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Leadership
Volunteer Vision: March 2010
Our condolences to the community of Point Edward, Ont., in the recent loss of volunteer firefighter Gary Kendall during an ice rescue training exercise.
Our condolences to the community of Point Edward, Ont., in the recent loss of volunteer firefighter Gary Kendall during an ice rescue training exercise.
Leadership Forum: March 2010
It is with enthusiasm and great anticipation that we co-write this column. Our friendship and journey into the challenges of leadership in the fire service began several years ago when we were classmates in the Lakeland College bachelor of business in emergency services program.
It is with enthusiasm and great anticipation that we co-write this column. Our friendship and journey into the challenges of leadership in the fire service began several years ago when we were classmates in the Lakeland College bachelor of business in emergency services program.
Straight Talk: February 2010
Lobbying, according to the Webster’s dictionary, means conducting activities aimed at influencing public officials, and especially members of a legislative body, on legislation.
Lobbying, according to the Webster’s dictionary, means conducting activities aimed at influencing public officials, and especially members of a legislative body, on legislation.
Volunteer Vision: February 2010
You’ve no doubt heard people say that we should all be marketing our fire departments, but what does that entail? Are we all supposed to set up social networking accounts and keep interested followers up on everything we do?
You’ve no doubt heard people say that we should all be marketing our fire departments, but what does that entail? Are we all supposed to set up social networking accounts and keep interested followers up on everything we do?
Leadership Forum: February 2010
Do you need help to survive and thrive as a leader? I do, even after 33 years of service. Fortunately, there are many leadership development programs and tools on the market and I’d like to tell you about a type of leadership mentoring that has worked for me.
Do you need help to survive and thrive as a leader? I do, even after 33 years of service. Fortunately, there are many leadership development programs and tools on the market and I’d like to tell you about a type of leadership mentoring that has worked for me.
Fire IQ: January 2010
Although it’s great for our customers, the inevitable decline in the number of working fires due to advances in building and fire codes, fire prevention initiatives and even residential sprinklers, in some jurisdictions, means that most of us can’t treat any of our fires as routine.
Although it’s great for our customers, the inevitable decline in the number of working fires due to advances in building and fire codes, fire prevention initiatives and even residential sprinklers, in some jurisdictions, means that most of us can’t treat any of our fires as routine.
From the editor: January 2010
The final year of the first decade of the new millennium was a good one for Canadian fire services. Sure, we’re still fighting for tax relief for volunteer firefighters, with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs
The final year of the first decade of the new millennium was a good one for Canadian fire services. Sure, we’re still fighting for tax relief for volunteer firefighters, with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs
Volunteer Vision: December 2009
I need to start with an apology to all “big” volunteer/composite fire departments. In my bio at the end of this column, I wanted to emphasize that the Municipality of Centre Wellington, with a population of almost 29,000, is protected by an all-volunteer firefighting force. I believe this to be in the top 10 to 20 per cent of volunteer departments responsible for a population of that size
I need to start with an apology to all “big” volunteer/composite fire departments. In my bio at the end of this column, I wanted to emphasize that the Municipality of Centre Wellington, with a population of almost 29,000, is protected by an all-volunteer firefighting force. I believe this to be in the top 10 to 20 per cent of volunteer departments responsible for a population of that size
Cornerstone: December 2009
I recently returned from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs’ conference in Winnipeg. The theme of the conference was Passing the Torch and my friend Les Karpluk, fire chief of Prince Albert, Sask., and I spoke about supporting your people.
I recently returned from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs’ conference in Winnipeg. The theme of the conference was Passing the Torch and my friend Les Karpluk, fire chief of Prince Albert, Sask., and I spoke about supporting your people.
Cornerstone: November 2009
In my office at fire headquarters, I have an inspirational poster on leadership that says leaders stand out by the nature of their commitment and the integrity of their character. I believe in this axiom, because anyone can be a leader when all is going well; it is how we present ourselves in times of adversity that demonstrates what types of people we are and how we deal with the highs and lows in our lives.
In my office at fire headquarters, I have an inspirational poster on leadership that says leaders stand out by the nature of their commitment and the integrity of their character. I believe in this axiom, because anyone can be a leader when all is going well; it is how we present ourselves in times of adversity that demonstrates what types of people we are and how we deal with the highs and lows in our lives.
Volunteer Vision: September 2009
I get it: firefighters love their bunker gear, and by bunker gear I mean structural firefighting coat and pants. We wear it to everything – medical alarms, C/O alarms, motor vehicle accidents and, of course, fires, for which it is designed.
I get it: firefighters love their bunker gear, and by bunker gear I mean structural firefighting coat and pants. We wear it to everything – medical alarms, C/O alarms, motor vehicle accidents and, of course, fires, for which it is designed.
Cornerstone: September 2009
Thanks to two readers for recommending QBQ! – The Question Behind the Question, by John G. Miller and Managing in Times of Change by Michael Maginn.
In QBQ! Miller discusses the fact that before we can embrace change we need to become accountable for our actions.
Thanks to two readers for recommending QBQ! – The Question Behind the Question, by John G. Miller and Managing in Times of Change by Michael Maginn.
In QBQ! Miller discusses the fact that before we can embrace change we need to become accountable for our actions.
Leadership Forum: September 2009
Some advice for today’s leaders: don’t you dare attempt to think or even lead from outside the box unless you are willing to put your career on the line.
Now that I have your attention, I should clarify that those harsh words are meant somewhat tongue in cheek. However, I assure you the element of risk in becoming an effective leader is based on real life observations.
Some advice for today’s leaders: don’t you dare attempt to think or even lead from outside the box unless you are willing to put your career on the line.
Now that I have your attention, I should clarify that those harsh words are meant somewhat tongue in cheek. However, I assure you the element of risk in becoming an effective leader is based on real life observations.
Cornerstone: August 2009
Networking and sharing is alive and well. Over the past couple of years, I have had the pleasure of speaking on leadership and change management at several conferences and seminars, and I have been thrilled to hear that my columns have struck a chord with many brothers and sisters in the fire service.
Networking and sharing is alive and well. Over the past couple of years, I have had the pleasure of speaking on leadership and change management at several conferences and seminars, and I have been thrilled to hear that my columns have struck a chord with many brothers and sisters in the fire service.
Leadership Forum: August 2009
How can people improve if they don’t know what they don’t know?
Good leadership requires that individuals be aware of who they are (inward reflection) and what improvement is needed. Self-improvement is generally accomplished through informal development opportunities such as interaction with colleagues and participation in conferences but participation in formal education programs plays a significant role too.
How can people improve if they don’t know what they don’t know?
Good leadership requires that individuals be aware of who they are (inward reflection) and what improvement is needed. Self-improvement is generally accomplished through informal development opportunities such as interaction with colleagues and participation in conferences but participation in formal education programs plays a significant role too.
Volunteer Vision: August 2009
Here are my thoughts on Bill 221 in Ontario. My simplified explanation of the presumptive legislation issue is this: If you are a full-time firefighter and you contract one of the following cancers – brain, bladder, kidney, colorectal, ureter, esophageal, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – or if you have had certain types of leukemia in the last 10 to 25 years or a heart injury within 24 hours of a call or training, it is presumed these diseases or conditions are work related and you or your family will receive benefits. I think this is a very good thing.
Here are my thoughts on Bill 221 in Ontario. My simplified explanation of the presumptive legislation issue is this: If you are a full-time firefighter and you contract one of the following cancers – brain, bladder, kidney, colorectal, ureter, esophageal, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – or if you have had certain types of leukemia in the last 10 to 25 years or a heart injury within 24 hours of a call or training, it is presumed these diseases or conditions are work related and you or your family will receive benefits. I think this is a very good thing.
Cornerstone: Confronting the demons of public speaking
Recent studies have confirmed that most of us would rather get root canal work at the dentist than speak in public. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to small and large groups on different topics and it never ceases to amaze me how excited I am to talk about my topic but how nervous I can be about giving the presentation. Everyone who goes to hear a presentation does so to learn and even to support the speaker. So why, if everyone is there to support the presentation, do most of us get so nervous?
Recent studies have confirmed that most of us would rather get root canal work at the dentist than speak in public. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to small and large groups on different topics and it never ceases to amaze me how excited I am to talk about my topic but how nervous I can be about giving the presentation. Everyone who goes to hear a presentation does so to learn and even to support the speaker. So why, if everyone is there to support the presentation, do most of us get so nervous?
Volunteer Vision: Platooning – a wild and crazy idea
Perhaps it’s about money or community; or it could be that people just don’t like change.
Perhaps it’s about money or community; or it could be that people just don’t like change.
Leadership Forum: Recession challenges leaders to be effective
A story in the March 13 Montreal Gazette says: “The police and fire departments are on the hook for $21.45 million of Mayor Gerald Tremblay’s $155 million budget-cutting exercise.” The fire department has been told to cut $7.6 million.
A story in the March 13 Montreal Gazette says: “The police and fire departments are on the hook for $21.45 million of Mayor Gerald Tremblay’s $155 million budget-cutting exercise.” The fire department has been told to cut $7.6 million.
Leadership Forum: May 2009
A good leader can mean the difference between success and failure, but so can a good leader-in-training. It’s been my experience that good people typically make good leaders. Operating guidelines, rules, regulations and protocols become dated, systems fail, buildings deteriorate and machinery wears down.
A good leader can mean the difference between success and failure, but so can a good leader-in-training. It’s been my experience that good people typically make good leaders. Operating guidelines, rules, regulations and protocols become dated, systems fail, buildings deteriorate and machinery wears down.
Cornerstone: May 2009
Recently, a fire chief with a neighbouring department asked if I could help to implement some necessary changes. He felt that having someone from the outside at the table would help get his officers energized.
Recently, a fire chief with a neighbouring department asked if I could help to implement some necessary changes. He felt that having someone from the outside at the table would help get his officers energized.
Volunteer Vision: May 2009
I’m proud to know so many great volunteer firefighters. They are very professional and their jobs are among the hardest of any profession. Let me explain.
I’m proud to know so many great volunteer firefighters. They are very professional and their jobs are among the hardest of any profession. Let me explain.
Leadership Forum: Acceptable service: Are we there yet?
It’s a new year, a new beginning and a good time to be frank. So let’s begin with a couple of questions: Why do people believe that Canadian fire services consistently provide extraordinary service? Why do they assume the fire services habitually go above and beyond the call of duty to exceed expectations?
It’s a new year, a new beginning and a good time to be frank. So let’s begin with a couple of questions: Why do people believe that Canadian fire services consistently provide extraordinary service? Why do they assume the fire services habitually go above and beyond the call of duty to exceed expectations?
Cornerstone: The ethics of making good leadership decisions
Many articles have been written about how to be a good manager or leader and how to communicate with staff and peers. However one thing that is sometimes overlooked is the practical application of ethics. Even the most polished leadership skills won’t effectively drive home your vision of the future if your staff and peers don’t trust you or believe in you.
Many articles have been written about how to be a good manager or leader and how to communicate with staff and peers. However one thing that is sometimes overlooked is the practical application of ethics. Even the most polished leadership skills won’t effectively drive home your vision of the future if your staff and peers don’t trust you or believe in you.
Best practice
We have a nine-step hiring process that has been refined over the years and has proven to be very successful in hiring the right people. I define the right people as those who fit into the organization, will help us grow, are constant learners, have a high degree of commitment to provide excellent service and have great retention value.
We have a nine-step hiring process that has been refined over the years and has proven to be very successful in hiring the right people. I define the right people as those who fit into the organization, will help us grow, are constant learners, have a high degree of commitment to provide excellent service and have great retention value.
Volunteer Vision: Getting our training priorities straight
Before anyone gets upset with my view here, let me explain. I believe Canadian fire services have achieved our goal with regards to fire prevention – or we’re very close to achieving it – and now it’s time to move on.
Before anyone gets upset with my view here, let me explain. I believe Canadian fire services have achieved our goal with regards to fire prevention – or we’re very close to achieving it – and now it’s time to move on.
Leadership Forum: Relationship leadership for a new era
Based on reader response to a recent column, here are my thoughts on the need for relationship-based leadership. If the word leadership were to suddenly disappear from our vocabulary, what would be the best replacement? Without question, it would be the word relationship. Linking these two words makes a lot of sense.
Based on reader response to a recent column, here are my thoughts on the need for relationship-based leadership. If the word leadership were to suddenly disappear from our vocabulary, what would be the best replacement? Without question, it would be the word relationship. Linking these two words makes a lot of sense.
Cornerstone: Lifelong learning and the benefits of change
To build on the change management information discussed in December, let’s look at the concept of lifelong learning and how it can complement the ability of individuals and organizations to adapt to change.
To build on the change management information discussed in December, let’s look at the concept of lifelong learning and how it can complement the ability of individuals and organizations to adapt to change.
Volunteer Vision: The voice of experience hushes up and listens
First, thanks to the hundreds of people who took the time to read my last couple of columns and those who e-mailed me. I received e-mails from all across the country and what I find most interesting is that everyone agrees that now is the time for massive change.
First, thanks to the hundreds of people who took the time to read my last couple of columns and those who e-mailed me. I received e-mails from all across the country and what I find most interesting is that everyone agrees that now is the time for massive change.
Growth through conflict
Conflict is not about disagreement, indecision or workplace stress, rather, Daniel Dana, the author of Conflict Resolution describes conflict as a condition under which workers whose jobs are interdependent feel angry and perceive other parties as being at fault.
Conflict is not about disagreement, indecision or workplace stress, rather, Daniel Dana, the author of Conflict Resolution describes conflict as a condition under which workers whose jobs are interdependent feel angry and perceive other parties as being at fault.
Countering culture
Some people believe that leadership encompasses the fringe benefits of being the official leader of an organization, while others realize that with leadership comes the responsibility to deal with and resolve conflict in the workplace.
Some people believe that leadership encompasses the fringe benefits of being the official leader of an organization, while others realize that with leadership comes the responsibility to deal with and resolve conflict in the workplace.
Volunteer Vision: Canadians in need of a fire service hero
In September’s column, I asked you to think about a rural area near you and determine whether the police or ambulance service in that place would be any different than if you were in a large town or city.
In September’s column, I asked you to think about a rural area near you and determine whether the police or ambulance service in that place would be any different than if you were in a large town or city.
Cornerstone: Proven strategies for acing the interview
There has been much written on how to prepare a resumé. Once your resumé has gotten you noticed and into that crucial first interview, the next challenge is how to conduct yourself in the interview. This is where you get to show prospective employers who you are and demonstrate and confirm the information you have provided (in your resumé). Now is the time to tell employers why you are the one they should hire.
There has been much written on how to prepare a resumé. Once your resumé has gotten you noticed and into that crucial first interview, the next challenge is how to conduct yourself in the interview. This is where you get to show prospective employers who you are and demonstrate and confirm the information you have provided (in your resumé). Now is the time to tell employers why you are the one they should hire.
Your Call: Discipline 101 for officers
Here’s the scenario: As the officer, you pass by an office and notice two firefighters surfing the Internet. Unfortunately, they are looking at websites that are inappropriate and against your town’s policy. As the officer, what should your actions be?
Here’s the scenario: As the officer, you pass by an office and notice two firefighters surfing the Internet. Unfortunately, they are looking at websites that are inappropriate and against your town’s policy. As the officer, what should your actions be?
Leadership Forum: All in the family – or maybe not
To what extent do personal relationships influence the leadership arrangement and decision-making processes in your organization? As the leader, you are not the father, mother or friend. You are the boss.
To what extent do personal relationships influence the leadership arrangement and decision-making processes in your organization? As the leader, you are not the father, mother or friend. You are the boss.
Your Call: Attitude adjustments require deft handling
In my June scenario I asked how a captain is to deal with an employee who has a terrible attitude and constantly complains. I knew I was stepping out on the plank with this question because it can be a difficult topic to discuss.
In my June scenario I asked how a captain is to deal with an employee who has a terrible attitude and constantly complains. I knew I was stepping out on the plank with this question because it can be a difficult topic to discuss.
Leadership Forum: Beyond the lights and sirens – part 2
I had the opportunity recently to vacation in the magnificent country of Singapore. Singapore is a modern and extremely well-governed country with a population of approximately 4.5 million people.
I had the opportunity recently to vacation in the magnificent country of Singapore. Singapore is a modern and extremely well-governed country with a population of approximately 4.5 million people.
Cornerstone: Leadership strategies from best of the best
Over the years I have read many books about the different types of leadership styles that exist. While reading these books, I’ve thought about what type of leader I am.
Over the years I have read many books about the different types of leadership styles that exist. While reading these books, I’ve thought about what type of leader I am.
Good customer service
Everybody has a boss. I’ve studied bosses, and I’ve noticed that the best predictor of behaviour in an organization is the way the boss behaves.
Everybody has a boss. I’ve studied bosses, and I’ve noticed that the best predictor of behaviour in an organization is the way the boss behaves.
Volunteer Vision: 100 years of service unimpeded by change
I have received many e-mails regarding my first column, Obstacles in maintaining a volunteer department, in June. The e-mails came from fire chiefs, provincial fire marshals and firefighters, all of whom have agreed with the content of the column.
I have received many e-mails regarding my first column, Obstacles in maintaining a volunteer department, in June. The e-mails came from fire chiefs, provincial fire marshals and firefighters, all of whom have agreed with the content of the column.
Comment: Co-ordinating fire-service issues
Having attended three regional chiefs’ association meetings in the last several weeks, a few truths became evident about the fire services in Canada. Most of them are good.
Having attended three regional chiefs’ association meetings in the last several weeks, a few truths became evident about the fire services in Canada. Most of them are good.
Your Call: Managing the messages among your crew members
The scenario posed in May asked how you, as an officer, would manage the message in your department when there’s discussion about an issue that’s making the news; for example, two hatters or a controversy over stickers that express support for military troops on fire-service vehicles. These issues may not even affect your department directly, but as we all know, we all have strong opinions.
The scenario posed in May asked how you, as an officer, would manage the message in your department when there’s discussion about an issue that’s making the news; for example, two hatters or a controversy over stickers that express support for military troops on fire-service vehicles. These issues may not even affect your department directly, but as we all know, we all have strong opinions.
Leadership Forum: Fire service leadership beyond lights and sirens
Almost every day, fire claims the life of an individual somewhere in Canada. I am sure you will agree that this is unacceptable and that even one fire fatality is one too many.
Almost every day, fire claims the life of an individual somewhere in Canada. I am sure you will agree that this is unacceptable and that even one fire fatality is one too many.
Cornerstone: Making the transition to officer from firefighter
As firefighters we will face many new challenges in our careers: our first house fire; our first rescue; and even the first time we lead the way into a burning building. Fire departments throughout North America get top grades for teaching the technical aspects of the job but, with the exception of a few departments, there are no truly consistent succession planning and standard training programs to help with the transition from firefighter to officer.
As firefighters we will face many new challenges in our careers: our first house fire; our first rescue; and even the first time we lead the way into a burning building. Fire departments throughout North America get top grades for teaching the technical aspects of the job but, with the exception of a few departments, there are no truly consistent succession planning and standard training programs to help with the transition from firefighter to officer.
Volunteer Vision: Management tactics for instilling value
If you read my inaugural column in June, you may have found it to be a bit of a rant. I discussed a few of the problems faced by fire chiefs and municipalities in managing a successful volunteer department. The obstacles are daunting but, I believe, manageable.
If you read my inaugural column in June, you may have found it to be a bit of a rant. I discussed a few of the problems faced by fire chiefs and municipalities in managing a successful volunteer department. The obstacles are daunting but, I believe, manageable.
Leadership Challenges
At the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs conference recently in Toronto, I had the privilege of co-presenting “Leadership – Art or Science,” with Deputy Chief Lyle Quan of the Guelph Fire Department.
At the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs conference recently in Toronto, I had the privilege of co-presenting “Leadership – Art or Science,” with Deputy Chief Lyle Quan of the Guelph Fire Department.
Between Alarms: Think before you speak to preserve integrity
Recent and past events in the world have left the public with little faith and trust in the establishment. We inherently and frequently trust institutions with our livelihood and well-being, yet there are often mistakes made that negatively affect public perception of these institutions.
Recent and past events in the world have left the public with little faith and trust in the establishment. We inherently and frequently trust institutions with our livelihood and well-being, yet there are often mistakes made that negatively affect public perception of these institutions.
Volunteer Vision: Obstacles in maintaining a volunteer department
I have been in the fire service for more than 25 years, seven as a senior officer and five as fire chief in Centre Wellington, Ont. I have always cared for and managed volunteer firefighters. Every year, it seems to get more challenging and I’m beginning to wonder how much longer volunteer departments can last.
I have been in the fire service for more than 25 years, seven as a senior officer and five as fire chief in Centre Wellington, Ont. I have always cared for and managed volunteer firefighters. Every year, it seems to get more challenging and I’m beginning to wonder how much longer volunteer departments can last.
Cornerstone: Analyzing the art or science of leadership
As I am writing this, I am also putting the final touches on a presentation that and my friend Les Karpluk and I are invited to do at the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs conference. The presentation, like the title of this column, is about whether leadership is an art or a science.
As I am writing this, I am also putting the final touches on a presentation that and my friend Les Karpluk and I are invited to do at the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs conference. The presentation, like the title of this column, is about whether leadership is an art or a science.
Leadership Forum: Walking the talk to effective communication
Human resource professionals with expertise in administering and analyzing workplace-satisfaction surveys have identified trust and confidence in top leadership as key and reliable predictors of employee contentment with their organizations.
Human resource professionals with expertise in administering and analyzing workplace-satisfaction surveys have identified trust and confidence in top leadership as key and reliable predictors of employee contentment with their organizations.
Leadership Forum: Thinking outside the box:I magine the possibilities
Many contemporary leadership textbooks contain mostly traditional suggestions about how to become a competent leader. The standard advice focuses on behaviours such as the need to develop good planning and communication skills, personal growth opportunities like the “from cop to coach approach” and learning to lead from beside, and the importance of reward and recognition programs as they relate to building morale.
Many contemporary leadership textbooks contain mostly traditional suggestions about how to become a competent leader. The standard advice focuses on behaviours such as the need to develop good planning and communication skills, personal growth opportunities like the “from cop to coach approach” and learning to lead from beside, and the importance of reward and recognition programs as they relate to building morale.
Cornerstone: Fostering resilience in trying times
Throughout our personal and professional lives we have all encountered the anguish of being uncertain about a decision we have made. Whether it’s trying to decide on moving to another community for the benefit of our family or taking a new position at work, we must all deal with these decisions and need to be comfortable with the outcome.
Throughout our personal and professional lives we have all encountered the anguish of being uncertain about a decision we have made. Whether it’s trying to decide on moving to another community for the benefit of our family or taking a new position at work, we must all deal with these decisions and need to be comfortable with the outcome.
Model behaviour: Managing change in the fire hall
Pick up any fire-service publication and you find that our profession is affected by global, technological and economic forces. There is no such thing as a first-class department, in the absolute sense, because a department that is highly effective in one area may be inefficient in another.
Pick up any fire-service publication and you find that our profession is affected by global, technological and economic forces. There is no such thing as a first-class department, in the absolute sense, because a department that is highly effective in one area may be inefficient in another.
Guest Column: Earning your leadership stripes
Have you seen that movie Saving Private Ryan? It’s the one with the brutal opening scene where the GIs are storming the beach and the German machine guns are destroying the troops coming to shore. Tom Hanks plays the captain.
Have you seen that movie Saving Private Ryan? It’s the one with the brutal opening scene where the GIs are storming the beach and the German machine guns are destroying the troops coming to shore. Tom Hanks plays the captain.
Flashpoint: Emotional intelligence: Is it learned or innate?
Almost anyone who has taken a management course recently has been exposed to the concept of emotional intelligence (EI). Is this a trait or competency that is of value to the fire service or just the latest buzzword? I am keeping an open mind on this one, because, as a relatively new area of psychological research, the definition of EI is constantly changing. I see great relevance as EI relates to professionalism and team membership. At the same time, I wonder if it is really a new concept or just a repackaging of some basic human social skills.
Almost anyone who has taken a management course recently has been exposed to the concept of emotional intelligence (EI). Is this a trait or competency that is of value to the fire service or just the latest buzzword? I am keeping an open mind on this one, because, as a relatively new area of psychological research, the definition of EI is constantly changing. I see great relevance as EI relates to professionalism and team membership. At the same time, I wonder if it is really a new concept or just a repackaging of some basic human social skills.
Leadership Forum: Leading by example: Do your actions stack up?
I continue to be amazed by the actions of seemingly intelligent people who do unbelievably dumb things. I am talking about accomplished public- and private-sector officials who are considered to be talented leaders yet for some strange reason they do something that is totally embarrassing and/or dishonest. As a result, their career and reputation ends up in the tank.
I continue to be amazed by the actions of seemingly intelligent people who do unbelievably dumb things. I am talking about accomplished public- and private-sector officials who are considered to be talented leaders yet for some strange reason they do something that is totally embarrassing and/or dishonest. As a result, their career and reputation ends up in the tank.
Leadership Forum: Demonstrating leadership in the community
We usually talk about leadership in terms of how we perform on the job. It’s time we had a serious discussion about focusing on off-the-job community involvement. As I have said before, all of us involved in emergency management and emergency services – firefighters, police, paramedics and emergency management professionals – regardless of our official position, are leaders.
We usually talk about leadership in terms of how we perform on the job. It’s time we had a serious discussion about focusing on off-the-job community involvement. As I have said before, all of us involved in emergency management and emergency services – firefighters, police, paramedics and emergency management professionals – regardless of our official position, are leaders.
Solving management dilemmas
Steven Kraft, deputy fire chief in Richmond Hill, Ont., is passionate about firefighter safety and education and has had joined our growing stable of columnists. Steve’s Your Call feature demands reader feedback and we hope you’ll oblige, either through letters, e-mails or comments to our website.
Steven Kraft, deputy fire chief in Richmond Hill, Ont., is passionate about firefighter safety and education and has had joined our growing stable of columnists. Steve’s Your Call feature demands reader feedback and we hope you’ll oblige, either through letters, e-mails or comments to our website.
Leadership: Fireground command and safety: effective management of the scene
Safe and effective fireground operations require the presence of a strong and knowledgeable fireground commander (FGC). The lack of understanding of this central command role affects more fires than any other management problem. Without a strong central command, the fire scene can quickly deteriorate into an unsafe, out-of-control situation. Lack of command promotes freelancing as every company rolls in “wanting to get some.” This is an unsafe condition that the FGC absolutely cannot tolerate.
Safe and effective fireground operations require the presence of a strong and knowledgeable fireground commander (FGC). The lack of understanding of this central command role affects more fires than any other management problem. Without a strong central command, the fire scene can quickly deteriorate into an unsafe, out-of-control situation. Lack of command promotes freelancing as every company rolls in “wanting to get some.” This is an unsafe condition that the FGC absolutely cannot tolerate.
Leadership: Leadership and the art of communicating
Effective communication techniques can have a profound impact on managerial and employee effectiveness. The style in which a leader communicates the message to the intended receiver will directly influence the way in which the message is received. In a rapidly changing work environment, understanding communication techniques can be extremely beneficial.
Effective communication techniques can have a profound impact on managerial and employee effectiveness. The style in which a leader communicates the message to the intended receiver will directly influence the way in which the message is received. In a rapidly changing work environment, understanding communication techniques can be extremely beneficial.
Leadership: Leading by example - when to wear your SCBA
Protecting the respiratory system is an essential component of a firefighter’s personal protective equipment. Firefighters and fire officers are required to wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus to protect themselves from carbon monoxide and other toxins found in smoke, such as hydrogen cyanide, formaldehyde, acrolein, hydrogen chloride, toluene, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, isocyanates ... the list goes on.
Protecting the respiratory system is an essential component of a firefighter’s personal protective equipment. Firefighters and fire officers are required to wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus to protect themselves from carbon monoxide and other toxins found in smoke, such as hydrogen cyanide, formaldehyde, acrolein, hydrogen chloride, toluene, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, isocyanates ... the list goes on.
Leadership: The point of no return
Advances in technology have allowed a firefighter’s duty gear or turnout gear to withstand heat and hostile environments that were not possible years ago. The NFPA 1971 has set a high standard for flame resistance and thermal protection. But has this extra protection led to unsafe fireground practices, and does today’s firefighter understand when they have reached the “point of no return?”
Advances in technology have allowed a firefighter’s duty gear or turnout gear to withstand heat and hostile environments that were not possible years ago. The NFPA 1971 has set a high standard for flame resistance and thermal protection. But has this extra protection led to unsafe fireground practices, and does today’s firefighter understand when they have reached the “point of no return?”
Leadership: Leading vs. managing
s your fire service striving to create better managers, or are you striving to create better leaders? Are the two mutually compatible or mutually exclusive? Are the roles mutually supportive or potentially conflicting?
s your fire service striving to create better managers, or are you striving to create better leaders? Are the two mutually compatible or mutually exclusive? Are the roles mutually supportive or potentially conflicting?
Window of opportunity: Johari leadership system builds trust, fosters teamwork
Building trust in the fire department can be challenging for any fire-service leader; however challenging it may be, leaders working in high-performance fire departments must understand interpersonal relations and the steps required to foster trust in the team.
Building trust in the fire department can be challenging for any fire-service leader; however challenging it may be, leaders working in high-performance fire departments must understand interpersonal relations and the steps required to foster trust in the team.
Cornerstone: Challenge for managers: change or recreate
One of the more famous, tongue-in-cheek sayings in the fire service is “100 years of tradition, unaffected by progress.” Does this mean that in the fire service we hold true to our traditions and respect them or does it mean we are slow to accept change, or both?
One of the more famous, tongue-in-cheek sayings in the fire service is “100 years of tradition, unaffected by progress.” Does this mean that in the fire service we hold true to our traditions and respect them or does it mean we are slow to accept change, or both?
Leadership: The four stages of fundamental leadership
There are four leadership styles that can be used when managing a team; each leadership style corresponds to one of the four stages of team development. This theory of leadership is often referred to as situational leadership. In situational leadership, each leader management style is based on the degree of direction and support the team requires at each stage.
There are four leadership styles that can be used when managing a team; each leadership style corresponds to one of the four stages of team development. This theory of leadership is often referred to as situational leadership. In situational leadership, each leader management style is based on the degree of direction and support the team requires at each stage.
Fireground Command Decisions
The fireground is a dynamic environment with rapidly changing conditions. It is in this demanding worksite that the fireground commander must make many rapid life-and-death decisions: Is an offensive or defensive strategy required? Is the roof stable enough for ventilation? Will building conditions allow for interior search? and the list goes on. Studies have shown that level of experience in the fireground commander is a large determinant in whether an appropriate decision will be made.
The fireground is a dynamic environment with rapidly changing conditions. It is in this demanding worksite that the fireground commander must make many rapid life-and-death decisions: Is an offensive or defensive strategy required? Is the roof stable enough for ventilation? Will building conditions allow for interior search? and the list goes on. Studies have shown that level of experience in the fireground commander is a large determinant in whether an appropriate decision will be made.
K.I.S.S.
Today’s world of firefighting resembles the lifestyles that we have taken on that greatly differ from the seventies and eighties. Life is more complex, filled with technology and lack of time for ourselves and our families. The fire service also reflects these trends that seem to have slipped into our lives like a thief in the night.
Today’s world of firefighting resembles the lifestyles that we have taken on that greatly differ from the seventies and eighties. Life is more complex, filled with technology and lack of time for ourselves and our families. The fire service also reflects these trends that seem to have slipped into our lives like a thief in the night.
Leadership Forum: Ethics - the heart of leadership
In March 2003 I wrote about integrity, describing it as the soul of leadership. If integrity is the soul, then ethics is certainly its heart. Ethical behaviour is acting in ways that are consistent with one’s personal values and the values of the organization in which one functions. “Values” refers to an individual’s or organization’s system of beliefs which define what is good, right and fair. “Ethics” refers to how those values are enacted.
In March 2003 I wrote about integrity, describing it as the soul of leadership. If integrity is the soul, then ethics is certainly its heart. Ethical behaviour is acting in ways that are consistent with one’s personal values and the values of the organization in which one functions. “Values” refers to an individual’s or organization’s system of beliefs which define what is good, right and fair. “Ethics” refers to how those values are enacted.
Leadership Forum: The power of value-based leadership
Could you, without hesitation, list six of your personally held values? How about six of your fire department’s stated values? Do you routinely make leadership decisions based on these values?
Could you, without hesitation, list six of your personally held values? How about six of your fire department’s stated values? Do you routinely make leadership decisions based on these values?
Leadership: Motivation and executive ability
What motivates an individual to become a fire fighter? Is it the pay, the anticipated excitement, public admiration or a true desire to make a difference in one’s community – the “to serve and protect” mindset? I suggest that if most were to answer truthfully, they would say the thrill of an emergency and the admiration of the public top the list.
What motivates an individual to become a fire fighter? Is it the pay, the anticipated excitement, public admiration or a true desire to make a difference in one’s community – the “to serve and protect” mindset? I suggest that if most were to answer truthfully, they would say the thrill of an emergency and the admiration of the public top the list.
Leadership Forum: Exploit your natural leadership abilities
If professional scouts were searching for potential leaders, similar to hockey scouts seeking budding NHL players, what leadership talents would they look for? If gifted leaders can be developed through education and training, then all hockey players, given quality training, should turn out to be like Wayne Gretzky. Right?
If professional scouts were searching for potential leaders, similar to hockey scouts seeking budding NHL players, what leadership talents would they look for? If gifted leaders can be developed through education and training, then all hockey players, given quality training, should turn out to be like Wayne Gretzky. Right?
Leadership Forum: Leadership beyond emergencies
During the past several years truckloads of papers have been written about leadership competencies and expectations associated with the command function required for emergency events. Retired Phoenix fire chief Al Brunacini was one of the first to write and lecture extensively on the need for a formal and structured process to guide decision-making on the fire ground.
During the past several years truckloads of papers have been written about leadership competencies and expectations associated with the command function required for emergency events. Retired Phoenix fire chief Al Brunacini was one of the first to write and lecture extensively on the need for a formal and structured process to guide decision-making on the fire ground.
Leadership Forum: CFFF a fine example of leadership at its best
I was invited by the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation to be the keynote speaker for its fourth annual memorial service on Sept. 9 in Ottawa. The memorial was held on Parliament Hill, directly in front of the Centre Block and it was a resounding success.
I was invited by the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation to be the keynote speaker for its fourth annual memorial service on Sept. 9 in Ottawa. The memorial was held on Parliament Hill, directly in front of the Centre Block and it was a resounding success.
Leadership Forum: The art of shifting gears - a team effort
This edition of Leadership Forum was created in collaboration with Dr. John Moffatt, who is a partner with Blackstock Moffatt Associates in Sherwood Park, Alta. Blackstock Moffatt Associates is a non-profit provider of leadership training and development services.
This edition of Leadership Forum was created in collaboration with Dr. John Moffatt, who is a partner with Blackstock Moffatt Associates in Sherwood Park, Alta. Blackstock Moffatt Associates is a non-profit provider of leadership training and development services.
