Response Readiness

Question 1

You are a captain part of a strike team. You ask your Engineer if the engine is ready to go, the Engineer states everything is ready. Upon arriving at your assignment you find out the water tank is half empty, the fuel is at a half tank, and there are missing brush packs. In addition, the firefighter forgot his web gear. You notify the strike team leader; subsequently, you are removed from the strike team. You and your crew are sent back to quarters.

Answer 1

Scenario

Question 2

Do the actions of the Engineer and firefighters violate Standards of Behavior?

Answer 2

Yes, Standards of Behavior were violated:
Abide by and conform to the department’s rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Be truthful in written and oral Department communications
Provide full and accurate information when requested by a supervisor
Perform all assigned duties and responsibilities
Exercise good judgment or to take proper action
All personnel shall wear appropriate Department approved personal protective clothing and equipment while in the operational area
Report as soon as possible… any unusual occurrence or other matter that may adversely affect the operation of the Department.

Question 3

What actions should you take?

Answer 3

Be calm, as angry as you may be take time to collect yourself
Get engine to response readiness a.s.a.p.
Notify BC of misconduct and consult regarding course of action/training plan
Mentor firefighters on roles and responsibilities
Have firefighters review Standards of Behavior and have them sign a copy acknowledging such
Consider seriousness of offense and past behavior
Exercise counseling, instruction, or verbal admonishment; if warranted.
Information gathering
Call or allow employee to call a “Time Out” if questioning could lead to punitive action
If “Time Out” called then turn over to BC for further action
Document in business journal (No names/details)

Question 4

Non-punitive or Punitive Action?

Answer 4

Counseling (NP) 
Verbal Admonishment (NP)
Instruction (NP)
Written Reprimand (P)
Reduction in Salary (P)
Suspension (P)
Demotion (P)
Dismissal (P)

Question 5

FIBOR

Answer 5

does not apply when a covered employee, in the normal course of duty, is being provided counseling, instruction, or verbal admonishment by a supervisor.