Operational Philosophy

1. We will promote those programs and initiatives which enhance the health and safety of all members of the Oakland Fire Department.
2. We will value all aspects of the diversity that makes up the Oakland Fire Department and strive to work cohesively with a unity of purpose.
3. We will value our four core missions as fire service professionals
   • Prevent fires from occurring.
   • Prepare for natural and human caused disasters.
   • Suppress fires and mitigate all disasters whenever and wherever they occur.
   • Assist our citizens in recovery efforts from disasters
4. We will move forward with upgraded future fire service delivery options including "all risk" mitigation, emergency medical service delivery, community-based fire service and enhanced 911 service.
5. We will value and promote both approaches to communications within our department - top down and bottom up - which promote effective top, middle, bottom (TMB) practices.
6. We will strive to be a valued community resource that attempts to assist our citizens and other City employees and departments with all requests for assistance, no matter how big or small that request might be.
7. We will promote a zero tolerance policy for discrimination, workplace violence, and harassment in all OFD work sites and apparatus.
8. We will promote those strategies and programs that provide the greatest good for the greatest number of people.
9. We will promote and value those initiatives which represent current best practices that increase the efficiency and effectiveness of our department.
10. We will always put forth our best efforts, both on and off duty, to promote community service and enhance our reputation as Courageous, Committed, and Compassionate fire service professionals.