HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council - 2724 RESOLUTION NO. 2724
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
HUNTINGTON BEACH ADOPTING A CODE OF ETHICS
AND RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE OPERATION OF
THE HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT, AND THE
CONDUCT OF ITS PERSONNEL, AND REPEALING ALL
RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT HEREWITH
WHEREAS, the Fire Department of the City of Huntington
Beach desires to adopt for its use a, code of ethics, together
with rules and regulations for the operation of said department
and the conduct of its personnel; and
The City Council has reviewed such code of ethics and
rules and regulations,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the
City of Huntington Beach that the Code of Ethics of the Hunting-
ton Beach Fire Department, dated January 5, 1968, being page ;
B-l. l of Exhibit "A" attached hereto, and the Rules and Regu-
lations of the Huntington Beach Fire Department, dated January 53
1968, being pages B-2. 1 through B-2.29 of Exhibit "B" attached
hereto, are hereby adopted for the use and operation of said
fire department and the conduct of its personnel.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Hunting-
ton Beach a,t a, regular meeting thereof held on the 15th day of
April, 1968.
,y r
1.
Res . No. 2724.
ATTEST:
City Cleo
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Assistant City Attorney
2.
Res. No.2724.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss :
CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH )
I , PAUL C. JONES , the duly elected, qualified and
acting City Clerk of the City of Huntington Beach, and ex-
officio Clerk of the City Council of said City, do hereby
certify that the whole number of members of the City Council
of the City of Huntington Beach is seven; that the foregoing
resolution was passed and adopted by the affirmative vote of
more than a majority of all the members of said City Council
at a regular meeting thereof held on the 15th
day of April. , 19 68 , by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen:
Coen, Bartlett, Gisler, Kaufman, Green Stewart, Shipley
NOES: Councilmen:
None
ABSENT : Councilmen:
None
City Clerk and-°'" x-officio Clerk
of the City Council of the City
of Huntington Beach, California
2-7z�r
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-1
CODE OF ETHICS
I. PURPOSE
A. To declare and define the moral obligations of all members of the Huntington
Beach Fire Department.
B. To establish a pattern of propriety and behavior that is consistent with
the expected conduct and performance of members of the department.
II. POLICY
A. It shall be the policy of the department that all members endeavor to in-
corporate in their day-to-day activities, the basic concepts of morality,
decency, and dedication as set forth in this Code of Ethics so as to re-
flect creditably upon the Fire Seriice.
B. The Code of Ethics shall be utilized by the department as the official
oath of office.
III. CODE OF ETHICS
As a member of the Huntington Beach Fire Department, my fundamental duty as
a Fireman shall be to serve mankind; to protect life ,and property against
the onslaught of unfriendly fires; to create an awareness in the minds of
our citizens of the inherent danger associated with careless or negligent
use of fire and the elements that may cause fire.
I will endeavor to keep my private life unsullied as an example to all;
maintain courageous calm in the face of danger; develop self-restraint and
be constantly mindful of the welfare of others. I will be honest in thought
and deed, both in my personal and official life, and will be exemplary in
obeying the laws of the land and the regulations of my department. Confi-
dence entrusted to me will be zealously guarded unless revelation is
necessary in the performance of my duty.
I will never act officiously, nor permit prejudice, animosity, or friend-
ship to influence my decisions in the enforcement of laws appertaining to
my profession nor, tolerate compromise with negligence, carelessness or
dishonesty.
I recognize the badge of my office as a symbol of public faith, and I
accept it as a public trust to be held so long as I am true to the ethics
of the Fire Service. I will constantly strive to achieve these objectives
and ideals, dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession-------
theprevention and suppression of fire.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-l.l
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
EXHIBIT "A"
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
RULES AND REGULATIONS
I. PURPOSE
A. To establish guidelines for the conduct of business by members of this
department under ordinary circumstances.
B. To ensure that members may be highly efficient, well disciplined and
a credit to the City of Huntington Beach.
C. To prescribe therequirements of this department so that every member
may be familiar with them.
II. POLICY
A. The instructions set forth herein are intended to provide a general
method of procedure and manner of conduct under ordinary circumstances,
however, the rules cannot, nor are they expected to, provide a solution
to every question or problem which may arise and they are not designed or
intended to limit any member in the exercise of his judgement or initiative.
B. The following Rules and Regulations shall supercede and cancel all rules,
regulations, general and special orders issued prior to date hereof, which
are in conflict with these Rules and Regulations.
C. All portions of general and special orders that may be issued hereafter
relative to the discipline or duties and powers of members shall be
recognized as a portion of these Rules and Regulations and shall have
equal force and effect.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.1
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
EXHIBIT "B"
e
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
D. All ,present and future policies and procedures appearing in this
mand"a1, -as- well as all material appearing in any other-depar-tmmen
training manuals, shall be recognized as a portion of these
Rules and Regulations and shall have equal force and effect.
III. SCOPE
A. These Rules and Regulations shall ,include all portions of the
organizational manual, training manuals,, general and special orders.
B. These Rules and Regulations shall be observed by all members of the
department.
IV. RESPONSIBILITY
A. It shall be the responsibility of all members to:
1. Conduct themselves at all times in a manner consistent with these
Rules and Regulations.
2. Continuously review the contents herein, so as to be readily aware
of established policies, procedures and related behavior within the
department.
3. Make suggested additions and deletions to these Rules and Regulations
as the need arises.
Dates January 5, 1968 Page B-2.2
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
T
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
V. DEFINITIONS
A. Acting position: A member holding a temporary rank or position or ,
performing services temporarily.
B. Apparatus: Any motorized vehicle carrying fire fighting tools, equipment
or personnel.
C. Chief Officers: The Fire Chief, Executive Officer,,.Fire.Marshal, 'Training
Officer, Suppression Chief.
D. Company: A fire fighting force commanded by a single company commander.
E. General Order: Any order of permanent character, which requires the
attention or effects the entire department personnel. Each general order
will bear a two digit identification number distinct from special orders.
F. Immediate family: Shall mean a parent, spouse, child, brother, sister
or parents-in law.
G. Member This term shall encompass all employees including officers, men
and volunteers of the Huntington Beach Fire Department.
H. Officers: All Chief Officers and Company Commanders.
I. Platoon: The entire fire fighting force on duty during a prescribed shift.
J. Quarters: Any engine house, department building, office, storeroom,
workroom, station, shop or place wherein members are assigned and
employed during their working hours.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.3
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
K. Regular Channels: The means by which communications are sent and shall be
from a subordinate to his immediate superior. This procedure shall also be
reversed.
L. Rules and Regulations: This shall include all portions of the organiza-
tional manual, training manuals,, and any general or -special order.
M. Shift: A continuous twenty-four (24) hour period.
N. Special Detail: When a member is assigned to perform a particular service
when on duty.
0. Special Notice: A notice issued by the fire chief or other authoritative
source for the guidance or information of the entire department or any
special group thereof. Each special notice shall bear a destruction date.
P. Special Order: Any order of permanent character, which requires the
attention of oraffects a certain group. Each special order will bear a
three digit identification number.
Q. Subordinate: A member who stands in order of rank below another.
R. Superior: A member who stands in order of rank above another.
S. Tour: Anything done by regular order, a shift of twenty-four (24) hours or
the regular time on duty.
T. Training Manual: This shall include all training binders from Block I
through Block XV and all material so incorporated therein.
U. Unit: One (1) company or one (1) piece of apparatus.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.4
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
VI. RULES AND REGULATIONS
A. General Administrative Procedure
Sec. 1.01. All personnel assigned to the fire department shall be under the command
of the Fire Chief.
Sec. 1.02. Officers appointed to head the various divisions of the department, ,shall
order and direct operations and have full charge of all administrative
work connected with their division, shall maintain discipline and authority,
be responsible for all department property in their charge, and shall
establish work methods and procedures that will most effectively meet
the goals- and objectives of the department.
Sec. 1.03. All members of the department irrespective of the division to which they
are attached, or the duties they perform, are subject to the orders of a
superior officer, and to all rules, regulations and procedures concerning
the management of the department in so far as they affect their divisions.
Sec. 1.04. All matters pertaining to or affecting the department, proposed or
contemplated by members, either by publication or speech, must be sub-
mitted to the Fire Chief, through regular channels, before any action is
taken.
Sec. 1.05. When two or more officers, or members of the same rank find themselves in a
position that requires initiative action, or where no rule or regulation
applies, the senior officer or member in length of time of service in that
rank, will automatically assume command until relieved by a superior, and he
must be respected and obeyed accordingly.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.5
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 1.06. Any member of the department shall be subject to reprimand, suspension
from duty, fine or dismissal from the employment of the city according
to the nature and aggravation of the offense, for any violation of, or
dereliction or indifference with respect to these Rules and Regulations.
B. Fire Chief
Sec. 2.01. The Fire Chief shall have control, management and direction over all
members of the department in the lawful exercise of his functions with
exclusive power to assign any member to any detail, division or unit of
the department or to detail any member to such public service as he may
direct.
Sec. 2.02. The Fire Chief shall be authorized to temporarily suspend or discharge any
member of the department for cause in accordance with ordinances adopted
by the City Council of the City of Huntington Beach.
Sec. 2.03. The Fire Chief shall have the power in event of fire or other emergency, to
demolish buildings or parts thereof which, in his judgement, might further
endanger life or property.
Sec. 2.04. The Fire Chief shall cause a report to be sent to the City Administrator
relative to any officer or member, who by reason of age, disease, accident
or other incompetency, does not, or cannot fully and promptly perform the
duties required and shall, make such recommendations as the case may warrant.
Sec. 2.05. The Fire Chief may respond to such alarms, fires and other emergencies as he
sees fit may assume command at the scene.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.6
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 2.06. The Fire Chief shall have the power and authority to establish suitable
measure to put into effect the organizational policies, necessary for the
efficient operation of the fire department.
Sec. 2.07. The Fire Chief shall cause an annual report of all fire department
activities to be sent to the City Administrator.
Sec. 2.08. He shall, from time to time, recommend to the City Administrator the
selection of new sites, changes in the location of houses and companies,
the building of new houses, the purchase of new apparatus, hose, implements,
etc. and sale of old hose, equipment, etc. , not necessary for use in the
operation and maintenance of the department, giving his reason for such
action; and shall furnish to the City Administrator a budget of the amounts
required for the ensuing year.
Sec. 2.09. He may grant leaves of absence without pay to members of the department
not to exceed a one (1) calendar week period.
Sec. 2.10. The Fire Chief may modify any of the provisions of the Rules and Regula-
tions or the Organizational Manual by verbal or written orders as he sees
fit.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.7
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
C. Officers
Sec. 3.01. Officers of this department shall have functional titles as follows, and
shall, for administrative purposes, observe the following chain of
succession:
Fire Chief
Executive Officer
Fire Marshal
Training Officer
Suppression Chief (according to seniority in rank)
Company Commander (according to seniority in rank)
Sec. 3.02. An acting officer shall be governed by the same rules and regulations as
those governing a regular officer and shall have the same responsibility
and authority.
Sec. 3.03. The first regular officer of an engine company to arrive at a fire shall
assume command of such fire until the arrival of a superior officer who
may take charge then or at a later time.
Sec. 3.04. Officers shall cause all companies not required at fires to promptly return
to quarters.
Sec. 3.05. Officers shall be just, dignified and firm in their dealings with
subordinates and shall see that order and discipline are maintained among
the members of the department.
Sec. 3.06. Officers shall cause to be kept in proper form, an accurate record of all
business transacted by him or his command, in the department.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.8
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 3.07. Officers shall make a written report of any neglect of duty he may find on
the part of any member of the department.
Sec. 3.08. Officers shall report through proper channels, any member who refuses to
obey his orders.
Sec. 3.09. Officers shall have the authority to condemn uniforms or any parts thereof
and to regulate their use, and to prohibit the use of any tools, appliances,
implements or equipment which in his estimation is unfit for service.
Seca 3.10. Officers shall not-interfer in matters of operation for which another
officer of equal rank is responsible, except with the latter's consent or
by order of a superior.
Sec. 3.11. Officers shall be vigilant and active in enforcing the provisions of the
organizational manual and require strict compliance therewith and cause
prompt corrections of any irregularities.
Sec. 3.12. Officers shall make prompt verbal reports to their superior of any unusual
occurance concerning the department or its members to be followed by a
written report citing all details, especially where loss of life occurs,
unusual damages develops, any violence is inflicted upon members, or when
any meritorious or heroic act occurs.
Sec. 3.13. When an offense committed by a member under their command is sufficiently
serious in their judgement to warrant immediate action, officers shall have
the power to summarily relieve such member of his duties provided an
immediate verbal report of such action is made through channels and is
Dates January 5, 1968 Page B-2.9
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 3.13. (continued)
followed by a written report of all factors relevant to this action by the
officer at which time official relief from duty of the member may be made
by the fire chief.
Sec. 3.14. Officers shall keep the fire chief informed of all pertinent activities
and information for the efficient operation of the fire department.
Sec. 3.15. Officers shall promptly report their arrival to the officer in charge at
fires.
Sec. 3.16. Officers in charge of companies, bureaus or divisions shall keep an
activity report which will be a complete history of the activities and
operations of their respective units.
Sec. 3.17. Officers will decide any questions of doubt on the part of subordinates
relative to the interpretation of regulations or orders and in sudden
emergencies to prescribe the immediate action to be taken.
Sec. 3.18. Officers shall formulate and conduct drills and training evolutions as may
be necessary or prescribed to promote and maintain high efficiency in the
operations of the department.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.10
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
D. Suppression Chief
Sec. 4.01. The Suppression Chief shall be at his respective station when assigned to
duty, except when department business requires his presence elsewhere and
shall not leave the boundaries of the city unless required to do so in the
performance of his duties.
Sec. 4.02. He shall remain available for call at all times while on duty.
Sec. 4.03. He shall be responsible for the condition, efficiency and manning of his
platoon and shall issue details to subordinate members when necessary,
ensuring as much as possible that those detailed to duties requiring
special or particular skills are fully qualified.
Sec. 4.04. He shall visit each station under his command as often as possible and make
such inspections, observations and investigations as necessary to thoroughly
familiarize himself with conditions and operations of his ,platoon.
Sec. 4.05. He shall personally check all communications and requisitions of his
platoon and approve or disapprove the same.
Sec. 4.06. He shall attend all emergencies or fires to which he is assigned or summoned
and may take command of the operations.
Sec. 4.07. He may return to duty any member of his platoon who has been absent because
of sickness or injury and who in his opinion, is able to perform all regular
duties and who presents a doctor°s certificate indicating his physical
condition, is satisfactory.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.11
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 4.08. He shall oversee training of his platoon sufficient to keep himself fully
informed on the condition of his platoon and take any necessary action to
correct any deficiency found.
Sec. 4.09. He shall strictly enforce or, cause the enforcement of all Rules and
Regulations and shall promptly report by well sustained charges in writing
any officer or member for breach of the same.
Sec. 4.10. He shall hold the Company Commander directly responsible for the proper
application of all phases of his duties required to efficiently operate
his company.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.12
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
E. Company Commander
Sec. 5.01. Company Commanders shall have full control of their respective companies
while on duty.
Sec. 5.02. He may not grant short leaves of absence to members of his company, except
in accord with established written procedure or by permission of the
Suppression Chief.
Sec. 5.03. He shall call his company to attention at 0800 and hold roll call and
inspection of personnel, and shall enter-in the company journal the exact
time and conditions found.
Sec. 5.04. He shall familiarize himself with his district through periodic inspections
of the district and conferences with the company commander of the opposite
platoon.
Sec. 5.05. He shall equalize the work to be performed about quarters or in his district
as nearly as possible.
Sec. 5.06. He shall respond to alarms with his company when directed and shall assume
command until the arrival of a superior officer who assumes command.
Sec. 5.07. He shall, whenever a still alarm is received in his district, respond
immediately and notify the dispatcher of the alarm and the location.
Sec. 5.08. He shall read to his company during roll call all general or special orders
and other communications received by the opposite platoon and shall impart
any additional information or instructions deemed necessary.
Dates January 5, 1968 Page B-2.13
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 5.09. In cases where the on duty company to be relieved is out of quarters, the
company- commander coming on duty shall call roll and notify the dispatcher
of the company's readiness to relieve the on duty company and shall act in
accordance with orders received.
Sec. 5.10. When more than one company commander is on duty at a given station, the
suppression chief shall designate the one to be in charge of the station,
however, each company commander shall be in charge of his company for all
training, apparatus maintenance and fire operations.
Sec. 5.11. He shall see that all members assigned to his company, whether on duty or
off duty for any reason, receive such instructions or communications
issued by superior_officers which pertain to them.
Sec. 5.12. Company commanders shall be held responsible for the proper location of
their company at the scene of a fire.
Sec. 5.13. He shall determine when repairs or supplies are needed for the apparatus,
equipment or quarters in his charge and shall inform his superiors through
requests or reports.
Sec. 5.14. He shall not permit solicitations of any type to take place in or about
quarters without the expressed written permission of the Fire Chief.
Sec. 5.15. He shall preserve order and discipline in and about the company quarters
and at fires.
Dates January 5, 1968 Page B-2.14
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 5.16. He shall be held responsible for the enforcement of all departmental rules,
regulations and procedures, apparatus maintenance, cleanliness of quarters
and apparatus, and everything pertaining to the efficient operation and
condition of their companies and personnel under their command.
Sec. 5.17. He shall be directly responsible to the Suppression Chief and shall
promptly report to him in writing, any violation of Department Rules and
Regulations or any dereliction of duty.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.15
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section .B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
F. Engineer / Driver
Sec. 6.01. He shall see that the apparatus siren is properly-sounded while responding
to alarms of fire or other emergencies.
Sec. 6.02. He shall see that apparatus lights are properly used while responding
to alarms of fire or other emergencies.
Sec. 6.03. He shall be responsible for getting his apparatus to the scene of the fire
safely.
Sec. 6.04. He shall not delay in laying hose or any other operations with his apparatus
when so ordered by his company commander.
Sec. 6.05. He shall exercise proper judgement in the operations of his apparatus at
fire scenes or drills.
Sec. 6.06. He shall shut off electrical lights upon arriving at a fire scene, unless
it is necessary to use same.
Sec. 6.07. He shall remain with the apparatus under his charge at fires and alarms
unless it is necessary for him to assist with hose lines, ladders, or other
emergency activities.
Sec. 6.08. He shall carefully instruct the members of the company who may be detailed
as relief drivers as to the care, maintenance and handling of the apparatus.
Seca 9.09. He shall immediately inspect any apparatus when returned to quarters after
having been repaired, relocated or used on a fire, and see that it is ready
for duty.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.16
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
G. General Rules and Regulations
Sec. 7.01. All members shall familiarize themselves with, and be obedient to, the laws,
rules and regulations, manual of operation, organizational manual and any
other orders effecting the operation of the fire department.
Sec. 7.02. All members shall immediately familiarize themselves with the contents of
all official communications.
Sec. 7.03. Members shall familiarize and acquaint themselves with matters or practices
and procedures which will enable them to efficiently perform their duties.
Sec. 7.04. Members shall seek and use the most modern and efficient methods of fire
department operations in carrying out all their duties.
Sec. 7.05. Members making recommendations for changes, alterations, or improvements
in the department shall consult with and report in writing to their
immediate superior and to no other agency unless directed otherwise by a
superior officer. All such recommendations shall be forwarded to the fire
chief with the approval or disapproval and comments of the intermediate
officers noted thereon.
Sec. 7.06. Members shall, in matters not covered by department mgulation or order, be
governed by the ordinary and reasonable rules of behavior observed by law-
abiding and self-respecting citizens and shall not commit an act tending
to bring reproach or discredit upon the department or its members.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.17
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
-- Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.07. Any member of the department violating any of the rules and regulations,
general or special orders of the department shall be subject to such
disciplinary action in accordance with city personnel policies or
ordinances, as the fire chief may determine.
Sec. 7.08. Members shall notify their immediate superior officer of all matters coming
to their attention affecting the interest and welfare of the department.
Sec. 7.09. Members shall in the transaction of department business, unless otherwise
ordered, operate through their immediate superior officer.
Sec. 7.10. No member shall wilfully disobey any lawful order issued by a superior
officer.
Sec. 7.11. All communications shall be through immediate superiors or subordinates and
no intervening officer shall suppress any communications.
Sec. 7.12. Members shall accord obedience, respect and courtesy to superior officers
and those performing the duties of a higher rank.
Sec. 7.13. No member shall contact any other department of the city government or
member thereof on any matter affecting the department or any employee,
except through regular channels or by authorization of the fire chief.
Sec. 7.14. Members shall not be a party to any malicious gossip, report, or activity
which would tend to disrupt department morale or bring discredit to the
department or its members and shall report the discovery of these
conditions to their superior officers immediately.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.18
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.15. When a member receives an order which is in conflict with a previous order,
he shall so inform the officer who issued to the conflicting order and
shall be governed by this officers resultant instructions.
Sec. 7.16. No member shall give out to anyone, any information relative to fires,
alarms, or .business affairs of the department except as authorized by the
fire chief.
Sec. 7.17. No member shall receive any reward orrenumeration of any kind for service
rendered in the discharge of his duty without the permission of the
fire chief.
Sec. 7.18. Members of the department are forbidden to belong to any society, group
_organization or association which knowingly advocates the use of
unconstitutional -means to secure any change in the existing form of
government "of` the United States or the State of California.
Sec. 7.19. Members shall be responsible for the full performance of any duties
delegated to them, and shall see that they are physically fit to do so.
Sec. 7.20. All uniformed members of this department shall be subject to fire fighting
duties.
Sec. 7.21. All members shall attend all fires or alarms to which they may be assigned,
detailed or summoned while on or off duty.
Sec. 7.22. Members shall respond with their units to all alarms and emergency calls
and perform all duties required.
Dates January 5, 1968 Page B-2.19
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
i
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.23. I+Iembers shall cause all fires to be extinguished with the least possible
danger to life and property, prevent unnecessary damage, take proper pre-
cautions against rekindleand leave the premises in a safe condition.
Sec. 7.24. Members shall endeavor to detect and obtain evidence to convict persons
guilty of arsonor causing false alarms of fire.
Sec. 7.25. All members, except chief officers, shall:wear fire helmets
and turnout coats from the time of receipt of alarm until after the
immediate emergency, when at the discretion of the officer in charge, they
may dispense with the equipment.
Sec. 7.26. All members shall equip themselves with the proper safety equipment before
engaging in fire fighting operations. For purposes of this regulation
minimum acceptable safety equipment shall be turnout coat, helmet and
proper footwear.
Sec. 7.27. Members shall exercise due caution to avoid injury to themselves and others
while in the performance of their duties.
Sec. 7.28. Members who receive injuries while in the performance of their duty which
result from carelessness, wilful neglect or other causes on the part of any
person, firm or corporation, shall not sign any release from liability
without obtaining permission of the fire chief.
Sec. 7.29. Members shall report immediately all injuries incurred in the line of duty,
regardless of the degree or seriousness of the injury.
Dates January 5, 1968 Page B-2.20
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.30. While on the fireground, members shall promptly report any dangerous
buildings, walks, floors, or other conditions to their superiors.
Sec. 7.31. All off-duty members are subject to recall to duty in cases of emergency
and shall maintain a telephone at their place of residence.
Sec. 7.32. Members are subject to such off duty details and extra duties as required
to cope with emergencies or to effectively represent the department in
governmental public functions.
Sec. 7.33. Members shall see that everything is in readiness for immediate response
to alarms.
Sec. 7.34. Members shall report for duty at the time specified.
Sec. 7.35. No member shall go off duty unless properly relieved by a member in uniform.
Sec. 7.36. Members ,shall acquaint their relief with all pertinent details of their tour
of duty, and give them all information which may be needed for the efficient
and proper operation of the department.
Sec. 7.37. Members reporting to relieve another, shall arrive sufficiently early to
receive all pertinent data and work orders relative to his position or task
prior to his beginning the work day.
Sec. 7.38. There shall be a formal acceptance of the shift held at 0800 daily at which
time orders of the day shall be issued by the ranking officer, personnel
inspection conducted, checks made of apparatus and station logs and any
other operations conducted to ensure readiness to respond.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.21
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.39. Before accepting the duties of the member they relieve, members shall ensure
that they are fully prepared for immediate response to alarms from that
time forward.
Sec. 7.40. The standard relief period shall be from -0700 to 0800 daily and members
can obtain relief from platoon duty during this period with the permission
of the company commander.
Sec. 7.41. Members who, are unable to report for duty at their assigned time because
of sickness or other reasons shall call the on duty suppression chief at
least 30 minutes prior to reporting time.
Sec. 7.42. In case a member is prevented from reaching his company on, time to report
for duty because of an unavoidable occurance, he will notify the suppression
chief on duty, who will notify the members company to retain a man until
such absent member reports for duty or appropriate relief is provided.
Sec. 7.43. Tardy members shall be reported immediately to the suppression chief by
telephone together with the name of the member of the opposite shift
retained and shall be followed by a written report containing the time
tardy and necessary information to sufficiently determine cause of
tardiness.
Sec. 7.44. Members shall, when apparatus or equipment is returned to quarters in a wet
and muddy condition, regardless of time, see that mud is wiped off and that
apparatus is sponged and wiped off with chamois.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.22
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.45. Members shall inform their superiors when repairs are needed on department
buildings, apparatus or property or when such repairs have been completed.
Sec. 7.46. Members shall see that relief apparatus is returned in a clean condition,
complete with all tools, implements, hose, etc., belonging to such apparatus.
Sec. 7.47. Members shall at all times drive and operate apparatus in a manner
consistent with good safety practices, and with due regard for the welfare
of the public and the department.
Sec. 7.48. Persons not connected with the department shall not be permitted to ride
in or on apparatus.
Sec. 7.49. Members shall carefully protect all public property from abuse and misuse
and shall particularly see that gas, water, electricity, fuel, gasoline, oil
and miscellaneous supplies are not wasted.
Sec. 7.50. Stations shall be maintained so that at no time while the company is in
quarters, will it be possible for anyone to enter without the knowledge of
some member of the company.
Sec. 7.51. The company commander shall be notified whenever anyone enters quarters who
is not a member of the assigned companies, any delivery is made, or any
business communication is received.
Sec. 7.52. Members shall keep the stations, premises, and equipment clean, neat and in
good order, including all surfaces of buildings and grounds to the gutter
line of streets or alleys.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.23
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.53. Members shall see that beds and lockers are kept in a clean neat and
sanitary condition at all times.
Sec. 7.54. Beds may be occupied by members only from 2000 hours to 0730 hours and no
lounging or reclining in a position to indicate sleep will be permitted at
any other time. In cases of sickness or fatigue from exertion through duty
immediately preceding, and with the expressed permission of the suppression
chief, exceptions may be made.
Sec. 7.55. Beds shall not be occupied during any period when company or station
activities are in progress.
Sec. 7.56. Members occupying beds in quarters during night time, when not on regular
shift, will be required to respond to all alarms to which the company
responds and shall observe station regulations as if on duty.
Sec. 7.57. Smoking shall not be permitted at any time in sleeping areas nor on fire
fighting apparatus. Smoking shall not be permitted when conducting routine
company activities before the public, unless a specific break period has
been designated by the officer in charge.
Sec. 7.58. Members shall not permit intoxicated or otherwise undesirable persons to
remain in or about quarters at any time.
Sec. 7.59. No member shall report for or shall be under the influence of intoxicating
beverages, liquors, drugs or compounds, while on duty or special detail, nor
shall members have in their possession or partake of any intoxicating
beverages, liquors, drugs or compounds while on duty or in uniform.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page'B-2.24
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.60. Members shall not allow habitual lounging or visiting in or about
department quarters.
Sec. 7.61. Members shall be courteous and respectful in their dealings with the
public.
Sec. 7.62. Members shall not engage in unnecessary conversation at scenes of
emergencies.
Sec. 7.63. Members shall conduct themselves quietly at fires, in quarters, or while
engaged in activities where the department is represented and shall not
use obscene language.
Sec. 7.64. Members may be granted leaves of absence, with or without pay, as pro-
vided by ordinances and rules of the City of Huntington Beach.
Sec. 7.65. All members shall be, and continue to be, a bonafide resident of the area
as set forth by resolution of the City Council of theCity of Huntington
Beach.
Sec. 7.66. Members shall report to headquarters, within twenty-four (24) hours, any
change of residence or telephone number.
Sec. 7.67. Members shall give at least two (2) weeks notice of intended resignation.
Sec. 7.68. All members shall possess an up-to-date drivers license issued by the State
of California, Division of Motor Vehicles before driving any department
automotive equipment unless directed to do so by a superior officer under
an emergency situation.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.25
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.69. No solicitations, speeches or distribution of campaign literature for or
against any candidate for any public office shall be permitted on
departmental property.
Sec. 7.70. Members shall not gamble by any means, for money or any other items of
value while on duty.
Sec. 7.71. Members shall not, at any time, repair or perform maintenance on any
personal automobiles, boats, or other personal possessions while on the
fire department property.
Sec. 7.72. Members shall not be permitted to use the shop for personal work, use any
shop equipment or remove any tools or equipment from the shop without
permission of the Maintenance Officer.
Sec. 7.73. Members shall carry their identification cards while off duty and at other
times when necessary for identification purposes.
Sec. 7.74. Members shall be responsible for the completeness, accuracy and dispatch
of all reports with which they are concerned.
Sec. 7.75. Members shall use the department radio equipment only for purposes pre-
scribed by the fire chief.
Sec. 7.76. Where applicable, seniority shall be determined by a members date of
appointment to his present position and if two members are appointed on the
same date, by their respective position on the eligibility list.
Sec. 7.77. Acting members shall be chosen as nearly as practicable from the existing
eligible lists.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.26
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.78. Members shall not hold the department responsible or liable for their
personal activities that are in violation of these rules and regulations.
Sec. 7.79. Charges in writing may be made by one member against another or by a
civilian against any member of the department who violates, or who is
alleged to have violated, the rules and regulations or orders governing
the department.
Sec. 7.80. Members preferring charges shall be prepared to sustain them by production
of competent testimony. To insure this they shall, at the time of the
alleged violation, call it to the attention of members present, specifying
its character.
Sec. 7.81. Members who have knowledge of any information of these rules may be called
as a witness. Any attempt at evasion of the witness duty by members will
be made subject for disciplinary action.
Sec. 7.82. Charges shall cite the rule, order, or instruction violated; specify the
date, time and place, and shall, whenever possible, contain names and
addresses of witnesses.
Sec. 7.83. Unless unusual circumstances encountered in conducting the investigation
prevent it, charges shall be forwarded within twenty-four (24) hours
after occurrence of the alleged violation. Intermediate officers shall
forward charges without expression of opinion unless they have personal
knowledge of, or are involved in the case.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.27
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.84. Vacation time shall be granted and governed by current personnel resolution
and department policy.
Sec. 7.85. Any member that is suspended from duty for an indefinite period, must
turn in all equipment issued to him by the department.
Sec. 7.86. Any member leaving the employ of the department through any cause, must
return to his superior officer, all department equipment issued to him,
otherwise the cost of the articles not so returned shall be deducted
from his final pay check.
Sec. 7.87. Members shall not loan, sell, give away, or appropriate for their own
use any public property.
Sec. 7.88. Members shall not be guilty of immoral or improper conduct. Conduct
unbecoming a fireman shall be considered as anything said or done by any
member of the department which would have a tendency to cause dissention
or ill-feeling among the men, or to cast an adverse reflection upon the
good name of the department.
Sec. 7.89. All members are required to pay their just debts when due. Salary
attachments due to delinquent debts may be cause for suspension or other
disciplinary action.
Sec. 7.90. Members are forbidden to appear in any uniform or parts of the uniform
that have been borrowed. The loaning of badges for any purpose whatsoever
is also strictly forbidden.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page.B-2.28
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION MANUAL
Section B
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Policy B-2
Sec. 7.91. This job shall be the members principle occupation and no other job,
activity or pursuit shall conflict with his ability to perform his assigned
duties.
Sec. 7.92. Outside employment is permissible only when the work does not in any way
conflict with members regular duties and does not bring discredit to the
department. Such employment can be accepted only after receiving written
approval from the fire chief.
Sec. 7.93. Members shall not, while on duty, conduct personal business or activities
related to outside employment without the permis.sion of the fire chief.
Sec. 7.94. Members shall not use the badge, uniform or prestige of the department for
the purpose of personal gain.
Sec. 7.95. Upon notification of a general alarm signal, by any means, off shift
members shall report for duty as specified in the organization manual.
Sec. 7.96. Falsification of records, the making of misleading entries or statements
with the intent to deceive, or the wilful mutilation or discarding of
useful department records, books, papers, or documents shall be considered
as grounds for disciplinary action.
Date: January 5, 1968 Page B-2.29
HUNTINGTON BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT