Do you think there are any benefits to removing the officer command structure from a fire department? The theory is that this would remove any egos and make it all an even playing field. No one can hold their status over another person and use the "because I'm an officer" line or think they are more important/better than a 'black hat'.
While in theory, it sounds like it might work in reality it causes several issues. One being, how do other departments know who to go to on mutual aid calls? Sure, many of the people know each other and have been working with each other for 10+ years, but a breakdown in the reporting system can cause mass chaos and mayhem.
Couple this with the attitude that everyone is replaceable on a volunteer fire department and what do you get?
A brokenhearted Bernice. My family (literally and figuratively) is breaking up and it makes me very upset.
2 comments:
I guess my thought is without someone in charge who handles the paperwork? The discipline? (Let's face it, discipline is normally needed at some point) the scheduling?
My job as an officer requires a lot more than even on scene direction. Though I wouldn't mind sending someone else to my meeting tonight...
How did this idea come about?
Without getting into too many details (it's like Springer up in there) they now have "managers". These people handle internal affairs. Whoever was/is in charge on scene does the paperwork which is the people who used to be officers but now aren't.
There were some issues with personnel and even a threatened lawsuit (which was utter and complete BS - again, I don't think I can get into it here) and those people named in the lawsuit got a suspension. Those people then quit because of how the whole situation was handled and they were officers. SO, the answer was no more officers.
**For the record, both of the people that have left were and are great firefighters. One had communication issues that would sometimes cause unsafe situations but his knowledge base was amazing. The second is a born leader. Quiet by nature but an all around friendly and helpful person. Also a very smart person. Awesome at explaining and training.
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