Stevens County Fire District #4

Explorer Post 989

Rules, Regulations and By-Laws

Name and Mission Statement

Name- This organization will be known as Stevens County Fire District 4 (SCFD4) Explorer Post 989

Mission- To provide youth ages 14-21, who have an interest in Firefighting and EMS and organization to learn to function as Firefighters and benefit their communities.

Purpose- SCFD4 will provide training and instruction in fire fighting and EMS along with other functions of a fire department. All SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 activities will abide by SCFD4 and SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 policies and rules.

Membership

Application Process Youth

  • Explorers must be between the ages of 14-20 to apply but may remain active as an Explorer until 21years old.
  • Upon 21 years old, Explorers must complete an adult leader application.
  • Youth applicants must attend 4 of the monthly meetings before an application will be accepted.
  • Explorers must complete a sports physical yearly, similar to school sports.
  • Upon completing the attendance requirements, applicants must submit a neatly completed application
  • Applications will be accepted at the regularly scheduled SCFD4 general meeting on the third (3rd) Tuesday of every month.
  • Youth applicants will complete a short interview with the Chief or Assistant Chief of SCFD4 along with the Post Advisor and/or Associate Advisor as well as the Applicants parents or legal guardians. During this interview, Applicants and their parents or guardians will be provided a copy of the rules, regulations, and by-laws that will govern the conduct of all members of SCFD4 Explorer Post 989. This must be agreed to and signed by the applicant and parent or guardian before the application will be accepted or approved.
  • The Chief of SCFD4 will have the responsibility of final acceptance or denial of all applications after reviewing the application, meeting with the applicant and conferring with the Advisor and/or Associate Advisor.
  • At the time of application acceptance, the yearly fee for the remainder of the year will be due. ($2 per Month). This fee will be collected by the SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor or his/her designee then will be transferred to the Boy Scouts of America as the required yearly dues.

Application Process Adult

  • Adult leaders will be needed to run SCFD4 Explorer Post 989. Adults can serve in a variety of roles including Advisor, Associate Advisor, and multiple roles as a committee member.
  • Adults leaders will be held to the same standards of conduct, rules, policies and by-laws as youth members
  • Adult applicants must attend 4 of the regular monthly meetings before an application will be accepted.
  • Upon completing the attendance requirements, applicants must submit a neatly completed application
  • Applications will be accepted at the regularly scheduled SCFD4 general meeting on the third (3rd) Tuesday of every month.
  • Applicants will complete a short interview with the Chief or Assistant Chief of SCFD4 along with the Post Advisor and/or Associate Advisor. During this interview, Applicants will be provided a copy of the rules, regulations, and by-laws that will govern the conduct of all members of SCFD4 Explorer Post 989. This must be agreed to and signed by the applicant the application will be accepted or approved. This interview will help determine the appropriate role or position to be marked on the application.
  • A criminal background check will be completed by the Boy Scouts of America.
  • The Chief of SCFD4 will have the responsibility of final acceptance or denial of all applications after reviewing the application, meeting with the applicant and conferring with the Advisor and/or Associate Advisor.
  • At the time of application acceptance, the yearly fee for the remainder of the year will be due. ($2 per Month). This fee will be collected by the SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor or his/her designee then will be transferred to the Boy Scouts of America as the required yearly dues.
  • All adults must complete the yearly “Youth Protection Training”. This training can be completed online or by an approved Boy Scouts of America Leaning for Life instructor.

Probation

  • Upon completion of the above application requirements, Explorers will be placed on a three (3) month probationary period.
  • During this probationary period, Explorers will not be permitted to take any issued equipment home without specific case by case permission from the Advisor or Associate advisor.
  • Explorers will be expected to make all of the regularly scheduled meetings unless prior notice has been given to the Advisor.

Attendance

  • An Explorer must make every effort to attend regularly scheduled meetings, training and events.
  • Regularly scheduled meetings are as follows
  • Station 41 Training is the first (1st) Monday of every month at 1800 hours (6pm) at the Valley Training Center unless otherwise specified by the Station 41 Captain.
  • Officers meetings(for ExplorerCaptains and Lieutenants only) is the second (2nd) Tuesday of every month at 1800 hours at the Valley Training Center.
  • SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 meeting and training will be on the second (2nd) Saturday of each month from 0900-1500 hours at the Valley Training Center unless otherwise specified.
  • Station 41 Equipment checks and station maintenance will be at Station 41 on the Fourth (4th) Tuesday of every Month.
  • EMS, CPR, AED training will be held on the months with a fifth (5th) Tuesday at the Valley Training Center.

Rules of Conduct

General

  • The use of drugs and alcohol by members under 21 years of age will not be allowed or tolerated at any time.
  • Use of drugs, including marijuana or other THC products will not be allowed by any member of SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 (including adults)
  • There will be no use of tobacco products by Explorers. This includes cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, or e-cigarettes while at official functions, activities and meetings.
  • Tobacco use by adults must not be around the Explorers and must comply with all State and Health Department Laws and rules.
  • Alcohol consumption and/or possession will not be allowed at any SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 activities or function and will not be allowed on SCFD4 property, facilities or apparatus.
  • Explorers will follow the orders and direction of Post Advisors, Associate Advisors, and SCFD4 Personnel. Failure to comply with orders or direction will be considered insubordination and will be dealt with according to the disciplinary process.
  • Explorers will conduct themselves in a professional manner. Horseplay and disruption during training and events will not be allowed.
  • There will be zero tolerance for bullying or harassment of any kind. This behavior is not legal and will not be accepted. Any violation of this policy will result in immediate suspension or dismissal from SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 at the discretion of the Chief of SCFD4 and the SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor.
  • Electronic devices, including phones, music players, and games will not be allowed functions. Phones may be allowed on a case by case basis and only for emergencies.
  • Pictures using non department issued cameras will not be allowed during emergency responses as per the SCFD4 Policies.
  • Conduct of Explorers both on duty and off, will reflect on and affect the credibility and public view of SCFD4 as well as SCFD4 Explorer Post 989. It is expected that you will conduct yourself accordingly and will not do anything to draw negative attention to yourself, SCFD4 or SCFD4 Explorer Post 989.
  • The use of SCFD4 or SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 equipment and uniforms for non department activities will not be allowed without prior approval from the SCFD4 Chief or Explorer Post Advisor.
  • All contacts with law enforcement for which you have committed or accused of committed a violation will be reported to the SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor within 48 hours.
  • Members who have been charged with a criminal offense will be suspended pending the outcome of charges.
  • Members convicted of any criminal violations will be immediately dismissed from the SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 at the discretion of the SCFD4 Chief and SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor.
  • Explorers who are currently enrolled in high school, must maintain a minimum of grade level of “C” or 2.0. Report cards must be submitted to the SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor twice per year for verification. Any grades below a “C” level will result in 3 month probation. Participation in extra activities, fun outings, or school day events trainings and meetings will not be authorized until all grades are returned to “C” level or higher. After three months of probation, if the grades have not improved to acceptable levels, the Explorer will be placed on a temporary suspension up to three months. If the grades have not improved by the end of the suspension, the Explorer will be dismissed from SCFD4 Explorer Post 989.
  • Members of SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 (Explorers and adults) shall not be in SCFD4 facilities, properties or apparatus without the express permission and authorization of the Chief of SCFD4.
  • Explorers enrolled in high school, must have parent and teacher approval to miss any school classes to assist with aSCFD4 Explorer Post 989 activity.

Authority and Authorized Activities

  • Explorers shall not represent themselves directly or indirectly as a Firefighter.
  • Explorers shall not engage in any “hot zone” activities during an actual emergency. This includes interior structure fire operations, vehicle extrications, or other dangerous rescue activities.
  • Explorers shall not replace or be substituted for a trained and certified Firefighter.
  • Explorers shall not drive any fire apparatus. (exception) Explorers over the age of 18, who are also SCFD4 volunteer Firefighters that are qualified and trained to operate the apparatus, may do so under the policies of SCFD4.
  • Explorers shall not operate any chainsaw or other gas or electric circular saw. (exception) Explorers over the age of 18, who are also SCFD4 volunteer Firefighters that are trained and qualified to operate such saws, will be allowed to do so under the policies of SCFD4.
  • Explorers under the age of 16 shall not operate hydraulic rescue tools.
  • Explorers will only respond to emergency scenes when dispatched by the SCFD4 Chief or SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 advisor. Explorers shall not respond to emergency scenes without request to do so.
  • While at an actual emergency scene that has been dispatched to SCFD4 Explorer Post 989, Explorers shall function in a support role only. Explorers will be assigned responsibilities outside of the “Hot Zone” by the Incident Commander or on scene Advisor or Associate Advisor. Explorers may assist with personnel accountability tracking, assisting the support unit personnel filling SCBA bottles, providing refreshments, assisting EMTs with vital sign, moving and providing equipment outside of the hot zone, assisting with salvage and over haul after the scene and been deemed safe by the Incident Commander and Safety Officer. Other functions or activities may be allowed as deemed appropriate by the incident commander and on scene SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor or Associate Advisor.
  • To be eligible to respond to an actual emergency, Explorers must be 15 years old or older and earned the rank of “ExplorerFirefighter” or higher.
  • Explorers who are also SCFD4 Volunteer Firefighters, should respond to the emergency scene in accordance to SCFD4 policy and function in the role of a Volunteer Firefighter and not that of an Explorer.

Transportation

  • Transportation arrangements to and from training and activities will generally be the responsibility of the Explorer and or parents/legal guardians.
  • For approved SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 outings and special planned events, adult members of SCFD4 Explorer Post 989, members of SCFD4, parents and other adults as approved by the SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 committee may transport Explorers in personal and or SCFD4 vehicles upon the completion or required paperwork for Boy Scouts of America, as well as verification of Driver’s license status and liability insurance.
  • All laws must be followed by members of SCFD4 Explorer Post 989. There will be no exception to this, including while responding to an emergency.
  • If you are contacted by law enforcement you shall not identify yourself as a member of SCFD4 or SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 in an attempt to sway or influence an enforcement decision.
  • While at official SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 activities, all members that have applied and been accepted into SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 may ride in but not drive SCFD4 apparatus while not responding to an actual emergency. This may include, but is not limited to training, parades, presentations, and safety demonstrations.
  • Explorers 15 years old or older, upon completion of the rank of ExplorerFirefighter or above may ride along on apparatus that are in-service and available for emergency response. Written authorization and liability waiver must be obtained with signatures from the SCFD4 Chief, SCFD4 Explorer Post 989 Advisor, the Explorer and parent or legal guardian if the Explorer is under 18 years of age.

Appearance and Hygiene

  • To maintain a professional appearance, an appropriate uniform will be worn to all trainings and activities. No non department hats will be allowed. Until a uniform jacket is established, personal jackets shall not have inappropriate markings, symbols or other designs including affiliations with drugs, marijuana or inappropriate activities.
  • Uniform purchase and maintenance will be the responsibility of each individual. Uniforms shall be kept clean and in good repair. Dress uniforms shall be pressed.
  • Training uniform will consist of a red SCFD4 T-shirt marked “EXPLORER” on the sleeves. Pants will be long pants (no shorts), preferably dark blue jeans in good condition (no stains, or holes). Closed toe over the ankle lace up boots, preferably black.
  • Dress uniformwill consist of a Red Dickies button up short sleeved work shirt with SCFD4 shoulder patch on the left shoulder centered on the sleeve and One (1) inch below the sleeve seem. A silver “Fire Dept” cloth badge will be one half (1/2) inch above the left shirt pocket and centered on the button. The right shoulder will be the appropriate medical qualification earned, centered on the sleeve and one (1) inch below the sleeve seem. One half inch over the right shirt pocket and centered on the button will be patch with the firs initial of the first name, followed by the last name. The uniform pants will be dark navy Dickies work pants with cargo pockets, black boots, and a black leather belt with pain silver buckle.Appropriate collar rank pins will be issued upon earning leadership positions. Upon earning the rank of volunteer Firefighter with SCFD4 and completing the required training, the uniform shirts shall be dark navy blue.
  • Explorers shall be issued protective turnout gear with a black helmet and “EXPLORER” helmet crescents. Upon earning the rank of volunteer Firefighter with SCFD4 and upon completion of all of the required training, Explorers will be issued yellow helmets.
  • Explorers will be issued wild land protective clothing. The helmets will display “EXPLORER” crescents.
  • Hair longer than shoulder length shall be pulled back to prevent it from becoming tangled in machinery, equipment or other objects.
  • Facial hair must conform to SCBA standards and cannot interfere with the sealing of the masks. Neatly trimmed mustaches are acceptable. No beards, goatees, or sideburns.
  • Facial jewelry and piercings are discouraged. Jewelry that may interfere with SCBA masks will not be allowed. Only small stud style jewelry will be allowed to prevent injury from snagging or pulling. (no loops, chains, or other long or dangling piercing jewelry.
  • Cleanliness is extremely important. It is expected that Explorers will be clean, make use of deodorant as appropriate, and brush teeth.
  • Use of cologne and perfume is discouraged. We may be assisting in medical emergencies and these items can cause or make symptoms of difficulty breathing worse in some patients.

Rank

  • Explorer:All youth will start at the rank of Explorer until completing the requirements of the next rank.
  • ExplorerFirefighter:
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the use of structural PPE
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the use of wild fire PPE
  • Complete basic First Aid and CPR training
  • Complete 40 hour Firefighter fundamentals and pass all written and practical tests.
  • Complete Hazardous Materials Awareness
  • Participate in a minimum of 75% of training and 75% functions
  • Teach one 30 minute class to the other Explorers at a Monthly Meeting
  • Complete two 15 minute or longer presentations during a district or station meeting (coordinated with the Training Lieutenant or Station Captain)
  • Complete one presentation during a district meeting or station meeting
  • Complete FEMA ICS 100 and 700 training
  • Complete promotion interview with ExplorerCaptain, District Captain, Support Officer and Chief or assistant Chief
  • Explorer Operator:
  • Complete the Emergency Vehicle Incident Prevention Course (class)
  • Complete advanced First Aid and AED
  • Locate and show proficiency in the use of all tools and equipment on the apparatus.
  • Be certified in the use of station mounted and truck mounted compressor and cascade system for refilling SCBA
  • Demonstrate or explain how to control traffic at different scene locations to include cone/flare placement, apparatus placement, use of flaggers
  • Show proficiency in Radio communications
  • Serve as ExplorerFirefighter for 6 months or more.
  • Instruct a minimum of 3 classroom hours
  • Instruct and supervise 2 practical skills evolutions
  • Complete promotion interview with ExplorerCaptain, District Captain, Support Officer and Chief or assistant Chief

Rank requirements of Lieutenant and Captain can be completed at any time. Appointment to that position will be as positions open and will be on a competitive basis. Candidates will be scored based on training, teaching hours, community service hours and interview.

  • ExplorerLieutenant: One Lieutenant will be assigned to supervise each company of 4-5 subordinates
  • Must have served as a Explorer Operator for a minimum of 6 months
  • Demonstrate proficiency and understanding of the ICS system
  • Maintain Advanced First Aid, CPR and AED
  • Instructed a minimum of 10 classroom hours
  • Instructed and supervised a minimum of 20 hours of practical skills
  • Assisted with planning a minimum of 1 district community event
  • Participated in a minimum of 75% of training and 75% of functions
  • Demonstrate the use of the accountability system on multiple scene applications
  • Completed training on scene size up for:
  • Structure Fire
  • Vehicle Fire
  • Wild land fire
  • Vehicle Collision
  • Setup and assist with site preparation of a landing zone
  • Organized and supervised at least one Explorer Unit Fundraiser or write, apply for and obtain at least one equipment grant or donation
  • Complete promotion interview with ExplorerCaptain, District Captain, Support Officer and Chief or assistant Chie

ExplorerCaptain: One ExplorerCaptain to supervise up to 6 Lieutenants