First Due Blog Carnival

I could have written a very nice, well written, and detailed example of a social media policy that departments might be able to use to their favor. I have decided to do something different. I will actually have plenty to come in the future as I gear up for my FDIC class on Social Media.

So here’s your chance. Write out a draft policy on social media/networking for members of your department. Chances are good that most of you don’t already have one in place. Be serious about it as your work might be a catalyst for change, and could help prevent your department from experiencing some of the problems we’ve read about – and will continue to read about. Check our you current disciplinary process to be sure your draft policy is fair and legal.

The topic this month was Minimum Standards. I asked what should the minimum standards should be, why we should have them, and why we don't have them already.

Across the Nation, State to State, City to City, town to town, and fire department to fire department the meaning of the term “firefighter” is different. Merriam Webster defines it as “a person who fights fires” source That about sums it up doesn’t it…Goodnight!

Minimum standards. What should they be? Who says? Get your word in by the 28th

The impact of the certification standards would be huge in relation to paid and volunteer departments alike. The long term effects of this proposition could prove fruitful especially for those who like to use the word "professional" a lot! This also plays a role in line item 4 of USFA's current strategic plan " # Improve the fire and emergency services’ professional status."

Today is the due date for June's First Due Blog Carnival titled "Wanted: National Fire Chief". Get your submissions in to Bill Carey of Backstep Firefighter. The link for the call for submissions is here.

This weekend, John at Fire Daily finished compiling Episode 3 of the First Due Blog Carnival. There is some great information from several great bloggers.

One thing that someone recently told me was that the fire service is so different that many other professions. He was speaking to the fact that when we come up with a new idea, new ideals, new ideology, new technology, or new ways of doing things we share it with ALL firefighters. In so many other professions, that information is held close to the heart yet over the heads and out of reach of their peers.

There were some new blogs in the mix and some non-bloggers who submitted their articles to be posted on blogs as well! It seems as though this thing is catching on. Episode 2 titled "Influential Fire Reports" struck a cord with a lot of people and really helped put a thumb on what has influenced many firefighters! I must say that the best part of episode 2 is the thought that a family member may come across it and see that their relative's death/injury resulted in a positive learning experience for someone else. It also proves that no one is forgotten...