This page shall serve as the official SOP for Field Training Officer Expectations:

Last Updated:  05/22/2023
By:   Kidd B.

- Purpose

The SAFD Field Training Officer (FTO) Program is a group of selected individuals chosen to assist with interviews, orientations, basic knowledge of the department, and on the job training for a new recruit. FTOs are also the rank of Specialist and serve as the department's subject matter experts and Training Officers for the Special Operations Division.

Training is the single most important element for a safe, professional, and effective fire department. It is imperative that all members are properly trained on all aspects of firefighting to help safeguard his/her life, the lives of other firefighters and the lives of those we serve. In order for the SAFD to achieve this, it is imperative that we have highly qualified, highly motivated people the role of Field Training Officer.

- F.T.O Expectations

• FTOs must be knowledgeable,  friendly, and approachable

  • Do your best to answer questions, but don't be afraid to say "I don't know".  Use your resources to find an answer or solution

• FTO’s are responsible for training new members of SAFD. To get the best out of everyone it is important to perform our duties by the book. This will reflect itself in the outstanding performance of our new members. 

• Communication is key. Member performance, issues, etc. are all vital pieces of information, FTOs are expected to pass along to your team. Follow the Chain of Command, FTO Chat and Employees Records channel to help inform others

• Attention to detail is important and applies to all parts of being an FTO; accuracy is essential

• Self-discipline and humility are difficult traits, but very useful. Knowing when to be firm and when to be relaxed, admitting you’re wrong, and being accountable are qualities expected of FTOs

• When members bring concerns to you, listen to them, and make the alert your commanding officer following the chain of command.

• Ride-along / do scenes with new members to help them grow and learn from you. Helping others boosts their confidence and skill, and they will be as experienced as you in no time

• As noted above, FTOs educate the members of the department. With that in mind, make sure that you act as a role model. Be an example of the policies and procedures that you teach others

• If you have persistent concerns with a member’s performance, bring it up with the appropriate Chain of Command

• Aside from approachability, FTOs must be fair and impartial. Keep in mind that conflicts of interest may arise if you judge the performance of your friends. Do not be afraid to ask for another FTO to coach instead of you

• Communication is key. Member performance, issues, etc. are all vital pieces of information to pass along to your team

• FTOs hold no rank above other members. They do not have authority to remove anyone from the community, and have no power to handle feedback or discipline. The FTO’s only authority is with the members they teach.  Refer to the Disciplinary Process for more information