1. PURPOSE.

To specify minimum expectations and training requirements for new recruits.

2. SCOPE.

This policy shall apply to all firefighters.

3. PROCEDURE

Requirements for Emergency Responder Candidacy

Any person wishing to become an emergency responder (firefighter or emergency medical responder) with the Central Oktibbeha F.D. must attend three consecutive training meetings before being accepted into the training program. This is to demonstrate his/her seriousness and commitment, to be advised of the nature and extent of the training program, and to receive sufficient fundamental training to ensure the recruit is not a danger to himself or others.

At the end of this period, if equipment is available, the recruit may be issued turnout gear and a pager. If no equipment is available, he/she will be put on a waiting list and notified when equipment becomes available.

Before being issued equipment and entering the training program, the recruit must supply the fire chief with a form attesting that the recruit is sufficiently physically fit to perform brief strenuous and stressful tasks that firefighters are called upon to do.

The recruit must be at least 18 years old to enter the training program and 21 years old to drive fire department vehicles.

The recruit must not have been convicted of a major driving offense (DUI, etc.) in the previous three years.

Probational Training Period

The recruit will serve a one-year probational training period.

During that period, he/she must successfully complete certain basic training, including the Certified Volunteer Firefighter I, CPR, Air- and Blood-borne Pathogen Protection, Emergency Vehicle Driving, and Hazardous Materials Awareness programs. During that year he/she will be paired with a veteran firefighter who will mentor the recruit and monitor his/her training progress. Should the recruit not complete the required courses in the specified period, he/she may no longer respond to emergencies, but may be invited to become an auxiliary member. The fire chief has the authority to extend the probation period because of extenuating circumstances such as unavailability of the course or extended illness of the recruit.

A recruit with recent experience with another fire department does not have to retake the above courses if he/she submits certificates or other documentation showing completion of them or of similar courses.

Post Probation

When a recruit has successfully completed the probational training program including all required courses, the fire chief will nominate him/her to the Board of Directors for their approval of him/her as a tenured emergency responder.

Addendum
(From the corporate by-laws)

"Section 3. The membership of the fire company (firefighters) shall consist of those persons duly appointed by the Board of Directors.

1. After being properly warned, any member of the fire company may be expelled for conduct that may be such that would appear to be detrimental to the corporation according to a vote of the majority of the Board of Directors and for any other cause that may appear justifiable in the opinion of a majority of the Board of Directors at any meeting.
2. Prospective members of the fire company shall be nominated by a member in good standing.
3. A prospective member will attend three consecutive regular meetings of the fire company (unless providentially hindered) and will be observed and investigated by the chief and other officers before being nominated to the Board of Directors.
4. If a vacancy does not exist, his name will be placed on a list and he will be notified when an opening is available.
5. The Board of Directors will be empowered to skip names on the list for the good of the department."

4. EFFECTIVE DATE

11/4/1998