(A) The Chief shall be the administrative head of the Department, subject to the laws of the state, ordinances of the city and the rules and regulations adopted in this subchapter.
(B) The Chief shall have the following powers and duties, and he or she may assign duties to other members of the Department.
(1) The Chief shall be responsible for the general condition and efficient operation of the Department, the training of members and the performance of all other duties imposed upon him or her. He or she shall have supervision and control of the Fire Department, subject to the supervision and control of the City Council.
(2) The Chief may inspect or cause to be inspected by members of the Department the fire hydrants, cisterns and other sources of water supply at least twice each year.
(3) The Chief may maintain a library or file of publications on fire prevention and fire protection and shall make use of it to the best advantage of all members.
(4) The Chief shall make every effort to attend all fires and direct the officers and members in the performance of their duties.
(5) The Chief shall see that the citizens are kept informed on fire hazards in the community and on the activities of the Department.
(6) The Chief shall see that each fire is carefully investigated to determine its cause, and in the case of suspicion of incendiarism or arson, shall notify the proper authorities and secure the preservation of all possible evidence for future use in the case.
(7) The Chief is authorized to enter any building or premises in the city at any reasonable hour for the purpose of making inspections and to serve written notice on persons for any violations that may be found.
(8) The Chief shall see that complete records are kept of all fires, apparatus and equipment, inspections, personnel and other information of the Department and shall make reports to the City Council as he or she may require. The Chief shall keep the city informed regarding the Fire Department and its needs.
(Prior Code, § 13-203)