The Berkeley Hills Rookie Book was created in X with one common goal in mind: establish core competencies, standards, and job performance responsibilities for every member that steps into our firehouse. After successfully joining the Company and completing onboarding, every Probationary Firefighter receives their Rookie Book. The book is just one of many assets that probationers at Berkeley Hills receive in order to develop them into intelligent, aggressive, and proactive firemen.
The book is divided into seven sections: History & General Knowledge, QRS Responses, Engine Company Operations, Truck Company Operations, First Due Familiarization, General Knowledge Exam, and Practical Skills Exam. Every section concludes with a set of questions to answer for accuracy and skills competencies that must be signed off by a Line Officer or Senior Member.
SETTING THE STANDARD
Every new member receives a rookie book to be completed within their probationary year. The goal of the book is to provide new members an introduction to our department, how we operate, and what is to be expected of them. A standard set of operating principles allows for seamless fireground operations, where every member knows their responsibility as it corresponds to where they are riding that day. More importantly, it ensures every member is upheld to the same standard under the same set of competencies, so there is no confusion among operations between members.
Our first due is incredibly diverse, and requires our members to be ready for incidents at any location. The book covers firefighting (and medical services) in residential, multi-family, commercial, heavy commercial, industrial, and other settings commonly found in our response area. In total, it takes most probationers 5-8 months to complete.
MEASURING SUCCESS
Mentorship & Support
Probationers are assigned mentors to assist them with completing their book, typically a Senior Member or a Line Officer. Although the goal of the book is for the probationer to seek the answers to the book themselves, we are always here to help and become better together, as one team.
Knowledge & Practical Exams
Written, verbal, and practical exams allow probationers to demonstrate their mastery of topics learned from the book, ultimately measuring their success.
Completion of the Book
After completing the book and satisfying all requirements including passing all exams, the probationers are promoted to Active Firefighter, receive their black shield, and are now fully qualified Berkeley Hills firemen.