Establishing a Field Training Officer Program

With a decline in fires per year and newer  younger firefighters entering the fire service  experience and training are at a premium. As firefighters are educated and trained  there needs to be a follow up to ensure these firefighters understand their role. Paramedics are assigned to preceptors and new police officers are assigned to senior officers- both to ensure the new personnel   learn the ropes   while being evaluated for their performance. This program is designed to provide a framework for fire departments to develop and implement a Field Training Officer program. One that will measure performance  establish guidelines for FTOs to follow and limit liability of departments by ensuring adequate training  performance levels  department requirements are met. Attendees will be given sample forms to bring back to their respective agency for use.

Lt Walter Lewis  Orlando Fire Department