Leave of Absence

Purpose

A Leave of Absence Guideline is created to allow District members a viable means of taking a leave from their duties/responsibilities to the Fire District during those times when work, illness, family or residence issues make serving the community difficult.

Scope

A leave will be granted to a member in good standing with the Fire District for a period of time up to two (2) years. A member in good standing will be determined by the Fire Chief or the acting.

Responsibility

A member requesting a leave must do so in writing. The letter must then be submitted to the Fire Chief, the acting, or Administration.

Procedure

If, and when the member’s request is granted, the member is required to turn in all District equipment in their possession, including, but not limited to: Personal Protective Equipment, Safety Equipment, EMS Equipment, any Radio or Paging Equipment, Keys, Department Placards, and Uniforms.

Leaves may be granted for any length of time up to two (2) years. The following will be the guidelines addressing training requirements upon return from a leave.

  1. One to six months: Meet with the Fire Chief and Station Captain/Officer(s) to be updated on any changes in the District. Any training needed will be determined by the Fire Chief and/or station Officer.
  2. Six months to a year: Meet with the Fire Chief and Station Captain/Officer(s) to be updated on any changes in the District. Task performance evaluation by Training Division or designee to determine skill levels so specific training can be provided to bring skill levels up to standard. Must be certified to Haz-Mat Awareness and Operations level.
  3. Over one year: Meet with the Fire Chief and Station Captain/Officer(s) to be updated on any changes in the District. Must take basic firefighter class or successfully challenge basic testing, both written and task performance. Must be certified to Haz-Mat Awareness and Operations level, Respiratory Standard and all other training required by the District.
  4. Over two years: If the length of a leave of absence continues beyond two (2) years without written approval from the Fire Chief, the volunteer/employee will be terminated.

All requests for reinstatement to active duty must be made in writing to the Fire Chief. The Fire Chief will determine if reinstatement is to be granted.

Violation of this policy is subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination covered in the disciplinary action SOG.