FHWorld16: Each Person Controls Their Integrity, Virtues

You, and you alone, hold the controls for your integrity and reputation.

Without them, your opportunities as a fire service leader are limited.

That’s the message Contra Costa Battalion Chief Bob Atlas shared with his class at Firehouse World.

“Credibility is a key component for success, and should begin when the firefighter pins on the badge for the very first time,” he said.

As the battalion chief believes firefighting mirrors sports, he said it’s all about being part of the team.

“Build strategic relationships. Surround yourselves with others who are trying to promote,” he suggested.

He recalled being part of a study group with others as they prepared to take promotional exams. “We worked together for an entire year. We worked through various tasks and situational issues together. I think we were more effective as a team…”

And, he reminded them that what they do off the clock will affect their careers and promotion potential. In addition, things posted to social media also can cast a dark shadow on the fire service as a whole.

Atlas said the public holds firefighters to a high standard, and it’s imperative that everyone be cognizant.

“You have to be accountable to yourself first. When people see you are loyal and honest, it instills trust…You need to possess the morals and values that others emulate…”

He also stressed the importance for firefighters to encourage their colleagues to be physically ready for the job.

He pointed to studies that show firefighter cancer rates are soaring, and that heart attacks continue to be the leading cause of deaths.

And, he added that it’s up to everyone who dons turnout gear to heed the warnings. “Find a healthy weight, and maintain it.”

It’s vital that every member of the team is at their best. “You can’t do it alone…”

Atlas told the group it’s all about branding. “Strive for excellence. You are setting a personal brand that defines you…”

More from Firehouse World 2016

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• FHWorld16: Firehouse Ambassadors Get Lessons in Values
• FHWorld16: Fireground Air Management - A US/UK Perspective
• FHWorld16: Building a Robust Fire Dynamics Training Program
• FHWorld16: The Halligan Is a Valuable Tool on the Fireground
• FHWorld16: Sendelbach Poses Challenge to Fire Service
• FHWorld16: Chief Hood Says It's 'Time to Own It'
• FHWorld16: Leading Health Risks on the Modern Fireground
• FHWorld16: An International Look at Firefighting
• Photos: Day 2 - Firehouse World 2016
• FHWorld16: Strategies & Tactics for Residential Attic Fires
• FHWorld16: Safety in the Decision-Making Process
• FHWorld16: Trust Between Officers, Chiefs Critical to Fireground Operations
• FHWorld16: Weathering Organizational Change Takes the Efforts of Many
• FHWorld16: Fresno Fire Chief Donis Addresses Cortland Incident
• FHWorld16: Each Firefighter Controls Integrity, Virtues