From: Driver Qualifications.

[ex-commish 490]

Hey all.  Just curious as to what regs your depts have for driver qualifications.  We are having problems and are trying to change some things.  Our old SOP's say that in order to be an officer you need to be qualified on ALL trucks.  We have a lot of standard transmissions with high/low ranges like our 2,500 gall tanker, and 2 of our engines, which makes it difficult for those members who do not drive standard.

In order to qualify you need drive time with a line officer, and than final approval by a chief officer, as well as EVOC and Pump Ops, (Ladder Ops for our tower.)  We are now thinking of having all Lt's be qualified on our rescue and brush unit, than during the year become qualified on the tanker and engine one (our supply truck with 2,000' of five inch.)  Than as you progress to Capt and up you would need additional trucks each year in office, if you do not qualify on those trucks you would be ineligible to run next election until you became qualified.

Any opinions or advice on this?  I am interested in becoming officer this year and want to change this for the better of all involved, so some of the more qualified firefighters have a shot at being officer.  We have a lot of good interior ff's with extensive knowledge that want officer, but do not want to drive trucks.  They will work the pumps or drive if needed, but they would rather pack-up and get dirty.  I know that there are many jobs to be done and they are all important, but we still have those stubborn members you cant get through to. :angry:

Anyways, whats your SOP's like?  Anything different we could add?  Stay safe all and pray for an early spring!

Jonesy

←