CLASS SPECIFICATION

FIRE FIGHTER/RESCUER I
(RECRUIT)

DEFINITION OF CLASS:
This is entry level work in fire suppression, fire prevention, rescue, communications and emergency medical care. Personal contacts are with fire/rescue and emergency medical supervisors and instructors to receive assignments and instructions and with the public to provide information and emergency assistance as required.
Under the immediate supervision of designated fire/rescue officers, an employee in this class receives training in all aspects of suppressing and extinguishing fires, fire prevention, conducting emergency rescues and providing emergency medical assistance. The work performed contributes to the rescue and safety of individuals and the preservation of structures and physical property. Work is performed in accordance with specific instructions and established policies and procedures which must be adhered to, and is closely supervised. Work, which is performed on a rotating shift, requires periods of strenuous physical effort and involves exposure to heat, dirt and other very unpleasant conditions. An employee in this class is exposed to the risk of serious injury, requiring the use of protective clothing and the strict observance of safety precautions and procedures. Work is closely and frequently reviewed for accuracy, adequacy and adherence to instructions and established procedures.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: (Illustrative Only)
May periodically drive and/or operate emergency fire/rescue vehicles.
Responds to and participates in firefighting, rescue, auto extrication, hazardous material incidents, medical emergencies, and other emergency operations as required.
Lays and connects fire hoses, nozzles, and other firefighting appliances; directs water streams; uses specialized firefighting tools and equipment; raises and climbs ladders; makes forcible entry into buildings.
Performs salvage operations at scenes of fires; performs overhauling operations to ensure extinguishment and to prevent structural collapse; replaces sprinkler heads at the direction of a superior.
Performs rescues from burning buildings and other hazardous situations; performs heavy duty rescues utilizing cutting torches, hydraulic jacks, air compressors, and other specialized rescue equipment.
Provides immediate and efficient emergency medical care as required at the scene of an incident or during transport; reports vital patient information to medical personnel; operates emergency medical equipment.
Maintains accurate records of medical treatment administered.
Participates in cleaning and preventive maintenance, activities concerning fire and rescue apparatus, equipment, facilities and grounds.
Attends required fire/rescue training sessions to attain required level of proficiency.
Attains and maintains required level of emergency medical care certification.
Completes and maintains accurate records, forms, and incident reports as directed.
Participates in fire prevention, injury prevention and other safety programs as directed.
Performs other related duties as assigned consistent with this class specification.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience: None.
Education: High School graduate or equivalent acceptable to the State of Maryland within two months from the time of application to a position in this class.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Ability to read and understand oral and written policies, rules, instructions, and procedures of the Montgomery County Department of Fire/Rescue Services.
Ability to learn and to perform firefighting, rescue, and emergency care practices, techniques, and methods and to apply such information to specific situations.
Ability to analyze emergency situations and to select effective courses of action, giving regard to surrounding hazards and circumstances.
Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.
Ability to type 25 w.p.m. (Communications appointment only.)
Ability to pass an approved diction test. (Communications appointment only.)
Ability to think clearly, respond immediately, and act quickly, calmly, and effectively in emergency situations.
Ability to make minor equipment repairs and adjustments under supervision.
Ability to communicate effectively with the public and other employees.
Ability to speak clearly and distinctly to the public and other employees.
Ability to drive some of the apparatus and equipment in the fire/rescue corporation to which assigned.
Ability to wear breathing apparatus, climb ladders, and work in confined places, toxic atmospheres, and extreme heat.
Ability to work from heights.
Ability to engage in strenuous physical effort for prolonged periods as required.
Ability to write clearly and legibly.
Ability to cope with stressful situations.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Successful completion, within one year from date of appointment, of Emergency Vehicle Operator's course and State of Maryland certification as Emergency Medical Technician Ambulance (EMT B).
Successful completion of a background investigation.
A recruit must possess and maintain at all times a valid motor vehicle operator's license, as required by the Department of Fire and Rescue Services.
A recruit shall successfully complete and be certified to the level of NFPA Firefighter II as approved by the Montgomery County Department of Fire and Rescue Services before attaining permanent status.
Employees hired on or after July 1, 1999 shall be tobacco free, both on and off duty, upon appointment and throughout their length of service in the Division of Fire and Rescue Services or be subject to termination.

CITIZENSHIP AND AGE:
Individuals appointed to a position in this class must be at least 18 years of age on the date of appointment, and either a citizen of the U.S. or a resident alien. (Applicant may be permitted to take entrance examination 6 months before 18th birthday.)

PROBATIONARY PERIOD:
For new career employees a probationary period of one (1) year from date of hire is required before attainment of permanent status, during which time performance will be carefully evaluated.

MEDICAL GROUP: I
Successful completion of physical examination, physical agility test and drug screening as required.

Class Established: July, 1987
Revised: April, 1989
July, 1991
March, 2000
July, 2007
October, 2007
February, 2012
May, 2013