Date: |
July 22, 2002 |
To: |
All DCs, ACs, BCs, and Captains |
From: |
T.J. Kiesewetter, Battalion Chief, Director of Training |
Subject: |
FEEDBACK FOR PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTER MONTHLY EVALUATIONS #3 |
Thank you for the effort you have been putting into the monthly probationary evaluations. The evaluations have provided valuable information for us to (a) capture areas in need of improvement for probationary firefighters and develop remedial plans, (b) capture areas in need of improvement in the academy (patient assessment skills and station drills seem to be weak in many recruits), (c) improve our writing skills and, (d) tie together the floor, the BC’s, the AC’s and Training.
As I have mentioned in the past, without feedback it is very difficult to improve. For the most part it seems like the probationary firefighters are well prepared when they hit the floor. But, I am noticing a number of recruits who are struggling with patient assessments in the field. Thanks to that feedback, we will address that issue with the 2002B class (if you have suggestions please contact me). When a probationary firefighter arrives at a Station they should be experts at firefighter skills (e.g., manipulation of the gurney, setting up IVs) and they should be able to perform an assessment of an uncomplicated medical complaint or trauma. Throughout the academy recruits are dispatched on medical simulations along with their fire responses. If a probationary firefighter experiences a complicated run (e.g., the Top Value shooting) they should still be able to perform their skills competently but, under direction of an experienced person.
I have also been surprised that many of our probationary firefighters are also struggling with the presentation of drills to station personnel. During the academy the recruits are coached in how to give drills. In fact, the first block examination includes a presentation of a tool to an instructor. Recruits are graded according to the tool grade sheets that have been around for years. So, taking into consideration nervousness, the probationary firefighter in your station should be able to perform at a proficient level at any time. The station drills gives the crew an opportunity to exchange “tricks of the trade” with the experienced personnel in the station.
As you can tell, we are using the information you have been sending to develop a sound basis for the development of our newly hired firefighters. But, we are also anxious to improve the overall evaluation process. We encourage you to give us feedback on the evaluation paperwork, the Captain meetings at Training prior to receiving the probationary firefighter, the capabilities of the probationary firefighters, the probationary process or any other training related issues. You can contact any one of the Training Captains or myself by phone or e-mail (or send an anonymous letter in the mail if you prefer).
Tom Kiesewetter 570-3352
Ken Portolan 570-3356
Xavier Espino 570-4980
Vito Gioiello 570-3354
The future outlook is for more hiring, more academies and more probationary firefighters. This is our opportunity to get things right. Thanks for your help.