It’s the busiest time of the year. 2009 is nearly over, and many are feeling worn-out and bruised; it has been a very rough year everywhere. But we’re firefighters, we’re survivors, and we will be stronger in the future from the lessons we’ve learned this year. Many of us have faced challenges before (young firefighters, just ask the old ones).

In my fire department we are in the middle of confronting a large loss of future tax revenues, while still trying to grow with the community. We’re putting together evaluation and review teams, trying to find ways to do what we do smarter and better. Somehow, we will be inventive and find creative ways to deliver the exceptional service that we do today. So now is a good time for some inward reflection in our fire department, in our firefighting crew, and in each of us.

In general, what lessons have we learned from 2009? What are some of the age-old beliefs that should be challenged and what are some of the hurdles we face in 2010?

Lessons from 2009:
• In challenging times, look for innovation everywhere, especially from the troops
• Talented and committed leaders can lead an organization down the toughest path and still be respected and supported; personal integrity is a key
• Don’t try to talk your way out of trouble. Tell people the truth, or they will guess. Teams perform better when everyone is on the same page
• Reducing expenses should be a strategic decision that is planned and well executed (execution is the difficult part); cutting costs is NOT a knee jerk reaction
• Gather as much information as possible before making critical decisions
• It’s unreasonable to ask the firefighters on the street, where the real work happens, to shoulder the burden of poor management decisions
• Don’t hope for change; identify what needs to change, then change it

What are some of the hurdles we may have to face in 2010?
• I suspect there will be a decrease in professional development (already is). Reduced funds for training and education will damage our ability to operate safe and effectively. Fire departments must be learning organizations, so we have to find ways to continue to deliver training and promote education.
• Employee loyalty will be challenged. Those of us who believe that our employees are our most valuable asset will have to work hard to keep the team together. Open communication and shared responsibilities is a must. Trust.
• I believe that many fire department leaders will be tempted to make quick decisions with little or no information. We have to become long-term thinkers, not short-term responders.

The list could go on, that’s why taking time now to reflect is so important. 2010 is coming, so let’s prepare and get ready.

Stay safe and work together my friends,

Billy