2023 ANNUAL REPORT-FINAL

58

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Training Office (continued)

Command Competency Program

In November of 2022, DFRS hired a full-time Command Competency Instructor to develop command related training programs to enhance and ensure our command level officers (career and volunteer) maintain competency to effectively and efficiently manage emergency incidents. This new instructor got right to work assisting with the delivery of training related to newly revised policies regarding safe structural firefighting and incident command. Following the completion of the policy training in February of 2023, staff visited numerous surrounding jurisdictions to witness how others run similar programs. After collecting information and data the development of Frederick County’s program began and training is planned to begin in early 2024.

Another valuable role the Command Competency Instructor is the continuous evaluation of box alarms, which consists of crafting audio recordings, and completing Q & A sessions with the respective incident commander(s). This is paramount for the growth of an incident commander and has already proven its operational value. The Command Competency Instructor also conducts continuing education training for both career and volunteer members in the form of MAYDAY Management Training, Tactical Worksheet Training, Policy Review Quizzes, and monthly command related training bulletins.