As a volunteer assistant fire chief, my job description is simple: Take care of the things that the chief shouldn’t be bothered with and ensure that he has the information he needs to properly manage the department.
Though my job description is simple, the job itself is not. From tracking OSHA requirements to managing constant personnel issues, the position of the assistant chief covers a lot of ground – and it can be a lonely place. There are, however, several perks that come with the job, like not having to deal with the municipal administration, not having to answer directly to regulatory agencies, and, of course, getting to wear that shiny white helmet. (Given my refusal to stay away from the hot zone, it’s more accurate to refer to the color of the helmet as a grayish white.) Read More…