Rob'scommand

I think the most important thing in answering a question like that is first of all who’s asking it?  If it’s an instructor in a fire academy the response might be different than what you’d tell an oral board when you’re going for a promotion.  You can find the command classes offered at many local colleges and at some fire departments training facilities usually the state fire marshals office has lists of where their being offered.

But, if you’re asking what does it take to be an effective company officer. If you’re talking about what you need to have so people will want to follow you into a burning building, or follow your commands without worrying about your decision making ability, then you’re talking about something totally different.

The command classes are nice and in a lot of departments they are required, but just like a paramedic could have every class in the world, and be an expert in cardiology . But if he has never worked in the field, you would probably get better treatment from a paramedic who has the standard classes, but 5 or 10 years in the field.  After a while the best diagnostic tool a paramedic has is just walking in the door and looking at the patient.  We get that sixth sense, and most people who have gotten to that level will tell you, is unlike anything else.  They just know who’s critical and who’s not.

Who would you want to follow into a fire.  Someone with all the classes, two years on the department, who has never been to a second alarm fire.  Or the captain that can call on his own sixth sense and guide you with confidence through the smoke to put out the fire, because he‘s been doing it for 25 years?

There is no exception to experience, in my department they will sometimes even let the firefighters act as captain for a shift now and again , so that over the years, when we become captains we aren’t going to have to be learning all of the job for the first time.

My best advise to you is even as a volunteer or reserve fire fighter, watch the captains and what they do.  Ask questions, and start thinking about what you would do in those same situations.  Do fire problems on the board, get all the practice you can, and then maybe someday you can be the person in charge.

Good luck

"Nothing counts 'til you have the badge . . . Nothing!"

Firefighter Rob

Rob is Captain Bob's Son. He works for Contra Costa fire department. He does all the entry level coaching by phone nationwide. You can contact him direct with your questions or set up a coaching appointment @ 707-869-1330. or e-mail me @ nrtc@sonic.net

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