DRAFT DOCUMENT – OFFICE DOC WILL BE MOLDED INTO SOP TEMPLATE

Spencer Fire Company, Inc.

Purpose:           The intent of this policy is to inform the membership that the consumption of alcoholic beverage is not desired nor expected as the use of alcohol presents us with a serious liability exposure that needs to be strictly controlled for the benefit of all.

Policy:             
1.0              Alcohol consumption will not be permitted in or on fire station property except for a specified social function.
2.0              No firefighter shall perform any safety-sensitive functions for or on behalf of the Spencer Fire Company, Inc. when that firefighter uses any controlled substance, except when such use is pursuant to the instructions of a physician, and the district has been provided with written assurance by the physician that such use will not adversely affect the ability to perform safety-sensitive functions. Firefighters shall report any use of prescribed medication that could adversely affect the ability to perform safety-sensitive functions to a Chief Officer.  The firefighter shall not participate in any safety-sensitive district activities while using such medication without the written assurance of a physician that such use will not adversely affect the ability to perform safety-sensitive functions.
3.0              It is expected that members will be responsible for their safety and the safety of others when it comes to drinking. Any member that has been drinking shall not respond to any call. If a firefighter feels that another firefighter, including line officers, is under the influence of alcohol and may impose a safety threat, it should be brought to the attention of a line officer or senior member. Remember, the department is serving the community and each firefighter’s actions are under scrutiny from the community.
4.0              All personnel are absolutely prohibited from unlawfully manufacturing, distributing, possessing or using controlled or illegal substances. It is a condition of membership to refrain from taking illegal drugs on or off the job.
5.0              If there is a suspicion that the member possess or uses drugs or alcohol; is observed intoxicated or impaired by drugs or alcohol, has been reported by a reliable and credible source as using drugs; has caused or contributed to or been involved in an incident, or is engaged in abnormal conduct or erratic behavior during firematic duties, or shows significant deterioration in work performance will be asked to leave by the officer in charge.
6.0              The use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, especially those that are labeled that driving or machinery operation is affected, can also influence incident scene performance. Personnel using these legal drugs should not respond if performance is impaired.