A. Fire Chief: The chief shall be at the head of the department, subject to the laws of the state, ordinances of the city, and the rules and regulations adopted in this chapter. The chief shall have the following powers and duties:
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.
2. The chief may inspect or cause to be inspected by members of the department, the fire hydrants, cistern and other sources of water supply at least twice each year.
3. The chief shall 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 shall notify proper authorities and secure and preserve all possible evidence for future use in the case. (1985 Code § 13-202)
7. The chief is authorized to enter any public building or premises in the city at any reasonable hour for the purpose of making inspections and to serve written notice on the owners or occupants to correct any hazards or violations that may be found.
8. The chief shall see that complete records are kept of all fires, inspections, apparatus and equipment, personnel and other information of the department and shall make reports to the city manager as he may require. (1985 Code § 13-202; amd. 2007 Code)
9. The chief shall file the appropriate activity report forms with the office of the state fire marshal in Oklahoma City on an annual basis. The activity report forms shall be designed by the state fire marshal and shall include, but not be limited to, the amount of property and vehicle fire loss, types of fires, inspections and investigations. The report shall include notification of all fire related civilian deaths and injuries in the respective jurisdiction and of firefighter deaths in the line of duty and of firefighter injuries in the line of duty requiring the services of a hospital or physician or both. (2007 Code)
B. Assistant Chief: In the absence of the chief, the assistant chief on duty shall command the department and be held responsible therefor in all respects with the full powers and responsibilities of the chief. Other officers or employees as deemed necessary shall be appointed by the city manager after consultation with the fire chief. (Ord. 12-02-98, 12-7-1998)