2016 Department Goals

Firefighter Safety

Our number one goal will always be firefighter safety. As an organization we will develop strategies and implement training programs to enhance firefighter safety and survival. Safety is both an individual and team responsibility. Supervisors and employees must take an active role in their personal safety and the safety of their crews.

Increase ISO Rating to Class 1 (GPM)

Effective November 1, 2012, our ISO rating was upgraded to a Class 2 with a final score of 82.71. A score of 90 is required for a Class 1 rating. In August 2015 we met with representatives from ISO on in hopes of obtaining a Class 1 rating. After a lengthy discussion with the ISO representative, it was clear there were three issues that would impact our ability to obtain a Class 1 rating: One, the Crystal Springs Annexation has structures that are not protected by fire hydrants; Two, we failed to provide officer training during FY15 due to overtime limitations; and Three, we did not conduct non-destructive ladder testing on our aerials last year. Our goal this year is to address these issues.

Fire Flow Modeling

The Department of Public Works now has the ability to provide Fire Flow Modeling. This computer program can determine fire flow capabilities throughout the City. The program can also calculate fire flows if we have multiple fires in the City at the same time. This tool can help us to determine more exact fire flow capabilities of our hydrant system. We will work with Public Works this year to conduct Fire Flow Modeling for the target hazards in the City.

Develop Funeral Operational Procedures

The Department does not have written procedures for line of duty deaths, active member deaths, retiree's deaths, etc. In the past there have been hard feelings when family members of deceased retirees have requested or expected certain tributes for their loved ones that the Department is unable or unwilling to provide. Working in conjunction with the Administration, Local 1926, Volunteers and Retiree Association this goal will develop a comprehensive Departmental Procedure to be followed in the event of a Line of Duty Death and/or Departmental funeral.

Conduct Active Shooter Training using SOP Developed in 2015

As the changes in Active Shooter tactics continue to evolve, the Special Operations Division has been working with APD to update our tactics. This has been a slow process, but we have developed a new SOP, obtained grant funding to purchase safety equipment which was delivered in December 2015 and training in the new procedures is scheduled for January 2016. In addition, two active shooter exercises are planned for 2016. Our goal is to complete the training and test our new SOP as planned.

Smoke Alarm / CO Monitor Program

With the donation of smoke alarms and CO monitors from Baltimore Gas and Electric in 2014, the department has been going door to door in City neighborhoods checking to ensure residents have working smoke alarms. It is our goal this year to continue this safety program until every home in the City is checked.

Issue Revised Operating Policy Manual Updates

The updates to the OPMs are now complete. This task proved to be a labor intensive project that continues to require updating and revision. The revisions have been reviewed for clarity, grammar, spelling, and compliance with City Policy and the Union Contract. Our goal is to start releasing the OPMs for review in January.

Rules of Engagement Training (Increasing Firefighter Survival)

This was a 2015 goal that was started in September 2015 and is on-going. The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) in partnership with several fire service organizations embarked on a multi-year process to develop the Rules of Engagement of Structural Firefighting to provide guidance to individual firefighters and incident commanders, regarding risk and safety issues when operating on the fire ground. Our goal for 2016 is to complete this training program.

Simulator Training for all Officers

The Department will provide Fire Ground Strategy and Tactics Simulator training for all officers.

Develop and Deliver a One Day Executive Development Seminar

The focus of this Executive Development Seminar will be to deliver a high quality educational experience on leadership, application of ICS and Unified Command principles, best practices in the modern fire service and professional development. The intent of this program is to assist AFD Officers to grow and develop an understanding of key concepts that will prepare them for higher level management positions.

Executive Development for Firefighter First Class

This was a previous goal that was abandoned due to budgetary challenges. This three day seminar would include such topics as ICS simulation, introduction to personnel management, buddy to boss and other related topics. The goal is to prepare the attendees for the rank of Lieutenant.

Records Management System for the Historical District

City of Annapolis Code requires that all non-residential structures in the historical district receive a fire safety inspection once a year. The intent of this goal is to develop a definitive database and tracking program for inspecting of the historic district where data can be easily compiled, tracked and accessed.

Secure Acquired Structures for Training

A positive learning environment extends beyond the classroom. Acquired structures can prove invaluable in the reinforcement of practical training. The Training Division will make an effort to acquire structures to maximize practical training evolution.

Deliver the S.A.F.E. Program to All Fifth Grade Classes at Annapolis Area Schools

The AFD Public Education Office has upgraded the Students and Fire Education (S.A.F.E.) Program. The primary focus of the program is juvenile fire setter prevention and helping youngsters make good decisions. The 2016 goal is to deliver the S.A.F.E. Program to the fifth grade classes of the seven Annapolis area Public Schools and the Annapolis area Private Schools.

Gasoline Power Tool (Chain Saw, etc.) Safety Training

The Training Division will coordinate a Gasoline Power Tool safety training program using experts in the field of gasoline power tools.

Sprinkler Program Historic District/City

The recent Annapolis Yacht Club fire has revitalized the discussion of structures without sprinklers in the downtown area. The last study on this issue was conducted in 1998. It is our goal to re-examine this issue and to research what has been successful in other historic communities to encourage the installation of sprinkler systems.