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HomeMy WebLinkAbout604.004 - Fire Explorer Ride Along Guidelines Section 604.004 Page 1 of 4 FIRE EXPLORER MANUAL POST ORGANIZATION 604.004 FIRE EXPLORER RIDE-ALONG GUIDELINES EFFECTIVE: JANUARY 2008 Current Revision Date: 3/01/22 Next Revision Date: 3/01/25 Author’s Name/Rank: Kerri L. Donis, Fire Chief Review Level: 1 Administrative Support: Annette M. Grieser, Executive Assistant ADA PURPOSE Once an Explorer is qualified to ride-along with crews of the Fresno Fire Department (FFD or Department), participation can be scheduled through the Post Advisor. APPLICATION An active ride-along qualified Explorer should schedule a ride-along shift at least once a quarter. Any deviation from policies, guidelines, or conduct can result in a suspension of ride-along qualification. Both FFD crews and Explorers should uphold the high standards of the Department and the Post during all ride-along participations. OPERATIONAL POLICY Explorers will complete the entire qualification process before participating in a ride- along shift. Approved station visits through the Post Advisor are allowed at stations with Associate Advisors or Field Mentors prior to qualification. 1. During the Ride-Along, Explorers will: a. Obtain proper scheduling authorization through the Post Advisor. b. Arrive and be ready to respond by 0800 unless otherwise arranged and approved. c. Report to the Company Officer or designee at the time of arrival. d. Attend the morning line up, and any training/details assigned by the Company Officer. e. Respond to all emergency and non-emergency responses during the ride-along shift unless directed or approved by the Company Officer. Section 604.004 Page 2 of 4 f. Follow the direction and orders of the Company Officer or crew members. g. Follow all policies and procedures and maintain the core values and professionalism of the Post and Department in all interactions with the crew and public. h. Report any injury or assigned PPE issue immediately to the Company Officer. i. Report to the Post Advisor or designee any significant issue or concern. j. Complete all required ride-along forms and submit through the Post Advisor or designee. k. Contribute appropriate dues for shared meals, or provide your own meals. l. Seek crew approval for independent duties, training, or use of equipment. 2. During the Ride-Along, Department Members shall: a. Be familiar with the policies and guidelines of the Fire Explorer Ride- Along program and limitations. b. Adhere to the Core Values and Standards of the (FFD) while in the presence of the Explorers. c. Refrain from any activity which could be perceived as harassment, profanity, or inappropriate for youth members. d. Report any significant issues or concerns with the Company Officer, Battalion Chief, and Post Advisor or designee. e. Not allow Explorers to be present in any environment which has a high potential for harm or has a concern for safety. IDLH atmospheres are prohibited except for controlled training evolutions. In the event of the need to operate in an unsafe environment, designate a safe location for the Explorer to wait and/or designate an appropriate authority over the Explorer. Section 604.004 Page 3 of 4 OPERATIONAL GUIDELINE 1. During the Ride-Along, Explorers should: a. Arrive early and assist in the daily equipment checks. b. Assist the firefighter and crew in their daily duties. c. Assist with the preparation and cleaning of shared meals. d. Bring study materials to allow independent learning time away from the crew during down times. e. Utilize all time during the shift for learning opportunities. Refrain from entertainment and napping while at the station. f. Bring changes of uniform and maintain a professional appearance. g. Keep personal items neat and out of the way. h. Refrain from excessive phone/electronic device use or personal visits. 2. During the Ride-Along, Department Members should: a. Provide positive mentoring to the Explorer and invest in the personal development of the Explorer during their assignment. b. Not place Department or rookie level expectations on the abilities and skills on the Explorers. c. Discuss with the Explorer expectations during emergency call responses and station expectations. d. Provide options for independent learning opportunities for the Explorer during crew down times. e. Identify and provide skill development training for the Explorer. PROCESS This section intentionally left blank. Section 604.004 Page 4 of 4 INFORMATION This section intentionally left blank. DEFINITIONS This section intentionally left blank. CROSS REFERENCES No cross-references recognized.