Question

Fire department liability is incredibly difficult to define concretely because there are so many variables that govern liability, and each of those variables are difficult to define. Reaching a big picture definition that is broad and clear is extremely difficulties because of the nuances of where things begin and end. California law states that fire fighters are granted immunity if injuries or fatalities are caused within the scope of fighting fires. Lavrinets (2011) argues that there is complications in defining whether or not that extends to apparatus accidents on the way to or back from these activities. In other words, defining when fighting fires starts and stops is a variable that is difficult to define and causes consternation in those looking for clear liability. Another difficulty in determining liability and immunity in concrete terms is due to the discretionary nature and split-second decision making that must be made at emergency scenes. Qualified immunity protects fire department functions at emergency scenes based on this notion, and the scrutiny occurs by a semblance of the reasonable person standard. The leaders of the organization must be cognizant of the ever-increasing litigation of their members and should craft training in ways to prevent their diminishing protections (Kistner, 2004).

What could have been done different?

Answer 1

The leaders as well as the management must be ready with crisis management plan and emergency plan, which must be put to action, in case of any emergency or crisis. Thorough risk analysis must be conducted by the strategy team and contingency plan to mitigate the same must be developed. All identified risks must be managed. Also regular trainings must be given to the employees and workers of the company to prepare them to face any kind of disaster or emergency situations. Mock evacuation drills can also be executed to facilitate the employee response in kind of crisis and emergency situation.