Board supports no alcohol policy

NORWAY — Selectmen at their October 4 meeting said they fully support a policy that prohibits Norway firefighters from engaging in department duties if under the influence of an alcoholic beverage.

Norway Fire Chief Dennis Yates presented the policy to the board at its October 4 meeting.

"We need to drive safely," Yates said, on behalf of the fire department personnel. "Something like this is really serious."

"It doesn't matter if it's a new vehicle or an old vehicle," he said, noting the department has a brand new tanker. "We try to stress that at most of our meetings."

According to the policy, "personnel who may be under the influence of intoxicating beverages and/or substance abuse drugs will not respond to calls nor will they engage in any Fire Department duties."

The policy states that fire department personnel shall especially not respond to calls if they smell of alcohol regardless of the amount ingested.

"Basically, if you're going to drink, don't come to a fire call," Yates said.

He did not indicate whether a member has, recently or in the past, violated the policy, but said the Paris Fire Department abides by similar guidelines.

"I just wanted you folks to be aware of what we're trying to do," Yates told selectmen.

Based on the guidelines, said Yates, a firefighter cannot respond to a call within two hours after having one drink; within four hours after two drinks; within six hours after three; and within eight hours after four or more drinks. 

Yates also said the policy describes intoxicating drinks as 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine and one ounce of distilled spirits or liquor.

According to the policy, members on duty also shall not consume any liquor, narcotic, controlled substance or other toxic drug unless ordered by a physician to do so and must notify their supervisor about it when reporting for duty.

It also states that off-duty members shall not consume any alcoholic beverage in public places or any place accessible to the public while in uniform.

If a firefighter violates the policy, discipline may include written reprimand, suspension or termination.

"These fairly strict standards are quite common for fire departments," said Town Manager David Holt, "but it seems to me most fire departments have their own standards."

Selectmen said they agree with the policy and directed Chief Yates to enforce it.

"I think it's well within your right," said Selectman Warren Sessions. "I am glad you got your eye on it."