In a “one-party consent” state, can a department prohibit recording of conversations?
Who Owns the Fire Station Facebook Page?
This seemingly simple question hinges on three important factors
Understanding Firefighter Return to Duty Policies
If a doctor clears a firefighter to return to work, can the department reject their request?
Sobering Thoughts: Liability Associated with Bars in Volunteer Firehouses
Serving alcohol is a tradition for many firehouses, but it carries serious legal and safety concerns
Hazing in Fire Department Academies: Legal and Practical Considerations
Instructors who go over the line undermine the goal of the academy
Sexual Harassment
in the Fire Service:
3 Departmental Responsibilities
Establishing policies and training, investigating complaints and preventing retaliation are key steps
Discipline in the Fire Service: 4 Questions to Consider
Keep the focus on changing the behavior
Can a Fire Department Be Sued for Not Meeting NFPA Standards?
The “standard of care” doctrine often comes into play
Probationary Firefighters Can Be Fired Without Cause—With 4 Important Exceptions
Fire departments must ensure their policies, procedures and practices don’t allow these exceptions
Firefighters and Religious Expression: A Two-Edged Sword
It’s easy to inadvertently cross the line between religious freedom and endorsement of a religion
Do Fire Departments Have to Provide Light Duty for Pregnant Firefighters?
The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no
Liability Associated with Failure to Conduct Fire Department Background Checks
The bar to hold a department liable is quite high, but regardless, the focus should be on preventing harm