Editor’s Note: The standard for excellence in public safety is changing. Lexipol is your partner in understanding how your agency measures up and setting a course to achieve performance excellence. Schedule a consultation with our team today to learn about our holistic approach built on Gordon Graham’s 5 Pillars of Organizational Success.
Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s Tip is for all my friends in the fire service, and it has to do with your firehouse culture.
We’re still hearing stories about hazing and bullying in the fire service – often directed toward our newest members. While these instances are decreasing, they still occur.
When exposed, the perpetrators usually claim humor and tradition. But not everybody finds it funny. And as much as the fire department is a fraternity, the firehouse is not a frat house.
It’s important for us to treat each other with respect, regardless of rank. And there’s an expectation that officers will be held to an even higher standard of behavior.
If you are a boss who fosters or condones an environment of ridicule, embarrassment, exclusion, or fear, you’re doing it wrong. This type of toxic culture discourages personal and professional growth while also opening you and your department up to harassment claims. When exposed, it’ll cost your department financially and degrade public trust. It just isn’t worth it.
There are ways to preserve traditions and continue certain rites of passage without resorting to abuse. Should new firefighters be expected to wash the dishes and take out the trash? Sure. Should they spend time learning about their department and about their job? Of course. Should they be challenged to ensure they’re progressing in their role? Yes.
But they should never be treated with disrespect or in a way that makes them question their decision to sign up in the first place. You don’t want your firefighters so distracted by the fear of becoming the punchline of your next joke that they lose focus on their job duties. Your newest members are your department’s future, and you should do everything possible to pass along a legacy of tradition, professionalism, and aptitude.
And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.
