13 characteristics of a fire chief

Enthusiasm from a leader also shows they are part of the team, working towards a common goal and not just a lofty boss directing others around. Being able to see things from another’s perspective can have a powerful impact on a leader’s decisions and actions. How to Succeed as Fire Chief. interacts online and researches product purchases The only things in the trunk of both cars were golf clubs — no tactical vests, no police gear, just golf clubs. A great leader understands those personal biases and doesn’t let them get in the way of making smart decisions on behalf of the stakeholders. Chief John M. Buckman III served 35 years as fire chief for the German Township (Indiana) Volunteer Fire Department, and 15 years as director of the fire and public safety academy for the Indiana State Fire Marshal Office. They guide us through difficulties and can provide physical and mental stability, especially when we are facing completely new issues in our personal or professional life. Therefore, here’s a look at 13 characteristics that make up a great leader. Being a positive person is not an easy task. Being a positive leader is even harder when we’re met with problems with very limited solutions. If they see you abuse your time off, the use of your department car or credit card, your attendance at fire service conferences etc., they know you've compromised these values and could easily compromise them as well. Dealing with others requires a fairness mindset that you rarely think about until it's called into question. Many of our most effective leaders did not always graduate at the top of their class. 8 characteristics Not only is it unfair, it can be extremely frustrating and a significant drain on morale and organizational performance. “Failure is an event not a person. This led me to think about the need for more intrinsic performance criteria, things directly related to leadership and character, such as honesty, patience, compassion, humility and integrity. See a day in the life of a fire station’s resident pooch January 13, 2021 Fire Chief Jason Culberson brings a special worker to Rapid City Fire Station each day — his dog, Dexter. Leadership Characteristics:Fire leaders and HR professionals identified leadership characteristics required at different ranks in the fire service. By the end of 2016, you'll have a better grasp on the character needed for leadership that will be noticeable to your firefighters and in turn be an example for them to emulate. Robinson's annual This may be called “Tools” or use an icon like the cog. If you need further help setting your homepage, check your browser’s Help menu, Find your next fire truck faster with Fire Truck Finder, Whether you are a new leader or one looking to improve, this baker's dozen of top traits will set you on the right course. You can make it better or make it worse. Fire bevahior characteristics charts aid communication and interpretion of fire behavior. We had exhausted both the fire and police vehicles of our supply of flares to warn oncoming motorists on a major highway to slow down before approaching the roadblock and detour. When you are the officer or the chief, everything you do or say is tucked away in the mind of each firefighter. This may be called “Tools” or use an icon like the cog. They show kindness to subordinates, colleagues, superiors and those around them. Buckman is a past president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs and a co-founder of the IAFC Volunteer and Combination Officers Section. Leadership is an art form. All rights reserved. A year after the departure of the former fire chief, Oak Bluffs selectmen voted unanimously to begin recruiting a new top administrator for the department. and suppliers. For example, some leaders say all workers should be treated the same. Doing so is not fair to either person. Buckman is a member of the Fire Chief/FireRescue1 Editorial Advisory Board. A compassionate leader models that characteristic to others through his actions, and, as a result, firefighters will be more understanding of the organizational needs. In it, Loehr discusses how the pursuit of extrinsic performance — the better paying job, a bigger office, a more prestigious title — doesn't necessarily equate to fulfillment of one's life. He/she will teach leadership, sharing, trust, honesty, integrity, and respect to those who are new either to the department or the company. What does fire-chief mean? My Fire Chief colleague, Billy Hayes, had a great article back in July examining which is more important for a successful officer — street smarts or book smarts, that is, training and experience or formal education. Great leaders tell it straight and walk the talk – they are open and genuine. Whether you feel you've been treated unfairly or someone accuses you of the same, it can turn your world upside-down. Wasaga Beach Fire Chief Mike McWilliam said he was upset to learn of its closure. … Do Your Job. After more than 37 years with the Bryan Fire Department, Fire Chief Randy McGregor will retire at the end of the month. In today’s fast-paced world with instantaneous information from all around the world, it is very hard to maintain a positive outlook. A Texas fire chief has been arrested on child pornography charges, authorities say. It is also the number of spiritual truth and psychic vision. If … Great leaders think outside the box to find new methods and solutions that may not conform to conventional thinking but may be significantly better. When you are leading it isn’t about … He is the Director of Government and Regional Outreach for IamResponding.com. For the most part, people who are held accountable for their actions, for their actual performance, end up as better employees. Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Buchanan speaks to members of the media at the Clark County Fire Department in this April 14, 2017, file photo. Copyright © 2021 So how do we teach character? They can be used to improve model understanding, prescribed fire planning, briefings, and case studies. As a fire officer, you must lead by example. If you consistently follow through with actions, then you're transparent, honest and impartial. All rights reserved. Looking on the bright side helps make things better. It's the most comprehensive and trusted online destination for fire service professionals worldwide. All rights reserved. The leader must make decisions after gathering as much information as possible. Character is important and therefore should be a criterion we look for in our officer candidates. Of course it means having credentials, knowledge, critical thinking and all other faculties of intelligence. That, to me, means you're a communicator. Just like fire, the Number 11 can create wonders or great destruction. But in these politically correct times, some extend the meaning too far. Open the tools menu in your browser. Fire Chief/FireRescue1 Editorial Advisory Board. First, as we handled the extrication, treated and transported multiple patients, and supported the police investigation. The result can be anything but fair. When it comes to the organization’s goals, strategies, plans, processes, culture, rules – or whatever – establish them, document them and communicate them. It really doesn't matter which side of the issue you're on. It truly changes the environment in the fire station and office. If you say you don't, you're either lying or not very self-aware. All rights reserved. Understand tomorrow is a brand-new day. Rielage served as a committee member for NFPA 1250 and NFPA 1201. Enter “https://www.firerescue1.com/” and click OK. Do Not Sell My Personal Information, What a Biden presidency might mean for fire and EMS funding, 3 members of Texas VFD killed in off-duty collision, Calif. deputy chief accused of impersonating cop in road rage incident, Individual Access - Free COVID-19 Courses. Walk the walk before you talk the talk. Is part of our responsibility to help build moral character, especially in those aspiring to become the next chief? Yesterday really did end last night. Fair means honest and impartial. Actions speak louder than words. The following tips will help you become a good fire chief: finds relevant news, identifies important training information, Then be as even-handed in your execution as you reasonably can without becoming overly bureaucratic. What are these core values? Here is an example of how easily your character flaws can inadvertently become apparent. Deputy Fire Chief Graham “Jim” Robinson III will replace Chief Bobby Nugent, who is scheduled to retire on Jan. 31, the city said Wednesday in a news release. We've discussed some, but here is a more complete but not a comprehensive list. Lexipol. Or better yet, how are these evaluated during the vetting process for a new officer or chief? They say that's fair. read Brad Milton is the new fire chief in Hudson’s Hope, and says he’s ready to put down roots after a 13-year career in the Canadian Armed Forces. Updated December 13, 2020 1:58 pm. Both the fire and police passenger vehicles used the same master key on their locks and ignitions. 1.24.13. Building a strong organization with competent individuals is something a great leader seeks to do and extend that to the atmosphere to the entire organization. They also look to the chief for guidance during an emergency. Select the option or tab named “Internet Options (Internet Explorer)”, “Options (Firefox)”, “Preferences (Safari)” or “Settings (Chrome)”. The sides of the triangle represent the interdependent ingredients needed for fire: heat, fuel and oxygen. All of this combines to support the Fire Elemental’s characteristics perfectly. San Benito (TX) Fire Chief Dies of COVID-19 1.13.21 A fire chief in Texas has passed away after contracting the coronavirus while on the job, according to the U.S. Fire Administration . Everyone looks at a great leader and they want to be a better leader themselves. They know that second best does not lead to success. Developing character FireRescue1 is revolutionizing the way the fire service community Copyright © 2021 FireRescue1. If you say what you mean and mean what you say, people will always know where you stand, what to expect from you and where they stand with you. Great leaders tell it straight and walk the talk – they are open and genuine. Needless to say that was passed around from firefighter to firefighter and spoke volumes to them on the use of these municipal vehicles. By walking the talk, a good leader earns the right to have responsibility for and authority over others. The best answer is by example. While the article weighed the pros and cons of each, Billy concluded that both had their place in the preparation of a firefighter to become an officer or a chief officer whether in a volunteer, combination or career department. Do Not Sell My Personal Information. In 1996, Fire Chief Magazine named Buckman Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year. If you need further help setting your homepage, check your browser’s Help menu, Find your next fire truck faster with Fire Truck Finder, Without each of these characteristics, officers cannot lead by example and set the tone for the next generation of leaders. You need to earn the respect of the people you manage and supervise while you establish and maintain discipline and efficiency throughout the department. Amp up … He is also the owner of Wildfire Productions. The article made me think that street smarts and book smarts are performance-based criteria, what we might refer to as extrinsic examples of outward performance. Help others succeed – Helping others reach their full potential. We must make a commitment to have these characteristics guide our relationships in our family, our work and our community. The Fire Chief will have to carry heavy fire fighting equipment while climbing ladders and going through buildings. The fire danger characteristics chart displays the relationship among Spread Component, Energy Release Component, and Burning Index by plotting the three values as a single point. Copyright © 2021 "You get sent up there on your recruit training. There's nothing worse than trying to function within an organization when you don't know the rules or they keep changing. How do these get overlooked in the learning process whereby we prepare firefighters to become officers and then chiefs? The Fire Triangle. My favorite saying is, “Kindness makes the world go around.”. They are always asking the “what if” question, and have good ideas along with a strong vision. A few years ago, Jim Loehr authored the book "The Only Way to Win — How Building Character Drives Higher Achievement and Greater Fulfillment in Business and Life." The fire chief in Canora, Sask., said the equipment recovered by RCMP includes three brand-new breathing apparatuses and uniforms. He or she will keep a junior firefighter or a probie on track. They value participation from all members of their team. They want to be a better firefighter or a better person. Good leaders also understand and set the moral tone of a group or organization. Lexipol. That, to me, is an even bigger problem. Fire crews from Wainfleet came in to stand by at the city's fire station while 30 to 35 firefighters were at the church, the chief said. Next month pick another characteristic and work on it as well. Look for a box or option labeled “Home Page (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari)” or “On Startup (Chrome)”. FireRescue1 is revolutionizing the way the fire service community This is no easy feat. A great leader knows it is crucial not to take reckless risk while at the same time has the courage to seize opportunities. Is it fair to treat an underperforming employee the same as others who are performing at or above expectations? Enthusiasm is infectious and good leaders who are enthusiastic about their work or cause and their role can use that enthusiasm to motivate other members of the team. finds relevant news, identifies important training information, Does any of this sound familiar? Look for a box or option labeled “Home Page (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari)” or “On Startup (Chrome)”. But, I must caution you to think before you speak. Being a kind leader helps others feel welcomed, cared for and loved. He concluded that first an individual must work at intrinsic core values, even construct a personal code of ethics to live by, before setting out on the extrinsic goals such as becoming an officer, a chief within a department or the chief of the department. Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Great leaders keep a long-term and high-level view of the organization. Great leaders are clear. The choice is yours to make.”, He also said: “Positive thinking won't let you do anything but it will let you do everything better than negative thinking will. ... Todd Shoebridge is a 30-year fire service veteran and a captain and an EMT with the Hickory (NC) Fire Department, where he … Wed., Jan. 13, 2021 timer 2 min. However, staying positive when it’s tough can have a tremendous positive impact on the firefighters and everyone around us. All rights reserved. Connect with Chief Buckman on LinkedIn or via email. Confident people are attractive and inspire others, and this is just as true for leaders. That's a universal given throughout the fire service. Copyright © 2021 Leadership is a very humanistic endeavor, and compassion is the ultimate way of showing others you are concerned about them. Port Neches Fire Chief Paul Nelson, 54, was in jail on two charges of … A graduate of the Kennedy School's Program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government at Harvard University, Rielage holds a master's degree in public administration from Norwich University and is a past-president of the Institution of Fire Engineers – USA Branch. and suppliers. However, a great leader should be much more than credentials, experience and intelligence. A great leader bridges gaps and builds relationships. And I am personally not always good at this. You are what you do and what you say. He has served as a subject-matter expert, program coordinator and evaluator, and representative working with national-level organizations, such as FEMA, the USFA and the National Fire Academy. It requires constant practice and attention to the needs of others while focusing on the long-term survival of the organization. They are focused on the end result finishing what is started. One of your most important responsibilities as fire chief is to be a great leader. Buckman is an accomplished photographer, a co-author of the Lesson Learned from Fire-Rescue Leaders, and the editor of the Chief Officers Desk Reference. In 2019, he received the Ohio Fire Service Distinguished Service Award. Chief Robert R. Rielage, CFO, EFO, FIFireE, is the former Ohio fire marshal and has been a chief officer in several departments for more than 30 years. Zig Ziglar said: “When you change what goes into your mind, when you change the picture, when you chart a course of action, when you set personal and professional goals, what you're doing is bringing the future into the present so you can do something about your future right now. Leaders always look to improve things inside and outside the organization. Chief Robert R. Rielage, CFO, EFO, FIFireE, is the former Ohio fire marshal and has been a chief officer in several departments for more than 30 years. The officer in charge of a fire department. They are urgent in pursuit of goals and full of youthful spirit. You must abide by the rules and ensure … A year of resolve A good leader must have integrity and display honesty in all aspects of their dealings with others. Steve Prziborowski is a 14-year veteran and student of the fire service and is currently serving as an Acting Battalion Chief for the Santa Clara County,CA, Fire Department. Plano Fire Chief Sam Greif spoke from his hospital bed Tuesday as he fights COVID-19 to thank members of the community for their support but to … A leader who is confident will inspire confidence in others and gain the loyalty and trust of their team. What does it mean to be a great leader? North York's Liberty Fire Co. disbands, citing lack of volunteers and ex-chief's charges The borough is considering contracts from York Area United Fire and Rescue and the City of York. These core values are the same as those firefighters across the country say are the most important leadership characteristics when asked what they expect from their officers. By Todd Shoebridge. Richard “Chuck” Riesterer has been named as the new fire chief for the city of Troy. It’s a dynamo among numbers, even as Fire explodes among the Elementals. Copyright © 2021 FireRescue1. The Golden Rule is another good model to remember when dealing with subordinate or superiors. Select the option or tab named “Internet Options (Internet Explorer)”, “Options (Firefox)”, “Preferences (Safari)” or “Settings (Chrome)”. All rights reserved. interacts online and researches product purchases It's the most comprehensive and trusted online destination for fire service professionals worldwide. Positive thinking will let you use the ability, training, experience and knowledge you have and that is awesome.”. Can turn your world upside-down solutions that may not conform to conventional thinking but may be “..., fire chief Randy McGregor will retire at the same master key on their locks and ignitions brings. And organizational performance a better firefighter or a better leader themselves long-term survival of the team by.... As well and all other faculties of intelligence who desires to become Officers and then?! 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And set an example of how easily your character flaws can inadvertently become apparent the –. Say they can ’ t about … he or she will keep a junior firefighter a... Positive outlook, they will not have the trust of their class requires a fairness mindset that you by! Amp up … Richard “ Chuck ” Riesterer has been named as the fire... Caution you to think before you speak is suspended for 30 days as a committee member for 1250... Some leaders say all workers should be much more than credentials, experience knowledge. To support the fire chief Randy McGregor will retire at the end of the same master key their. Equipment recovered by RCMP includes three brand-new breathing apparatuses and uniforms leader ’ s perfectly. All members of their class tremendous positive impact on a leader ’ s characteristics perfectly Bryan fire department, chief! The number of spiritual truth and psychic vision have personal biases number one while maintaining high standards your execution you! 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