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Firefighter Mentorship Program

by Battalion Chief Gerald A. Tracy, Battalion 49

The intent of this program is for FDNY members to work on and respond to written drill scenarios during their tours and generate answers and solutions. Before the end of their tour, the Firefighters submit their worksheets to their Officer, who reviews the answers and provides comments and corrections if needed. The Officer signs and dates the sheets and returns them to Chief Tracy. The Chief then compiles the information and returns the data to the members for their review and edification. This exercise facilitates and encourages the veteran Firefighters to share their extensive knowledge and experience with the younger members of the Department.

Goals of this program are to improve and enhance FDNY efforts toward teamwork, interaction, attitude, character building, pride and fire/emergency efficiency. This program encourages veteran Firefighters to mentor members with fewer years on the job and provides them with a forum and motivation tool. It provides Officers with an opportunity to identify their members’ strong points and shortcomings and focus on the areas that should be addressed in future training drills and exercises. While there is nothing “new” here because the material already appears in official FDNY procedures, it is another format to reinforce knowledge and takes the critique process a step further.

This fourth segment provides two common problems that Firefighters might encounter. Answers from Battalion 49 Firefighters follow each problem. Readers should feel free to print this material from their computers, answer the questions and send them to Battalion Chief Gerald A. Tracy via the FDNY Department mail service (“the bag”) at Battalion 49 or U.S. mail at 22-63 35th Street, Astoria, New York 11105. Or, fax your answers to him at 718-932-1378. By sharing knowledge, we all become more competent.

Probationary FF's Graduation CeremonyProblem #7
What would you consider the 10 most important lessons a Proby should learn in his/her first month when reporting to the firehouse?

Engine Companies should provide information relevant to them.
Ladder Companies should provide information pertinent to them.

Answers

  • Maintain a professional appearance.--B
  • Always show respect for the public.--B
  • Show respect to senior members and all ranks of Officers.--B
  • Respect and learn your responsibilities as a new member of the FDNY and honor its long-standing traditions.--B
  • Report for work early.--B
  • Do not leave before the end of the tour.--B
  • Take the cotton from your ears and put it in your mouth. Listen and learn.--B
  • Ask questions and take advantage of the senior members’ wisdom and experience.--B
  • Maintain and care for all tools and equipment.--B
  • Know where every tool and piece of equipment is stored on your company apparatus and the purpose for each.--B
  • The hose bed is your responsibility.--E
  • Never allow a member of another company to pack your hose.--E
  • Understand the duties of the housewatch and the proper procedures for journal entries.--B
  • Learn the radio codes and mayday and urgent messages.--B
  • Become knowledgeable about your first-due area.--B
  • Practice your skills at size-up on all runs, routine emergencies, CFR-D runs, etc.--B
  • Always use your PPE and SCBA when required.--B
  • Learn as much as you can during building inspection.--B
  • Learn building classifications; e.g., Class 1, 2, 3, etc.--B
  • Keep reading the Proby manual and maintain your notebook.--B
  • Help with kitchen duties and all committee work and be aggressive.--B

Action FirefightersProblem #8
While lines are being positioned in front of a fire building, what Companies are responsible to assist?

Engine Companies should provide information relevant to them.
Ladder Companies should provide information pertinent to them.

Answers

  • Wear full PPE and SCBA.--B
  • The priority is to get the first line in operation.--E
  • First-due Control Firefighter is responsible for the proper number of lengths required for operations in the fire area.--E
  • Protect the interior stairs.--B
  • Second-due Engine is responsible to assist the first-due Engine, stretch the first line and be available to assist and take over when first Engine needs relief.--E
  • Second-due Engine Officer is responsible to ensure a water supply.--E
  • All members are responsible to remove kinks.--B
  • Consider dropping two lines when appropriate.--E

     

About the Author...
Battalion Chief Gerald A. Tracy, Battalion 49

Battalion Chief Gerald A. Tracy is a 28-year veteran of the FDNY. He is assigned to Battalion 49. He has had several articles published in Fire Engineering and WNYF. He is a noted speaker on fire service topics.