Resolution No. 74111
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RESOLUTION NO. 7411
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VERNON APPROVING AND ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO THE
CITY OF VERNON FIRE DEPARTMENT RULES AND
REGULATIONS
WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 7066 adopted by the City Council
of the City of Vernon on January 6, 1998, the City Council adopted
the City of Vernon Fire Department Rules and Regulations; and
WHEREAS, the Fire Department of the City of Vernon desires
to amend said Rules and Regulations to be consistent with Resolution
No. 7359, the Salary Resolution, adopted on June 29, 1999; and
WHEREAS, by letter dated September 2, 1999, Bruce V.
Malkenhorst, the City Administrator/City Clerk, has recommended that
the Fire Department Rules and Regulations adopted on January 6, 1998,
be amended to be consistent with Resolution No. 7359, the Salary
Resolution, adopted on June 29, 1999.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
finds and determines that the recitals contained hereinabove are true
and correct.
SECTION 2: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
approves and adopts the Amended City of Vernon Fire Department Rules
and Regulations, a copy of which has been presented to the City
Council concurrently with this resolution, and the City Council
hereby orders said Amended City of Vernon Fire Department Rules and
Regulations to be received and filed by the City Clerk.
SECTION 3: The City Clerk of the City of Vernon shall
certify to the passage of this resolution and thereupon and
thereafter the same shall be in full force and effect.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 7th day of September, 1999.
ATTEST •
BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk
LEONIS C. MA BURG, Mayor
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )
I, BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk of the City of Vernon,
do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution, being Resolution No.
7411, was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Vernon at a
regular meeting of the City Council duly held on Tuesday,
September 7. 1999, and thereafter was duly signed by the Mayor of the
City of Vernon. �
(SEAL)
BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk
-3-
SUPPORTING
DOCUMENTS
OFFICE OF THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR/
CITY CLERK
INTER -OFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: September 14, 1999
TO: Dave Telford, Fire Chief
Joan Francone, k Manager/Personnel Assistant
FROM: Gloria J. Oros hief Deputy City Clerk
RE: Fire Department Rules and Regulations
Transmitted herewith is a copy of the Fire Department Rules and
Regulations effective July 1, 1999 which was approved by City
Council at their meeting held September 7, 1999 through
Resolution No. 7411 (copy enclosed).
f
1% CITY COUNCIL
LEONIS C. MALBURG
Mayor
THOMAS A. YBARRA
Mayor Pro-Tem
Wm. "BILL" DAVIS
Councilman
H. "LARRY" GONZALES
Councilman
W. MICHAEL McCORMICK
Councilman
BRUCE V. MALKENHORST
City Administrator / City Clerk
FAX (323) 581-7924
DAVID B. BREARLEY
City Attorney
FAX: (626) 330-5818
KEVIN WILSON
Director of Community Services & Water
FAX: (323) 588-2761
AM
CITY HALL
4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA 90058
TELEPHONE (323) 583-8811
September 2, 1999
City Council
City of Vernon
Honorable Members:
KENNETH J. DeDARIO
Director of Municipal Utilities
FAX: (323) 583-1983
DAVE TELFORD
Fire Chief
FAX: (323) 581-1385
BRUCE W. OLSON
Police Chief
FAX: (323) 583-5236
Due to the recent change to vacation usage credited to Fire
Department Personnel, effective July 1, 1999 (sworn safety
personnel in the Fire Department working 24 hour shifts may
utilize another 24 hour Shift Off (S/0) in six hour increments),
it is hereby recommended the Fire Department Rules and
Regulations be amended to reflect that two 24 hour (S/O's) may
be taken in six hour increments.
Very truly ;7"';
s,
/L- .
Bruce V. Malkenhorst
City Clerk
BVM:rcm
4
VERNON FIRE DEPARTMENT
RON"14fla 13 ".111VIA I u
To: Gloria Orosco, Chief Deputy City Clerk
From: L. D. Telford, Fire Chief
Date: September 1, 1999
Subject: Agenda Item
Due to the change made July 1999 in the Salary Resolution allowing sworn safety personnel
in the Fire Department working 24 hour shifts to utilize another 24 hour Shift Off (S/O) in
6 hour increments. We need to update Vernon Fire Department Rules and Regulations to
reflect that two 24 hour Shift Off (S/O's) may be taken in 6 hour increments.
Thank you.
LDT/lam
OFFICE OF THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR/CITY CLERK
INTER -DEPARTMENT
MEMORANDUM
DATE: July 13, 1999
TO: L. Telford, Fire Chief
FROM: Bruce V. Malkenhorst,
City Administrator
RE: Captains & Lower Ranked 24 Hour Personnel)
Dear Chief:
Upon conclusion of the meeting with members of the Fire
Department, and further discussion with the Finance Committee it
was concurred that changes were acceptable to their vacation
benefits. The change that is acceptable and approved is that fire
personnel will be allowed to utilize another 24 hour s/o in 6 hour
increments. This is effective as of July 1, 1999.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you.
/gj o
:CACCIDMemo
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
The City of Vernon Fire Department Rules and Regulations and Standard Operating
Procedures contained herein are created solely for the use of the City of Vernon Fire
Department.
They are not and shall not infringe upon any other City department and are intended as
guidelines for Fire Department personnel only.
These rules and regulations and standard operating procedures shall not supersede any
state or federal law, any policy, either written or oral, created by the Vernon City Council
or the City Administrator either now or in the future. Further, these rules and regulations
are not in any way intended to alter the at -will employment relationship which is
intended by the City Council and which is recognized in the City's Code, its Salary
Resolution and employment contracts.
A periodic review of this document is recommended to assure compliance with all state
and federal law; all resolutions and policies created by Council and/or the City
Administrator.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Introduction
I
Oath of Office
II
Code of Ethics
III
The National Standard
IV
Fire Department Organization
V
Article I - Duties and Responsibilities
Section
1.
Fire Chief
1-1
2.
Battalion Chief
1-2
3.
Training Officer
1-5
4.
Captain
1-7
5.
Engineer
1-12
6.
Firefighter
1-13
Article II - Staff Assignments - Battalion Chiefs
Section
1.
Communications Officer
2-1
2.
Apparatus and Equipment Officer
2-1
3.
Building Maintenance and Grounds Officer
2-2
4.
Personnel Supply Officer
2-3
5.
Safety Officer
2-3
6.
Emergency Medical Services Officer
2-4
7.
Data and Personnel Management Officer
2-4
8.
Budget Coordinator
2-5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Article III - General Rules & Regulations, Policies & Procedures
Section
1.
Compliance and Communication - Chain of Command
3-1
2.
Conduct
3-2
3.
Residence, Telephone and Driver's License
3-2
4.
Property
3-3
5.
Vices
34-
6.
Political Activity
3-4
7.
Shift Change
3-5
8.
Leaving Station or District
3-6
9.
Riding on Apparatus
3-6
10.
Transfers
3-6
11.
General Station Rules
3-7
12.
Uniform Regulations
3-8
13.
Hair Regulations
3-11
14.
Shift Trades, Standbys, Etc..
3-12
15.
Shifts Off (S/O's)
3-14
16.
Illness
3-18
17.
Overtime Procedures
3-19
18.
Working Out of Rank
3-22
19.
Drill and Training Manuals and Resources
3-23
20.
Drill Records and Reports
3-23
21.
Outside Training
3-24
INTRODUCTION
These Rules and Regulations and Standard Operating Procedures cannot, nor are they
expected to, provide a solution to every question or problem which may arise in an
organization designed and established to render emergency service. It is expected,
however, that they will be sufficiently comprehensive to cover, either in a specific or
general way, the privileges, obligations and duties of the members of the Vernon Fire
Department.
They are neither designed nor intended to limit any member in the exercise of judgment or
initiative in taking the action a reasonable person would take in extraordinary situations
such are bound to arise in the Fire Service.
By necessity, much must be left to the loyalty, integrity and discretion of members. To
the degree which individual members demonstrate the possession of these qualities in the
application of a conscientious discharge of their duty, and to that degree alone, will the
department measure up to the high standard required and expected of the service.
PAGE I
OATH OF OFFICE
TAKEN BY ALL MEMBERS
(Article XX, Section 3, California Constitution)
"I, , do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and
defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of
California against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and
allegiance to the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of
California; that I will take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or
purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties upon which I
am about to enter.
"And I do further swear (or affirm) that t do not advocate, nor am I a member of any
party or organization, political or otherwise, that now advocates the overthrow of the
Government of the United States or of the State of California by force or violence or other
unlawful means; that within the five years immediately preceding the taking of this oath
(or affirmation) I have not been a member of any parry or organization, political or
otherwise, that advocated the overthrow of the Government of the United States or the
State of California by force or violence or other unlawful means except as
follows:
(If no affiliations, write in the words "No Exceptions") and that during such time as I hold
the office of
(name of office)
I will not advocate nor become a member of any party or organization, political or
otherwise, that advocates the overthrow of the Government of the United States or the
State of California by force or violence or other unlawful means."
Executed on
at California.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the forgoing is true and correct.
(Signature)
(Name)
PAGE II
CODE OF ETHICS
My fundamental responsibility as a "Protector of Society" is the safe guarding and
preservation of human life and property against the elements of fire and disaster.
I will never allow personal feelings nor danger to self to deter my responsibilities
I will, without provocation, recognize and uphold the responsibilities of my duties,
dedicating myself before God and to the public who have placed their faith in me and my
chosen profession.
California State Firefighters Association
PAGE III
THE NATIONAL STANDARD
The Flag of the United States of America shall be displayed at the top of the staff at all
stations each day of the year. The Flag shall be flown at half staff on each Memorial Day
until noon, at which time it will be raised to the top of the staff. The Flag shall also be
flown at half staff anytime it is so directed by the City Council or City Administrator.
When flown at half staff, the Flag shall be hoisted to the top of the staff for an instant and
then lowered to the half staff position and so displayed. If being lowered, following this
display, it shall first be hoisted to the top of the staff.
Station officers will be responsible for the proper display of the Flag. When a Flag
becomes unfit for display, either through wear or exposure, it must be replaced with a
new one and the old Flag returned for proper disposal.
PAGE IV
FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION
The uniformed force (members) of the Vernon Fire Department shall consist of. The Fire
Chief, Battalion Chiefs, Captains, Engineers and Firefighters.
The entire uniformed and civilian force shall be commanded by the Fire Chief. The
uniformed force shall be organized into platoons and companies. In addition, the Chief
shall assign such personnel to Fire Prevention and/or Training as deemed necessary.
A platoon shall consist of the entire complement of firefighting personnel on duty during
any given 24 hour period. Each platoon shall be under the command of a Battalion Chief.
A company shall be composed of a Captain and as many members of various ranks as
may be deemed necessary to handle the equipment or appliances assigned to that
company apparatus.
A Special Detail shall consist of a member or members assigned by the Fire Chief to such
public service and hours as may be fit.
The entire uniformed force, including members of Special Detail, shall be divided, as
equally possible, into three platoons. These three platoons shall be designated "A", "B",
and "C" respectively.
Each platoon shall normally alternate every 24 hours, at 0700 hours, unless otherwise
specified in the Rules and Regulations or by special order of the Fire Chief.
PAGE V
ARTICLE 1
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. FIRE CHIEF
1.1. The Fire Chief shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Fire Department.
The Fire Chief shall have direct control, management and direction of such
public service as deemed proper within the boundaries prescribed by the
City Council and the City Administrator.
1.2. The Fire Chief shall recommend to the City Administrator, from time to
time, in such matters as: changes in the location of stations and fire
companies; the building of new stations; the purchase of new apparatus,
hose, equipment, etc. and the sale of old hose, equipment, apparatus, etc.
not necessary for continued use in the operations and maintenance of the
department. The Fire Chief shall provide justifications for such actions.
1.3. The Fire Chief shall cause to be kept, in proper form, an accurate record of
all business transacted within the department.
1.4. The Fire Chief shall have the power to assign all companies to fire or other
duty and shall make all assignments, transfers and details as deemed
necessary for the best interest of the service.
1.5. The Fire Chief shall cause to be extinguished all fires with the least
possible danger to life and property and seek to prevent any unnecessary
damage.
1.6. The Fire Chief shall see that all premises on which fires occur are left in
such condition that they will not rekindle, causing possible further loss to
life and/or property and that such property is left in as orderly a condition
as possible.
1.7. The Fire Chief shall have the power to demolish buildings and/or parts of
buildings which, in his/her judgment, might endanger life and/or property
or which may be necessary to prevent the spread of fire.
1.8. The Fire Chief shall have the authority to dispatch apparatus and
PAGE 1-1
manpower to calls for aid to other cities or fire departments when, in
his/her judgment, the call is necessary and from a responsible person.
1.9. The Fire Chief shall report to the City Administrator any member of the
Fire Department, who by reason of age, disease, accident, or incompetency
does not or cannot fully and promptly perform the duties required.
1.10. The Fire Chief may recommend the suspension, or removal from the
service, of any member of the Fire Department. The City Council shall
retain its absolute and exclusive jurisdiction to discipline or terminate any
member of the Fire Department, at its sole discretion, without cause.
1.11. The Fire Chief shall, at frequent intervals, consult with and, where
possible, issue orders or instructions affecting the Fire Department and its
members.
1.12. The Fire Chief shall perform such other related duties as the City
Administrator may direct.
2. BATTALION CHIEF
2.1. The Battalion Chiefs are under the general direction of the Fire Chief. They
shall be in direct charge of their respective platoons and shall be
responsible for the efficient performance of the personnel under their
supervision.
2.2. The Battalion Chief shall normally be next in command to the Fire Chief.
2.3. The Battalion Chief shall have the authority to assign all subordinates
under his/her control to fire duty, make transfers, assign details and other
such assignments as may be in the best interest of the service.
2.4. The fire suppression on -duty Battalion Chief shall be notified of all
emergencies during the tour of duty. As necessary, the Battalion Chief
shall assume command and have full control at a scene of emergency until
or unless relieved by the Fire Chief.
2.5. An Acting Battalion Chief in charge of an incident shall remain in charge
until command is transferred to a regular Battalion Chief or the Fire Chief.
PAGE 1-2
2.6. The Battalion Chiefs shall hold officers and company members, under their
supervision, responsible for the prompt and proper discharge of their
duties, for the condition of the companies in and out of quarters, and for
any neglect in carrying out and enforcing every order and rule governing the
members of the Fire Department. If a Battalion Chief learns of serious
violations or derelictions by any member, such incidents shall be
thoroughly documented and reported to the Fire Chief with proper and
well sustained charges.
2.7. The Battalion Chiefs shall enforce, or cause to be enforced, all Rules and
Regulations of the Fire Department and any special orders that may be
issued from time to time.
2.8. The Battalion Chiefs shall work in harmony to promote teamwork among
the personnel under their supervision.
2.9. The Battalion Chief shall be just, dignified, firm and impartial in their
dealings with other officers and subordinates, being careful to avoid the use
of abusive or immoderate language when giving orders, and shall see that
order and discipline are maintained among the members of the Fire
Department.
2.10. The Battalion Chiefs shall seek to equalize the workloads of their
companies as nearly as possible.
2.11. The Battalion Chief shall carefully read all communications coming up
through regular channels and forward them to the Fire Chief with remarks
and/or recommendations as may be appropriate.
2.12. The Battalion Chief may grant a member time off for death or critical
illness (where death appears imminent) of an immediate family member
(father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, children, mother in-law, father in
law, grandparents or grandchildren) up to one (1) shift. Such leave shall
not be allowed in any case where in the preceding six (6) calendar months a
leave on the grounds of critical illness of the same family member has been
granted.
2.13. The Battalion Chief shall make a written report to the Fire Chief of all
absences without leave, along with a recommendation for possible
PAGE 1-3
disciplinary action.
2.14. The Battalion Chief may relieve of duty any member under his/her
command, documenting in detail such suspension to the Fire Chief in
writing.
2.15. The Battalion Chief shall direct the personnel under their command in the
extinguishment of fire with the least possible damage by water.
2.16. The Battalion Chief shall see that the premises on which fires occur are left
in such condition that they will not rekindle, causing possible further
threat to life and/or damage to property.
2.17. The Battalion Chief, shall after a fire is properly extinguished, see that
water and debris are properly cleaned up, that proper salvaging is done
and, in cases of suspected incendiarism, that all possible evidence is left
undisturbed.
2.18. The Battalion Chief in charge, shall cause all companies not needed at
incidents to promptly be made available for response to other alarms.
2.19. The Battalion Chiefs shall supervise multi -company drills and assure that
all members of a platoon are adequately trained to perform efficiently in an
emergency and that the coordination of their commands are maintained to a
high standard.
2.20. The Battalion Chiefs shall administer a pre -incident planning program for
their respective platoons, requiring a minimum of two (2) plans per year
per fire company and be responsible to specifically assign such.
2.21. The Battalion Chiefs shall conduct regular meetings with officers under
their commands (preferably, at least once a month) for such purpose as:
dissemination of staff meeting information; policy changes and/or updates;
current directives; procedural changes; exchange of ideas; etc. They shall
also conduct monthly safety meetings for their respective platoons in the
absence of the Training Officer, maintaining all necessary documentation of
such. They shall see that any of their officers absent from such meetings
are updated as soon as is practicable and are provided with all pertinent
handout material.
PAGE 1-4
2.22. The Battalion Chiefs shall make regular visits to the various fire stations to
ascertain the manner in which personnel are being administered and the
manner in which the station, apparatus and equipment are being
maintained.
2.23. The Battalion Chiefs shall be responsible for all department property in
their charge and shall see that it is in proper condition for immediate use at
all times.
2.24. The Battalion Chiefs shall prepare periodic written evaluations of
Captains/ Acting Captains under their command, at such times as
determined by City and/or Fire Department policy. Personnel eligible for a
salary step increase shall be evaluated at least thirty (30) days prior to the
effective date of such increase.
2.25. The Battalion Chiefs shall perform such other duties as may be required
by the Fire Chief and the Rules and Regulations of the Vernon Fire
Department.
3. TRAINING OFFICER (Battalion Chief)
3.1. One Battalion Chief shall be designated as Training Officer of the Fire
Department.
3.2. The Training Officer shall serve a period of time in the position as
determined by the Fire Chief.
3.3. The Training Officer shall work an assigned schedule as determined by the
Fire Chief, generally, a ten hour day, four day week (40 hours per week).
3.4. In addition to the applicable responsibilities and regulations listed in
Section B- Battalion Chiefs, the Training Officer shall be responsible for
the following:
3.4.1. Develop and coordinate the training program and schedule for the
entire Fire Department.
3.4.2. Coordinate training activities for the training captains for each
platoon.
PAGE 1-5
3.4.3. Determine the annual budget requirements for the Training
Division.
3.4.4. Prepare purchase requisitions for necessary training films, video
tapes, slide programs, supplies and materials.
3.4.5. Coordinate required CPR/SIDS training, First Aid training and
EMT recertification classes.
3.4.6. Coordinate and oversee the training program for Engineers and the
Officer Introduction and Orientation class.
3.4.7. Survey and establish manipulative standards as a basis for an
effective training program
3.4.8. Update standard operating procedures manual as necessary as it
pertains to training related areas.
3.4.9. Inventory and mark all films, video tapes, slides, related materials
and supplies, etc. and maintain the Fire Department training
library.
3.4.10. Inventory, mark and maintain all other training equipment and
supplies.
3.4.11. Oversee the maintenance of classroom and training facilities and
related storage areas.
3.4.12. Serve as the City Emergency Preparedness Coordinator.
3.4.13. Serve as department Safety Officer, and schedule and conduct
monthly safety meetings for all Fire Department officers.
3.4.14. Investigate all Fire Department vehicle and/or property damage
accidents and such other accidents as determined by the Fire Chief.
In the absence of the Training Officer, the Battalion Chiefs will be
responsible for such investigations.
3.4.15. Administer required Department of Motor Vehicles driver training
PAGE 1-6
program for all Fire Department personnel.
3.4.16. Coordinate the preparation and administration of periodic
promotional and entrance level exams.
4. CAPTAIN
4.1. The Captains, under the supervision and direction of their respective
Battalion Chiefs, shall have full command and control of the members of
their respective companies while on duty. They shall respond to all alarms
as directed and, when first in, take command of the incident until properly
relieved by a superior officer.
4.2. The Captains shall be just, dignified and firm in their dealings with
subordinates, being careful to abstain from abusive and immoderate
language in giving orders. They shall see that all orders and Rules and
Regulations are strictly adhered to by all members under their command
and are expected to set the example for such.
4.3. The Captains shall see that the members of their companies become
familiar with all Rules and Regulations and Special Orders of the Fire
Department.
4.4. The Captains shall conduct monthly safety meetings with their company
crews to disseminate information received at officer's safety meetings and
shall distribute all appropriate handout material to each member.
4.5. The Captains shall conduct other such meetings with their personnel, as
may be necessary, to ensure that such personnel are kept up to date on
information or any matters affecting them.
4.6. The Captains shall preserve order and discipline in and about company
quarters and at all types of emergency incidents.
4.7. The Captain acting in the absence of the Battalion Chief and Fire Chief,
may temporarily relieve from assigned duty, any member of an assigned
company, for cause as determined by Fire Department Rules and
Regulations. Such action shall be documented in detail and in writing, and
brought to the attention of the duty Battalion Chief as soon as possible
PAGE -1-7
after such occurrence. The relieved member shall remain at an assigned
station until instructed otherwise under the authority of an appropriate
Chief Officer.
4.8. The Captain shall make a full report, in writing, of any meritorious or
courageous act performed by any member of his/her company and forward
same to the Fire Chief through proper channels.
4.9. The Captains shall promptly report members absent without proper
notice or authorization to their respective Battalion Chiefs, followed by a
written report through proper channels.
4.10. The Captain shall promptly report any member who, because of sickness,
age, fear, etc., cannot properly perform the duty to which the member is
assigned.
4.11. The Captain shall, in the event of accident, injury or illness of any member
under his/her charge, see that such injured or ill member receives prompt
and proper medical treatment as may be necessary. As soon thereafter as
possible, the duty Battalion Chief shall be notified, by telephone, and the
proper reports and forms completed. Completed forms shall be forwarded
to the Fire Administrative Office as soon after completion as possible.
4.12. The Captain shall keep the Company journal in such a manner that it will
be, in itself, an accurate and complete history of the activities and
operations of each company for each day. Everything in any manner
pertaining to the administration of the company or to the interest of the
Fire Department shall be carefully noted. These journals shall be kept in
the company quarters until such time as their removal is authorized by the
Fire Chief.
4.13. The Captains shall, until their purposes have been served, preserve all
orders, notices, communications and records pertaining to the operation of
their respective companies. They shall be responsible for the
completeness, accuracy and dispatch of all reports with which they are
concerned. No reports or' communications shall be intercepted or
unnecessarily delayed in transit.
4.14. It shall normally be the duty of the district (first in) engine Captain,
PAGE 1-8
responding to an incident, to obtain the necessary information to complete
an accurate report. In the event that the normal district engine company is
unavailable for response, the next scheduled arriving engine Captain shall
assume this responsibility and prepare the report.
4.15. The Captains shall have full control of company quarters and be
responsible for their orderliness and cleanliness. They shall see that
attention is paid to the front of each station, keeping buildings, sidewalks,
gutters and street frontage clean and free from all encumbrances.
4.16. The Captains shall be responsible for seeing that station security is
maintained in a proper manner at all times.
4.17. The Captains shall see that all emergency apparatus remains parked inside
the station, at all times it is in quarters, when not in use or outside for
maintenance purposes.
4.18. The Captains shall attempt, as nearly as possible, to equalize the work to
be performed in quarters.
4.19. The Captains shall be responsible to confer with their reliefs regarding
matters affecting the operation of the station such as: repairs, supplies,
upkeep of quarters, apparatus condition, etc. and to seek to maintain
harmonious relations with one another and subordinates.
4.20. When two Captains are working in the same quarters, they shall confer
with each other on all matters related to the operation of the station. In the
event of disagreements between these two Captains, the decision of the
Captain with seniority in rank shall take precedence until the matter can be
resolved at a higher level.
4.21. No Captain, whether regular or acting, shall permit any social, fraternal or
political gatherings to assemble in any fire station unless such permission
is granted by the Fire Chief.
4.22. The Captains shall not permit any member of the company to go off duty
until such member has been properly relieved. If a member of the on-
coming shift fails to report for duty, the Captain shall select a member of
the off -going shift to remain on duty until other arrangements have been
PAGE 1-9
made. The Battalion Chief shall be notified immediately of any deviation
from scheduled manpower strength.
4.23. The Captains shall see that all company members remain in uniform until
they have been properly relieved. They are expected to set the example for
such. Relieving members must also be in uniform.
4.24. If the off -going platoon is at an incident at normal relief time, the on-
coming Captain shall notify the on -coming Battalion Chief of the
company's readiness to relieve the off -going platoon.
4.25. The Captain shall notify the Battalion Chief and the dispatcher if the
company is not ready for full service following an incident.
4.26. The Captain shall, upon returning to quarters following an incident, see
that all apparatus and equipment is promptly made ready for immediate
response to another alarm, water tanks filled, dirty hose replaced, SCBAs
refilled, etc..
4.27. The Captain shall be responsible to see that all apparatus and equipment is
properly cleaned before returning to quarters from an alarm. After 1630
hours, it is permissible to allow routine cleaning, etc. to remain for the on-
coming platoon. Should the apparatus return wet, muddy or in an
excessively dirty condition, it shall be washed and wiped dry immediately
regardless of the hour.
4.28. The Captain shall see that apparatus is completely inspected for response
readiness returning from any shop work. The Captain shall coordinate the
service and repair work for assigned apparatus with the City garage and be
responsible for the completion of all necessary forms for such.
4.29. The Captain shall see that reserve or relief apparatus is returned in a clean
condition with all tools, implements, etc. in their proper place.
4.30. The Captain shall be held jointly responsible with the company Engineer
for the safe response and return from all emergency and non -emergency
trips and for any traffic accident or violation.
4.31. The Captain shall see that the premises on which fires occur are left in
PAGE 1-10
such condition that they will not rekindle to possibly cause further threat
to life and property.
4.32. The Captains shall train and instruct the members of their companies and,
through regularly conducted drills (at least two (2) hours per shift),
determine that the efficiency and coordination of their commands are
maintained at a high standard.
4.33. The Captains shall familiarize themselves with all public buildings,
manufacturing plants, chemical use and storage facilities, lumber yards,
schools and other important buildings and the contents thereof for the
purpose of adequate pre -incident planning and proper suppression
operations.
4.34. The Captain shall perform . fire prevention duties as part of the on -going
inspection program and shall be required to complete all assigned
occupancies in his/her assigned district within the calendar year in which
they are assigned.
4.35. Acting Captains shall be accorded all the privileges and responsibilities of
regular Captains. They are to be obeyed and respected accordingly.
4.36. No Acting Captain shall alter or annul the standing orders of the regular
Captain without specific authority of a superior officer.
4.37. When two Captains are working in the same quarters with one a regular
Captain and one an Acting Captain, the Acting Captain shall defer to the
orders of the regular Captain at all times while on duty.
4.38. Captains shall be required to periodically prepare written evaluations of
personnel under their supervision at such times as may be determined by
City and/or Fire Department policy. Personnel eligible for salary step
increase shall be evaluated at least thirty (30) days prior to such increase.
4.39. The Captains assigned to outlying stations shall report daily to Station #1,
by telephone, their station manpower status. This is to be done daily at or
before 0700 hours.
4.40. All Captains shall perform such other duties as may be required of them
PAGE 1-11
and shall promptly obey all orders of their superiors and the Rules and
Regulations of the City and the Fire Department.
5. ENGINEER
5.1. The Engineers shall, under the supervision of the company officer, be
responsible for the care and management of the apparatus to which they
have been assigned and are to see to the proper condition of same. They
shall see that it is clean, in good order and ready for immediate service at all
times.
5.2. The Engineers shall notify their company officer when apparatus requires
material or repairs, specifying the problem or work to be done.
5.3. The Engineers shall carefully instruct other members of their company in
the proper use of the apparatus and its equipment as required by the
company officer.
5.4. The Engineers shall see that the apparatus is clean and ready for inspection
at all times except during or following an incident which may have caused
it to be dirty. This includes the engine and underside of the apparatus.
5.5. The off -going Engineers must deliver their apparatus to the the on -coming
Engineers in good order and report to them anything that has occurred
during the previous shift which may pertain to the operation and care of
the apparatus.
5.6. The Engineer shall be responsible for duties such as: receiving the location
of the alarm; getting the apparatus safely to the scene of the incident;
having knowledge of hydrant locations, and properly spotting the
apparatus for its designed operation.
5.7. The Engineers shall, at all times, drive and operate the apparatus in
compliance with the California State Vehicle Code. Due regard for the
welfare of the public as well as the members of their company shall govern
the operation of all apparatus. They shall utilize all warning devices
available to them during emergency response conditions.
5.8. The Engineers shall familiarize themselves with the practices and
PAGE 1-12
procedures relative to water supply, fire streams, pump capacities, motor,
pump and other operations which will enable them to efficiently perform
their related duties.
5.9. The Engineers shall remain with their apparatus at the scene of alarms
unless it is necessary for them to assist with laying lines, raising ladders,
etc. and then under orders from a superior. If it is determined that the use
of their apparatus is unnecessary, they shall report to the company officer
as soon as possible for assignment of other duties.
5.10. The Engineers shall at all times, when standing by or operating a pump or
aerial device, watch and listen carefully for signals and radio transmissions
from the incident location.
5.11. The Engineers shall not engage in any unnecessary conversation while
operating any apparatus.
5.12. The Engineers or any person driving any apparatus shall not back the
apparatus without the assistance of a spotter. Failure to do so, except in
an extreme emergency, shall be considered cause for disciplinary action up
to and including suspension.
5.13. The Acting Engineers will be charged with the knowledge of and be
accountable for the proper execution of the duties of such rank.
5.14. The Engineers shall perform such other duties as may be required by their
superiors and/or the Rules and Regulations of the City and the Fire
Department.
6. FIREFIGHTER
6.1. The Firefighters shall be under the immediate supervision of their
company officers.
6.2. The Firefighters shall respond to all alarms with their respective
companies unless otherwise directed by their company officers. They shall
be expected at all times, while on duty, to conform to the orders of their
superiors and to the Rules and Regulations of the City and the Fire
Department.
PAGF 1-13
6.3. The Firefighters shall seek to carry out the necessary measures to protect
life and property in the performance of their duties.
6.4. The Firefighters shall acquire knowledge of the operations of all the
various types of apparatus and equipment in use by the department and,
under the direction of their superiors, participate in the proper
maintenance of such apparatus, and equipment.
6.5. The Firefighters shall assist the Engineers in keeping the apparatus clean,
neat and in good order; shall' keep the quarters in good order and condition;
shall keep the hose, ladders, tools and implements carried on the apparatus
in good order and ready for immediate use in case of fire or other
emergency; and shall immediately report any damage or disrepair of
equipment or apparatus to the Engineer and/or company officer assigned
to the apparatus.
6.6. The Firefighters shall spend time becoming thoroughly familiar with the
streets and addresses in the City of Vernon and such other areas as may be
deemed appropriate for their position.
6.7. The Firefighters shall perform such other duties as may be required by
their superiors and or the Rules and Regulations of the City and/or the Fire
Department.
PAGE 1-14
ARTICLE II
STAFF ASSIGNMENTS - BATTALION CHIEFS
In addition to the responsibilities listed in Article I, Section B, the following assignments
will be distributed among the Battalion Chiefs at the discretion of the Fire Chief.
1. COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
I.I. Act as liaison between the Fire Department and the Communications
Center. Oversee the operation of the dispatchers as it relates to the Fire
Department. Hold regular meetings with the Police Department Dispatch
Supervisor to assure compliance with dispatching and other related
procedures.
1.2. Submit budget and purchase requests for communications equipment
necessary to the on -going related operations of the Fire Department.
1.3. Oversee the maintenance of all phone equipment, alarm systems, night
lights, etc. and the keeping of records related to such.
1.4. Establish formal communications procedures and guidelines in accordance
with the current Area E Incident Command System and provide a plan for
the training of personnel in their use.
1.5. Oversee the development of a plan for the training of all personnel in the
proper use and procedures of Fire Department communications
equipment.
2. APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT OFFICER
2.1. Submit budget and purchase requests for and coordinate the preparation of
specifications and the purchase of all Fire Department apparatus including
vehicles.
2.2. Establish and maintain a history and replacement program for all Fire
Department vehicles.
2.3. Oversee the maintenance and repair of all Fire Department apparatus and
PAGE 2-1
2.4. maintain appropriate records of same.
2.5. Periodically inspect all apparatus for paint and general overall condition.
Prepare budget requests for necessary reconditioning/rehabilitation, etc..
2.6. Coordinate the required periodic testing of pumpers, aerial ladders, and
aerial platforms, etc..
2.7. Submit budget requests for and oversee the purchase of all apparatus
related equipment and materials as necessary, including fire hose.
2.8. Establish and oversee an equipment maintenance and repair program.
Maintain all appropriate records of same.
2.9. Establish and maintain a history and replacement program for all apparatus
related equipment.
2.10. Oversee the inventories and proper marking of all apparatus related
equipment.
2.11. Coordinate the breathing apparatus maintenance and repair program. See
that all required periodic inspections and safety related retrofits are
performed in a timely manner.
2.12. Coordinate the maintenance and repair program of the breathing apparatus
air compressor.
2.13. Research and oversee the development of improved techniques and
procedures for the proper operation and use of Fire Department tools and
equipment. Coordinate training for personnel in same with the Training
Officer.
2.14. Submit budget and purchase requests for and see to the maintenance of all
mobile and portable radios. See to the maintenance and records for such.
3. BUILDING MAINTENANCE & GROUNDS OFFICER
3.1. Submit budget requests for and coordinate the maintenance and repairs
related to all Fire Department stations, buildings, and grounds.
PAGE 2-2
3.2. Coordinate and arrange for outside contractors to provide quotes for major
repairs and/or replacements which cannot be handled by City personnel.
3.3. Submit appropriate budget requests for and establish and maintain a
history and replacement program for building related attachments,
equipment, appliances, etc. as necessary. Maintain records of model and
serial numbers; dates and amounts of purchase; etc..
3.4. Oversee the maintenance of building related equipment and appliance
inventories and the updating of same as necessary.
3.5. Coordinate annual budget requests for station related items by station
Captains.
3.6. Periodically inspect all Fire Department buildings and grounds. Submit
written report of condition to the Fire Chief.
4. PERSONNEL SUPPLY OFFICER
4.1. Coordinate and oversee the purchase of all required protective clothing and
accessories such as: turnout coats and pants; boots (all types); gloves;
helmets, personal alarm devices; etc. See that records of same are
prepared, maintained and updated as necessary. Submit annual budget
requests for same.
4.2. Oversee the maintenance of the personal City Property Retrieval form for
all Fire Department shift assigned personnel.
5. SAFETY OFFICER
5.1. Serve as the Fire Department representative on the City Safety
Committee. Attend all such meetings as schedule permits. Arrange for
substitute representative when necessary.
5.2. Conduct monthly safety meetings with all Fire Department officers and
periodic meetings with all Fire Department personnel as may be necessary.
Establish and maintain appropriate records of all such meetings.
5.3. Coordinate the publishing and distribution of pertinent safety information
PAGE 2-3
to all Fire Department personnel.
5.4. Research periodical publications from federal and state agencies dealing
with pertinent safety issues and requirements for the purpose of providing
compliance as necessary.
5.5. Coordinate and oversee all necessary safety training. See that appropriate
records are kept.
5.6. Be liaison between the Fire Department and pertinent federal and state
safety agencies.
6. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES OFFICER
6.1. Act as liaison between the private company with which the City has
contracted to provide Paramedic services, the Fire Department and the Los
Angeles County Health Services Agency.
6.2. Establish and maintain standard operating procedures under which such
privately provided paramedics shall operate in both emergency and non
emergency situations, as such operations relate to the Fire Department.
6.3. Oversee the maintenance of Fire Department inventories of emergency
medical supplies and related materials.
6.4. Prepare annual budget requests for emergency medical services equipment
and supplies.
7. DATA AND PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT OFFICER
7.1. Oversee the maintenance of Fire Department records and reports and the
keeping of same for periods as may be prescribed by law or common
practice.
7.2. See to the preparation and regular updating of personnel rosters, recall
lists, organizational chart, etc..
7.3. Make recommendations to the Fire Chief regarding personnel assignments
and transfers as necessary and prepare postings for such.
PAGE 2-4
7.4. See to the preparation of postings related to promotional exams.
7.5. Oversee the preparation of Fire Department forms and maintain a master
form file. Make recommendations for form revisions as may be necessary
from time to time.
7.6. Serve as liaison between the Fire Department and Personnel Department in
matters of overall Fire Department interest.
7.7. See to the preparation of annual shifts off schedules and related materials.
Update S/O Procedure as necessary.
7.8. Prepare or update other personnel related procedures as may be requested
by the Fire Chief or required by necessity.
8. BUDGET COORDINATOR
8.1. Oversee the preparation of the annual Fire Department budget.
8.2. Serve as liaison between the Fire Department and City Clerk's office in
budget matters.
PAGE 2-5
ARTICLE III
GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
1. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNICATION - CHAIN OF COMMAND
1.1. Members of the Fire Department shall devote their time, energy and
attention to the service, and shall prepare their equipment and themselves,
both mentally and physically, to perform their sworn duty under any and
all circumstances, to the utmost of their abilities and to the highest
professional standards.
1.2. All Members shall read and sign the Oath Of Office provided by the Fire
Department Administration.
1.3. All members shall read and become familiar with City ordinances, Rules
and Regulations and orders relating to the Fire Department. They shall be
expected to promptly obey such orders as well as the Rules and
Regulations of the Fire Department.
1.4. Any member refusing to obey the orders of an officer shall be relieved of
duty and reported immediately, both verbally and in writing, to the Fire
Chief, through proper channels.
1.5. Under no circumstances shall any member make derogatory statements or
adversely criticize Fire Department policy or the departmental activities of
officers except first in an official written communication, through proper
channels, addressed to the personal attention of the Fire Chief or
personally by oral report to the Chief if so arranged by proper request. .
1.6. All official communications shall be made through proper channels which
are defined to be in the following order: Company Commander (Captain),
Battalion Chief and Fire Chief. Official communications from a superior to
a subordinate shall pass in reverse order. No intervening officer shall
suppress any such communication. All communications directed to the
City Council shall be made or approved by the Fire Chief and then
forwarded to the City Administrator.
1.7. NOTE: Nothing in these rules is intended to circumvent, in any way, the
PAGE 3-1
Chain of Command process for all official Fire Department matters.
2. CONDUCT
2.1. When speaking to an officer, members shall address the officer by title,
such as: "Chief', "Captain", Sir, etc.., while on duty.
2.2. Acting officers shall have the authority and shall be required to enforce the
regulations and orders of the position and will be charged with the
knowledge of and be accountable for the proper execution of the duties of
such rank.
2.3. Members shall not be guilty of conduct in any way unbecoming their
profession or conduct themselves in any manner prejudicial to the good
reputation, order or discipline of the department.
2.4. It shall be the duty of all personnel, when strangers enter quarters, to
approach them and courteously inquire their business. In case such
persons desire information concerning the Fire Department, members shall
call their company officer.
2.5. Members shall see that visitors are politely escorted through quarters and
that proper explanations are made but shall not allow habitual lounging or
visiting in or about company quarters and shall not normally permit small
children to enter quarters unless accompanied by an adult attendant.
2.6. No information relative to the business of the department shall be
furnished to persons not connected therewith except as authorized by a
Chief Officer.
3. RESIDENCE, TELEPHONE AND DRIVERS LICENSE
3.1. All members must possess a ti alid driver's license of an appropriate class,
issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles prior to driving
any Fire Department automotive equipment. A Class B license is required
to drive most types of emergency apparatus.
PAGE 3-2
3.2. All members are required to have an operational telephone in their
residence with the number on file with the Fire Department. Any change in
that telephone number must be reported as soon as possible, through
channels, to the Fire Department Administration Office/Department
Secretary.
3.3. Members shall report any change in residence address as soon as possible,
through channels, to the Fire Department Administration Office /
Department Secretary.
4. PROPERTY
4.1. The loss of any tools or equipment must be reported in writing, through
proper channels, to the duty Battalion Chief, stating by whom lost and
approximate location, if known. If, after investigation, the loss is found to
be due to negligence, the person(s) responsible shall be charged up to the
purchase price of the replacement(s).
4.2. No one will loan, give away, sell, nor in any way, dispose of any Fire
Department property except as authorized by the Fire Chief.
4.3. Members shall carefully protect all public property from abuse or misuse
and shall particularly see that gas, water, electricity, vehicle fuel, oil and
miscellaneous supplies are not wasted.
4.4. Any member terminating employment with the department, for any
reason, must return through the duty Battalion Chief or designee, all
department property that has been issued to the members. The cost of
articles not so returned shall be deducted from the member's final
paycheck.
4.5. Members shall carefully preserve the security of all department buildings,
apparatus and equipment to protect against unauthorized entry, vandalism
and/or theft of department and personal property. In the event of such
loss, if after investigation, it is determined that negligence was a
contributing factor, the responsible person(s) may be held liable for such
loss.
PAGE 3-3
5. VICES
5.1. All members shall be required to pay their just debts when due.
5.2. Shaking dice, card playing or gambling with any instrument or device, for
money, while on duty, is strictly prohibited.
5.3. Members shall not enter any place, in uniform, where intoxicating liquors
are sold except in the strict discharge of duty. No member in uniform shall
drink any alcoholic beverage nor shall any member have, or cause to have,
any intoxicating liquors brought onto Fire Department premises.
5.4. The use of illegal substances by any member at any time, is strictly
prohibited.
5.5. Absence by any member from duty because of drink or substance abuse or
reporting for duty under the influence of such, is strictly prohibited.
5.6. Members are strictly prohibited from engaging in verbal altercations or fist
fighting under any circumstances.
5.7. The open display of obscene or pornographic materials, or materials of an
explicit sexual nature, or materials which have the affect of harassing any
person because of their sex, on city owned property, is strictly prohibited.
This includes, but is not limited to, written materials, photographs,
cartoons, video tapes, audio tapes and films. Members are also prohibited
from watching movies or other programs which are broadcast on cable
television, pay -per -view television, or any other sources, which are
sexually explicit or have a strong sexual content, at any time while they are
on duty.
5.8. The use of immoderate or abusive language in dealing with subordinates,
fellow members or the public shall be considered improper and shall be
avoided at all times.
6. POLITICAL ACTIVITY
6.1. Members are prohibited, while on duty, from taking part in any type of
political activity except as maybe provided for under State or Federal law.
PAGE 34
6.2. Members of the Fire Department shall not belong to any organization,
association, society, etc. which will violate the Oath Of Office. The Fire
Department shall employ only those people who will serve the City, State
and National Government faithfully without allowing themselves to be
influenced by any organization, association, society, etc. to the detriment
of their obligations as City of Vernon employees.
7. SHIFT CHANGE
7.1. All members shall report for duty sufficiently early to allow time to be in
proper uniform and to confer with the person they are relieving, no later
than shift change time of 0700 hours.
7.2. In the event that a member is unable to reach an assigned duty station on
time because of an unavoidable occurrence, the member shall make every
effort to contact the ranking officer on duty at Station # 1 and report the
circumstances responsible for such occurrence. If no officer can be
contacted, report should be made to the dispatcher who shall be
responsible to notify the appropriate officer. If report is given to the
dispatcher, the member shall be responsible to make follow-up calls, if
necessary, to verify that the information has been properly forwarded to
the ranking officer at Station # 1.
7.3. Any member who is unable to report for duty because of illness shall
notify the ranking officer at Station # 1 at 0600 hours of the absence day.
In the event an officer cannot be reached, the report should be made to the
dispatcher who shall be responsible to notify any other officer. If the
dispatcher is the only person to receive the information, the affected
member shall be responsible to make follow-up calls to verify that the
duty Battalion Chief has been notified.
7.4. If any member on leave, (vacation, S/O, bereavement, etc..), fails to report
for duty at the expiration of such leave, it shall be the duty of the
member's company officer to report such fact to the duty Battalion Chief
who will make an investigation and take or recommend such action as the
circumstances warrant.
7.5. In the event that the apparatus the member is assigned to is not in quarters
at shift change time, the member shall report, in proper uniform, to the
PAGE 3-5
member's company officer and await further orders. If no officer is in
quarters, the member shall notify the dispatcher, and the dispatcher, in
turn shall notify the company officer. The member shall then await further
orders by remaining in close proximity to a station telephone and / or
radio .
8. LEAVING STATION OR DISTRICT
8.1. No member, while on duty, shall leave the premises of the assigned station
on any type of business, without first receiving permission from the
member's immediate superior officer.
8.2. The Company Officer shall not put apparatus in or out of service or leave
the assigned district for any purpose, other than alarms, without first
obtaining permission from the duty Battalion Chief. The dispatcher shall
be notified by the Company Officer when the apparatus is placed in or out
of service.
9. RIDING ON APPARATUS
9.1. All members shall ride the apparatus seated in their designated positions
with seat belts properly fastened.
9.2. The Company Officer may, when returning from alarms or during driving
drills, allow any personnel other than probationary Firefighters to drive
the apparatus in order that such personnel may gain experience. Such
personnel must possess a valid California Class B operator's license.
9.3. Members shall not permit persons not connected with the Fire
Department to ride on any apparatus unless otherwise directed by a Chief
Officer.
9.4. Fire Department apparatus must never be backed without a spotter to the
rear, except for extreme emergency.
9.5. Helmets shall be worn by all personnel riding in apparatus positions for
which there is no overhead roof protection and also at the tiller position on
Truck # 1.
PAGE 3-6
10. TRANSFERS
10.1. Personnel transfers shall be at the sole discretion of the Fire Department
Administration. Written personal requests for transfer may be considered
if sufficient reason can be shown for such request. The request must be
made in writing, fully and truthfully stating the reasons for such request
signed and dated by the requesting party and also signed by the member's
immediate superior officer with an indication of approval or disapproval of
the transfer request. The request shall then be forwarded through proper
channels to the Fire Chief.
11. GENERAL STATION RULES
11.1. Members shall maintain personal lockers in a clean and neat condition at all
times and shall coordinate locker assignments with the station Captains.
No locker changes shall be permitted without prior arrangement.
11.2. Fire Department telephones shall be used for Fire Department business
only. Pay telephones shall be used for personal business.
11.3. Members shall restrict personal calls made or received as much as possible
during the hours of 0700 to 1700 hours. Members should remind friends
and family of this and also that they should not call after 2200 hours
except for emergencies.
11.4. Members shall not place long distance telephone calls through department
phones except for approved City business and then only with the
approval of a superior officer. Company Officers shall be held strictly
responsible for the enforcement of this rule. Also, local calls shall be held
to a minimum and shall be for City business only.
11.5. Members shall not be permitted to work on any personal vehicles on Fire
Department property except to make emergency repairs and only then
with the permission of a superior officer.
11.6. Private vehicles shall not be stored at any fire station for any extended -
period without approval of the Fire Chief.
11.7. Pets shall not be allowed to live at the fire stations under any
PAGE 3-7
circumstances.
11.8. All members hired after 12/31/86 are prohibited from smoking while on or
off duty. Members hired prior to that date may smoke in designated areas
only. No smoking areas include any interior portion of the fire station
except the apparatus room. Members are prohibited from smoking on
apparatus at all times and shall not smoke at fires or other calls except
when permission to do so is granted by the officer in charge of the
incident.
11.9. Beds may be occupied by members only between the hours of 1730 and
0600, and no lounging or reclining in a position to indicate sleep shall be
permitted at any other time; provided that in case of illness or in case of
fatigue resulting from exertion from an immediately preceding duty -related
incident and only then with the specific permission of the member's
immediate superior officer a period of rest may be granted.
11.10. The station Captain(s) shall be responsible to see that members remaining
up after 2200 hours conduct themselves in a quiet manner so as not to
disturb members who are sleeping.
11.11. Station dormitories are off limits to Non -Fire Department personnel unless
otherwise specifically approved by a Chief Officer.
12. UNIFORM REGULATIONS
12.1. Each regularly appointed member of the Fire Department shall be provided
an initial issue of fatigue uniforms from the date of such appointment.
Subsequent purchases of fatigues shall be the responsibility of the
member. The purchase of a dress uniform shall be the responsibility of
each member and shall be done within ninety (90) days of the date of
appointment. A member when promoted shall be responsible to obtain all
appropriate uniforms and insignia, if required, as quickly as possible but in
no case longer than sixty (60) days following the date of such promotion.
12.2. The following shall be considered the regulation uniforms of the Vernon
Fire Department:
12.2.1. FATIGUE UNIFORM (Firefighter through Captain): The
PAGE 3-8
uniforms shall consist of. navy-blue Lion Nomex (or approved
equivalent) short sleeve shirt with the Vernon patch sewn on left
shoulder 3/4 inch below the shoulder seam; Fire Department issue
badge worn above the left shirt pocket; name tag above the right
shirt pocket; and appropriate insignia, if any, worn on the shirt
collar. Trousers shall be navy-blue Lion Nomex (or approved
equivalent) with 1 1/2 or 2 inch wide leather belt and approved
Fire Department belt buckle. If white T-shirt is worn, it must be of
the V-neck type and not show at the fatigue collar. The approved
dark blue T-shirt may be worn under the fatigue shirt if desired.
OSHA approved safety steel toe boots shall be worn between the
hours of 0700 and 1700 hours or later if so required. The Lion
Nomex polyester jacket shall be the approved fatigue jacket for all
ranks.
12.2.2. FATIGUE UNIFORM (Battalion Chiefs): The uniform shall consist
of white, double flap -pocketed, short sleeve shirt with Fire
Department issue badge above the left pocket; name tag above the
right pocket; appropriate collar insignia; black tie; navy-blue wool
or polyester trouser; black 1 1/2 or 2 inch leather belt with
approved Fire Department belt buckle; black plain toe shoes with
black socks.
12.2.3. DRESS UNIFORM (Battalion Chiefs and Captains): The uniform
shall consist of white shirt; black tie; appropriate shirt collar
insignia; navy blue wool or polyester Eisenhower type jacket with
appropriate insignia; navy-blue wool or polyester trousers with 1
1/2 or 2 inch black leather belt and approved Fire Department belt
buckle; black plain toe shoes with black socks and appropriate cap
(white w/white bill and gold braid for Battalion Chiefs; white
w/black bill and silver braid for Captains).
12.2.4. DRESS UNIFORM (Firefighters and Engineers) The uniform shall
consist of navy-blue wool or polyester short sleeve shirt with the
Vernon patch on the left shoulder, 3/4 inch below shoulder seam;
the Fire Department issue badge above left the pocket; navy-blue
wool or polyester trouser with 1 1/2 or 2 inch black leather belt;
approved Fire Department belt buckle; black plain toe shoes with
black socks and navy-blue cap.
PAGE 3-9
12.3. Members are responsible to keep uniforms clean and in a state of good
repair. Shirt tails are to be kept tucked in at all times the uniform is worn.
Members shall see that the soles and heels of their uniform shoes and
boots are in first class condition at all times and that shoes and boots are
clean and polished.
12.4. Members may wear approved athletic clothing after 1700 hours, on
weekdays and after 1200 hours, on weekends and holidays at Company
Officers' discretion. Clothing must be clean, free of tears and in generally
good condition (not faded, stained, etc.).
12.5. The approved dark -blue T-shirt may be worn in lieu of the regulation
fatigue shirt during apparatus and station maintenance work and under
turnouts during the course of an alarm or drill. Regulation fatigues (shirt
and trousers) shall be worn at all other times when leaving the station
while on duty.
12.6. A Fire Department approved baseball type cap shall normally be worn
only at the station. It may be worn outside the station only upon the
approval of a Chief Officer.
12.7. No jewelry, other than finger rings, wristwatch and/or tie pin or clip, shall
be worn with the uniform while on duty.
12.8. Helmets, turnout coats, and bunker boots with turnout pants shall be worn
on all emergency responses; except that in the case of medical calls in
office buildings, schools, medical facilities, eating establishments, etc..,
regulation fatigue uniforms with safety boots may be worn. In such cases,
members not in regulation fatigues shall wear either turnout pants with
bunker boots and fatigue shirt or full turnout clothing. For alarms requiring
full turnout clothing, removal of such shall be only at the discretion of the
officer in charge of the incident.
12.9. No member of the department shall use the Fire Department badge or any
part of the departmental uniform or shall associate a relationship with the
Fire Department in an effort to seek any reward or personal concession
nor shall a member accept any reward for performance of normal
departmental duties.
PAGE 3-10
12.10. No member shall wear on a uniform any emblem, insignia or other device
connected with any secret, social or beneficial order other than that
approved by and connected with the Fire Department.
12.11. All members of the Fire Department shall wear the departmental badge
over the left breast pocket while in uniform. They shall, under no
circumstance, loan a badge to any other person
12.12. The loss of a badge and/or I.D. card shall be reported immediately to the
duty Battalion Chief who shall, in turn, notify the Fire Chief, in writing.
12.13. The Fire Chief may, at his/her discretion, change the uniform regulations of
the department consistent with changing times and conditions. Uniforms
specifications will be on file in the Fire Administration office.
13. HAIR REGULATIONS
13.1. All emergency personnel shall maintain their hair in such a manner that it
will appear well groomed and not present a safety hazard or interfere with
the seal of the breathing apparatus face piece.
13.2. A neat and well groomed appearance of all Fire Department members
contributes to building the pride essential to an effective fire department. It
is the responsibility of each member to be properly groomed while on
duty. Individual officers shall see that members under their supervision
maintain proper grooming.
13.3. Many different hair styles are acceptable in the Fire Department. So long
as the style does not lessen the protection of required safety equipment or
expose the member to added personal injury, the acceptability of the style
shall be judged by the criteria described below;
13.3.1. The length and/or bulk of the hair shall not present a ragged or
unkempt appearance . and must be maintained so as to look neat
when wearing the uniform cap.
13.3.2. Male: Hair must not cover more than one third of the ear or touch
the uniform collar in the back nor in any way interfere with the
proper breathing apparatus face piece or in any way compromise
PAGE 3-11
the safety of the individual in the performance any fire department
activity. Hair styles of any type which may be considered extreme
are specifically prohibited.
13.3.3. Female: Hair must be kept short enough and styled in such a
manner so as to not interfere with the proper seal of the breathing
apparatus face piece or in any way compromise the safety of the
individual in the performance of any fire department activity. Hair
styles of any type which may be considered extreme are
specifically prohibited.
13.3.4. Sideburns shall be well groomed, neatly trimmed and shall not
extend beyond the inner seal of a properly worn breathing
apparatus face piece. Sideburns shall not extend below a horizontal
line level with the bottom of the ear lobe when the head is erect.
13.3.5. Moustaches shall not cover the upper lip, shall be well groomed,
neatly trimmed, and shall not extend beyond the natural facial
"smile"' crease nor extend below the corner of the mouth more than
1/2 inch. Extreme styling of moustaches is not permitted.
13.3.6. Beards and goatees of any style are specifically prohibited.
13.4. With the exception of the facial hair growth permitted above, all members
shall be clean shaven prior to 0700 hours, when reporting for duty or at
any other time when representing the Fire Department in any way.
14. SHIFT TRADES, STANDBYS, ETC.
14.1. Trades
14.1.1. Shift trades by members of like rank shall be permitted if agreeable
by the parties involved and the immediate superior officer of each
of the parties involved. Trades may be for either 12 hours or the
entire 24 hour shift with one other party or for two 12 hour
periods with two other parties. The requesting parry shall
complete a Shift Trade Request form, shall have all involved
parties, and officers sign it and, shall forward the information to
Station ' # 1 for entry on the calendar and inclusion on the Daily
PAGE 3-12
Manpower Report for the effective date. Trades shall also be
entered in the log of the station at which the trade is carried out as
part of the day's manpower entry.
14.1.2. NOTE: Trades for more than 12 but less than 24 hours may be
allowed if agreeable to all involved parties and officers. Such
information must be included on the Shift Trade Request form with
the times all involved personnel will be working.
14.1.3. It shall be the responsibility of the parties involved in trades to
work out pay backs, if applicable, among themselves. Neither the
Fire Department nor the City will be responsible to arbitrate
disputes connected to the trading privilege.
14.1.4. Trades for two or more consecutive shifts by any member must be
specifically approved by the member's Battalion Chief.
14.1.5. Trading in no way should be considered a right of any member of
the Fire Department nor shall it be allowed in any case in which
department staffing ability may be adversely affected.
14.2. Standbys
14.2.1. Upon approval of a superior officer, a member may stand by for
another member of like rank for any period of less than 12 hours.
Information regarding such standby must be reported to the duty
Battalion Chief at or prior to the time of occurrence and entered in
the respective station log. As in the case of trades, neither the Fire
Department nor the City will be responsible to arbitrate disputes
connected with the standby privilege.
14.2.2. The privilege of acquiring' a standby for any period should in no
way be considered a right by any member of the Fire Department
nor will standbys be allowed in any case in which department
staffing ability may be adversely affected.
14.2.3. Variations from either of the above provisions shall be specifically
prohibited without written approval of a Chief officer.
PAGE 3-13
14.2.4. NOTE: New probationary personnel are limited to a maximum of
one shift trade and one standby in any given month during the
probation period. Such trades and standbys may not be linked
together in any way so as to provide for more than 24 consecutive
exchanged hours within any 72 hour period.
15. SHIFTS OFF (S/O's)
15.1. Entitlement
15.1.1. All platoon assigned personnel who have served continuously for a
minimum of one (1) year but less than ten (10) years, shall be
entitled to a total of thirteen (13) S/O's annually.
15.1.2. All platoon assigned personnel who have served continuously for a
minimum of ten (10) years shall be entitled to fifteen (15) S/O's
annually.
15.1.3. Sworn fire personnel, after completion of their probationary
period, shall have the option of pay or time off for two (2) of the
total number of shifts to which he/she is entitled. This option must
be exercised at the time of the member's first selection.
15.1.4. All platoon assigned personnel who have served continuously for a
minimum of twenty five (25) years shall be entitled to one (1)
additional S/O for a total of sixteen (16) S/O's annually.
15.1.5. Up to two (2) S/O's may be carried over from one calendar year to
the next with the following restrictions:
15.1.6. Carried over S/O's shall not be scheduled to run consecutively with
other S/O's if it would provide for an individual to be off more than
the maximum number of S/O's to which he/she would normally be
entitled in any given calendar year.
15.1.6.1. Neither shift trades nor standbys shall be used to
circumvent this provision.
15.1.6.2. Carried over S/O's shall be selected with applicable
PAGE 3-14
provisions of this procedure.
15.1.7. Up to two (2) S/O's may be divided into eight (8) six (6) hour
increments that may be used in any combination (i.e. 6 hour, 12
hour, 18 hour).
15.2. Selection Basis
15.2.1. All selections of S/O's shall be made on the basis of seniority in
rank. Personnel temporarily assigned to other than their actual rank
shall select on the basis of seniority within their actual rank.
15.3. S/O Requests
15.3.1. All S/O requests shall be submitted on Employee Vacation Request
Form(s) to the member's immediate superior officer for approval.
A separate form must be prepared for each group of shifts falling
within a specific pay period. (Pay periods begin on the first
Sunday following a regular pay day and end on the first Saturday
following the next successive regular pay day.) Completed forms
shall then be forwarded to the appropriate Battalion Chief for
approval. Upon approval, a copy of the original shall be made and
kept in the Battalion Chief s office. The goldenrod copy of the
approved request shall be returned to the requesting member. The
original and remaining copies shall be forwarded to the Fire
Department Administration office.
15.3.2. Telephone requests for an S/O may be granted by the on -duty
Battalion Chief up to 2000 hours on the day prior to the requested
date(s). In such case, a pre -signed request form shall be completed
at the time of request, appropriate copies shall be made and
distributed and the approved request shall be forwarded to the Fire
Department Administration office.
15.4. Cancellations
15.4.1. No cancellations shall be granted on first selections except for
emergency or administrative need with the approval of the Fire
Chief. Subsequent selections may be canceled at any time up to
PAGE 3-15
1200 hours of the member's previous (normally assigned) working
shift. In such cases, the personnel of the affected platoon shall be
apprised of cancellations as soon as practicable. Selections of
canceled S/O's by other members shall be governed by all
applicable provisions of this procedure. A Request for Cancellation
Form shall be completed by the canceling member and forwarded
through proper channels to the Fire Administration office as soon
as possible.
15.5. Responsibility
15.5.1. It is the responsibility of each individual member to select all S/O's
to which the member is entitled within the entitlement period.
Under no circumstances may more than two (2) S/O's for the
current year be carried over to the following calendar year (or
anniversary year if applicable).
15.6. Limitations
15.6.1. No more than six (6) members in any allowed combination shall be
scheduled off at any one time except for emergency or
administrative need at the discretion of the Fire Chief. (See
Selection Process section for specific maximums by rank.)
15.6.2. NOTE: Haz Mat personnel are restricted to a maximum of one (1)
member off at any one time on each shift. Battalion Chiefs may
deviate from this restriction if a minimum of four (4) trained
personnel, including a Captain can be maintained at Station 2. This
restriction applies to all selections by such trained personnel.
15.7. The following maximums by rank, in any combination, shall be allowed off
at any one time within the restriction of a maximum of six (6) allowed off
at any one time. (A maximum of four (4) Firefighters shall be allowed off
at any one time).
15.7.1. Battalion Chief
15.7.2. Captains
15.7.3. Engineers
15.7.4. Firefighters
One (1), Select First
Two (2), Select Second
Two (2), Select Third
Four (4), Select Fourth
PAGE 3-16
15.8. Deviations from the maximum number of personnel allowed off at any one
time shall be considered only for emergency or administrative need as
determined by the Fire Chief.
15.9. Battalion Chief Selections
15.9.1. All Battalion Chief S/O requests shall be submitted to and
approved by the Fire Chief. Battalion Chief selections shall be
included within the maximum of three (3) officers allowed off at
any one time along with Captains. Battalion Chiefs shall have the
option to select first in each selection round.
15.10. First Selection (required)
15.10.1. All personnel shall select a minimum of one (1) S/O up to a
maximum of his/her total entitlement. Regardless of number,
selections must be for consecutive shifts. S/O's selected in this
round may not be canceled except for emergency or administrative
need as determined by the Fire Chief. First selection shall be
entered in the S/O Selection Book in ink.
15.10.2. First selections shall be completed no later than December 31st of
the immediately preceding calendar year for which the selections
apply.
15.11. Second Selection (optional)
15.11.1. Second selections may be for one (1) or more S/O's. If more than
one (1) selection is made, it must be for consecutive shifts. Second
selection S/O's may be cancelled in all or part except when they
include a holiday; no partial cancellation shall be permitted. Entries
for this selection shall be made in the S/O Selection Book in pencil.
15.11.2. Second selections shall not commence until completion of first
selections by all personnel under the calendar year basis.
15.11.3. Members may opt to pass on the second selection if they so
desire.
PAGE 3-17
15.12. Third Selection (optional)
15.12.1. All provisions are the same as for the Second Selection.
15.13. Remaining Selections
15.13.1. Selections not made during any of the prior three selection rounds
shall be made on an availability basis and be governed by all
applicable provisions of this procedure as related in the Second
Selection section. Entries for these selections shall be made in the
S/O Selection Book in pencil.
15.14. Approved selections made under this section shall not be subject to
"bumping by senior personnel".
15.15. NOTE: Personnel employed on or after July 1, 1989 shall become entitled
to a prorated number of S/O's upon completion of their first full year of
employment, based upon their date of hire. Such S/O's must be scheduled
and taken no later than December 31 st of the year of such prorated
entitlement. On January 1st of the following year, such personnel shall
become entitled to thirteen (13) S/O's which they shall schedule and take
within such calendar year. All subsequent years S/O selections shall be
made on the calendar year basis.
16. ILLNESS
16.1. Any member who is unable to report on a date scheduled for duty, due to
illness or injury, shall call the on -duty Battalion Chief and make a report at
or before 0600 hours of the scheduled duty date, giving as much
information as possible about ithe illness or injury, the estimated time off
required and where the member can be reached if other than at the normal
residence. If the Battalion Chief is not available, the information shall be
given to the ranking officer at Station #1. If no officer is available at Station
#1, the information shall be given to the dispatcher who, in turn, shall
notify any other on -duty officer of the absence. If no officer is available
and only the dispatcher receives the information, the member shall call
later to verify that the duty Battalion Chief has been notified.
16.2. The duty Battalion Chief will make contact with the sick or injured
PAGE 3-18
member some time during the absence date to ascertain member's well-
being, to explain the procedure for returning to duty following such
absence, and to determine the amount of time off the member may need. If
the member cannot be reached, the Battalion Chief or a designee will
continue to try to make contact throughout the day. The sick or injured
member must keep the Department notified of his/her whereabouts.
16.3. Family members should be made aware that the Fire Department will be
calling on days that individuals are on sick leave.
16.4. If the Department is unable to make contact with a sick or injured member
because he/she has failed to return the Battalion Chief s calls or due to the
telephone being disconnected or constantly busy, the Department may
review with the employee the circumstances and may make decisions as to
whether the absence from duty was appropriate.
16.5. Members who are unable to report for regular duty for two (2) or more
shifts due to illness or injury are required to be checked by a physician and
obtain a release prior to returning for duty.
17. OVERTIME PROCEDURE
17.1. In order to maintain reasonable and adequate Fire Department staff levels,
the use of overtime personnel becomes necessary at times. The following
procedure is designed to provide a fair and equitable means of making
overtime assignments. Overtime should be considered an exception to
normal and in no way a guaranteed right to any employee. The assignment
of overtime shall be the responsibility of the respective platoon Battalion
Chief or a designee and shall be closely monitored at all times.
17.1.1. NOTE: This procedure shall not apply to any overtime worked in
connection with strike team participation; greater alarm recalls;
recruit or promotional exam activities; training activities; etc..
17.2. Availability
17.2.1. All personnel shall be assumed available unless a memo stating
otherwise is submitted to the respective Battalion Chief. Affected
personnel shall be unavailable for routine staffing overtime until the
PAGE 3-19
memo is withdrawn.
17.2.2. The Battalion Chief will apply a "flag" to the overtime card
indicating that the particular member is unavailable for routine
staffing overtime.
17.2.3. Members may make themselves unavailable for routine staffing
overtime with the understanding that:
17.2.3.1. The member can still be obligated if required.
17.2.3.2. Unavailability does not apply to greater alarms, strike
teams, or any mandatory duty days.
17.3. Overtime Assignment
17.3.1. Selection of a member for overtime will be based on a simple
rotation system. Cards will be placed in an index file and selected
on a "next up" basis. Once a member is contacted in person, he/she
will be expected to work the overtime shift or forfeit the "next up"
standing.
17.3.2. If the overtime is refused, the card will be marked with the date
followed by an "R" for REFUSED and moved to the rear of the
index file for the respective rank.
17.3.3. If the overtime is accepted, the card will be marked with the date of
the overtime followed by a "W" for WORKED and moved to the
rear of the index file for the respective rank. Marking the cards in
this way will assist in tracking the system and keeping it as fair as
possible.
17.3.4. If a member has been notified of an overtime date by answering
machine, or by leaving a message with a family member, it is the
responsibility of the member to call Station 1 by 2000 hours and
confirm the availability to work the assigned shift. If a
confirmation has not been received at Station 1 by 2000 hours, the
date only will be noted on the member's card and the next member
will be called.
PAGE 3-20
17.3.5. Exceptions to this rotation system may be permitted for the
following reasons only:
17.3.5.1. Legitimate personal or immediate family emergency. No
loss of availability will be imposed in such case if the
emergency can be verified by written proof.
17.3.5.2. The assignment of overtime would require a member to
work more than forty eight (48) consecutive hours due to
the regular work schedule or in conjunction with other
overtime assignments. No loss of availability will be
imposed for refusal in such case. Such overtime may be
voluntarily accepted but not assigned unless no one else is
available for the assignment. If in such case, no one else is
available, the member will be assigned to work. Scheduled
trades prior to notification will be considered acceptable
cause for a valid exemption under this provision.
17.3.5.3. If the member is currently taking scheduled vacation time,
in the form of trades or S/O's, the member has the option of
either working the overtime shift or refusing to work. If the
shift is refused, the date will 'be noted on the card, but the
member will not be given an "R" for a refusal due to the fact
that he/she is on a scheduled vacation.
17.3.5.4. If the overtime need is created by an unexpected vacancy
for which little or no prior notice is received, the overtime
should be assigned to the next "available" member from the
off going shift. This member will receive an obligation date
in ink in the appropriate date box on the overtime card.
17.4. Obligation
17.4.1. When the need for overtime arises and no one is available, it will be
necessary to obligate the assignment. This shall be done on a
seniority basis within rank, starting with the least senior member
first. "Obligation" dates shall be recorded on the overtime card in
the appropriate box. No one in any given rank should be obligated
twice until all members in such rank have been obligated once.
PAGE 3-21
17.5. Promotions
17.5.1. When a member is promoted to a different rank, that member's
overtime card will be retired. A new card which reflects the new
rank will be issued for that member, and the new card will be
placed in the rear of the index file for the respective rank.
18. WORKING OUT OF RANK (ACTING)
18.1. Whenever possible, short term vacancies in the ranks of Engineer, Captain
and Battalion Chief shall be filled as follows with preferences listed in
order.
18.1.1. Acting duty shall normally be assigned to the highest member on
the appropriate eligibility list from among the regular members of
the shift on which the vacancy occurs.
18.1.2. If the vacancy occurs at a station other than the normal assignment
of the highest member on the eligibility list, that member may
request that the next successive members on the list be offered the
acting assignment if they are agreeable. Respective shift Battalion
Chiefs shall have discretion in such cases.
18.1.3. If more than one vacancy occurs on a given date, assignments shall
be made from the appropriate eligibility list working from highest
to lowest.
18.1.4. When a vacancy occurs with no eligibility list members available to
fill it, an employee determined qualified to act in the position shall
be given the assignment by the Battalion Chief. In the case of such
a vacancy in the rank of Battalion Chief, the Fire Chief shall make
the assignment.
18.2. Members assigned to act above their normal rank shall be paid at that rank
for any acting period of 12 or more hours within a given 24 hour shift
unless such acting duty is for training purposes for members not currently
on an eligibility list. Certain exceptions to this provision may be necessary
from time to time due to emergency or administrative need. Also, certain
job assignments such as Haz Mat may, at times, require exceptions.
PAGE 3-22
18.3. NOTE: Shift trades shall not be cause for additional acting pay nor shall
they create overtime situations. If a member who otherwise would have
been given an acting assignment engages in a shift trade, it must be with
another member on the appropriate eligibility list unless a sufficient
number of other eligible members are available to fill such acting
assignment(s).
19. DRILL AND TRAINING MANUALS AND RESOURCES
19.1. Drill, training and methods of operation shall follow those procedures
detailed in International Fire Service Training Association (I.F.S.T.A.)
manuals. The most recent editions shall take precedence and newly
published I.F.S.T.A. manuals shall become a part of the training program
unless specifically omitted by order of the Fire Chief. The current edition
of the Pre -Hospital Care and Crisis Intervention manual shall be the basic
guide for Emergency Medical Technician (E.M.T.) training.
19.2. Resources for technical training shall include, but not be limited to, the
National Fire Protection Association's Handbook, its pamphlets and other
publications; Municipal Fire Administration published by the
International City Manager's Association; I.S.O. bulletins and other fire
service related publications.
19.3. Resources for study of fire codes and standards shall include the currently
adopted Uniform Fire Code and UFC Standards; The Uniform Building
Code; the N.F.P.A National Fire Codes; other such related manuals; those
standards and publications representing nationally recognized good
practice as specified in Appendix D of the Uniform Fire Code; and other
such resource material as may be specified by the Fire Chief or Training
Battalion Chief as they may deem necessary for drills and assignments.
19.4. Drill procedures and methods of operation established as policy by the
Fire Chief shall take precedence over all the foregoing publications, guides
and manuals.
20. DRILL RECORDS AND REPORTS
20.1. Company Officers shall be responsible for maintaining the drill records for
their assigned personnel. Daily drills shall be entered under the appropriate
PAGE 3-23
dates of the Monthly Training Record form on the date such drills are held.
A separate form shall be kept for each person, including the Company
Officer. Daily drills or training sessions shall also be entered in the
Captain's log on the date they are held. On the 1 st day of each month, the
completed monthly record for the just- completed month shall be
forwarded to the Training Officer for proper filing.
20.2. The drill subjects, operations and evaluations will be selected and
scheduled by the Training Officer and such schedules will be provided to
the respective platoon Battalion Chiefs and Training Captains.
20.3. A Training Captain shall be selected from among the Captains of each
platoon who shall, in cooperation with the platoon Battalion Chief, see
that the scheduled drills and training sessions are carried out.
20.4. Company Officers shall bear in mind that instruction for their assigned
personnel, beyond that set up by the Training Officer, will be necessary
and that they must be cognizant if their company members' individual
needs.
21. OUTSIDE TRAINING
21.1. The Vernon Fire Department and the City recognize the need for training
classes, college courses, seminars, etc. and recommend that those
individuals who are seriously interested in making the most of promotional
opportunities should include them in their training background.
21.2. The following general guidelines cover the City and Fire Department
policies regarding such training:
21.2.1. Classes and courses that are offered outside of the Fire Department
may not be attended while on duty except with written approval of
the Fire Chief and then only for department -required classes or
courses. All other unapproved or elective classes will require that
personnel use their own time, as necessary, through the use of
vacation time, shift trades, standbys, etc..
21.2.2. For any approved classes and/or courses, member costs for tuition,
course- required books and some other related expenses may be
PAGE 3-24
reimbursed by the City, up to a maximum of $1,500.00 per fiscal
year. (This provision does not apply to certain probationary
personnel).
21.2.3. For reimbursement consideration, proof of completion of courses
and all appropriate receipts must be submitted with a completed
Education Reimbursement Request form, through proper channels,
to the Fire Chief for authorization and request for payment.
21.2.4. The City will not provide reimbursement or funds for lodging,
meals, travel, etc.., connected to any classes or outside training
unless recommended by a Chief Officer, approved by the Fire
Chief, the City Finance Committee and the City Council. Requests
for such items connected with classes, courses, seminars, etc..,
should be submitted at least thirty (30) days in advance of actual
scheduled class dates so that the necessary approvals may be
obtained.
PAGE 3-25