CRS , Part 12 creates the Fire Safety Advisory Board, the general purpose of which is to:

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1 SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION The Voluntary Certification Program for Fire Fighters began on June 21, when House Bill 1243 was signed into law. The general purpose of the certification program is to measure the level of knowledge, skills and abilities possessed by firefighters and first responders and to attest that these individuals meet nationally recognized standards. These competency based standards permit evaluation of training programs and promotes uniformity in firefighter and first responder training. The Colorado Firefighter Certification Program is a voluntary program, meaning that there is no statutory requirement that firefighters become certified. The certification program establishes a means to judge the proficiency of firefighters and first responders, irrespective of their department affiliation and regardless of whether they are paid or volunteer. On April 21, 1995, The International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) approved the Colorado Division of Fire Safety Fire Fighter I and Fire Officer I certification programs for National Accreditation. The Division of Fire Safety implemented its approved National Accredited programs on September 15,1995. Fire Safety Advisory Board CRS , Part 12 creates the Fire Safety Advisory Board, the general purpose of which is to: Establish a fire service education and training program; Set minimum standards for training and certification; Establish procedures for determining if firefighters meet these minimum standards; and Certify applicants who meet the established minimum standards. The Fire Safety Advisory Board is comprised of nine members appointed by the Governor, and representing the major fire service organizations in the state, municipalities, fire protection districts and the property and casualty insurance industry. Fire Service Training Program The State of Colorado Fire Service Training Program, previously under the supervision of the State Board of Community Colleges, and Occupational Education, was transferred to the Division of Fire Safety on July 1, In 1970, the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) manuals published by Fire Protection Publications, Oklahoma State University, were adopted as the standards for the fire service training program. The Advisory Board has established the IFSTA training manuals, IFSTA Instructor lesson plans, and curriculum packages as the minimum curriculum leading to state certification. IFSTA training manuals are available for purchase from the Division of Fire Safety, 700 Kipling Street, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80215, telephone number (303) SECTION 2 PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY FOR ESTABLISHING RULES 2.1 The purpose of the Firefighter Certification Program is to measure the level of knowledge, skills and abilities possessed by firefighters and to attest that these individuals meet nationally recognized standards. These competency based standards permit evaluation of training programs and promotes uniformity in firefighter training.

2 2.2 The purpose of these rules is to replace the existing rules pertaining to the Firefighter Certification Program with rules that will more adequately achieve the following goals and objectives: Address current firefighting principles and practices Establish and promote the fire service in the State of Colorado as a professional service Improve the performance and coordination of fire suppression and fire prevention activities through the development of minimum performance standards for all applicants Develop more competent and reliable fire service personnel through the adoption of national professional qualifications standards Establish and maintain valid procedures that measure specific levels of skills, abilities and knowledge consistent with standards approved and adopted by the Fire Safety Advisory Board Establish a statewide uniform testing procedure that will ensure all practical skills evaluated and all practical examinations conducted are performed and evaluated in a consistent manner for all fire fighters throughout the State of Colorado Establish a fire service education and training program setting forth minimum standards for training and instructors Establish and implement a certification program that will ensure complete impartiality and confidentiality and is designed in such a manner to safeguard against misuse and abuse Ensure that all nationally accredited programs are administered with strict adherence to the requirements and recommendations of the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress Establish disciplinary procedures for denial, revocation, limitation, or suspension of an individual's firefighter certificate and/or an accredited academy's recognition; and Ensure compliance with C.R.S (12.5), concerning incorporation by reference requirements, and to reinstate certain rules that were not extended by Senate Bill for noncompliance with these requirements. 2.3 Authority for the promulgation of these rules is set forth in C.R.S through All publications, standards or rules adopted and incorporated by reference in these rules are on file and available for public inspection during normal business hours by contacting the certification program administrator for the Colorado D vision of Fire Safety, 700 Kipling Street, Suite 1000, Denver, CO All publications, standards or rules adopted and incorporated by reference in these rules may also be examined at any state publications depository library. This rule does not include later amendments to or editions of any materials incorporated by reference. 2.5 The Advisory Board, in its discretion, may adopt policies concerning the implementation or interpretation of these rules at any regular or special meeting. 2.6 The Division, in its discretion, may adopt policies or guidelines concerning the methods, procedures and processes for administering the certification program.

3 2.7 Questions, clarification, or interpretation of these rules should be addressed in writing to: Fire Safety Advisory Board, Colorado Division of Fire Safety, 700 Kipling Street, Suite 1000, Denver, CO SECTION 3 DEFINITIONS 3.1 The following definitions apply only to these rules and DO NOT in any way apply to the rules, regulations, practices, or procedures of a local fire service unit or organization. 3.2 All definitions which appear in C.R.S shall apply to these rules. 3.3 ADVISORY BOARD (BOARD) - The Fire Safety Advisory Board created pursuant to Also refers to the members appointed by the Governor to serve on the Advisory Board for prescribed terms. 3.4 AERIAL LADDER APPARATUS - A fire response apparatus with a permanently mounted, power operated aerial ladder, articulating boom, with or without platforms at the highest point, including Tele- Squrt pumpers. 3.5 APPLICANT - A person who has satisfied the requirements to be examined for certification or an entity that applies for recognition as an accredited academy. 3.6 CERTIFIED - Applicants who have successfully met or exceeded cognitive and psychomotor behavioral objectives of the Voluntary Fire Fighter Certification Program. 3.7 CERTIFIED PROCTOR - An individual who meets or exceeds the requirements to be certified as a written and/or practical examination proctor. 3.8 CERTIFYING AGENCY - The Colorado Division of Fire Safety, Colorado Department of Public Safety. 3.9 CHIEF LEVEL OFFICER RANK - Chief or chief executive officer of the department; or Chief officer or equivalent who heads a major bureau or division within a fire department or organization; or Chief officer or equivalent who commands multi-company or multi- station operations on the emergency incident scene or who may command a greater alarm incident CLASS - A single meeting or session devoted to a specific fire service or non-fire service training objective COGNITIVE OBJECTIVE - Pertinent written questions, lists, or problems relative to the level at which a person is being tested CONTINUING EDUCATION - A course of instruction or a self directed program, extended over a period of three years, which meets the educational requirements for renewal of certification COURSE - Any grouping of classes, or series of lessons or lectures combined to attain a particular education level or training objective DEMONSTRATE - To show by actual use. This may be supplemented by or, when actual use is not feasible, replaced by simulation, explanation, illustration, or a combination of these methods DEPARTMENT - A fire service unit defined in this section DEPARTMENT HEAD - The chief executive officer of an organization DIRECTOR - The Director of the Division of Fire Safety, Department of Public Safety, State of

4 Colorado DIVISION - The Division of Fire Safety, Department of Public Safety, State of Colorado FIREFIGHTER - A member of a fire service unit FIRE SERVICE UNIT - A public government, or private fire department or fire service organization of a Federal, State, County, Municipality or Special District whose responsibility includes fire protection, fire prevention, or fire investigation NATIONAL ACCREDITATION - Issued to a candidate who has met all of the requirements of the NFPA Standards, and has taken an passed both the written and practical examinations, when required, for an accredited level of certification that meets the requirements of the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress NFPA - The National Fire Protection Association NON-CERTIFIED - Any applicant who does not possess a valid certification certificate recognized by the Board POLICIES - Formal guidelines promulgated by the Division and/or the Advisory Board concerning the methods, procedures and processes for implementing these rules and administering the certification program PSYCHOMOTOR OBJECTIVE - Actual use or performance, safely and efficiently accomplished within a specified time limit and in accordance with procedures and standards established for National Accreditation of Firefighters and meets the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association Standards as its basis REFRESHER TRAINING - A course of instruction, condensed over a short period of time, designed to provide training to persons for the purpose of preparing them for renewal of certification SAFELY - Means to perform the objective without endangering or injuring oneself or others STATE ACCREDITED ACADEMY - a fire training academy or a college delivering technical fire related courses that makes application to the Advisory Board for special consideration of the certification process and is approved by the Advisory Board for recognition STATE ACCREDITED DEPARTMENT - A fire department that petitions the Advisory Board for special consideration of the certification process, and is approved by the Advisory Board for accreditation WITH COMPETENCE - Possessing knowledge, training, skills and judgment needed to satisfactorily and safely perform indicated objectives, as determined by the examining authority. SECTION 4 REQUIRED TRAINING/TRAINING CURRICULUM 4.1 The department head of each organization shall designate the type and kind of training required. However, all training must meet the National Fire Protection Association professional qualifications standards. Explanatory Information: The department head has the ultimate responsibility to ensure to the citizens of their jurisdiction that the individual is property 'rained. The department head also has the responsibility for certifying to the Division that the individual applying for certification at any level, or renewal of certification, is adequately trained and qualified for the requested level of certification. The department head of each organization is responsible for the credibility of the

5 certification program as it relates to the organization. Emergency responses are considered experience - not training. 4.2 Training subjects for the various levels of certification are those listed in the National Fire Protection Association Standards for Professional Qualifications. 4.3 The NFPA Standards adopted and incorporated herein by this reference, a re as follows: NFPA Fire Service Professional Qualifications Accreditation and Certification Systems, 1994 edition NFPA Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, 1987 edition NFPA Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, 1992 edition NFPA Fire Department Vehicle Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications, 1993 edition NFPA Airport Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, 1994 edition NFPA Fire Officer Professional Qualifications, 1992 edition NFPA Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector, 1993 edition NFPA Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator, 1993 edition NFPA Professional Qualifications for Public Fire and Life Safety Educator, 1993 edition NFPA Fire Service Instructor Professional Qualifications, 1992 edition NFPA Wildland Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, 1995 edition NFPA Standard for Professional Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents, 1992 edition NFPA publications can be ordered from the National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Certification Guide is adopted and incorporated herein by this reference. NWCG publications may be ordered from the National Interagency Fire Center, 3833 South Development Avenue, Boise, Idaho All publications, standards or rules adopted and incorporated by reference in these rules are on file and available for public inspection during normal business hours by contacting the certification program administrator for the Colorado Division of Fire Safety, 700 Kipling Street, Suite 1000, Denver, CO All publications, standards or rules adopted and incorporated by reference in these rules may also be examined at any state publications depository library. This rule does not include later amendments to or editions of any materials incorporated by reference. 4.6 The Advisory Board has established the IFSTA training manuals, IFSTA Instructor lesson plans, and curriculum packages as the minimum curriculum leading to state certification. 4.7 IFSTA training manuals, IFSTA Instructor lesson plans, and curriculum packages are available for purchase from the Division of Fire Safety, 700 Kipling Street, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80215, telephone

6 number (303) SECTION 5 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION 5.1 To initiate the certification process, the Division must receive a completed Application and Request for Examination. The application forms are available from the Division upon request Experience, training and education credits and/or a combination of these areas may be used to determine eligibility for certification Unless otherwise noted in these rules, written examinations are required for certification at all levels Psychomotor performance objectives shall be taught by a certified instructor A completed application form signed by the applicant, department head and/or instructor (if applicable) shall serve to document those items specified in through Any incomplete application received by the Division will be returned to the organization. 5.2 By signing the application for examination and/or the examination answer sheet, the applicant authorizes the Division to release test results to the applicant's department head or designee. 5.3 The organization requesting certification must submit applications and fees a minimum of thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled examination date. Exception: Application for Fire Investigator certification must be submitted sixty (60) days prior to written examination. 5.4 The organization requesting certification testing will assume responsibility for setting the location of the examination and coordination of the date and time with the certified proctor. 5.5 The testing material will be made available for the certified proctor designated by the organization requesting examinations. It is the organization's responsibility to provide number 2 pencils for all applicants taking the written examination. 5.6 Applicants who are unable to attend the examination at the scheduled date and time may reschedule the examination if arrangements are made between the proctor and the Division. 5.7 A written examination will only be administered to Applicants who have successfully completed the practical examination for the level of certification sought. 5.8 Applicants who receive less than a passing score on their written examinations will be required to retake the entire examination. A minimum thirty (30) day waiting period is required between examination attempts. 5.9 After the third unsuccessful examination, all applicants must wait for ninety (90) days, then start the process over. It is recommended that the applicant attend another training course for the level of certification they are trying to obtain during the ninety day period A practical examination is valid for one year from the date of the examination. Within one year of successful completion of the practical examination, all other requirements for certification must be met. If the applicant does not become certified, the practical examination is no longer valid, and the applicant must start the process over.

7 5.11 The Advisory Board may assign a Board member or certified proctor to test selected psychomotor objectives and review an applicant's training records Certification will be awarded for a three (3) year period Certificates will be issued with the expiration dates of January 1 or July 1, depending on when the applicant is certified. SECTION 6 PROCTORS 6.1 This section applies to any applicant for certification as a written examination proctor, and for certification as a practical examination proctor at any level. 6.2 The following practical examination proctor certification levels are hereby established: Firefighter I and Firefighter II Driver/Operator Wildland Firefighter Airport Firefighter 6.3 Any written or practical examination, for any level of certification established by these rules, must be administered by a certified proctor. 6.4 Applicants for certification as a written and/or practical proctor must meet or exceed all applicable requirements contained in NFPA Standard 1000, Fire Service Professional Qualifications Accreditation and Certification Systems, 1994 edition, and this section Applicants for proctor certification must attend and successfully complete a Division approved proctor training program for each level of proctor certification requested A completed Proctor Application Form shall be submitted by an applicant at the time of attendance at an approved proctor training program Applicants for proctor certification must receive a score of eighty percent (80%) or above on the written examination for each level of proctor certification requested Applicants for practical examination proctor certification must obtain a score of Pass on the Practical Proctor Performance Evaluation administered during the approved proctor training program EXCEPTION: An applicant requesting proctor certification for written examinations ONLY may contact the Division to obtain a self-study packet. Receipt of the required Proctor Application Form, along with successfully passing the written proctor examination qualifies an applicant to become certified as a proctor There shall be no fee for proctor certification Proctor certification will be awarded for a three (3) year period. 6.6 WRITTEN EXAMINATION PROCTORS. All written examination proctors are required to comply with all rules, guidelines, policies and procedures for proctoring written examinations as set forth by the Advisory Board or the Division.

8 6.7 PRACTICAL EXAMINATION PROCTORS. All practical examination proctors are required to: Be certified by the Division as a practical examination proctor for each level of practical examination they are proctoring Hold a valid Colorado certification at or above the level they are proctoring Be knowledgeable of the National Fire Protection Association Professional Qualification Standards psychomotor objectives for each level of practical examination they are proctoring All practical examination proctors are required to comply with all rules, guidelines, policies and procedures for proctoring practical examinations as set forth by the Advisory Board or the Division. SECTION 7 FIREFIGHTER CERTIFICATION LEVELS 7.1 All applicants for the written examination for fire fighter levels must meet or exceed all qualifications contained in the National Fire Protection Association Standard 1001, 1992 edition. 7.2 All applicants for the fire fighter levels must pass a practical examination administered by a certified proctor. 7.3 All applicants for the written examination for fire fighter levels must submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form. 7.4 FIRE FIGHTER I LEVEL 7.5 FIRE FIGHTER II LEVEL Applicants who become certified at the Fire Fighter I level must become affiliated with a fire service unit if they desire to apply for Fire Fighter II certification Applicants who become certified at the Fire Fighter I level must become affiliated with a fire service unit before they can renew their Fire Fighter I certification when it expires Applicants must get a score of seventy (70) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass All applicants must be certified as a Fire Fighter I All applicants must have a minimum of one (1) full year of documented fire service experience Journeyman fire fighters of the U. S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship programs may challenge Fire Fighter II written examinations upon the presentation of a valid journeyman certificate Applicant must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass. SECTION 8 FIRE INSTRUCTOR I 8.1 The Fire Instructor I level of certification for the State of Colorado will meet or exceed the Fire Service

9 Instructor Professional Qualifications, NFPA Standard 1041, 1992 edition. 8.2 A successful applicant for the Fire Instructor I level of certification must fulfill the following requirements: The applicant must submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form The applicant must submit documentation of a minimum three (3) years of fire service experience, emergency medical service experience, wildland fire service experience, or emergency response service experience The applicant must have a minimum certification of Fire Fighter I, Wildland Fire Fighter II, or other certification as approved by the Advisory Board Applicants who are not affiliated with fire service units and who desire to be certified as Fire Instructors may do so by submitting a current resume and an application and request for examination signed by the President of the Colorado Fire Training Officer's Association to the Division The applicant shall include with their application, a letter of recommendation from their department head stating that they are currently involved in the organization's training program, and have conducted a training class during the past twelve (12) months The applicant shall present documentation of successful completion of an instructor training course within the past three (3) years. Acceptable instructor training courses include: (a) Any National Fire Academy Instructor Course. (b) State of Colorado Vocational Education 270 class (c) Accredited fire service instructor courses accepted by the Advisory Board Documentation of the above classes is not required if the applicant possesses one of the following: (a) Valid State of Colorado Teaching Certificate issued by the State Board of Education (b) Bachelors Degree or higher in Education (c) An approved level of training and/or certification accepted by the Advisory Board The applicant must successfully pass a written examination based upon text references established by the Advisory Board Applicants must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the written examination to successfully pass. SECTION 9 DRIVER/OPERATOR 9.1 The State of Colorado Driver/Operator level of certification is designed to provide the Colorado fire service with a minimum standard to certify persons for non emergency driving and operating fire apparatus.

10 9.2 The Driver/Operator certification program is based upon the NFPA Standard 1002, Fire Department Vehicle Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications, 1993 edition. 9.3 All applicants for certification at any level of Driver/Operator must first be certified at the Fire Fighter I level. 9.4 The applicant must submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form. 9.5 All applicants for Driver/Operator must specify on their application which level they desire to test for An applicant previously certified at the Utility level may test for the Pumperlevel, or the Pumper and Aerial levels concurrently. An applicant previously certified at the Pumper level may test for the Aerial level An applicant for initial certification may test at only the Utility level, test for Utility and Pumper concurrently, or test for Utility, Pumper and Aerial concurrently. 9.6 DRIVER/OPERATOR CERTIFICATION CLASSIFICATIONS Driver/Operator Utility: Covers the basic driving skills and maintenance of most vehicles Driver/Operator Pumper: Covers fire department vehicles equipped with a pump having a capacity of greater than 750 gallons per minute. This level covers driving of a pumping apparatus and fire ground operation of a pumping apparatus Driver/Operator Aerial: Covers fire department vehicles with a permanently mounted, power operated aerial ladder or elevating platform including elevated master stream appliances affixed to the apparatus. 9.7 The Advisory Board determines that, due to the numerous variety of specialized apparatus, training and testing for the Specialized Equipment level should be performed at the local level, and no state certification is provided. 9.8 Specialized Equipment includes, but is not limited to, tiller operated aerial apparatus, heavy rescue apparatus, water tenders, crash fire rescue apparatus, and any other vehicles not covered in the above classifications. 9.9 Applicants must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass The program involves both written and practical examinations at each level to ensure that the applicant is capable of maintaining, driving and operating the apparatus prior to certification. SECTION 10 FIRE OFFICER CERTIFICATION 10.1 The Fire Officer level of certification for the State of Colorado will meet or exceed the Fire Officer Professional Qualifications, NFPA Standard 1021,1992 edition FIRE OFFICER I. A successful applicant for the Fire Officer I level of certification must fulfill the following requirements: Submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form Submit a letter of approval from the department head of their organization.

11 Colorado certified at the Fire Fighter II level Possess Colorado Emergency Medical Service First Responder or higher level certification (ie. EMT) Achieve a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the written examination to successfully pass FIRE OFFICER II. A successful applicant for the Fire Officer II level of certification must fulfill the following requirements: Certified at the Fire Officer I Level Certified as a Colorado Fire Instructor I Submit a letter of approval from the department head of their organization Submit a completed Fire Officer II Matrix Application with their Application and Request for Testing form as a part of the application process. Matrix Application forms are available from the Division Submit a summary letter (resume) listing education, training and experience, based upon the requirements of NFPA 1021 Standard to the Division with their applications The Advisory Board will have a subcommittee review board, comprised of members appointed by the Board. The review board must review the applicant's submitted information. (a) If the review board approves the applicant's qualifications, they will recommend the applicant to the Division for taking the written examination. (b) If the review board disapproves the applicant's qualifications, a letter will be sent to the applicant, explaining why the request for certification was denied Applicants must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass FIRE OFFICER III. A successful applicant for the Fire Officer III level of certification must fulfill the following requirements: Must be of chief level officer rank. To be considered a chief level officer the applicant must have served or be serving in that capacity The applicant must submit a completed Division Application and Request for Testing form, a Fire Officer III Matrix Application, a complete resume, supporting documents, including copies of educational degrees, National Fire Academy certificates, and a personnel/organizational chart indicating their position within their organization Fire Officer III Matrix Application forms are available from the Division, with the standard Division Application form. The matrix is based upon the requirements for NFPA Standard 1021 for Fire Officer III The Advisory Board will have a subcommittee review board comprised of members appointed by the Board. The review board will review documents presented to

12 the Division. The review board has the right to verify the items in all documents, and to interview the applicant. (a) If the review board approves the applicant's qualifications, they will recommend the applicant to the Advisory Board for Fire Officer III certification. (b) If the review board disapproves the applicant's qualifications, a letter will be sent to the applicant, explaining why the request for certification was denied. SECTION 11 FIRE INSPECTOR I CERTIFICATION 11.1 The Colorado Fire Inspector I certification program will meet or exceed the Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector, NFPA Standard 1031,1993 edition A successful applicant must meet the following requirements: Have reached the age of 18 years on their last birthday Submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form Have a minimum of one (1) full year of documented fire service experience as a fire inspector Provide the Division with documentation of experience and training in fire prevention and inspection Achieve a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the written examination to successfully pass. SECTION 12 PUBLIC FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY EDUCATOR 12.1 The Colorado Public Fire Educator certification program will meet or exceed the Professional Qualifications for Public Fire and Life Safety Educator, NFPA Standard 1035, 1993 edition A successful applicant must meet the following requirements: Submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form Provide a letter of recommendation from their department head stating their ability to interact with the public with tact and discretion, showing their knowledge and ability to educate the public about fire and life safety Current and valid Colorado Fire Instructor certification Provide the Division with documentation of education, training and experience in the field of public fire education Applicants must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass. SECTION 13 FIRE INVESTIGATOR 13.1 The Colorado Fire Investigator certification program will meet or exceed the Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator, NFPA Standard 1033,1993 edition.

13 13.2 A successful applicant for the Fire Investigator level of certification must fulfill the following requirements: Submit an Application and Request for Examination form to the Division Submit an Application for Certification as a Fire Investigator form, describing education, training and experience based upon the NFPA 1033 Standard, to the Division with their Application and Request for Examination form The Advisory Board will appoint a subcommittee review board, comprised of seven members. Six of these members will be arson investigators within the state and one member will be a member of the Advisory Board. The subcommittee review board will review the applicant's documents. If the review board approves the applicant's qualifications, they will recommend the applicant to the Division for the written examination. If the review board disapproves the applicants qualifications, a letter will be sent to the applicant, explaining why the request for certification was denied. The review board has the right to verify the items in the applicant's documents and to interview the applicant Applicants must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass The written examination for Fire Investigator will only be administered in June and December of each year. Applicants must be approved for taking the written examination thirty (30) days prior to the test date. SECTION 14 WILDLAND FIRE FIGHTER 14.1 The Wildland Fire Fighter certification program for the State of Colorado will meet or exceed all training objectives contained in the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Certification Guide All applicants for the written examination for the Wildland Fire Fighter levels must meet or exceed all qualifications contained in the National Fire Protection Association Standard 1051,1995 edition and these rules WILDLAND FIRE FIGHTER I. A successful applicant for Wildland Fire Fighter I must fulfill the following requirements: Submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form Applicants must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass Applicants must pass a practical examination. This examination will be evaluated by a certified proctor. These proctors will include State and Federal wildfire instructors and examiners WILDLAND FIRE FIGHTER II. A successful applicant for Wildland Fire Fighter II must fulfill the following requirements: Submit a completed Division Application and Request for Examination form Submit a letter of recommendation from the applicant's department head stating that the applicant is currently involved in the organization's wildfire program.

14 Be certified as a Wildland Fire Fighter I Have a minimum of at least one year of documented forest service experience and/or have participated in at least three documented wildfires Applicants must get a score of eighty (80) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass There will be no practical examination for Wildland Fire Fighter II certification. SECTION 15 AIRPORT FIRE FIGHTER 15.1 All applicants for the written examination for fire fighter levels must meet or exceed all qualifications contained in the NFPA Standard 1003, Airport Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, 1994 edition All applicants for the airport fire fighter must pass a practical examination administered by a certified proctor A successful applicant for the Airport Firefighter level of certification must fulfill the following requirements: submit an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Division; Applicants must get a score of seventy (70) percent or above on the entire written examination to successfully pass All applicants for certification at the Airport Firefighter level must first be certified at the Fire Fighter I level; and possess current and valid certification at the Hazardous Materials First Responder Operational Level, defined in Chapter 3 of NFPA 472, Standard for Professional Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents. SECTION 16 RENEWAL OF CERTIFICATION 16.1 This section applies to anyone who holds a valid Colorado certificate for Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II, Fire Fighter III, Fire Officer I, Fire Officer II, Fire Officer III, Fire Instructor I, Fire Inspector I, Public Fire and Life Safety Educator, Fire Investigator Wildland Fire Fighter I, Wildland Fire Fighter II, Airport Fire Fighter, Driver/Operator Utility, Driver/Operator Pumper, Driver/Operator Aerial, and/or Written or Practical Proctor Certification Each certified person reaching expiration who desires to renew their certification may do so by having their department head of the organization submit an application stating: The certified person participated in at least thirty-six (36) hours of training per year, or a total of one hundred eight (108) hours of training during the three year period The certified person has demonstrated proficiency in all of the skill evolutions identified for the current level of certification by having been observed, tested and evaluated by an instructor in the accomplishment of these skills Local records are maintained which contain copies of the evaluator's checklist and evaluation for each applicant and are on file at the organization for inspection and review The certified person meets or exceeds the professional qualifications listed in the

15 NFPA Standard appropriate for their level of certification Upon renewal, certified persons meet or exceed the performance objectives set for their level of certification FIRE FIGHTER III RENEWAL The minimum requirements for renewal of Fire Fighter HI certification are: The certified Fire Fighter III may recertify indefinitely at the Fire Fighter III level, 1987 Standard if the Department Head attests on the renewal application that the current certified Fire Fighter III has met the training requirements of section 16.2 and conditions of the NFPA 1001 Standard for Fire Fighter III, 1987 edition In lieu of renewal, individuals holding current and valid Fire Fighter III certification may certify at the Fire Officer I level, 1992 Standard, if the Department Head attests on the renewal application that the current Fire Fighter III meets the NFPA Standard 1021 for Fire Officer 1,1992 edition In lieu of renewal, individuals holding current and valid Fire Fighter III certification may make application for and certify at the Fire Fighter II level, 1992 Standard if the Department Head attests on the renewal application that the current Fire Fighter III meets the NFPA 1001 Standard for Fire Fighter II, 1992 edition FIRE INSTRUCTOR I RENEWAL. The minimum requirements for renewal of Fire Instructor I certification are: Documentation that the Fire Instructor has satisfactorily instructed a minimum of twelve (12) clock hours per year during the certification period Document with copies of certificates or transcripts that the Fire Instructor has attended a minimum of twelve (12) clock hours of instructor related fire suppression, wildland fire, fire prevention, instructor training classes, conferences, seminars, workshops, or related college classes during the three year period prior to renewal All documentation shall be included with the completed application for renewal and forwarded to the Division CERTIFIED PROCTOR RENEWAL. The minimum requirements for renewal of written or practical proctor certification are: Documentation of having administered a minimum of three (3) written and/or practical examinations during the certification period, as appropriate for the type of proctor certification held Documentation of completion of a Division approved proctor update or initial training program during the three (3) year period prior to recertification The applicant must continue to hold a valid Colorado certification at or above the level they are proctoring Applications for renewal of certification must be made within a three (3) month period before or three (3) month period after the expiration date. Failure to renew certification within this six (6) month time period will cause the certification to expire.

16 16.7 Upon renewal of certification, a certificate will be reissued to each certified person for another period of THREE (3) years The Advisory Board has the prerogative to objectively reexamine ANY and ALL certified personnel for renewal of certification, based on the same standards used for certification All completed applications for renewal shall be forwarded to the Division accompanied by payment of the required fee. SECTION 17 REINSTATEMENT OF EXPIRED CERTIFICATION 17.1 Reinstatement process for persons that have permitted their certification to expire for a period greater than 3 months but not greater than 12 months Any person permitting their certification to expire for a period greater than three (3) months may become certified by complying with Section 17 of these rules provided: a) The certificate has not been expired for more than twelve (12) months; b) Extenuating circumstances prevented the applicant from applying for renewal during the renewal period; and c) The individual has completed a minimum of thirty-six (36) hours of documented continuing education training per calendar year appropriate for the level of certification. The applicant must have maintained all training requirements during the time of certification up to the time application is made for reinstatement Persons meeting the criteria specified in may obtain certification by fulfilling the following requirements: a) submit an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Division; b) comply with all other rules and requirements for initial certification or renewal of certification, as the case may be; and c) pay all required fees at the time of application Any person with an expired certificate greater than 12 months from the date of expiration must follow the process for initial certification. SECTION 18 RECIPROCITY 18.1 The Division may grant certification to an applicant possessing a substantially equivalent or higher level certificate from another state, United States territory, or Canadian Province provided that: the applicant submits an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Division; the Division determines that training received by the applicant is at least equivalent to the training requirements for Colorado certification; the applicant's non-colorado certification is current and valid at the time of application;

17 the Division receives written verification from the non-colorado certifying authority that the applicant's non-colorado certification is current, valid and in good standing; and the applicant pays all required fees at the time of application The applicant must pass both the written and psychomotor examinations, when required for the certification level they are requesting Any certificate issued under these provisions will be classified as an initial certification and will be valid for a period not exceeding thirty six (36) months Applicants possessing a valid International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) seal on their valid certificate from another state, territory or country shall be granted reciprocity by the Division after fulfilling the following requirements: submits an application form containing such information as deemed appropriate by the Division; provides written verification from the non-colorado certifying authority that the applicant's non-colorado certification is current, valid and in good standing; and pays all required fees at the time of application Any certificate issued under these provisions will be classified as a transfer of the out-of-state certification and will be valid for a period not to exceed three (3) years or the expiration date on the out-of-state certificate, whichever comes sooner. SECTION 19 SPECIAL CERTIFICATES AND AWARDS 19.1 Certificates and awards, including Honorary Certification, may be presented by the Board for the purpose of raising the level of awareness of the voluntary certification program and to recognize and otherwise foster cooperation among other agencies, groups, organizations, jurisdictions, and individuals. SECTION 20 ACCREDITED DEPARTMENT/ACADEMY 20.1 A fire department or other recognized organization which delivers fire service training may petition the Advisory Board for recognition as an Accredited Department or Training Academy at the Fire Fighter I or II level Such recognition shall afford the organization special considerations of the certification process, which will be specified in a memorandum of understanding between the Advisory Board and the Accredited Department or Training Academy Each petition for accredited department or training academy will be considered by the Advisory Board on a case by case basis, and approval is at the sole discretion of the Board Once accredited, the department or academy agrees to the following conditions: Comply with all requirements of the agreement entered into with the Board Comply with all requirements set forth in these rules and the guidelines, policies and procedures for the certification program as set forth by the Advisory Board or the Division.

18 Ensure quality and consistency throughout their training programs Maintain certification integrity, confidentiality and security during the training and certification process Provide and utilize instructors throughout the administration of the training program, delivery of lesson material, and actual certification process of written and practical examinations who are Colorado certified Fire Instructor I and Colorado certified proctors Utilize the IFSTA training manuals, IFSTA instructor lesson plans, and curriculum packages as the minimum curriculum leading to state certification Advise the Board, in writing, of any instructor changes made after submittal and signing of the Application Agreement. This advisement must include instructor credentials. Unqualified instructors shall give cause for the Board to rescind their agreement approval Assist the Division of Fire Safety in expediting the certification process by: (a) Making application for written examinations on the proper form, providing all necessary information and signatures and include appropriate method of payment as required. (b) Returning all written examinations and answer sheets to the Division by way of the quickest possible means (hand delivered, Federal Express, Express Mail, or any over night delivery service). (c) Returning all documentation of completion of a practical examination that meets the Division's requirements, to the Division by way of the quickest possible means The Board will conduct periodic site visits to the Department or Academy for the purpose of monitoring the classes, students, training materials, records, and certification examinations of the Academy to ensure compliance with the Board's policies, the requirements of the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), and these rules. SECTION 21 PROCEEDINGS PURSUANT TO DENIAL. REVOCATION. SUSPENSION. ANNULMENT. LIMITATION OR MODIFICATION OF CERTIFICATION 21.1 Denial of Certification The Division, in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act, C.R.S , et seq., as amended, may deny any certificate or refuse to renew a certificate to any applicant for, but not limited to, the following reasons: Failure to meet requirements specified in these rules pertaining to the Issuance of Certificates and the renewal of certification Any conduct as described in Section pertaining to good cause for disciplinary action Fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in applying for or securing certification, or in taking any written or practical certification examination Aiding and abetting another person in procuring certification for any

19 person who is not eligible for certification Creating a disturbance during a state practical skills evaluation or a state written examination, or conducting themselves in a manner that disrupts other persons taking the examination or prevents the examination proctor from conducting the examination Revocation, Suspension, or Limitation of Certification Any certification issued by the Division may be suspended, summarily suspended, revoked, or limited for good cause in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act, C.R.S et seq., as amended Good cause for disciplinary sanctions listed in this section (denial, revocation, suspension, annulment, limitation, or modification of certification) shall include, but not be limited to: (a) Evidence that the minimum standards for certification set forth in these rules have not been met. (b) Material misstatement or misrepresentation on the application for certification. (c) Proof of unfitness. (d) Proof of individual's failure to meet, and continue to meet, performance standards at the level certified. (e) Unlawful use, possessing, dispensing, administering, or distributing controlled substances. (f) Conviction of, or a plea of no contest to, unlawful conduct that relates to certification status. (g) Driving an emergency vehicle in a reckless manner, or while under the influence of alcohol or other performance altering drugs. (h) Demonstrating a pattern of alcohol or other substance abuse. (i) Obtaining certification or recertification by fraud, misrepresentation, deception, or subterfuge. (j) Materially altering any Division certificate, or using and/or possessing any such altered certificate. (k) Unlawfully discriminating in the provisions of services based upon national origin, race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, physical or mental disability, sexual preference, infectious disease, or economic status. (l) Representing qualifications at any level other than the person's current certification level If the Board finds that grounds exist for the denial, revocation, suspension, annulment, limitation, or modification of certification of any fire service personnel or applicant, action will be taken according to the provisions of the Colorado Administrative procedure Act, Section , et. sec., of the Colorado Revised Statutes, as amended.

20 21.4 Upon the denial, revocation, suspension, annulment, limitation, or modification of any member of a fire service unit or applicant, the person shall return to the Board all certificates, cards, patches or other identification issued by the Board for said certification and accreditation levels. SECTION 22 FEES 22.1 The following fees shall apply for products and services provided by, or on behalf of the Division: Application for certification $ Processing fee for accredited department or training academy Application fee for Fire Investigator Application for renewal of certification Reinstatement fee for expired certification Application for reciprocity Replacement of lost or damaged certificates Additional triangle patches Additional certification bars Certification pins All application fees payable to the Division must be made at the time of application and are not refundable.