Paramedic ready to chuck it all

[resqmom98]

I currently work as an EMT-P for a part-paid fire protection district. After 3 1/2 years, I was told that I have to become a certified Firefighter II. Having been hired for EMS only, I don't know if they can do this. Our department has been through A LOT of changes, a few of which were good, but more of which are bad (especially lately). They have given everyone until Aug to have have passed 2 mods of FF II or face suspension, yet they are not putting on a regular schedule of the classes in order for us to get the training. I also work heavily in our prevention bureau and pub ed division but they don't allow us to put our great ideas in motion. Has anyone been through this type of stuff? What have you done about it? Our officers are lacking credibility, integrity, and leadership and if it weren't for the fact that I love being a Paramedic and helping people, I would bail out while I had the chance. PLEASE HELP!

[Adler]

How often are they offering classes?? Why are they going to FFII?? Are you a FFI?? If this is going to be a mandatory switch, they need to give people enough time and resources to get certified. Is your department putting the class on themselves?? I know in this area we are lucky to have a FF class once a year. I don't know what the feasibility of your situation is. I would definitely check into it though.

On the other hand (don't you hate it when people say that), it is the departments right to do this as long as they do it according to State Statutes and are following their own set of bylaws. It isn't any different than telling Firefighters that they have to be trained as an EMT because the department is going to start handling Emergency Calls. So, like it or not, you may not have much of a choice in this situation. Good Luck

[CFD14]

The more knowledge you have, the better you will be.