Description
Book SynopsisDeveloping, maintaining, and upholding a professional reputation is the duty and responsibility of all firefighters—paid or volunteer. Being a professional firefighter has absolutely nothing to do with earning a paycheck. It has everything to do with attitude, appearance, competency, commitment, and dedication.
Trade ReviewIf you can read this book and not feel a sense of pride, that overwhelming feeling of service above self, the feeling that what you do as a volunteer firefighter matters, then maybe it’s time for a change. But if you are the one who reads it and gets fired up about what we do, then you’re in for a very special ride!" - Chief Rick Lasky, Fire Chief (ret.), Lewisville Texas
"Tom Merrill is a true gentleman and a professional. His classes and articles detailing professionalism in the volunteer fire service are captivating and informative. This book is no different and should be on the must-read list of all volunteer firefighters, regardless of rank, title, or experience." - Brandon S. Fletcher, Fire Chief, Gilt Edge (TN) Fire Department
"Tom Merrill has spent his life working to improve the ‘professional’ image of the volunteer firefighter. This book is a compilation of his experiences and what works and doesn’t work in the recruiting, retaining, and development of the professional volunteer firefighter. His writing challenges you to raise your standard of performance." - Chief John M. Buckman III, State Fire Training Director at Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office
Table of ContentsForewordPreface
Acknowledgments
1. A Proud Tradition Confronted by Challenging Times
There Is Still a Need for Volunteers
Perception Versus Reality
The Social Club Volunteer Fire Department
Today’s Challenging Times
Volunteer Responsibilities Versus Community Expectations
Professional Firefighters Must Maintain the Trust of Their Community
Professional Development for the Professional Firefighter
All Members Contribute to a Professional Image and Reputation
Professionalism on Every Level
Professional Development Tip #1
2. Recruiting New Members in Today’s Challenging Times
Be a Recruitment Ambassador
Firehouse Visits and Special Recruitment Programs
Diversity and Inclusion
Youth and Junior Programs
Highlight the Intangible Benefits
Use Social Media to Help Get the Word Out
Be Open-Minded to New Ideas
Professional Development Tip #2
3. The Application Process
Keep Applicants in the Loop
Background Checks
The Membership Application
Professional Development Tip #3
4. Orientation, Mentoring, and Mutual Respect
The Orientation Program
What to Cover
The Mentor Program
Mutual Respect
Professional Development Tip #4
5. Drills and Training
The Need for a Professional-Grade Training Program
Organized Drills
Regular Drills
Pertinent Drills
Widespread Acceptance of Drills
Other Considerations
Professional Development Tip #5
6. Preparation
Preparedness Is a Professional Trademark
The Playbook
Preplan Programs
The “What If” Drill
Driver Training
Health and Wellness
Situational Awareness
Professional Development Tip #6
7. Performance, Appearance, and Behavior
Performance
Appearance
Behavior
Alcohol in the Firehouse
Professional Development Tip #7
8. Using Social Media and Contributing to the Brand
Your Social Media Policy
Social Media Posting
Professional Development Tip #8
9. Community Events and Interactions
A Long-Standing Tradition
Show Off Your Skills and Talents Every Chance You Get
The Open House
Dress and Act Like a Professional
Alcohol Consumption at Community Events
Donations and Thank-You Cards
Professional Development Tip #9
10. Succession Management and Preparing Future Officers
The Succession Management Plan
The Succession Management Playbook
Forms and Document Storage and Accessibility
Personal Preparedness and Professional Development
Professional Development Tip #10
11. Financial Management and Theft Prevention
Financial Management
Inventory Management
Professional Development Tip #11
12. History, Heritage, and Pride
Understanding Our Fire Service History
Understanding the History of Our Fire Department
House Pride
Professional Development Tip #12
13. Where Do We Go from Here?
Building a Professional Foundation Is Under Your Own Personal Control
Professional Development Tip #13
Notes
Index
