Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Fred Cummings, Jr. on October 23, 2009 at 5:04pm

I've been with my department for 18 years and was just promoted to LT 2 years ago. I too was in the same position you are in now. We have a mentor system for our Provisional FF's but when I became an LT even though I had been there for so long I never had a leadership role. I was left to figure out for myself what I had to do. The fire service is changing dramatically EVERYDAY. I met with my engine company one night and asked all of them to anonymously write down what each of them expect from me. That's how I got things going. One thing you must remember " Respect is not given to you, you must earn it". Congradulations and good luck with your endeavors.

Permalink Reply by Randy Rutheford jr. on October 24, 2009 at 8:34am

Thank you, thats a great idea.

Permalink Reply by Steve Pepin on October 28, 2009 at 3:09pm

I don't know if your state has as a officer training program, but if so I might start with this. Also what about your dept. SOP's but if no luck there, it might be worth a shot to check with the State Fire Marshal's Office. This is how I made it through a very rough transition when our dept. changed ranks from who you know to what you know. Hope this is of some use.

If in Illinois here is a link: http://www.state.il.us/osfm/

Permalink Reply by Fred Cummings, Jr. on November 1, 2009 at 6:25am

Thanks Steve I forgot to mention the State Academy. MA does offer FO1 for Lieutenants and FO2 for Captains and above. I took the FO1 class and it was very helpful with the leadership area. Now I have to move on to Fire Instructor 1.

Permalink Reply by capt4021 on November 3, 2009 at 2:58am

I know im not the perfect speller but first you need to brush up on your spelling not trying to bash on you. But other than that always remember to get respect give respect, And don't let your guys walk all over you or they think they can do what they want. and as always stay safe and train train train.