Fire Service Code of Conduct

Firefighters are held to a strict code of conduct set by their fire district. The codes vary from district to district but are in place to regulate a firefighter's behavior while working in the field and keep unity within the station.

Professionalism

• All fire services are treated with utmost respect. Firefighters must keep all personal feeling out of a fire service, whether it is affection or animosity, and conduct themselves in a professional manner to keep the public trust in their ability to fight fires.

Misconduct

• Any firefighter who loses or damages any equipment through neglect must pay for the equipment out of his pocket. Firefighters are prohibited from taking bribery or under-the-table payment for fire services.

Impairment

• While on duty, a firefighter may not use any substance, such as alcohol, that could impair his judgment. A firefighter on any medication that can slow his reaction time, no matter if the medication is over over-the-counter or prescribed, must notify a supervisor before reporting to duty.

Confidentiality

• Most districts have a confidentiality clause in their code of conducts. Firefighters do not disclose district information or official business. Typically, any use of inflammatory comments toward a public official of the district is prohibited.