Fire service leaders understand that they have the responsibility to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects proper ethical behavior and integrity. In so doing, they help foster a continuing positive public perception.

All fire service leaders shall:

• Always conduct themselves, on and off duty, in a manner that reflects positively on self, and family.

• Accept responsibility for their actions and for the consequences of their actions.

• Support the concept of fairness and the value of diverse thoughts and opinions.

• Avoid situations that would adversely affect the credibility or public perception of a fire service leader.

• Are truthful and honest at all times and report instances of cheating or other dishonest\unethical acts that compromise the integrity of a fire service leader.

• Conduct personal affairs in a manner that does not improperly influence the performance of their duties or bringdiscredit to the Pennsylvania fire service community.

• Are respectful and conscious of each member’s safety and welfare.

• Recognize that they serve in a position of public trust that requires stewardship in the honest and efficient use ofhuman resources, fiscal resources, and all publicly owned resources, and that these resources are protected frommisuse and theft.

• Exercise professionalism, competence, respect, and loyalty in the performance of their duties and useinformation, confidential or otherwise, gained by virtue of their positions, only to benefit those they are entrustedto serve.

• Avoid financial investments, outside employment, outside business interests or activities that conflict with or are enhanced by their official positions or have the potential to create the perception of impropriety.

• Never propose or accept personal rewards, special privileges, benefits, advancement, honors or gifts that may create a conflict of interest, or the appearance thereof.

• Never discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual preference, medical condition or disability.

• Never harass, intimidate, threaten, or bully in any manner fellow members of the fire service and/or the public, and stop and/or report the actions of others who engage in such behaviors.

• Comply with all laws and campaign rules when supporting political candidates and engaging in political activities.

• Refrain from endorsing commercial products through quotations, use of photographs, and testimonials for personal gain.