Pictures Being Uploaded causing Negative Public Perception

I don't want to sound like I am preaching here, but what is with all of the pics being uploaded that show alcohol being consumed. I think that we need to set a higher standard as Firefighters than just partying. What kind of example do you think this is setting for anyone that views the public page. I am sorry but too much is just that.... too much. I don't see what it does besides makes you look like you drink alcohol a whole lot. I believe that we should think about what we are going to put up as pictures before doing so. Remember in your career that you as a Firefighter or EMT are judged by John Q Public by what they see, not what you do. It is all about perception.

Enough ranting for now

FF Schoen
God Bless and Never Forget
"Live Life Stronger Than Death"

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Comment by Ashleigh on August 20, 2008 at 5:24pm
I agree with both sides of this. While I think we're all human, and some of us do enjoy a beer (or Long Beach) every now and then, it's not very professional, nor reassuring for that matter for the public to see that. Around here, we have a few firefighters who, shall we say, lack intelligence, and like to wear their dept. shirts AND pagers into the bar where they proceed to get drunk and stupid. I think this is a little worse than showing a picture of you drinking. But this site gives us the freedom to do that. But please, if you're going to have a pic up of you drinking, don't be disrespectful enough to be wearing your dept. shirt or bunker gear!!!
Comment by Brian on August 11, 2008 at 4:35pm
I agree as a former firefighter, I don't drink, always DD , but i personally have been around other fireman on scene , that were drinking but no one ever did anyhting about it then.....
Comment by Kristy Oxholm on August 11, 2008 at 4:26pm
I never have to say much, other than seconding what Art said! Comparing this site to "Rescue Me" doesn't fly. That is a TV show, this is, or is supposed to be, real firefighters. Just remember to think before you post. Even if you don't have your whole names listed on your profile, people in your town can probably figure it out!!!
Comment by FireCat on August 11, 2008 at 11:51am
This is a little off subject, but I would like to bring it up anyway. I have a problem with all the boob and butt shots some of our sisters decide to post here.

It has been expressed many times by quite a few of our sisters that they want to be respected and treated as equals. I know most of your guys like the boob and butt shots, but I personally feel that it degrades women in the Fire Service!!

There is MySpace for people who want to post shots of their assests.

TCSS,
Cat :o)
Comment by Oldman on August 11, 2008 at 11:23am
I agree that there images which are shall we say, questionable. But as usual, I am not in complete agreement with some of you. I certainly wouldn't think of posting incriminating pix on a site such as this. I take it, the intent of this discussion is; to want and need to show us in a "positive" and "professional" manner. That we as a profession hold ourselves to a high standard. I have no problem with that.

My problem with this theme is this. I don't know how many "John/Jane Q. Public types visit this site every week, but there is a syndicated television show which is seen nationwide by millions called Rescue Me. Why is this show so popular, and we (the profession) don't seem to have an issue with the publics perception of the fire service here? Lets face it people, theres a lot more than drinking going on in this show. But that is the way the service is in some parts of the country, but it is not indicative of the entire profession.

As far as alcohol at the stations go, my department has had a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for over 20 years. It is not allowed on department property in any shape, form, or fashion. Even informal department gatherings, don't show up if you have had even one alcoholic beverage. Off duty, have nothing identifying my department on you or around you if you are drinking in public. If you do... be prepared for a permanent vacation.

The bottom line is; we only have control of our own actions and deeds. I would not discredit my department/profession by posting images of anything questionable, and I likewise will not add to the Nielson ratings of the above named TV show. Sorry, I'll get off of the pulpit now.
Comment by FF Schoen on August 10, 2008 at 9:21pm
Thank you for all of your comments on this subject. I hope that this might have made someone think twice before posting another photo that might bring shame upon us as Firefighters in the public's eye
Comment by Joe Caldwell on August 10, 2008 at 9:11pm
I AGREE IF YOU GOING TO POST PHOTOS THAT LOOKS BAD THATS HOW IT WILL BE TAKEN, ALEST THAY CAN MAKE THEM PRIVATE OR FOR FRIENDS ONLY, WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGHTHER. (BROTHERHOOD)
Comment by FF Schoen on August 10, 2008 at 5:19pm
I am sorry I am having a hard time removing my fire pic so you would be able to read the posts better... anyone know how to get rid of that pic?
Comment by Brian Dumser on August 10, 2008 at 2:46pm
Same here Cat, no department issued clothing may be worn when out drinking at a bar.
Comment by FireCat on August 10, 2008 at 1:52pm
There is no bar at my firehouse and drinking is not allowed and I'm proud of that fact. If we want to get together after our shift to party we better not have our department shirts on. I don't drink so for me it’s not a problem.

"Common sense when posting photos should apply here" as stated by Art "ChiefReason" Goodrich I couldn't agree more Art!

TCSS.
Cat :o)

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