The Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department is hereby established with jurisdictional boundaries that coincide with those of the Borough of Stanhope.
[HISTORY: Adopted by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Stanhope 3-25-2025 by Ord. No. 2025-03.[1] Amendments noted where applicable.]
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed former Ch. 15, Fire Department, adopted 12-6-1905.
The Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department shall consist of a single company known as "Stanhope Hose Company No. 1." The Fire Department may adopt such Standard Operating Procedures ("SOP") as it deems appropriate for its government.
The Fire Department shall be subject to the direct control and oversight of the Stanhope Borough Council. The Borough Council may appropriate such sums of money as authorized by law and as each governing body deems proper, on an annual basis, to fund the operations and capital expenses of the Fire Department, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-34.
A.
Any individual who is a resident of the Borough or resides within a contiguous municipality (per Department SOP), is a citizen of the United States, is at least 18 years of age, has obtained a high school diploma or GED, is of good character, able to pass a background investigation and interview process, and is physically fit to perform the duties of a Fire Department member, as evidenced by a certificate from a certified physician following an examination, shall be eligible for appointment as a probationary member of the Fire Department. Any such medical information shall be collected and kept confidential in accordance with SOPs. Additionally, the individual must meet all relevant New Jersey State requirements, and the standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
B.
Each eligible candidate shall be recommended by the Company and approved by the Borough Council. Upon approval, the candidate shall serve an initial probationary period of 12 months after they have satisfied the state's minimum training requirements.
C.
Probationary and regular members of the Fire Department shall be assigned duties as outlined in the Fire Department rules and regulations, in accordance with New Jersey State laws and NFPA standards.
D.
Any member of the Fire Department may be dismissed, suspended, or relieved from duty for not meeting the Fire Department rules and regulations (as determined solely by the Department, in accordance with its Standard Operating Procedures), as well as New Jersey State laws and NFPA standards established for this purpose.
A.
A Junior Firefighter's Auxiliary Company (hereinafter the "Auxiliary Company") to the Fire Department is hereby established and is subject to the supervision and control of the Fire Chief. The members of the Auxiliary Company shall be known as "junior members."
B.
Junior members shall meet all the qualifications of regular members of the Fire Department, with the exception that their age requirements are as defined per N.J.S.A. 40A:14-98, as may be amended. A junior firefighter may perform non-hazardous support duties at a fire site, so long as they have been appropriately and adequately trained to perform the support duties and are appropriately and adequately supervised in performing those support duties at the fire site. A junior fireman shall be limited to attending meetings of the Junior Firefighter's Auxiliary, receiving instruction, participating in training that does not involve fire, smoke, toxic or noxious gas, or hazardous materials or substances, and observing firefighting activities, while under supervision.
C.
Junior members are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, or a "C" average and may not be failing any class. Any member who receives a GPA below 2.0 or a failing grade for any class shall be required to take an automatic temporary leave of absence from their firefighter duties and will not be permitted to attend any Fire Department functions, nor shall they be permitted at the station, until such time that they can prove that the grade(s) has been improved. Proof of improvement in the form of a report card or written letter from the course instructor shall be required.
D.
Any person seeking to become a junior member must apply and be appointed in the same manner as a member of the Fire Department. Any person, before being considered for membership in the Auxiliary Company, must obtain notarized permission to join the auxiliary from their parents or guardian if under the age of 18 and must submit to the Fire Chief said notarized permission in writing and acknowledged or approved in the manner required by law.
E.
Junior members shall be insured by the same coverage and in the same amounts provided for the members of the Fire Department.
F.
Junior members shall be trained for eventual membership in the Fire Department in accordance with the general and special orders that the Fire Chief may promulgate for said purpose. Junior members shall not operate any Fire Department vehicle or apparatus.
G.
Junior members shall be subject to all provisions of this chapter and shall be subject to suspension or dismissal as provided for by Department Standard Operating Procedures and/or general or special orders issued by the Fire Chief for said purposes.
A.
All Fire Department members are required to fulfill at least 40% of their duties annually if they are non-exempt members and 30% if they are exempt members. The duties are as established each year by the Chief. To participate in these duties, each member must meet all the minimum requirements of a firefighter as defined by the NJ Division of Fire Safety, have satisfactorily passed their annual mask fit test, and have current firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) ("Required Duty"). The actual duties include attendance and active participation in fires and drills. The Chief of the Fire Department is responsible for maintaining records of attendance and reporting them monthly to the Borough Clerk. Members can earn up to an additional 10% credit by participating in approved extra credit activities listed below. These activities must be formally approved in advance by the Chief to ensure alignment with the organization's standards and objectives.
B.
Examples of approved firematic extra credit activities include, but are not limited to:
(1)
Annual Sussex County Firefighter Parade.
(2)
Hackettstown and Newton St. Patrick's Day Parades.
(3)
Stanhope Borough Halloween Parade.
(4)
Stanhope HSA Trunk or Treat.
(5)
Annual fire awareness/prevention training at the local schools.
(6)
Annual Stanhope Borough tree lighting.
(7)
Annual Holiday Santa Run.
(8)
Annual hose and apparatus testing.
(9)
Annual Memorial Day Parade (Stanhope or Byram).
(10)
Annual Netcong Holiday Parade.
(11)
Any other firematic duties as approved by the Chief.
Members who do not meet the required duty standards may participate in non-firematic activities as either associate members or inactive life members. These members are permitted to attend meetings, participate in fundraisers, attend social events, and vote on non-firematic matters. However, they are prohibited from engaging in firematic activities unless they meet the minimum standards for required duty.
Members of the Fire Department can qualify for an exempt fireman certificate if, at the time of their appointment, they met the requirements of N.J.S.A. 40A:14-56, were between 18 and 58 years of age, and completed 40% of fire duty each year over a period of seven years, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-56.
Prospective members must apply to the fire company. Upon selection to membership, the individual shall be recognized as a member in good standing of the Fire Department. The election of new members must be promptly reported to the Borough Clerk, who will maintain an accurate and up-to-date record of all members. Members are exercising a governmental function, per N.J.S.A. 40A:14-68.
A.
To be eligible for an elected officer position within the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department, candidates must have served a minimum of three years as an active member. Additionally, they must meet all state requirements and fulfill the Department's minimum duty requirements. Furthermore, no individual may serve in an officer role unless these criteria are met in full.
B.
The Department shall elect a Chief, First Assistant Chief, Second Assistant Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, Fire Police Captain, and Fire Police Lieutenant, from among members who meet the minimum duty requirements and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety standards for their respective roles. All elected officers are elected to serve a one-year term. Nominations for officers will take place in October. Only qualified candidates who meet the minimum duty requirements and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety standards on the nomination date may be nominated and considered for election. Election of officers will take place in November.
C.
The Chief is limited to a maximum of four consecutive one-year terms, with eligibility for reappointment after a two-year break in service. These officers are tasked with ensuring the Department conducts an annual review of pre-incident planning (per NFPA 1620), risk assessment and risk reduction plan (per NFPA 1300), firefighter qualifications (per NFPA 1001 and NJ Division of Fire Safety standards), and compliance with PPE standards (per NFPA 1851). Only firefighters who meet the minimum duty requirements and New Jersey Division of Fire Safety standards may vote during the election of fire officers. A compliance report, signed by the Chief, First Assistant Chief, and Second Assistant Chief, must be submitted annually to the Borough Clerk for review by the governing body.
A.
Any officer or firefighter shall be subject to removal for just cause upon charges brought by the Fire Chief or their designee; if charges concern the Chief, such charges may be brought by the Assistant Chiefs. Charges may be brought against the Chief based upon a majority vote of all eligible members. The officer or firefighter charged may request a hearing within 10 days of receiving the charges. The Borough Council shall designate a hearing officer who shall consider the sworn testimony of all witnesses and other evidence presented. Hearings may be conducted informally, and the formal rules of evidence need not apply. At the conclusion of the hearing, the hearing officer shall make his written report and recommendations to the Borough Council. The decision of the Borough Council shall be final.
B.
Any firefighter who does not meet the minimum duty requirements and NJ Division of Fire Safety requirements will initially be placed on probation for a three-month period. The firefighter may return to active duty once they have successfully achieved the required standards, demonstrated minimum percentage for a period of three consecutive months, and demonstrates basic firefighter skills commiserative with their level within the Fire Department.
A.
The Fire Chief of the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department holds the highest position of authority within the Department and is responsible for the following key duties:
(1)
Overall command. The Fire Chief is the primary leader and decision-maker within the Department, responsible for commanding all firefighting operations, emergency responses, and training exercises. The Chief ensures that all activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with departmental policies and state regulations.
(2)
Strategic planning. The Fire Chief is responsible for developing and implementing the strategic direction of the Department. This includes long-term planning for resources, personnel, training, and equipment to ensure the Department meets current and future needs.
(3)
Policy and procedure development. The Fire Chief establishes and enforces departmental policies and procedures. The Chief ensures that all members of the Department adhere to these guidelines, which are designed to promote safety, efficiency, and professionalism.
(4)
Personnel management. The Fire Chief oversees the recruitment, training, and development of all Department personnel. This includes evaluating the performance of officers and firefighters, making promotion recommendations, and ensuring that all members meet the required qualifications and standards.
(5)
Budget management. The Fire Chief is responsible for preparing and managing the Department's budget. This includes allocating funds for equipment, training, personnel, and other resources, as well as seeking additional funding or grants when necessary.
(6)
Interagency coordination. The Fire Chief serves as the Department's primary liaison with other emergency services, governmental agencies, and mutual aid partners. The Chief ensures effective collaboration and communication with these entities during joint operations and emergency responses.
(7)
Public relations and community engagement. The Fire Chief represents the Department in the community, promoting fire safety and prevention through public education programs and outreach efforts. The Chief also serves as the Department's spokesperson, communicating with the media and the public during major incidents.
(8)
Emergency response oversight. The Fire Chief takes command of major emergency incidents, coordinating the deployment of resources, directing firefighting and rescue operations, and making critical decisions that affect the outcome of the response.
(9)
Compliance and reporting. The Fire Chief is responsible for ensuring that the Department complies with all applicable NFPA standards, state regulations, and local ordinances. The Chief must submit regular reports to the Borough Council and other governing bodies detailing the Department's activities, compliance status, and any significant incidents or issues.
(10)
Risk management and safety. The Fire Chief oversees the Department's risk management program, ensuring that all operations are conducted safely and that potential hazards are identified and mitigated. The Chief is also responsible for the health and safety of all Department personnel, including the implementation of occupational health programs and ensuring compliance with NFPA 1500 and NFPA 1582 standards.
(11)
Pre-incident planning and review. The Fire Chief ensures that the Department maintains up-to-date pre-incident plans for key locations within the community. The Chief also oversees the regular review and updating of these plans, as well as the Department's Risk Assessment and Risk Reduction Plan in accordance with NFPA 1300.
(12)
Reporting to the Borough. The Fire Chief is responsible for providing monthly and annual reports to the Borough Administrator and Council detailing the Department's firematic activities, training, and compliance with safety and operational standards.
(13)
Succession planning. The Fire Chief is responsible for mentoring and developing the next generation of leaders within the Department, ensuring that there is a clear and effective succession plan in place for key positions.
B.
The Fire Chief is expected to perform these duties with the highest level of integrity, leadership, and commitment to the safety and well-being of both the Department's personnel and the community it serves.
C.
The Fire Chief is authorized to appoint additional officers each year, as deemed necessary to support the effective operation of the Department. These appointments are at the Chief's discretion and each appointee must meet the minimum requirements of the position they are being appointed to. These may include roles such as Engineer, Training Officer, Safety Officer, Health and Wellness Officer, or any other positions that the Chief determines are essential to ensuring that all aspects of the Department's mission are adequately managed. These roles are intended to enhance the Department's capabilities and ensure that the team is fully equipped to meet its operational and safety needs. In addition, the Chief may appoint any other officers if there are any vacancies following the annual election.
A.
The Assistant Chiefs of the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department play crucial roles in supporting the Fire Chief and ensuring the effective operation of the Department. The duties of the First Assistant Chief and the Second Assistant Chief are as follows:
(1)
First Assistant Chief.
(a)
Assume command in Chief's absence. The First Assistant Chief is the second-in-command and assumes all responsibilities of the Fire Chief in their absence. This includes commanding emergency incidents, overseeing Department operations, and making critical decisions.
(b)
Support and assist the Fire Chief. The First Assistant Chief assists the Fire Chief in the development and implementation of departmental policies, procedures, and strategic plans. This includes contributing to budget preparation, resource allocation, and personnel management.
(c)
Training and development oversight. The First Assistant Chief is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the training programs within the Department. This includes ensuring that all firefighters meet the required qualifications, certifications, and participate in regular drills and training exercises.
(d)
Operational readiness. The First Assistant Chief ensures that all equipment, apparatus, and personal protective gear are maintained and ready for immediate use. The Assistant Chief conducts regular inspections and addresses any deficiencies promptly.
(e)
Safety and compliance. The First Assistant Chief works closely with the Fire Chief to ensure that the Department complies with all applicable NFPA standards, state regulations, and departmental policies. This includes overseeing safety protocols and conducting risk assessments.
(f)
Incident reporting and documentation. The First Assistant Chief is responsible for assisting with the documentation of all incidents, training exercises, and departmental activities. This includes preparing reports for the Fire Chief and ensuring that records are accurate and up-to-date.
(g)
Community engagement. The First Assistant Chief plays a role in community outreach and public education programs, representing the Department at public events and promoting fire safety and prevention.
(h)
Mentorship and leadership. The First Assistant Chief mentors junior officers and firefighters, providing guidance and support to help them develop their skills and advance within the Department. The Assistant Chief fosters a positive and professional working environment.
(2)
Second Assistant Chief.
(a)
Assume command in absence of Chief and First Assistant Chief. The Second Assistant Chief steps into the role of commanding officer in the absence of both the Fire Chief and the First Assistant Chief. This includes managing emergency responses, directing operations, and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of all activities.
(b)
Support the First Assistant Chief. The Second Assistant Chief provides support to the First Assistant Chief in overseeing training, operational readiness, and compliance with safety standards. This role includes assisting in the coordination of drills, training exercises, and equipment maintenance.
(c)
Training and development support. The Second Assistant Chief assists with the planning and execution of training programs, ensuring that all Department members are prepared to respond effectively to emergencies. This includes helping to organize training schedules and monitor progress.
(d)
Operational duties. The Second Assistant Chief is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Department, ensuring that all personnel and equipment are prepared for immediate deployment. This includes conducting inspections and addressing any operational issues.
(e)
Safety and compliance monitoring. The Second Assistant Chief plays a key role in enforcing safety protocols and ensuring that all Department activities comply with NFPA standards and state regulations. The Assistant Chief assists in conducting safety audits and risk assessments.
(f)
Incident documentation. The Second Assistant Chief assists in documenting incidents, training sessions, and other significant activities. This includes ensuring that all records are properly maintained and available for review by the Fire Chief and other authorities.
(g)
Community and public relations. The Second Assistant Chief supports community engagement efforts, participating in public safety programs, and representing the Department at community events. This role helps to strengthen the Department's relationship with the public.
(h)
Leadership and mentorship. The Second Assistant Chief mentors junior firefighters and officers, helping them develop their skills and leadership abilities. The Assistant Chief works to maintain a strong, cohesive team that is dedicated to the Department's mission.
B.
Both the First and Second Assistant Chiefs are expected to perform their duties with a high level of professionalism, leadership, and commitment to the safety and well-being of the Department and the community it serves. They are integral to the effective operation of the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department and play a key role in ensuring its success.
A.
The Fire Captain is responsible for the following key duties within the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department:
(1)
Leadership at emergency scenes. The Fire Captain shall assume command at emergency incidents in the absence of higher-ranking officers, ensuring the effective and safe operation of all firefighting and rescue efforts.
(2)
Training and development. The Fire Captain is responsible for organizing and leading regular training sessions for all Department personnel, ensuring that all firefighters are adequately trained and meet the necessary qualifications and standards, including those set by the NFPA and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety.
(3)
Operational oversight. The Fire Captain will supervise daily operations within the firehouse, including equipment maintenance, readiness checks, and the preparation of apparatus and gear to ensure that the Department is fully prepared to always respond to emergencies.
(4)
Compliance and safety. The Fire Captain is tasked with enforcing departmental policies and procedures, particularly those related to safety, and ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and standards.
(5)
Incident reporting. The Fire Captain is responsible for completing detailed reports on all incidents, training exercises, and other significant activities, and for ensuring that these reports are submitted to the appropriate officers and the Borough Clerk as required.
(6)
Community engagement. The Fire Captain shall participate in community outreach programs, fire prevention education, and other activities that promote public safety and strengthen the relationship between the Fire Department and the community.
(7)
Mentorship. The Fire Captain shall serve as a mentor to junior firefighters, providing guidance, support, and leadership to help them develop their skills and advance within the Department.
B.
The Fire Captain is expected to carry out these duties with the highest level of professionalism, ensuring that the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department operates efficiently and effectively in its mission to protect the community.
A.
The Fire Lieutenant within the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department is responsible for the following duties:
(1)
Support and leadership. The Fire Lieutenant assists the Fire Captain in leading the Department, taking charge in the Captain's absence or when directed. The Lieutenant is responsible for ensuring that all operations and duties are carried out effectively and safely.
(2)
Training assistance. The Fire Lieutenant plays a crucial role in the training and development of Department personnel. This includes assisting in organizing training exercises, conducting drills, and ensuring that all firefighters maintain their qualifications and meet departmental and state standards.
(3)
Operational readiness. The Fire Lieutenant is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and readiness of firefighting equipment, apparatus, and personal protective gear. The Lieutenant ensures that all equipment is in proper working order and that the firehouse is prepared for immediate response to emergencies.
(4)
Safety enforcement. The Fire Lieutenant monitors safety practices within the Department, ensuring that all members adhere to safety protocols during training and emergency operations. The Lieutenant also identifies potential hazards and takes corrective actions to mitigate risks.
(5)
Incident reporting. The Fire Lieutenant is responsible for assisting with the documentation of all incidents, training exercises, and other departmental activities. These reports are to be accurate and submitted promptly to the appropriate officers.
(6)
Community relations. The Fire Lieutenant participates in public outreach and education programs, representing the Department in the community and helping to promote fire safety and prevention.
(7)
Mentorship and guidance. The Fire Lieutenant mentors junior firefighters, providing leadership, support, and guidance to help them grow within the Department. The Lieutenant fosters a positive and professional environment that encourages teamwork and skill development.
(8)
Coordination with the Fire Captain. The Fire Lieutenant works closely with the Fire Captain to ensure the smooth operation of the Department. This includes assisting with administrative tasks, coordinating training, and ensuring that all Department objectives are met.
B.
The Fire Lieutenant is expected to perform these duties with a high level of commitment and professionalism, contributing to the overall effectiveness and safety of the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department.
The Fire Police Captain is responsible for overseeing fire police operations, ensuring scene safety and security, traffic control, and coordination with other emergency services. The Lieutenant assumes the captain's responsibilities in their absence. If both are unavailable, the next senior fire police member will take over until the Captain or Lieutenant returns.
A.
Incident response. Every firefighter is required to promptly report to any fire, incident, or operation involving the Fire Department within the borough, unless directed otherwise by the Chief or any Assistant Chief.
B.
Familiarization with guidelines. Each firefighter must take responsibility for familiarizing themselves with the Department's standard operating guidelines and fully understand the chain of command.
C.
Training and compliance. Firefighters are required to regularly attend Department training drills and ensure that they remain current with all mandated state and local training requirements and meet the mandatory minimum duty requirements defined above.
A.
No salary or other compensation shall be paid to the Chief, Assistant Fire Chiefs, Captains and Lieutenants, other staff officers and members of the Fire Department except that each may receive such stipends and clothing allowances as made available by appropriations of the Borough Council for those purposes, in accordance with relevant law and regulations.
B.
Stanhope Borough may offer a volunteer incentive annually, subject to approval in the Borough's budget. This incentive, allocated on a tiered basis, will be available to members who meet the minimum duty requirements for firematic activities, as defined by the Chief level officers. The incentive does not apply to members who do not meet these requirements.
The Stanhope Hose Company No. 1 maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding the consumption of drugs and alcoholic beverages. Under no circumstances shall any member of the Department operate a Department vehicle, respond to a call, or participate in any fire or emergency-related activities if they have consumed any drugs or alcoholic beverages. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of all personnel, the public, and the integrity of our operations. Any violation of this policy will result in immediate disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Our commitment to safety and professionalism is paramount, and all members are expected to adhere to this standard without exception.
The Firematic Committee consists of the Chief, First and Second Assistant Chief, Chair of the Stanhope Public Safety Committee, Vice Chair of the Stanhope Public Safety Committee, and the Mayor. The Committee will meet quarterly to review compliance with the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department Ordinance, NFPA Standards, and NJ Division of Fire Safety regulations. The Committee shall review quarterly reports; review compliance with the Borough ordinance, relevant NFPA standards, and the NJ Division of Fire Safety; and other firematic issues as deemed relevant.