Factors found in Successful Plans & Programs
There are some common factors typically found in successful CRR programs. These include, but are not limited to:
- The CRR plan makes sense and is feasible.
- Management at all levels support the effort
- Adequate resources have been allocated, which include staff, funding, time, and community partners.
- Assignment of a capable and motivated project manager.
- Establishment of clear goals and expectations.
- Provides ownership at the station level for the plan and program, including training and coaching as needed.
- The CRR program is monitored and adjusted as needed. An ongoing evaluation strategy has been incorporated in to the CRR plan.
- Good performance is recognized and rewarded.
Community risk reduction plans will look different at every fire department and each station, depending on the risks for that particular community. It is a process and approach versus an outcome that can be copied and duplicated.
Essentially, the CRR plan should be a “road map” written in clear and concise language that enables anyone to understand how each of the various aspects of the program are to function. The plan should be simple to execute with measurable steps. It should clearly state: what you will do, how it will be done, and who will do it.