of fire fighters.

62
Q

What should strong leadership and authority tell fire fighters?

A

When to rest

Recognizing the need for rest is vital for maintaining operational effectiveness.

63
Q

What is the quote by Albert Einstein used in the sources?

A

“It doesn’t matter what you think, it only matters what you do.”

This quote emphasizes the importance of actions over thoughts in leadership.

64
Q

What has recent research revealed about fire fighter cooling?

A

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.

65
Q

What should fire fighters not do during or immediately following rescuing efforts?

A

Be returned to duty

Adequate recovery time is essential for safety and effectiveness.

66
Q

What is one fire service implement for all firefighters?

A

Annual physicals

Other options include mandatory EKGs, psychological evaluations, and drug testing.

67
Q

What can help identify potential problems before they turn into tragedy?

A

An annual physical assessment

Other options include a peer support program, a chaplaincy program, and a stress management program.

68
Q

What should the fire service place greater emphasis upon?

A

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.

69
Q

What must change or be challenged to enhance safety?

A

Attitudes

Other options include equipment, policy, and budgets.

70
Q

What should never be acceptable in the fire service?

A

Firefighter line-of-duty deaths

Other options include property damage, injuries to civilians, and negative press coverage.

71
Q

What is the fire service experiencing?

A

A shortage of leaders

Other options include a surplus of leaders, a decline in membership, and an increase in funding.