Houston Fire Department Rules and Regulations PDF

HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT SUBJECT: RULES AND REGULATIONS VOLUME NO. I ALL COMMANDS REFERENCE NO. I-01 SECTIONS 1.00 – 11.01 1.00 PURP...

HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT SUBJECT: RULES AND REGULATIONS VOLUME NO. I ALL COMMANDS REFERENCE NO. I-01 SECTIONS 1.00 – 11.01 1.00 PURPOSE 1.01 To provide guidelines for behavior and conduct which will aid in the achievement of orderly coordination of effort among members of the Houston Fire Department in the discharge of their duties, under both routine and emergency conditions. 2.00 OBJECTIVES 2.01 To provide for the responsibilities and duties required of a member of the Houston Fire Department. They are not intended to provide a solution to every problem or situation. 2.02 To provide guidance for effective and constructive action. It is not designed to limit any member in the exercise of their judgment or initiative within the Departmental Guidelines or Rules and Regulations. 3.00 DEFINITIONS 3.01 Absence Without Leave (AWOL): Absence or tardiness without proper notification and permission shall be considered as absence without leave (AWOL). Absence without leave could result in loss of compensation during the absence and may be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including indefinite suspension 3.02 Acting: Serving temporarily in a position in which the member is not ordinarily assigned, usually in a position of higher rank. 3.03 Appeal: The right of a member under the law to apply for review from any order of dismissal or suspension by the Fire Chief. 3.04 Chain of Command: The unbroken line of authority extending from the Chief of the Fire Department through a single subordinate at each level of command down to the level of execution. 3.05 City Business: Duties, which require that a member be excused from the performance of regular duties to perform other city related duties. 3.06 City of Houston (COH) Employee Policies and Procedures: Along with HFD Guidelines and orders, employees are required to comply with all duly approved COH policies and procedures to include: A. Executive Orders B. Mayor’s Policies C. Administrative Policies 3.07 Classified Positions: All positions and their classifications, which are covered under Chapter 143 of the Texas Local Government Code. 3.08 Demotion: A voluntary or involuntary placement of a fire fighter in a classification (rank) below the fire fighter’s current classification. I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 1 of 15 3.09 General Knowledge: A level of knowledge that is broad and not specific or detailed. 3.10 General Order: A general order shall be defined as a directive from the Fire Chief, Executive Assistant or Assistant Chief that regulates or determines the policies, procedure, operations or activities of the department, its divisions and members. All such orders shall be so labeled as General Orders. Additionally, directives received from the Mayor, City Human Resources Department and the Civil Service Commission shall be considered general orders. General Orders will be used to permanently change, alter, or amend HFD Guidelines. All other information published shall be considered miscellaneous information communicated by Memorandum. All General Orders and miscellaneous information will be numbered within a calendar year (i.e.18-001, 18-002) and sequential numbers will be assigned by the Office of the Fire Chief. 3.11 Insubordination: The failure or deliberate refusal of any member to obey any lawful order given by any superior officer shall be deemed insubordination. 3.12 Length of Service: The period of time starting from the date, which the oath of office was last administered. The length of time that a member has been engaged in the actual performance of duty. Previous service may be added. 3.13 May and Should: "May" is permissive. "Should" is advisory. Where in use, it is intended that, while not mandatory, it should be followed in the interest of the department. 3.14 Memorandum: Information distributed by Memorandum is for informational purposes and may be permanent or temporary in nature. 3.15 Obedience of Orders: An order is an instruction or directive, written or oral, issued by a superior officer to a subordinate or group of subordinates. Obedience to the orders of a superior in rank must be faithfully observed, and any member offending in this regard shall be considered as insubordinate and held strictly accountable. 3.16 Off Duty: The state of a member during their days off or on authorized leave when they are free of the responsibility of performing usual duties. Technically a member is subject to recall at any time. 3.17 On Duty: A member is on duty during the period of active engagement in the performance of duties. 3.18 Relieved of Duty: Action taken in denying a member the privilege of performing their duties in consequence of dereliction of duty, breach of discipline, misconduct, violation of Guidelines, or pending a fitness for duty evaluation. Relieved of Duty may be with pay (RDWP) or without pay (RDOP). 3.19 Resignation: A member voluntarily terminating service with the department. A resignation must be accepted by the Fire Chief to be effective. Non-classified employees will be considered as having resigned his/her position with the department when absent from work for three (3) consecutive workdays without good cause and proper notification. 3.20 Shall and Will: The words "Shall" and "Will" indicate that the action is mandatory. 3.21 Superior Officer: Any member having supervisory responsibilities, either temporarily or permanently, over members of lower rank. 3.22 Tour of Duty: Work period composed of two (2) 24-hour shifts of duty during an eight (8) day cycle (i.e. Emergency Response, OEC). 3.23 Working Knowledge: A level of comprehension above that of general knowledge. I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 2 of 15  4.00 SCOPE 4.01 This guideline is applicable to all classified and non-classified members of the Houston Fire Department 5.00 RESPONSIBILITIES 5.01 The Fire Chief of the Department: A. Has the authority and responsibility to promulgate administrative rules and regulations for the department. B. Reserves the right to modify or rescind any provisions of these Rules and Regulations. 5.02 All Officers shall be held strictly responsible for the conduct, action, morale, and efficiency of all members under their command and shall enforce the rules and regulations and guidelines of this department. It is the responsibility of all officers to set a good example and require their command measure up to the high standards of HFD. 5.03 Duty Assignment: All members are required to be at their assigned place of work at the designated time on each scheduled work day in the appropriate uniform. Members shall not leave their duty assignment (i.e. quarters, fire ground, dispatch console, fire watch detail, fire investigation assignment) except when authorized by a superior officer. 5.04 Conduct and Behavior: Members, whether on or off duty, shall be governed by the ordinary and reasonable rules of good conduct and behavior of law abiding citizens. They shall not commit any act tending to bring reproach or discredit upon themselves or HFD. 5.05 Responsibility to Read, Understand and Comply: Members are required to read, acknowledge, understand, and comply with all departmental rules/regulations, guidelines, general orders, memorandums, and other directives as issued. These will be read at roll call or morning meetings and placed in the appropriate binders for all members to sign and reference. Moving forward, Numbered Bulletins; Numbered Orders; Numbered Safety and Health Bulletins; Numbered Special Bulletins; Numbered Training Bulletins will be replaced by either a General Order, or Memorandum. Personnel shall adhere to all previously titled directives until changed by General Order or Memorandum. 5.06 Obedience to Lawful Orders: Members shall promptly obey all lawful orders and directions given by superior officers whether or not such duties are specifically assigned to them in any rules or duty manuals. Members shall obey any written directive issued by any supervisor, up to and including the Fire Chief. Members receiving unjust orders must first obey the order to the best of their ability and may then proceed to appeal in writing to the Fire Chief through the chain of command. The failure or deliberate refusal of members to obey such orders shall be deemed insubordination and is prohibited. Flouting the authority of superior officers by displaying disrespect or by disputing their orders shall likewise be deemed insubordination. Members shall not publicly criticize or comment derogatorily to anyone about instructions or orders they have received from a superior officer. 5.07 Abide by Laws: Members shall abide by the laws of the United States, the State of Texas, the ordinances of the City of Houston, the rules of the City of Houston Civil Service Commission, the Mayor’s Policies, Executive Orders, and Administrative Policies of the City of Houston, and the general orders, bulletins and the rules of conduct of the Houston Fire Department. I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 3 of 15 5.08 Issuance of Proper Orders from a Designated Representative: An order or directive received from a designated representative of a superior officer, when the name of the superior officer is given, must be promptly carried out as if it had been issued from that officer personally. 5.09 Unlawful Orders Prohibited: No commanding, supervisory, or acting officer shall knowingly or willfully issue an order which is in violation of any law, ordinance, city or departmental rule, order, bulletin, or directive. 5.10 Conflict of Orders: Should any order conflict with any previous order or instruction, issued by another superior officer, or with any general order, the member to whom the order is given shall respectfully call attention to the conflict. If the superior officer giving the second order does not change the same so as to eliminate the conflict, the second order shall stand, and the responsibility shall be that of the officer issuing the order. Orders will be countermanded, or conflicting orders issued, only when reasonably necessary for the good of the department. 5.11 Appeals from and Reporting Unlawful or Unjust Orders: A. Members may appeal for relief from orders or instructions, which they feel, are unlawful or unjust. Such appeals must be made in writing to the Fire Chief, through the chain of command. Irresponsible or capricious appeals will be considered serious misconduct. B. Reporting Unlawful Orders: Any member who is given any unlawful, unjust or improper order shall, at first opportunity, report in writing the full facts of the incident, together with their own actions, to the Fire Chief through the chain of command. 5.12 Through Official Channels: Any member wishing to address a superior officer shall request and receive permission from their immediate supervisor prior to contacting the next higher level. The request shall be forwarded through each immediate superior to the desired level in the chain of command. The chain of command shall remain unbroken at all times. Any member denied such permission may utilize the grievance process. 5.13 Performance of Duty: Members shall be prepared and able to perform all lawful duties as defined by their position. Members shall maintain all certifications, standards, and job knowledge skills and abilities as required by their position, minimal accepted performance standards, and immediate supervisor. 5.14 Performance in a Higher Position: Members shall, through training and observations, qualify for the next higher position, so they may assume such duties and responsibilities. 5.15 Habitual or Gross Carelessness: Members shall exercise all reasonable precautions and measures of safety to prevent injury or accidents to fellow members or departmental property. Gross or habitual carelessness shall not be tolerated. 5.16 Relieve from Duty: Under circumstances of emergency where a member is incapable of performing his/her duty, willfully refuses to obey orders, or commits such behavior that the interest of the department would suffer by his/her remaining on duty, the officer in command shall relieve the member from duty with pay, after receiving approval from the Deputy Chief, and then immediately notify the Fire Chief in writing of charges through the chain of command. After consulting with the chain of command, the Deputy Chief or his/her designee shall notify the member who has been relieved of duty of the date, time, and location the member is to report back for duty. I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 4 of 15 5.17 Recovery from Illness or Injury: Members off duty due to illness or injury shall concern themselves with their recovery and shall make every effort to facilitate their return to duty. They shall not absent themselves from the place of their confinement on scheduled workdays, except in compliance with HFD Guideline I-22 Leaves and Absences and must notify the Officer on duty where the member is assigned, when leaving for such treatment and upon returning home. If a member is unable to contact the Officer at his/her regularly assigned post, they shall continue up the chain of command until an Officer is notified. If an Officer is unavailable, the member may call the Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) at 713-884-3143. It is the member’s responsibility to notify their officer when they will be able to return to work. 5.18 Compliance with Investigations: When directed by the Fire Chief, or Acting Fire Chief, to give a statement or furnish materials relevant to a departmental investigation or an investigation by the City Attorney’s Office, members shall comply with the directive. Members shall not interfere with an investigation or intimidate witnesses, complainants, or participants. Members shall not remove, conceal, or destroy any evidence pertaining to the investigation. 5.19 Testifying in Departmental Investigations: Any member who, when so directed by a superior officer, refuses to answer questions or render statements, material, etc., relevant in any department personnel investigation or an investigation, hearing, or legal proceeding by the City Attorney’s Office shall be guilty of neglect of duty and subject to disciplinary action. 5.20 Notice of Suit Against Members: Any member who has a damage suit filed against them by reason of an act performed in the line of duty shall immediately notify the Fire Chief in writing via email, certified mail, or personal delivery. A copy of the complaint together with a full and accurate account of the circumstances in question should be sent to the Fire Chief’s office. 5.21 Notice of Arrest: Employees that are the subject of an arrest action shall immediately notify their supervisor of their location and the charge. Employees shall notify the Fire Chief of the charge, in writing, via email, certified mail, or personal delivery, within 24 hours of their release from custody, through the chain of command. Reporting back for duty prior to notifying the Fire Chief of the charges will result in discipline up to and including indefinite suspension. Employees shall also notify any agency certifying the employee (TCFP, TDHSE, TCOLE, etc.) 5.22 Notice of Pending Criminal Investigations: Employees who become aware they are under investigation for any criminal matter, by any lawfully authorized agency, other than the City of Houston’s Office of Inspector General, shall notify the Fire Chief. Notification shall be in writing via email, certified mail, or personal delivery within 24 hours. 5.23 Notice of Court Disposition: Employees shall notify the Fire Chief in writing of any court hearing dates and results involving a criminal matter within 24 hours of receiving them. Employees shall also notify any agency certifying the employee (TCFP, TDHSE, TCOLE, etc.) 5.24 Reporting Violations: All members shall be responsible for immediately reporting severe violations of rules, guidelines, or orders to their immediate supervisor. In cases where the immediate supervisor is the violator, the next officer in the chain of command shall be contacted. Severe violations shall be interpreted as those violations that would tend to adversely affect the safe, proper and efficient operation of the fire department, or any unit thereof, or might serve to damage the reputation of the department. Any member who intentionally makes a false report of a violation may be subject to disciplinary action up I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 5 of 15  to and including indefinite suspension. 6.00 GUIDELINES 6.01 Workplace Discrimination and Harassment Prohibited: The Department is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation for reporting discrimination or harassment. Members shall not verbally, non-verbally, or illustratively utilize any slurs or connotations based on any protected category, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, or sex. A slur is defined as a remark, language, illustration, or other media including, but not limited to, jokes and pornography, which degrade an individual's race, gender, national origin, or any other protected category. Members shall not create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Members shall not make any derogatory or otherwise offensive remarks based on any person’s protected category. Harassment of another member or citizen because that individual belongs to a protected category, including but not limited to race, ethnic group, religion, or sex is strictly prohibited. Harassment not involving a protected category, such as hazing or physical/verbal abuse of other members is also prohibited. Members shall refrain from any form of hazing, harassment, or abuse of other members. Members engaged in such conduct shall be disciplined accordingly along with any officers or members that allowed such conduct. It is unlawful to retaliate against a member for filing or being a witness in an Equal Employment Opportunity charge, complaint, investigation, or lawsuit; communicating with a supervisor about employment discrimination, including harassment; answering questions during an employer investigation of alleged harassment; refusing to follow orders that would result in discrimination; resisting sexual advances, or intervening to protect others; or requesting accommodation of a disability or for a religious practice. Violations of this guideline and/or violations of Executive Order 1-50: Workplace Discrimination and Harassment are subject to disciplinary action up to and including indefinite suspension. Any member who believes he/she has been subjected to or observed conduct in violation of this policy, is encouraged to report the conduct at the earliest possible stage to a supervisor, Professional Standards Office, Office of the Inspector General (OIG), or the Designated Department Representatives (DDRs) assigned to the Department. Members may also report sexual harassment to the City of Houston’s Sexual Harassment Hotline (832-393-7200). Supervisors or managers receiving a complaint of conduct which violates this policy or observes the same shall report the conduct to the DDRs assigned to the Department. Supervisors or managers who fail to act on allegations or evidence of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation shall be considered for disciplinary action, up to and including indefinite suspension (IN CONJUCTION WITH EXECUTIVE ORDER 1-50 APPROVED ON APRIL 6, 2012 and any subsequent revisions of the same). 6.02 Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: Members shall not discriminate or retaliate on the basis of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity. Sexual Orientation refers to the actual or perceived status of a person with respect to his/her sexuality (Refer to the Mayor’s Executive Order 1-50). Gender Identity refers to an individual’s innate identification as either male or female, although it may not correspond to the individual’s body or gender as assigned at birth (Refer to the Mayor’s Executive Order 1-50). This Executive order applies to all members and any interaction with the public. Any member who believes he/she has been subjected to or observed conduct in violation of this policy, is encouraged to report the conduct at the earliest possible stage I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 6 of 15  to a supervisor, Professional Standards Office, Office of the Inspector General (OIG), or the Designated Department Representatives (DDRs) assigned to the Department. Members may also report sexual harassment to the City of Houston’s Sexual Harassment Hotline (832-393-7200). Supervisors or managers receiving a complaint of conduct which violates this policy or observes the same shall report the conduct to the DDRs assigned to the Department. Supervisors or managers who fail to act on allegations or evidence of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation shall be considered for disciplinary action, up to and including indefinite suspension (IN CONJUCTION WITH EXECUTIVE ORDER 1-50 APPROVED ON APRIL 6, 2012 and any subsequent revisions of the same). 6.03 Aiding and Protecting Fellow Members: Members shall act together and protect one another in time of danger or under circumstances where danger might reasonably be impending. 6.04 Duty to be Kind, Courteous, and Patient: Members shall always be courteous, kind, patient and respectful in dealing with the public, and shall strive to win the respect of all law-abiding citizens by an impartial discharge of their official duties. Discourtesies to the public, to members of the department, or any movements tending to create dissention in the department or appearing to ignore responsible officials will be considered breaches of discipline. When addressed, members shall assume a position of attentiveness. They shall avoid answering questions in a short and abrupt manner, and shall not use harsh, coarse, violent, profane, insolent, suggestive, sarcastic or insulting language. They shall maintain an even, cheerful temper regardless of the provocation, and always remain cool and collected. Members shall give particular attention to their grammar and pronunciation, and they shall avoid slang in conversation with citizens. Members shall avoid any action, conduct or mannerisms, which tend to annoy others. Members shall avoid giving the impression that they are evading the performance of their duties or that they are not interested in the problems brought to their attention. Members shall provide name and rank when asked. 6.05 Respect for Fellow Members: Members shall treat other members of HFD with respect and response due them as fellow members. They shall be courteous, civil, and respectful of their superior officers and associates, and shall not use threatening or insulting language, whether on or off duty. Members shall not publicly criticize the work or the manner of performance of duty of any other member. Members shall not perform any act or make statements, oral or written, which are directed at their co-workers with the intent to destroy the morale, good order, and working relationships with such co- workers. Respect to officers shall not be confined to duty but shall be extended on all occasions. In addressing or referring to an officer, the proper title shall be used. Members shall not perform any act or make statements, oral or written, which are directed at any officer with the intent to destroy the discipline and good order that is the responsibility of such superior officer. 6.06 Maintain Discipline: Officers shall be just, dignified and firm in their relations with subordinates, always being careful to abstain from violent, abusive, or immoderate language in giving orders, directions, or in conversation. Officers must model good behavior and promptly report, by well-sustained charges, any violations of Laws, Ordinances, Rules & Regulations, and Orders. 7.00 RESTRICTIONS ON BEHAVIOR/CONDUCT I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 7 of 15 7.01 Truthfulness: Members are required to speak the truth at all times, whether under oath or not, in giving testimony, in connection with any legal official order received, or in connection with official duties. Members shall not make false reports concerning the personal character or conduct of any member or regarding any business of the department, to the discredit or detriment of the department or any member thereof. Members making a false statement in any official communication or in conversation with another member or citizen will be subject to strict disciplinary action. Any statement or omission of pertinent information that intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly misrepresents facts or misleads others shall be considered a false statement. Falsification of an official departmental record or any other governmental record is prohibited. 7.02 Neglect of Duty: Failure to give proper attention to the performance of duty. Insolence, indifference, and evading duty at an incident or work location is forbidden and members found to do so will be immediately relieved from duty. 7.03 Immoderate Language: Exceeding reasonable or appropriate language. Members, while in uniform or on duty, shall not use obscene, immoral, profane, or offensive language. 7.04 Physical Altercations: Members, while in uniform or on duty, shall not engage in any type of fighting. Physical altercations are to be avoided always. 7.05 Firearms in Fire Department Buildings or Vehicles: Members shall not have, cause, or allow any type of firearms to be brought into any department building, station, or vehicle. Exceptions: All Arson Investigators and Certified Peace Officers (in full police uniform and/or acting in the official capacity for the commissioning agency) as defined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedures, Article 2.12. All off-duty members who are Certified Peace Officers (excluding Arson Investigators) or hold a Concealed Handgun/License to Carry Permit, shall secure their weapon in their personal vehicle prior to entering any fire department building. 7.06 Smoking or Eating During Emergencies: Smoking is prohibited in all city buildings and vehicles. Smoking or eating may be permitted in the Rehab Area. The Incident Commander or Rehab Officer will assign a designated smoking area that is separate from the eating area. At no time will smoking be allowed at or near scenes under investigation. 7.07 Intoxication and Self-Induced Disability: Intoxication or loitering where intoxicants are sold while in uniform is prohibited. Intoxication, drinking or possession of intoxicants while on duty is prohibited, and offenders are subject to strict disciplinary action. No alcoholic beverage container will be allowed in any department vehicle or on department premises. 7.08 Drug Usage: In compliance with the current Mayor's Executive Order 1-12 (revised September 26, 2014) and any subsequent revisions of the same; members shall not use or possess any illegal drug or controlled substance, on or off duty, except as prescribed by and under the supervision of a licensed doctor or dentist. Members shall report to their immediate on-duty supervisor the use of any controlled substance that could interfere with the employee’s ability to perform their job duties. The use or possession of any illegal drug or substance, or any participation in activities involving illegal drugs or substances, whether on or off duty, is strictly prohibited. The use of non-prescription narcotics is prohibited. Members shall not allow narcotics or illegal drugs of any kind to be brought into or kept on Fire Department property. 7.09 Gambling: Members shall not engage in any wagering of money or anything of value while on duty or in uniform. 7.10 Theft: No member shall take or remove anything from a building or premises involved by fire unless authorized to do so. No member shall take or remove anything for other than I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 8 of 15  department use from a City of Houston owned station, building, shop, car, etc. 7.11 Removal of Records: Members shall not remove, or allow the removal of official records, reports, or journals (electronic or otherwise) from department premises without permission from the Fire Chief. The removal of any official record from a fire station must be noted in the station and Captain’s logs. Removal of official records from the premises of any other department must be noted and kept by the appropriate custodian of such records. 7.12 Accepting Payment or Gifts: Members shall not demand nor receive from any person, any pay, gift, or reward for services rendered (Mayor's Executive Order 1-28 January 4, 2011, Executive Order Regarding Gifts and any subsequent revisions of the same). 7.13 Solicitation: The following rules will apply to solicitations on department property: A. Members shall not imply that they are a member of, or represent the department to solicit money, sell tickets for any fair, benefit, raffle, or similar project without written permission of the Fire Chief. B. Members shall not allow solicitations by individuals or organizations on departmental property without the written permission of the Fire Chief. C. While on duty, members shall not solicit any member to join or support a political party, charity, club or association. 7.14 Political Activity: The following rules shall apply to political activities: A. Members shall not actively participate in political activities on behalf of themselves, any candidate, or any issue while on duty, on departmental property or in uniform. B. Members shall not engage in political activities concerning departmental guidelines or working conditions, while off duty in uniform, without approval of the Fire Chief. C. Members shall not solicit petitions for themselves or other members for their promotions, change of duty, or promote any political influence to affect such an end. D. In compliance with Mayor's Personnel Policy No. 110.00 (February 14, 1985) and Section 14-156 of the Code of Ordinances and any subsequent revisions of the same, members seeking an elective office (Federal, State, County, District or City Office), are required to make their candidacy known in writing to the Director of Personnel. The Director of Personnel will determine whether a conflict of interest exists with the HFD member. E. No member shall place political posters, political stickers, or other similar political advertising advocating the candidacy of any person for any elective office upon any department vehicle, building structure, or equipment. No member shall park or place upon any property of the City of Houston any portable sign, advertising trailer, or similar portable advertising device that advertises or advocates the candidacy of any person for any elective office. F. While in uniform or on duty, a member may not take an active part in another person's political campaign for an elective position of the municipality. A person takes an active part in a political campaign if the person: 1. Makes a political speech 2. Distributes a card or other political literature 3. Writes a letter 4. Signs a petition 5. Actively and openly solicits votes I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 9 of 15  6. Makes a public derogatory remark about a candidate for an elective position of the municipality G. A member will not be required to contribute to a political fund or to render a political service to a person or party. A member will not be removed, reduced in classification or salary, or otherwise prejudiced for refusing the above. 7.15 Media Interviews: No member shall express an opinion or make a public statement on an official position or guideline of HFD except the Fire Chief. No members other than the Incident Commander, OEC, Arson Investigator or Public Information Officer, shall release factual information, give an interview relating to a fire, public safety, or other emergency, without obtaining clearance from the PIO, IC, or Arson Investigator. A. Information released concerning fires or incidents under investigation shall be limited to the following: 1. Date, Time, and Location of the incident 2. Brief description of the extent of damage 3. Number of injuries or fatalities 4. Safety precautions 5. Requests for additional information shall be referred to the Chief Arson Investigator's Office, HFD Public Information Office, or designee. B. News Conference: When topical news information becomes available, it should be released equitably to all members of the News Media in a formal news conference set up by the Public Information Office. The Public Information Office exercises judgment on when a news conference is appropriate. C. Feature Stories: Interviews not related to a working incident, or of purely personal concerns, must be cleared through the Public Information Office (i.e., Fire Department working conditions, criticism of co-workers or supervisors, etc.). D. Unofficial Activities (i.e. Career Day, informal visits): Members shall not represent the Fire Department, in or out of uniform, at any social or public gathering without the permission of the Fire Chief or HFD Public Affairs. 7.16 Security of Fire Information: Members shall not divulge any fire information nor make information contained in fire records available to any person or agency except as provided by department guidelines, by laws, or by competent authority. Members shall treat as confidential the official business of the department. 7.17 Use of Social Media: Members shall comply with the Houston Fire Department’s and the City of Houston’s Social Media Policies. 7.18 Electronic Devices: The use of any device, computer, smart phone, tablet, etc., at an incident shall be limited to activities which safely and effectively resolve the incident, not personal communication or use. HFD Incident Commanders may authorize the use of internet communication devices that support incident operations and/or department training. 7.19 Religious or Political Arguments: Religious or Political arguments will not be permitted on duty or on Fire Department property. While on duty members shall not circulate any petitions, questionnaire, poll, letter or any other document. 7.20 Mail-Interdepartmental: Interdepartmental mail shall be limited to those items that originate within city agencies FOR CITY BUSINESS and concern documents or information considered being of an official nature. 7.21 Improper Images: Lewd or obscene images, video programs, pornography, etc in any format (paper or digital) or on any device is strictly prohibited on the premises of HFD. 7.22 Use of Computers: Computers are provided for department-authorized use only. I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 10 of 15  Members have no expectation of privacy in a workplace computer. Personal Passwords shall be held strictly confidential and members will be responsible for all computer use under their password. 7.23 City Email: While on duty, members shall check their city email once a shift at a minimum. Use of city email shall be restricted to city business. Members shall not create or use distribution lists in the COH email system without authorization. COH distribution lists shall not be used to distribute unauthorized newsletters or publications or to express personal opinions or grievances regarding city or department positions, policies, or guidelines. City email shall not be used for commercial purposes, private gain, or in support of other outside employment. Members shall be mindful that emails sent or received using City email are the property of the City. 8.00 REGULATIONS DURING EMERGENCY INCIDENTS 8.01 Emergency Response: When making an emergency response, no company will stop to perform non-response-related actions (i.e. picking up relief crew, dropping off supplies/food, etc.). 8.02 Responding to Emergency Incidents: For the safety of our members and the community we serve, the directives of HFD II-35 Driving HFD Vehicles Guideline, shall be adhered to. 8.03 Discovery of a Second Incident while En Route to an Emergency: The following are general guidelines, and officers may deviate from these guidelines when a severe life hazard dictates. A. Box Alarm: An apparatus responding to a Box Alarm and discovering a second incident requiring an emergency response (i.e. fire or medical emergency) shall notify OEC of the nature and location of the second incident. The apparatus may request assistance if needed and proceed to manage the second emergency incident. B. Still Alarm: An apparatus responding to a Still Alarm and discovering a second emergency incident (i.e., fire or medical emergency) shall notify OEC of the nature and location of the second incident and proceed to the location of the original incident. 8.04 Re-Call to Duty: All off-duty members are subject to re-call to meet staffing requirements in the event of major fires, storms, etc. Members failing to respond to re- call without a valid excuse will be subject to strict disciplinary action. Members who are re-called, shall report to their regularly assigned location, unless ordered to do otherwise by a superior officer. 8.05 Relieving at a Fire Scene: Members shall not leave the fireground, with or without proper relief, prior to the fire being signaled out, unless the Incident Commander grants permission. When it is obvious that an incident will continue past relief time (0630 hours), the I.C. shall prepare for relief of crew members in the following manner: A. The Incident Commander/designee shall coordinate the relief of crews. B. Uncommitted apparatus (i.e. engine, ladder, Decon truck) shall shuttle relief crews to their respective stations. Example: E-1, E-8, E-6 responds to an incident. Engine 6 is uncommitted and will be used to shuttle relief crews. E-6 returns to station 6 to pick up new crew members and returns to the incident. E-6 is then used to shuttle other crews (E-1 and E-8) to their stations to pick up new crew members. C. Uncommitted apparatus shall be used until all crews at the incident have been relieved. I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 11 of 15  D. If all apparatus are committed, the Incident Commander should consider calling for an extra engine company at 0630 to be used in the relief of crew members at the incident. The extra engine shall only respond with the oncoming shift. E. Under no circumstance will an EMS Unit be used for the above as this is a violation of the Texas Department of State Health Services. F. Apparatus backed in at other fire stations before relief time shall contact OEC about permission to return to their station to be relieved. OEC may have the apparatus return to their station for relief and return or may have another apparatus back in at that station (if still needed). G. Apparatus on still alarm assignments past relief time for an extended period of time (1 hour or more), shall contact the oncoming District Chief of that assigned district at relief time. That District Chief shall designate an apparatus in his district (if unavailable, request an apparatus from another district) to shuttle relief crews. 8.06 Fire Extinguishment of U.S. Mail-In Boxes or Trucks, Etc.: A. Use Dry Chemical or Carbon Dioxide extinguishers on contents inside the container. B. Use Water on the outside of the container to reduce the temperature of the container. C. Notify OEC, who will in turn notify Postal Authorities. D. Standby at the location unless ordered to do otherwise by OEC. 8.07 Scene Safety Involving Weapons: When encountering incidents involving weapons, the first priority is the safety of HFD members. The following guideline will be used: A. When law enforcement officers are on the scene, weapon handling will be their responsibility. B. When approaching a hostile area, members shall remain at a safe distance and notify law enforcement personnel. C. If an area becomes hostile during patient care, members shall retreat to a safe area and notify OEC. D. Members shall not handle or move any type of weapon found on an EMS/Fire incident unless necessary to ensure personnel safety. E. All SWAT incidents will fall under the above guideline. 8.08 Response to Accidents and Fatality Investigations Occurring on/around the Roadway: A. The current HFD policy regarding the ANSI Class II work vest makes it mandatory to wear the vest for all freeway incidents, day or night. B. All HFD blocking apparatus shall adhere to common HFD practices whenever possible. 8.09 Fire Investigations and Request for an Arson Investigator: The Incident Commander shall permit overhaul operations to begin only after the cause of fire has been determined and structural stability has been assured. Where there is suspicion the fire is of incendiary origin, overhaul will not be permitted until the Arson Investigator releases the scene. Where evidence of arson is found or suspected, the Incident Commander shall allow nothing to be disturbed, except that which is absolutely necessary to extinguish the fire. The Incident Commander shall immediately contact OEC, request an Arson Investigator, and state whether it is an emergency. Arson Investigators will not run with lights and siren unless it is an emergency. 8.10 Leaving the Scene of a Suspected Arson Fire: Where evidence of arson is discovered or suspected, an Incident Commander will remain on the fireground until the Arson Investigator arrives. If conditions permit, the Incident Commander will return to "in- I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 12 of 15  service" status and remain available to answer emergency calls. Should the Incident Commander be called upon to leave the fire ground, a member shall be left in charge of the fireground to prevent the disturbance of conditions surrounding the fire and to deny entrance to unauthorized persons. Members receiving such assignment shall refrain from discussion of the fire except with authorized personnel. 8.11 Finding a Deceased Person at a Fire Scene: Members finding a deceased person at a fire scene should not disturb the body or surroundings, nor touch any personal property on or near the body, except to prevent further damage or destruction to the body. Members shall immediately notify the Incident Commander, who in turn will notify OEC, who in turn will notify all necessary personnel and departments as designated on the Fire Fatality Notification Form. 8.12 Finding a Deceased Person at an EMS Scene: Members finding a deceased person at an EMS scene shall not disturb the body or surroundings, nor touch any personal property on or near the body, except to prevent further damage or destruction to the body. They shall immediately notify OEC, who in turn will notify the Medical Examiner. Upon arrival of HPD, the member in charge of the EMS unit will provide their name, payroll number, and the apparatus number to the HPD officer and return to service. The deceased person’s name and address can be recorded at a later time by calling the Medical Examiner or HPD Homicide sometime during the member’s shift. The Medical Examiner is responsible for the deceased person and property under Texas Penal Code, Article 49.25. 9.00 DEPARTMENT VEHICLES 9.01 Operation of Department Vehicles: All members must have a valid State Driver's License from the State in which they reside, before they will be allowed to drive any apparatus on an emergency response. The valid State Driver's License must be a Texas Class A or B (exempted with a current CDL Supplement Form) or its equivalent, if the vehicle the member will operate has a GVWR of over 26,000 lbs. Officers shall visually check the driver's license of each member under their command every six (6) months. Any member who, for any reason, has their driver's license revoked or suspended shall immediately notify their superior officer. Members (drivers and passengers) must wear seat belts in all department vehicles anytime the vehicle is in motion. Drivers operating a city vehicle will not wear radio, stereo, or other device utilizing earphones. (Exception: HFD Radio Headsets installed and approved by the Radio Shop). The above rules shall not relieve the driver, or the officer in charge, from the duty to drive with respect for the safety of all persons. Such provisions shall not protect the driver and officer in charge from the consequences of reckless disregard of safety. In addition, members are required to notify the Fire Chief of any violation of Administrative Procedure 2-2, including traffic citations. 9.02 Disabled Vehicles: Any member operating a department vehicle that becomes disabled will notify the OEC and remain with the vehicle until it is removed by a department approved wrecker. 9.03 While driving, the driver’s use of cell phone and/or other devices shall comply with 6.07 of HFD II-35 Diving HFD Vehicles Guideline. 9.04 Use of Spotters: When available, a spotter shall guide the driver while backing. The spotter shall utilize a portable radio to communicate with the driver if the vehicle is a heavy apparatus or ambulance/medic unit or if conditions (i.e. weather, lighting, noise) otherwise prevent the driver from clearly seeing and hearing the spotter. When a spotter I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 13 of 15  is not available or the vehicle is exempt from the requirement to have a spotter, the driver, prior to entering the vehicle, shall visually check the area behind the vehicle to assure proper clearance. The driver shall utilize rearview and sideview mirrors and/or rear-facing backup camera to confirm the area behind the vehicle is still clear prior to backing the vehicle. Excluding heavy apparatus and ambulance/medic units, vehicles equipped with functioning rear-facing cameras are exempt from the requirement to have a spotter. This rule, and HFD II-35 Driving HFD Vehicles Guideline, applies to all ranks and shall be adhered to. Officers and Acting Officers may be subject to disciplinary action along with the E/O or Acting E/O. The “spotter” may also face disciplinary action if it is shown that his/her action or inaction in performance of that duty contributed to a motor vehicle incident. 9.05 Duty to Report Impairments: Drivers shall report to their immediate supervisor any physical conditions (sick, eyesight, upset, etc.) that might impair their driving of a vehicle, either temporarily or permanently. 9.06 Use of Toll Roads: All emergency apparatus will be allowed free access to Toll Roads when responding to and returning from an emergency incident. The preferred use of a Toll Road (emergency or nonemergency) is driving through an E-Z Tag lane. Toll Roads may also be used anytime other roadways are congested causing unacceptable delays. 9.07 Securing of Department Vehicles: Members shall be vigilant and minimize scenarios where department vehicles are left unattended and vulnerable to theft. Heavy apparatus shall not be left unattended unless parked in the station or assigned to an incident and in active use. When not in the station, light duty vehicles will have their ignition key removed and kept in possession of the responsible member. At incident locations where a department vehicle will be left unattended and away from direct view of members for any time, the ignition key will be removed and the vehicle secured. Transport units will be secured with the ignition key removed when at the hospital. 10.00 MISCELLANEOUS DUTIES 10.01 Subpoena to Court: When a member is subpoenaed to appear in a court proceeding related to Houston Fire Department matters (grievances, appeals, depositions, or discipline hearing issues) during duty shift hours, they shall notify their immediate supervisor. (see HFD I-22(A) Scheduled Leaves & Absences Guideline). 10.02 Enforcement of Codes and Ordinances: Members shall enforce the provisions of the fire code and fire ordinances impartially and courteously. 10.03 Valuables Found at a Fire: Money, jewelry, or any other valuables found at a fire shall be turned over to the Incident Commander, who in turn will return them to the owner once proper identification has been made. In the event, that proper identification cannot be made or the owner cannot be located, the personal property shall be forwarded to the Shift Commander with a detailed report. 10.04 Personnel Information: All information regarding employment shall be referred to Human Resources. Members shall not divulge personnel information or make available information contained in personnel records to any person for profit or in violation of law or without authorization. 10.05 Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care: During an emergency incident when a citizen’s pet will be unsecured, or without a person to care for it, the Incident Commander should request BARC through OEC. A pet is considered unsecured when the owner is absent and the normal shelter for the animal is no longer suitable (interior is uninhabitable and I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 14 of 15  the animal is kept indoors, fence containing an outdoor animal is damaged, etc.). EMS transport will not be delayed by waiting for BARC to arrive on scene. OEC may be provided with the patient’s name, address, cellular phone, and the name of the receiving hospital. BARC should contact the owner and begin the process of securing the pet. 11.00 VIOLATIONS 11.01 Violations of any rules, procedures, or general orders of the department, or a failure to comply with any order of a supervisor or failure to perform any assigned duties shall be considered sufficient cause for disciplinary action up to and including indefinite suspension. I-01 HFD Rules and Regulations REV 07/05/2023 Page 15 of 15