STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 I.      Define the different types of laws, explain their basic differences, and how the law functions in society.

 II.     Become familiar with federal, state, and local laws which regulate or influence emergency services.

 III.    Explain the role and purpose of national codes and standards concerning their legal influence.

 IV.     Become familiar with legal decisions that has or will affect the fire service.

 V.      Discuss the organization and legal structure of the fire department.

 VI.     Define the liabilities of firefighters.

 VII.    Recognize legal duties of emergency service members.

 VIII.   Discuss negligence in an emergency setting.

 IX.     Define discrimination and identify areas of potential discrimination in the emergency service.

 X       Identify, explain and discuss the legalities of entrance requirements, residency, grooming, and drug testing.

 XI.     Discuss the scope of the civil rights act.

 XII.    Discuss the parameters and explain the basic intent of the American Disabilities Act, Fair Labor Standards Act, and Family Medical Leave Act.

 XIII.   Explain the at-will doctrine.

 XIV.    Explain the purpose of labor and employment laws.

 XV.     Identify and analyze the major causes involved in the line of duty firefighter deaths related to health, wellness, fitness and vehicle operations.

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I.      The legal system of the United States

         A.      Foundations

         B.      U.S. Constitution

 II.     Civil vs. Criminal

         A.      Differences

         B.      Lawsuits

         C.      Punishments

         D.      Burden of proof

 III.    Tort liability

 IV.     Negligence

 V.      Judicial system

         A.      The court system

         B.      U.S. Supreme Court

         C.      Special courts

         D.      Local courts

         E.      Penalties

 VI.     Federal laws and the fire service

         A.      Fair Labor Standards Act

         B.      Americans with Disabilities Act

         C.      Age discrimination

         D.      Civil rights

         E.      Sexual harassment

 VII.    Employee relations

         A.      Physical testing ¿ Entrance requirements

         B.      Residency requirements

         C.      Grooming standards

         D.      Promotional testing

         E.      Psychological examinations

         F.      Polygraphs

 VIII.   Fire prevention and fire codes

         A.      Fourth amendment

         B.      Certifications

         C.      Building code vs. fire code

         D.      Civil vs. criminal

 IX.     Mutual aid

 X       Hazardous materials

 XI.     Volunteers/contracts

 XII.    Arson