Indiana Administrative Code Title 655 - BOARD OF FIREFIGHTING PERSONNEL STANDARDS AND EDUCATION
Overview
Title 655 of the Indiana Administrative Code establishes the Board of Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education, the primary state body responsible for setting qualifications, training standards, and certification requirements for firefighters and related emergency response personnel in Indiana.
Its purpose is to ensure that all firefighting personnel in the state are properly trained, professionally certified, and equipped to handle emergencies, protect lives, and safeguard property.
Key Elements of Title 655
1. Creation and Authority of the Board
The board is a state-level entity with authority over firefighting education, certification, and training standards.
It provides a consistent framework for firefighter preparation across Indiana.
Acts as the rule-making and oversight body for firefighter qualifications and continuing education.
2. Membership and Organization
The board is typically composed of:
Experienced fire chiefs
Career and volunteer firefighters
Representatives from local fire departments
Instructors from fire training academies
Public or community representatives
Members serve staggered terms to ensure continuity.
Officers (such as a chairperson and vice-chairperson) are elected from among board members.
3. Meetings and Procedures
Regular meetings are scheduled to review training standards, certifications, and disciplinary matters.
Special meetings may be called to address urgent issues such as new firefighting technologies, safety risks, or statewide fire emergencies.
Decisions usually require a quorum of members present.
4. Powers and Responsibilities
The board’s core duties include:
Training Standards
Establishing curriculum requirements for basic firefighter training, hazardous materials response, rescue operations, and officer development.
Certification & Licensing
Certifying firefighters at different levels (basic, advanced, instructor, officer).
Creating reciprocity pathways for out-of-state firefighters.
Continuing Education
Requiring ongoing education and refresher training to keep firefighters up to date with new techniques, safety standards, and equipment.
Instructor Oversight
Approving and certifying instructors who train firefighters within Indiana.
Safety & Professional Standards
Ensuring all personnel meet professional conduct, safety, and operational standards.
5. Training and Certification Programs
The board designs and approves official training programs offered through fire academies and local departments.
Training may include:
Fire suppression techniques
Emergency medical response basics
Hazardous material containment
Incident command systems
Fire prevention and investigation
Certifications are often issued at multiple levels, from entry-level firefighter to chief officer certifications.
6. Fire Academy and Local Training Oversight
The board accredits fire training academies and ensures local fire departments meet educational requirements.
It monitors quality of instruction, facilities, and equipment used for training.
7. Disciplinary Authority
The board has the power to suspend, revoke, or deny certifications if a firefighter or instructor fails to meet required standards or engages in misconduct.
Complaints, investigations, and hearings are handled through formal board procedures.
8. Coordination with Other Agencies
Works with state and local emergency management agencies to maintain uniform training and emergency preparedness.
Provides input for fire-related safety campaigns and public education.
9. Reporting and Accountability
Keeps records of certified firefighters, instructors, and training centers.
Submits reports to state officials about firefighter readiness and training progress.
Evaluates statewide firefighting needs and recommends improvements.
Importance of Title 655
Creates uniform professional standards for all firefighters in Indiana.
Enhances public safety by ensuring firefighters are well-trained.
Provides a structured career path for firefighting personnel.
Ensures accountability and professionalism in the fire service.
Supports both career and volunteer firefighters, recognizing Indiana’s mixed fire service system.
✅ In short: Indiana Administrative Code Title 655 – Board of Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education sets the foundation for firefighter education, certification, and professionalism in Indiana. It ensures that every firefighter—whether career or volunteer—meets the same rigorous standards for training, safety, and service to the community.
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