BEACH  HAVEN FIRST AID SQUAD, INC.   BYLAWS     TABLE OF CONTENTS     ARTICLE 1 – NAME, PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES   Section 1:  Name (pg. 4)  Section 2:  Purpose, Objectives and Authority (pg. 4)  Section 3:  Squad Divisions (pg. 4)  ARTICLE 2 – GOVERNING BODIES   Section 1:  Board of Trustees (pg. 4)  ARTICLE 3 – MEMBERSHIP   Section 1:  Classes of Membership (pgs. 5 and 6)   Section 2:  Membership Status (pgs. 6 and 7)  Section 3:  Dismissal/Suspension of Members (pg. 7)  ARTICLE 4 – OFFICERS AND DELEGATES   Section 1:  Positions (pgs. 8 and 9)  Section 2:  Bonding (pg. 9)  Section 3:  Qualifications for Service as Officer (pg. 9)  Section 4:  Responsibilities of Officers (pgs. 10, 11, 12 and 13)  Section 5:  Election of Officers (pg. 14)  Section 6:  Tenure of Officers (pg. 14)  Section 7:  Procedure to Fill Vacancies of Officers (pg. 14)    ARTICLE 5 – OPERATIONS   Section 1:  General Statement (pg. 15)  Section 2:  Conduct of Members (pg. 15)  Section 3:  Confidentiality (pg. 15)  Section 4:  Attendance (pgs. 15 and 16)  Section 5:  Leave of Absence (pg. 16)   ARTICLE 6 – COMMITTEES AND APPOINTMENTS   Section 1:  Standing Committees (pg. 16)  Section 2:  Ad Hoc Appointments (pg. 17)   ARTICLE 7 – MEETINGS   Section 1:  Conduct of Meetings – General (pg. 18)  Section 2:  Notification (pg. 18)   Section 3:  Quorums for Meetings (pg. 18)     ARTICLE 8 – AMENDMENTS (pg. 19)   ARTICLE 9 – TRANSITION (pg. 19)   APPENDIX A – ORDER OF BUSINESS  (pg. 20)       ARTICLE 1 NAME, PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES    Section 1:  Name – The name of this organization shall be Beach Haven First Aid Squad, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as “the Squad.”)   Section 2:  Purpose, Objectives and Authority -  The purpose of the Squad is to provide for the emergency BLS/ALS transportation of the injured and sick, occurring within Long Beach Island from the southern end of Beach Haven Inlet to the northern boundary of Ship Bottom.  The Squad will also respond to any point where first aid or emergency service is requested by authority of the New Jersey State First Aid Council (NJSFAC), its member squads, or when requested by other emergency agencies.  Further, ambulance transportation may be made available when authorized by the Captain and/or appropriate dispatching agency.    Section 3:   Squad Divisions – The Squad shall be divided, for administrative purposes, into two divisions:  The Ship Bottom Division and the Beach Haven Division.  Membership in each division shall be assigned by residence.  Those residing south of 95th Street, Pehala Park, shall be designated members of the Beach Haven Division.  Those members residing north of and including 95th Street shall be designated as members of the Ship Bottom Division.     ARTICLE 2 GOVERNING BODIES   Section 1:  Board of Trustees – The Squad shall be governed by a Board of Trustees (hereinafter referred to as “the Board”) which shall have final responsibility for the overall conduct of the Squad as that relates to:  (1) the public;  (2) municipalities and State organizations with which the Squad interacts;  and (3) the internal affairs of the Squad.   The Board is comprised of nine (9) members, including five (5) Administrative Officers, the Squad Captain, and three (3) at-large active members.  The Board shall be presided over by a Chairman, chosen by the Trustees at its Regular Meeting in December.  In his/her absence, the President shall preside over the Board meeting.   Failure of a trustee to attend three (3) meetings of the Board in a calendar year may be grounds for removal upon a vote of the membership.  All five (5) Administrative Officers shall be chosen from the Board.   a.  Any Squad member may attend Board meetings but may participate only upon recognition by the Chair.     ARTICLE 3 MEMBERSHIP   Section 1:  Classes of Membership -  Membership shall be classified as follows:  Regular Members;  Ambulance Attendant Members;  Probationary Members;  Cadet Members;  Life Members;  and Honorary Members.  Regular, Life and Ambulance Attendant Members shall be further classified as “active” or “inactive.”   1.       REGULAR MEMBERS – Regular Members are those individuals who hold current   certification as an EMT, are currently certified to perform CPR, and otherwise meet the requirements of the NJSFAC for providing Basic Life Support (EMT) service.  Status as a Regular Member occurs when, upon satisfactory completion of a probationary period and upon the recommendation of the Captain and at least one line officer, the Member makes application for Regular Membership to the Squad and the Squad approves the application.  Active Regular Members shall enjoy all rights and privileges of membership.  Regular Members shall have authority to supervise ambulance calls and otherwise participate in ambulance services as directed by the Captain.            2.  AMBULANCE ATTENDANT MEMBERS – Ambulance Attendant Members       are those individuals who hold minimum credentials sanctioned by the NJSFAC for the rendering of First Aid and are currently CPR certified, but who are not currently certified as EMTs.  Ambulance Attendant Members may serve on the Ambulance under the direct supervision of the Regular Member charged with responsibility for the direction of a particular call. Active Ambulance Attendant Members shall enjoy all rights and privileges of membership.  3.     PROBATIONARY MEMBERS – Upon acceptance in the Squad, individuals newly entering or transferring, and holding at least the minimum credentials sanctioned by the NJSFAC for the rendering of First Aid, shall be designated Probationary Members.  Such members will remain in a Probationary status for a period of at least six (6) months to two (2) years.  a.     Upon the recommendation of the Captain and at least one line officer who shall be designated by the Captain as the member’s training officer, the members will consider the Probationary Member’s application for change of status.  The voting members may vote to accept the application, postpone consideration of his/her application pending further evaluation, or reject his/her application.  b.     Probationary Members may serve on the ambulance only under the direct supervision of the Regular Member charged with responsibility for the direction of a particular call.    4.     CADETS – Cadets are those individuals between the ages of 16 and 18 who hold minimum credentials issued by the NJSFAC for rendering of First Aid.  They may serve on the ambulance only under the direct supervision of a Regular Member charged with the responsibility for direction of a particular call.  They shall not hold office in the Squad but may serve on committees.  They shall not have the right to vote.  5.     LIFE MEMBERS – Life Members are those individuals who have ten years of service as an Active Regular Member.  Life Members shall enjoy all rights and privileges of membership for life, except the right to vote.  Life Members must retain Active status in order to enjoy the right to vote or hold office.   6.     HONORARY MEMBERS – Honorary Membership may be awarded to any individual in recognition of outstanding service to the Squad upon application on that person’s behalf by a member and majority vote by the Squad.   a.     Honorary Membership shall be reviewed by the Board on an annual basis to insure continued qualification for such status.    Section 2:   Membership Status – All Members shall be further classified as either “Active” or “Inactive.”   1.       Active Members are those individuals who hold current certifications for their class of membership;  who continue to participate in the affairs of the Squad;  and who meet the following additional requirements:  a.  Participation in not less than 24 ambulance calls in the preceding calendar            year or an equivalent level of service - consisting of not less than 40 hours annually - in the fulfillment of standby calls/transports/training duties or other activities at the discretion of the Captain.    b.     Attendance at a minimum of two (2) training drills per calendar year as that number is reported to the Board by the Captain in the Annual Report.  2.       In-Active Members are those individuals who fail to keep current their certifications for the particular class of membership within which that member serves or fail to meet the requirements of Section 2(1)a-b.  In-Active Members may not hold office or vote.  Applications for renewal of active status will be determined by a majority vote of the Board upon the recommendation of the Captain.    Section 3:   Dismissal/Suspension of Members – Upon the recommendation of a line officer, the Board shall consider the dismissal or suspension of a member for the following reasons:  1.     Failure to maintain applicable certifications and/or medical requirements;  2.     Conduct which brings ill repute to the Squad or which otherwise fails to support a level of trust by the community;  3.     A consistent pattern of conduct which demonstrates a disregard for the orders of the chain-of-command or the SOPs and regulations as promulgated by the Captain and Board.  4.     Failure to participate in the regular affairs of the Squad.  5.     In-Active Status for a period of 2 years or more shall result in dismissal of membership.   a.           Upon recommendation of dismissal or suspension to the Board, the member shall be issued a copy of the recommendation setting out the reason(s) for the recommendation and a summary of those facts upon which the recommendation is based.  The member will be afforded an opportunity to speak to the Board and, where appropriate, present evidence on his/her own behalf.  b.           Upon notice of suspension or dismissal, a member is considered “in-active” and shall immediately cease representing himself/herself as a member of the Squad.  Said member shall return all items of Squad property and refrain from trespassing or entering upon Squad property as a guest or otherwise.     ARTICLE 4 OFFICERS and DELEGATES   Section 1:     Positions:  Officers shall be elected by a majority of the voting members present at the annual meeting in December and consist of:   1.     Board of Trustees (See Article 2, Section 1):  a.     5 Administrative Officers b.     Squad Captain c.     3 “at-large” active members  2.     Administrative Officers:  a.     President b.     Vice-President c.     Recording Secretary d.     Corresponding Secretary e.     Treasurer   3.     Line Officers:  a.     Captain b.     Lieutenant – Beach Haven Division c.     Lieutenant – Ship Bottom Division d.     1st Sergeant – Beach Haven Division e.     1st Sergeant – Ship Bottom Division f.       2nd Sergeant – Beach Haven Division g.     2nd Sergeant – Ship Bottom Division   4.     Delegates - There shall be 3 Delegates and 3 Alternates elected at the Annual Meeting of the Squad.    a.     The Squad shall compensate the Delegates and/or Alternates for expenses incurred, as determined by the Board, while in attendance at the State Council mid-year and annual conventions.  To be eligible for attendance and financial assistance at the annual convention, they must have attended at least 50% of the district meetings prior to the annual convention.  Upon return, each delegate and/or alternate shall submit a written or oral report as to the proceedings at the convention.   b.     The Squad shall be represented at all meetings of the New Jersey State First Aid Council and the appropriate District thereof during the Squad’s membership in the Council by at least one (1) delegate and/or alternate who shall have been duly elected to these positions in the Annual Election.   c.     During the Squad’s membership in the Council, any members of the Squad are privileged to attend any of the State or District meetings.  They may, with consent of the Chairman, be heard but shall not be permitted to vote unless designated a delegate or alternate.     Section 2:   Bonding:  1.     The Squad may provide a bond for the Officers, Members-at-Large sitting as Trustees, and others as deemed appropriate or upon recommendation of the Squad Auditor or Attorney.     Section 3:  Qualifications for Service as Officer:  1. Administrative Officers must have been in an Active status for a period of not    less  than one year prior to taking office and must continue in that status during the tenure of office.  2. Line Officers must be Active Regular Members (EMTs) at the time of nomination and must maintain that status throughout the tenure of office;  further, the Captain must have served as Lieutenant for a period of not less than one year prior to assuming that position.  a.     Delegates must be Active members of the Squad at the time of nomination and must maintain that status throughout the tenure of office.  b.     Additional Officers must be Active members at the time of nomination and must maintain that status throughout the tenure of office.      Section 4:  Responsibilities of Officers   1.     The Administrative Officers, three (3) members-at-large, and the Squad Captain shall constitute the Board;  further:   The President shall perform the following duties:  a. Preside at all regular, special and annual meetings of the Squad; b. Countersign, if necessary, checks drawn by the Squad Treasurer; c. Designate additional agents as deemed appropriate; d. Participate with the Captain in the preparation of the Annual Report.   The Vice-President shall perform the following duties:  a.     Assume the duties of President in his/her absence; b.     Serve as Chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee; c.     Familiarize new members with the Bylaws.   The Recording Secretary shall perform the following duties:  a.     Serve as Secretary to the Board; b.     Keep a separate record for Annual Meetings, Board minutes and each year’s Regular and Special Meetings; c.     Maintain an actual attendance record of all members attending all meetings of the Squad, calling the roll at the end of each meeting; d.     Maintain and prepare necessary records for submission by the Captain to the Board pursuant to LOSAP requirements.  The Corresponding Secretary shall perform the following duties:  a.     Notify all active members by mail of all regular and special meetings and drills; b.     Publish amendments to the Squad’s bylaws and SOPs as directed; c.     Receive and turn over to the Treasurer all monies received by the Squad; d.     Perform the duties of the Recording Secretary in his/her absence; e.     Prepare all correspondence on behalf of the Squad as directed by the President, Captain or other Officers. f.       Maintain a master record of each months’ calls from records forwarded from the 2nd Sergeants.  The Treasurer shall perform the following duties:  a.     Preparation of ledgers and audit documents and presentation to designated auditors/CPAs as required; b.     Coordination with Purchasing Agent, if one is designated, regarding disbursements and authorizations for the payment of Squad accounts; c.     Maintenance of checking, savings and other accounts on behalf of the Squad; d.     Preparation of monthly report to the Board and Squad membership regarding monies received and disbursed; e.     Issuance of checks for disbursement of funds at the direction of the President and/or Captain;  insuring that applicable co-signatures are obtained; f.       Participation as a Member of the Fund-Raising Committee. g.     Participation in the Annual Report with the President and Captain.    2.     The Line Officers shall be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Squad and shall constitute the operational chain of command.  3.     The Squad Captain shall be the Senior Operational Officer of the Squad and is charged with primary responsibility for all aspects regarding the routine operation of Squad activities.  He/she shall perform the following duties:  a.     Promulgation, maintenance, publication and implementation of Standards of Operation (SOPs), subject to the approval of the Board; b.     Maintenance of discipline within the Squad.  Subject authority shall include the right to suspend a member on an emergent basis when necessary for the operational integrity or good name of the Squad in the eyes of the public.  When an emergent suspension occurs, the Captain shall report the action to the Chairman of the Board and prepare a recommendation regarding suspension/dismissal for review by the member and the Board within ten (10) days of the suspension; c.     Preside over Line Officers’ Meetings; d.     Certify applicable LOSAP data to the Borough of Beach Haven pursuant to Municipal Ordinance; e.     Make recommendations to the Board regarding the membership status and/or qualifications of individual members; f.       Supervise the maintenance of member personnel, health and training records, and criminal history background information; g.     Supervise the activities of the Squad Engineer; h.     Supervise the activities of the Training Committee and Oxygen Committee; i.       Supervise the expenditure of funds from the Captain’s Budget for incidental expenditures on behalf of the Squad; j.       Participate with the President in the preparation of the Annual Report to be presented to the Board no later than March 1st of each year.  The Annual Report shall contain the following information:  1.     The LOSAP qualifications of members; 2.     The operational readiness of the Squad; 3.     The budget for the pending year; 4.     Budget compliance for the previous year; 5.     All other matters of interest deemed appropriate by the Captain, President and/or the Board.   4.     The Division Lieutenants shall serve as the Senior Operational Officers within each division, and consistent with the direction of the Squad Captain, shall be responsible for the day-to-day operation of each division.  They shall perform the following duties:  a.     Act as Operational Officers-in-Charge of their respective divisions; b.     Insure that each member within their division is knowledgeable regarding the SOPs; c.     Maintain and inventory division equipment and infrastructure; d.     In the absence of the Captain, the Senior Lieutenant shall act as Captain; e.     Assign, train and certify drivers within their respective division.   5.     The Division 1st Sergeants are 2nd in the operational chain of command of their respective divisions.  They are responsible and accountable to their respective division Lieutenants for the day-to-day operation of the division.  They shall perform the following duties:  a.     Assume command of the division in the absence of the Lieutenant; b.     Brief new members and insure that each is trained and competent to perform duties consistent with the SOPS; c.     Maintain the supplies in the vehicles at all times, requesting additional supplies through the Purchasing Agent or Captain.     6.     The Division 2nd Sergeants are 3rd in the operational command of their respective divisions.  They are responsible to their respective division Lieutenants for the day-to-day operation of the division.  They shall perform the following duties:   a.     Prepare, maintain and forward to the Corresponding Secretary a report of calls made each month within their respective divisions prior to the next Regular Meeting; b.     Insure the accuracy of applicable call sheets and, where necessary, train members within the division regarding the proper use of call sheets; c.     Accomplish all other tasks assigned by the division Lieutenant.     7.     The Squad Engineer is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the mobile equipment and shall be chosen by vote of the Line Officers at the next regular scheduled meeting of the Line Officers after the Annual Meeting.  He/she shall perform additional duties as follows:  a.     Creation of a routine inspection schedule in order to determine the readiness of each vehicle for service; b.     Where appropriate, the Squad Engineer will place a vehicle out of service, notifying division Lieutenants, and take the necessary steps to have the vehicle repaired; c.     Recommend to the Board and supervise a monthly “Engineer’s Budget” for the purpose of making minor repairs; d.     When a repair is deemed “major” by the Engineer, he/she shall determine the extent of the repair and make recommendations to the Board regarding expenditure of funds; e.     Report to the Squad on a monthly basis regarding the readiness of vehicles; f.       Train assigned drivers regarding first-line maintenance issues.            Section 5:  Election of Officers   1. Administrative Officers, Line Officers and Delegates/Alternates shall be nominated and elected by Squad vote at the Annual Meeting, which shall take place the 1st Monday in December.    Section 6:  Tenure of Officers   1. All Line Officers and Delegates/Alternates shall serve for a term of one (1) calendar year or until such time as they are determined by the Board to be disqualified from holding their respective position.  a.     Members of the Board are elected for a three (3) year period.   Section 7:  Procedure to Fill Vacancies of Officers  1. A vacancy for a particular officer position shall be deemed to exist upon the Board’s determination that:  a.     The Board has accepted a tendered resignation by the Officer;  b.     The Board, after due consideration, makes a determination that the Officer should be suspended or dismissed;  c.     The Board, after due consideration, makes a determination that the Officer’s membership status or qualifications have changed, rendering him/her unqualified to hold the position;  d.     Once a vacancy determination has been made, that fact will be published to the members, if said vacancy occurs before June 1st.  At the next Regular Meeting of the Squad, nominations shall be considered and a vote taken in order to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the unexpired term.  e.     A vacancy in an office that occurs after June 1stth shall be filled by an appointment by the President for an Administrative Officer and by the Captain for an Operations Officer at the next Regular Meeting of the Squad.  Such appointments shall be subject to a simple majority vote of the Board.       ARTICLE 5 OPERATIONS  Section 1:  General Statement – It is recognized that the sole purpose of the Squad’s operations is to insure that the Squad provides the highest standard of care to those whom it seeks to serve.  Squad operations are the responsibility of the Board and the Line Officers chosen by the Squad to supervise and direct the activities of the members.  It is the responsibility of each Squad member to insure appropriate qualification and certification(s) as well as to maintain a working knowledge of the SOPs published and distributed by the Squad Captain.  Section 2:  Conduct of Members – Each member is expected to conduct him/herself in a professional manner consistent with the SOPs published and distributed by the Squad Captain and the directions of the Line Officers.  Failure to comply with these directions may be grounds for a recommendation to the Board than an individual be reprimanded, suspended or dismissed from the Squad.  Should an individual member have a complaint regarding the conduct of another member, his/her recourse shall be to report that complaint to the appropriate division Lieutenant, who may council the member orally;  counsel the member in writing;  request the Board to conduct an Official Inquiry;  or recommend suspension or dismissal pursuant to Article 3, Section 3.  Section 3 – Confidentiality – The confidentiality of medical information regarding patients is a cornerstone of First Aid operations.  Members shall treat personal information regarding patients with the utmost care, cognizant of the legal and ethical ramifications of inappropriate publication of such information.  The Captain will insure that, on a yearly basis, each member receives appropriate training regarding this issue consistent with the New Jersey Statute and Administrative Code Provision.  Publication of confidential information by a member shall be grounds for disciplinary action.  Section 4 – Attendance – Attendance at Squad meetings, training drills and Squad commitments is the cornerstone of active membership.  Members are expected to make themselves available to answer ambulance calls and participate in regular duty-crew shifts when scheduled.  Attendance is considered for LOSAP qualification as well as qualification for active membership in the Squad (see Article 3 – Section 2, Paragraph 1) Members may be excused from attendance at a Squad meeting if a member can demonstrate voluntary involvement in emergency services or training, illness, military service, school or employment attendance.  Notice to the Squad Captain, or Administrative Officer, in the event of his/her absence, prior to the meeting shall suffice to insure that the Recording Secretary records the member’s status for purpose of attendance.  Nothing in this section shall be construed to change LOSAP requirements as they pertain to the accumulation of points and provisions cited under municipal ordinance.  Section 5 – Leave of Absence – A Leave of Absence may be granted by the Squad Captain for purposes including, but not limited to:  Military service, attendance at an educational facility or college, or medical condition.    ARTICLE 6 COMMITTEES AND APPOINTMENTS  Section 1:  Standing Committees – The following committees are permanent in nature.  Their members shall be appointed by the President at the January meeting to serve for one (1) year or until successors are appointed.  Committee members will serve at the pleasure of the Squad President and shall report to the membership at each Regular Meeting.   1.              Fund-Raising Committee:  This committee shall be directed by the President and shall be responsible for conducting a yearly fund-raising campaign, maintaining records, and reporting results in the manner prescribed by the Auditor.  The Treasurer shall serve on this committee.  2.              Building and Grounds Committee:  This committee shall be responsible for the maintenance and repair of the buildings and grounds of all Squad property.  It shall be empowered to supervise repairs, pursuant to the recommendations and approval of the Board.  The Vice-President shall serve as the Chairman of this committee and shall be directed by the President.  3.              Training Committee:  This committee shall be responsible for all aspects of Squad training throughout the year.  It shall work at the direction of the Squad Captain.  4.              Oxygen Committee:  This committee shall maintain the Squad’s oxygen equipment and insure that all such equipment, including tubing, masks, airways, etc., are current and available.  This committee shall also have primary responsibility for insuring that all oxygen tanks are property filled and that oxygen equipment is serviced at least annually.  5.              Uniform and Insignia Committee:  This committee shall be responsible for insuring a proper inventory of uniform equipment issued to active Squad members.  It shall insure a sufficient inventory of uniform items and replace lost or destroyed items to active members.  This committee shall make recommendations to the Board regarding the purchase of uniform items.  6.              Bylaws Committee:  This committee shall review proposed changes to the bylaws and make recommendations to the membership regarding amendment implementation pursuant to Article 8.  7.              Election Committee:  This committee is responsible for overseeing the annual election in December of each year. It shall review nominations and advise the Board of the qualifications of nominated members for election.  Further, it shall provide a list of eligible voters to the Board during the November meeting for certification by the Board to the Membership.  It shall take all other actions regarding the conduct of elections as directed by the President.     Section 2: Ad Hoc Appointments – As needed, the President, with the concurrence of the Board, shall appoint other agents of the Squad, as follows:  1.                Squad Chaplain:  This individual shall conduct the council prayer at all meetings of the Squad and perform such other duties of a Chaplain as outlined by the NJSFAC.  2.                Sergeant-at-Arms:  This individual shall have the responsibility to maintain order at meetings, conduct the flag salute at Squad assemblies, and perform other tasks at the direction of the President.  3.                Parliamentarian:  The Parliamentarian shall decide all points of order consistent with the Newly Revised Robert’s Rules of Order.  4.                Legal Liason:  If deemed necessary by the Board, this individual shall coordinate with legal counsel hired by the Squad regarding any legal matter as directed by the President.  5.                Sunshine Agent:  This Agent shall be responsible for sending cards, flowers, fruit baskets, etc. to Squad members and/or their families in the event that such action is deemed appropriate by the Board.        ARTICLE 7 MEETINGS   Section 1:  Conduct of Meetings – General:  All administrative meetings (Annual, Regular, and Special) shall be presided over by the President and conducted (1) pursuant to Robert’s Rules of Order (Newly Revised), and (2) consistent with the Order of Business cited in Appendix A of these bylaws.  1.     Line Officer’s Meetings shall be presided over by the Squad Captain.  2.     The Annual Meeting shall be held on the 1st Monday in December at the Beach Haven Headquarters Building at 7pm.  The only business to be conducted at this meeting is the Annual Election of Trustees,  Administrative Officers and Line Officers, as shown in Appendix a (Order of Business.)  3.     Regular Meetings shall be on the 3rd Monday of every month, except in July and August, and will alternate between divisions (odd months at Ship Bottom Headquarters, even months at Beach Haven Headquarters.)  These meetings will begin at 7pm.  4.     Trustees’ Meetings will be held on the 3rd Monday of every month, inclusive of July and August, and will alternate between divisions (as noted above.)  These meetings will begin at 6:30pm.  a.          Board of Trustees’ Meetings shall be presided over by the Chairman, elected by the Board in December of each year.  This Chairman will serve for one calendar year.  5.     Special Meetings shall be called upon notice to the membership and at the direction of the Chairman of the Board or President.  Section 2:  Notification – Notification of suspension/dismissal shall occur by written notice via both certified and regular mail to the address provided by the member.  Notice of the Annual Meeting and monthly meeting schedule shall be made by U.S. postal mailing to all members in January.  Section 3: Quorum for Meetings – The quorum for membership meetings shall be nine (9) members entitled to vote (active Regular or active Ambulance Attendant.) The quorum for the Board of Trustees’ Meetings shall be five (5).   ARTICLE 8 AMENDMENTS   Section 1 – All proposed amendments to Squad bylaws shall be made in writing, signed by three (3) eligible voting members, and presented to the President during a Regular Meeting. The following actions shall be taken to insure that a proposed amendment is published to the membership, reviewed for legal sufficiency, and considered by the membership:  1.     The proposed amendment shall be referred to the bylaws committee, which shall cause it to be read the next two (2) consecutive regular meetings;  2.     The proposed amendment shall be referred to the Parliamentarian for an opinion regarding the proposed amendment’s relationship and impact to the existing bylaws;  3.     After two (2) consecutive readings, the President, at the next, or 3rd, consecutive meeting shall invite discussion regarding the proposed amendment and cause a vote to occur regarding the amendment.  If the amendment is accepted by 2/3rds majority of eligible voting members in attendance, it shall become part of the bylaws immediately.       ARTICLE 9 TRANSITION   Officers, Trustees and Committee Members serving at the time these bylaws are approved by the voting membership shall continue their service in their respective positions until such time as their tenure under the previous bylaws is complete.  All active members so qualified under the prior bylaws shall be designated “Active Members” until the 1st Annual Report is rendered by the President and Captain, at which time such status shall be determined and contingent upon the maintenance and fulfillment of the requirements listed herein.    APPENDIX A ORDER OF BUSINESS  Regular Meeting:  ·       Signature List of all Members ·        Call to Order ·        Pledge of Allegiance ·        Council Prayer ·        Reading of Minutes ·        Report of Recording Secretary ·        Report of Corresponding Secretary ·        Report of Treasurer ·        Committee Reports ·        Report of Delegates/Alternates ·        Old Business ·        New Business ·        Membership Report ·        Captain’s Report ·        Line Officers’ Reports ·        Engineer’s Report ·        Reminder of Next Regular or Special Meeting ·        Roll Call Verification ·       Adjournment  Annual Meeting:  ·        Signature List of all Members ·        Call to Order ·        Pledge of Allegiance ·        Council Prayer ·        Report of the Nominating Committee ·        Declaration by the President that Balloting is Open ·        Nominations and Election to be Called in the Following Order:  1.     Trustees 2.     Administrative Officers 3.     Line Officers                                                                     ·        Adjournment        BEACH HAVEN FIRST AID SQUAD STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES   SECTION 1: GENERAL 1.      Standard Operating Procedures, hereafter referred to as SOP’s, are established to inform members of Squad policies and the procedures they should follow.  Should any provisions herein be in conflict with the Squad By-Laws, the By-Laws shall govern.  Each member is expected and required to be familiar with these provisions.   2.      The Squad SOPs will be maintained by the Squad Captain, with the assistance of others, as deemed appropriate by the Captain.  Its provisions may be changed from time to time by the Captain to maintain conformity and continuity with the Squad By-Laws and all unexpected or extenuation circumstances facing the Squad.    3.      These SOPs represent the best judgment of the Captain for the efficient operation of the Squad.  Since written SOPs cannot cover all situations, the exercise of good judgment is expected of all members.  Under extenuating circumstances, all members should be prepared to justify any deviation from the SOPs to the Captain.  SECTION II : APPLICATIONS AND NEW MEMBERS 1.      Applications may be picked up from the Captain or any Line Officer.  Completed applications must be returned to the Captain.   2.      A completed application MUST include the following: a.       A completed physical examination section b.      A sponsor signature c.       A photocopy of a current CPR card and a First Aid, First Responder, or EMT certification card.  d.      Copies of any other EMS-related training certificates the applicant holds.   3.      Prospective members with a completed application will be screened by the membership committee.  Approved applicants will be notified by the Captain who will do the following: a.       Assign a mentor; b.      Assign a unit number; c.       Issue uniforms, radio, car-plate, Squad By-Laws and SOPs.   4.      New members will be assigned a mentor who will work with him/her to practice and improve required skills, commensurate with the member’s level of certification.   5.      New members must be willing to accept responsibility for covering duty hours and/or duty shifts on a scheduled basis as part of a duty crew, and to abide by the Squad’s By-Laws and SOPs.     SECTION III – CADETS 1.      Cadets are those members between the ages of 16 and 18.  Such members will be assigned a mentor for indoctrination and initial training within the Squad.  Cadet members will be taught the same skills as other probationary members, commensurate with their level of certification.   2.      Cadets attending school will not answer calls after 2000 hours Sunday through Thursday and after 2200 hours on Friday and Saturday during the school term.  During holidays and vacations, calls may be answered up to 2200 hours unless approval is given by the duty-crew Line Officer to exceed this limitation.   3.      All Squad cadets must maintain passing grades while in school.  A copy of each report card must be presented to the Captain within 7 days of receipt by student.   4.      Cadets will be issued Squad uniforms and radios for Squad use only.  Radios and/or pagers will NOT be taken to school under any circumstances.  The rules and guidelines for radio use, as outlined in the SOPs, will apply to all members, inclusive of cadets.   5.      Cadets will have the privilege of using the Squad building PROVIDED a regular member is present.   6.      Cadets are encouraged to participate in all activities of the Squad within the limitations set forth in the Squad By-Laws and SOPs.   SECTION IV: PROBATIONARY SKILLS REQUIRED OF ALL MEMBERS   1.      Identify and locate equipment and supplies carried in all rigs; 2.      Fill out a rig check list 3.      Mechanically operate and make up a stretcher; 4.      Operate the rear control panel: a.       Heat and air conditioning; b.      Lights; c.       Oxygen controls, including flow meter; d.      Suction equipment; 5.      Apply a nasal cannula and non-rebreather mask; 6.      Operate the portable and on-board oxygen systems; 7.      Apply straps to a long board; long, quick-clip and spider; 8.      Operate and clean portable and on-board suction units; 9.      Assemble a suction cannula; 10.        Understand and promote the use of BSI measures, providing gloves to all members prior to arriving on scene; 11.        Contact the Emergency Department from the back of the rig and be able to give a concise report to the hospital; 12.        Fill out a Patient Call Report (PCR); 13.        Know and understand the following terms: a.       Assault b.      Abandonment c.       Battery d.      False Imprisonment e.       Express and Implied Consent f.        DNR Orders  SECTION V: OPERATIONS AND CONDUCT ON CALLS   1.      CHAIN OF COMMAND – The Chain of Command shall be as follows: a.       Captain b.      Lieutenants c.       1st Sergeants d.      2nd Sergeants e.       Crew Chief   2.      AMBULANCE DRIVERS – Ambulances may not be operated by anyone under 21 years of age unless authorized by the Captain.  Under emergency circumstances, any Line Officer may authorize an individual who holds the proper license to act as an Ambulance Driver for that call only. a.       Driver-Trainees may drive the rig to the scene, but may NOT drive with a patient in the back.  Driver-Trainees become drivers only after a qualification drive is performed to the satisfaction of the division Lieutenant or Line Officer designated by the Lieutenant or Captain. b.      All Ambulance Drivers will operate the rig in a safe manner and demonstrate respect for the rights, safety and property of others at all times. c.       When driving without lights and siren, all motor vehicle laws in the municipalities in which the Squad operates MUST be observed, inclusive of posted speed limits. d.      The following are the responsibilities of the Driver:        The Driver shall have full control of the lights, siren and radio communications UNLESS responsibility is delegated by the Driver;         The Driver will follow the direction of the Crew Chief relative to vehicle speed and patient comfort:      The Driver will be responsible for ensuring there is at least ¾ tank of fuel in the vehicle before completing each call;      The Driver will report ANY accident to the Police Department in the town in which it occurred and simultaneously to the Captain or division Lieutenant.  If the ambulance sustains damage, the Driver will be responsible for any written reports required by the Municipality and/or the insurance company.  The Captain or division Lieutenant will make the initial notification to the Municipality and insurance company;     In all situations, the Driver will be courteous to other drivers REGARDLESS of the actions or behavior of the latter;     Any Driver who has NOT driven a call or stand-by event for 1 year or longer shall automatically relinquish his/her Driver status until checked out by his/her division Lieutenant or Captain.   3.      BEFORE LEAVING THE HOSPITAL AND RETURNING TO THE SQUAD BUILDING, THE CREW IS RESPONSIBLE FOR: a.       Cleaning all instruments and equipment used; b.      Replacing all oxygen tanks at or below 500 psi with a spare tank; c.       Replacing used oxygen non-rebreather masks, nasal cannulas, collars, linens, towels, etc., from that which is provided by the hospital;/     Notify the appropriate hospital personnel for replacement of equipment not readily available to the Squad member. d.      Preparing the ambulance for use for the next call; e.       Sweeping out the front and rear of the ambulance; f.        Cleaning up any biohazard material left in the back of the rig; g.       Retrieving from the hospital any equipment used in prior calls; cleaned and available for use and returned to the Squad building; h.       Completing all necessary paperwork, especially if members are to be dropped off prior to the return of the ambulance to the Squad building.   4.      UPON RETURNING TO THE BUILDING, EACH CREW-MEMBER AND DRIVER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FOLLOWING: a.       Rinsing off the ambulance if it has come in contact with road salt or salt water; b.      Cleaning all instruments or equipment used during the call; c.       Replacing all used equipment and supplies; if certain equipment is unavailable, this is to be noted on the Sergeant’s Supply Request Form; d.      Completing all necessary forms; e.       Reporting any and all mechanical defects to the engineer in a timely manner.   5.      CALLING IN THE REPORT TO THE HOSPITAL - EMTs are to use EMS Channel 2 to contact the hospital.  Do NOT try more than 3 times to contact the hospital; if a call has not been answered after the 3rd attempt, it is indicative that either they are busy or not monitoring their radio.  After acknowledgement has been given by the hospital, the report must be given in a clear and concise manner.  The report should contain the following information: a.       Patient’s age b.      Sex c.       Chief Complaint d.      Vitals e.       ETA   6.      CREWS: No call shall be answered without at least 1 active EMT member or, by authorization of the Captain, a probationary EMT when a regular EMT is not available.  Probationary and non-EMT/Ambulance Attendant members will be used as 3rd or 4th crew members as needed.  At no time are Cadet members to enter the scene of any public bar or establishment where alcoholic beverages are served.   7.      ORGANIZATION OF CREWS: Organizing a crew to respond to a call will begin with radio acknowledgement by a regular EMT member and Driver.  Only AFTER  both an EMT member AND Driver have responded may any non-EMT/Ambulance Attendant member acknowledge, by radio communication, his/her availability to respond.  The Driver will change radio frequencies to inform the County that Squad 14 has a crew to respond to the call.  Simultaneously, the EMT/Crew Chief will assemble the remainder of the crew as deemed appropriate, based on the nature of the call and availability of Squad personnel.     No member may respond to the scene of ANY call without acknowledgement and dispatch by the Crew Chief or Line Officer.  Unless so authorized to respond, “Scene Queen” members will NOT be noted on the respective PCR or given credit with respect to the requirements of LOSAP.     SECTION VI: RADIOS AND PAGERS 1.      The Captain will be responsible for the issuance of Squad radios to active members.  Pagers will be issued according to availability.  Radios are for Squad business; primarily for responding to calls for service.  Radios exhibiting operational problems will be referred to the Captain or Radio Committee for attention.  The Captain will issue a replacement and document the exchange.  At no time may Squad members exchange radios among themselves without the express authorization of the Captain.  SECTION VII: RADIO PROCEDURE 1.      At the time a radio is issued to a Squad member, the member shall sign for it.  Minimally, the serial number, model, manufacturer, member identification and date of receipt will be recorded; a copy of which will be included in the member’s personnel file.   2.      Squad members who have been issued a radio are responsible for its whereabouts and for ensuring that it is properly maintained as specified by the manufacturer.  Loss of a radio must be reported immediately to the Captain or division Lieutenant.  Malfunctioning radios must be turned in to the Captain or division Lieutenant in a timely manner; the disposition of which will be the responsibility of the Captain.   3.      Squad members shall follow proper radio procedures at all times when using Squad radios.   4.      Members shall identify the unit they are calling FIRST, and then identify themselves.  Wait for acknowledgement before giving your message.   5.      An active regular EMT member or Driver will take responsibility for organizing and dispatching a crew to respond to a call.  Non-EMT/Ambulance Attendant members will respond ONLY AFTER a regular EMT and Driver have responded.  Non-EMT/Ambulance Attendant members MUST await acknowledgement and dispatch PRIOR to responding to any all.   6.      Plain language, only, will be used in all radio communications, except for the acknowledgement of a 10-29 (DOA).   7.      When communication with the Ocean County Radio Dispatcher the Driver shall complete a series of steps.  Always wait to be acknowledged BEFORE sending your message!  After being recognized by the County Dispatcher, you must provide the following information: a.       Tell the County you are ON THE RAMP awaiting your crew; b.      Tell the County you are ENROUTE TO THE SCENE; c.       Tell the County you have ARRIVED AT THE SCENE; d.      Tell the County you are getting an RMA as soon as possible; e.       Tell the County you are ENROUTE TO THE HOSPITAL by its name, i.e. SOCH; f.        Tell the County you are ARRIVING AT THE HOSPITAL by its name; g.       Tell the County you are clear of the hospital and RETURNING; h.       Tell the County you are BACK AT QUARTERS AND OFF THE AIR.     SECTION VIII: UNIFORMS AND INSIGNIAS   1.      The Standard uniforms provided by the Squad are EMS jumpsuits, uniform tee shirts and jackets or coats.  Any aged, worn or torn garments shall be replaced by the Uniform Committee.  No uniforms or insignia bearing the name of the Beach Haven First Aid Squad will be issued to any person who is not a member of the Squad in good standing, and is not certified with the minimum training requirements set forth by the New Jersey State First Aid Council.  Patches will only be affixed to uniforms as approved by the Squad.   2.      No Squad jackets, jumpsuits, or other apparel affixed with the insignia of the Squad shall be worn in any public bar at any time unless the member is responding to a call at that location.   SECTION IX: DRIVER TRAINING   1.      Squad members must be at least 21 years of age and have at least 6 months of service PRIOR to being considered for Driver-Training.  They must also be recommended by the division Lieutenant or Captain.  During this 6-month period, they must have been actively engaged in riding in the back of the rig during patient care and to have experienced, firsthand, the activities of the crew during transport to and from call scenes.   2.      Driver-Training will be provided by the division Lieutenant or his/her designee.   3.      Driver-Training will begin with an orientation of the rigs.  Driver-Trainees will be instructed on how to properly check the various systems of the rig as well as the mechanical aspects of the vehicles.  Initial driving will take place locally; where the “feel” of the rig can be acquired.  Backing the vehicle as well as parking maneuvers will be practiced in addition to other necessary skills.   4.      After demonstrating a satisfactory level of proficiency to the division Lieutenant or Captain, Driver- Trainees may be approved to drive back from the hospital.  During this period, the safe use of radios while driving will be demonstrated.   5.      During this training phase, the use of emergency lights and sirens will be explained.  After demonstrating several satisfactory performances of these skills, the Driver-Trainee may bring the rig to the scene him/herself to meet a regular driver and the rest of the crew.  This will not only expedite the response time but will provide added experience for the Driver-Trainee.   6.      The division Lieutenant will make the final determination, after final check-out and verification of driver skills, to provide the member with a full Driver status.   7.      Due consideration will be given to those Driver-Trainee members who ride and drive for other squad with respect to shortened qualification times.  This determination will be made by the division Lieutenant and Captain.        SECTION X: SUSPENSIONS   1.      The Captain may, at his/her discretion, suspend any member for any reason deemed appropriate for the well-being, image and efficient operation of the Squad.   2.      Any member who is suspended will adhere to the following:   a.       S/he will not answer calls, occupy Squad buildings, or attend Squad meetings or functions. b.      S/he will not wear any Squad uniforms or apparel with Squad insignia. c.       S/he will immediately turn over to the Captain his/her radio and/or pager; d.      S/he will attend a Board of Review, if one is requested or deemed necessary.   3.      Upon completion of a suspension term, privileges will be restored and radios and pagers will be returned by the Captain.  The decision of a Board of Review will be enforced and may further restrict some or all privileges.  SECTION XI: STAND-BYS 1.      ROUTINE – This type of stand-by is for certain events held in our coverage area, i.e. Chowderfest, life-guard races etc.  Crews will be made up of members from both divisions.  Requests for crews will be posted in both buildings.  The duration of the stand-by will determine if crews will be designated to cover specific time intervals.  Stand-by crews will NOT respond to regular calls unless they go unanswered by other Squad members.  Crews should report early enough to check out the assigned rig for supplies and cleanliness.  There will be one run-sheet per rig for stand-by duty.  If there is a patient attended to at the scene, a patient assessment sheet will be used and attached to the run-sheet.  If a patient requires transport to the hospital, a P.C.R. is to be filled out.   2.      STORMS AND FLOODING – During periods of flooding, snow, severe weather and power outages any member available to work stand-by at either of the Squad’s buildings is encouraged to do so for as long as necessary.  If a long term stand-by is anticipated, food supplies may be authorized to be purchased and provided to the stand-by crew members, if not provided for by the Office of Emergency Management.  During flooding and ice/snow conditions, the oldest available rig at each division is to be designated “1st rig out”.  It should be noted that Beach Haven Office of Emergency Management has a 6 X 6 emergency vehicle available for Squad use, if necessary.   3.      FIRE CALLS – These stand-bys, for the most part, are for the support and protection of area firefighters.  Rigs responding to fire calls must stay a safe distance from the incident and, if possible, upwind of any smoke.  AT NO TIME will a rig be parked in such a way that it interferes with the duties of the firefighters or the use of their apparatus.  Once the fire apparatus is in place, responding rigs may be moved closer.  Drivers are cautioned NOT to park where the rig may be blocked in and unable to be moved.  If additional rigs or squads are needed to cover the incident, the Driver or Crew Chief should request such assistance without hesitation.  If it is known to be a “working” fire, crews should load up water and Gatorade from the building to be distributed to firefighters at the scene.  The EMT or Officer in Charge will determine the safest area for Squad members to station themselves.  At least 1 member will stay with the rig at all times.  THIS IS IMPERATIVE!  Vitals should be taken as deemed necessary.  Those firefighters whose vitals are out-of-line should be reported to the Fire Officer in Charge or the company Safety Officer.  It should be recommended that such firefighters be restricted in their duties until their vitals are closer to normal levels.  There will be 1 main P.C.R. per rig for each fire call.  Vitals taken and minor injuries treated shall be written up on patient evaluation sheets and attached to the main P.C.R.  If a patient is transported to the hospital or a doctor’s office, a full and separate P.C.R. will be used.  Any firefighter treated by the Squad shall be reported to the Fire Officer in Charge.  A rig will respond with the fire company/Police Officer in charge.  A rig will respond with the fire company ONLY when dispatched by the County.  Rigs will remain on site until released by the fire company.  When dispatched for alarm activations and arcing wires, the rig and its crew may provide stand-by coverage at Squad headquarters, advising the County of such measures.  SECTION XII: RESPONDING TO CALLS   1.      PERSONAL VEHICLES - Members responding in their own vehicles should drive in a safe manner at all times.  Speed should be limited to that posted.  When coming to a red light, you MUST, at a minimum, STOP, and then proceed with caution.  AT NO TIME should a member travel in the opposite lane of traffic to pass other cars.  The turn lanes should be used only when absolutely necessary and only for short distances.  Blue lights may be used, but a permit must be obtained and kept current.  Applications are available from the Captain and are approved by the Mayor of the Borough of Beach Haven.   The Municipal Clerk will forward the member’s application to the State of New Jersey.  Blue Light permits must be obtained by each member; they are NOT issued to a specific vehicle, but to the individual member.  Members are cautioned that a blue light permit DOES NOT give them the right to break motor vehicle laws.  Squad members are advised to check with their auto insurers with regard to the use of such lights by their insured.  A copy of the blue light permit will be kept in the member’s personnel file maintained by the Captain.  The use of blue lights is a privilege; not a right!  Improper use of the blue light may result in revocation of the member’s permit and possible motor vehicle citations issued by the Police Department.  UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES may a member respond to a call using blue lights unless dispatched to the scene by the EMT/Driver/Crew Chief.   2.      RIGS – Rigs responding to calls will, within reason, follow the motor vehicle codes for safe driving.  Any codes broken by a responding rig and “waived” by local law enforcement represents a courtesy; nothing more.  Rigs will be operated reasonably close to, or, at the posted speed limit, and will stop traffic control devises; i.e. stop-signs and red lights.  If a “rolling stop” is performed, it will only be done when SAFE to do so and there exists NO possibility of causing an accident or injury to another.  At all times, a rig’s speed should be slow enough to stop within a reasonable distance.  Lights are a MUST when responding, and the siren will be used as traffic and the patient’s condition dictates.  If an on-scene Police Officer or Squad member request a driver to “expedite”, it is NOT a license to break the driving rules and regulations.  The Squad’s rigs are normally responding as quickly as safely possible.  All Squad members are expected to heed the instructions of the Police Department and are absolutely prohibited from entering a scene until deemed safe to do so.    SECTION XIII: SQUAD VEHICLES 1.      MOVEMENT OF AMBULANCES – Squad ambulances may be taken from the building in which they are housed under the following circumstances:   a.       When dispatched for a call; b.      When removed by the Squad Engineer or a mechanic, at the Engineer’s request, for maintenance, inspection, etc., with the knowledge of the Captain; c.       When removed by the Lieutenant to be housed in another division, with the knowledge of the Captain; d.      For Driver-Training exercises; e.       For any other reason deemed appropriate by the Captain.   3.      PURPOSE OF THE SQUAD VAN:   a.       To provide transportation for Squad members attending training classes and seminars; b.      To provide transportation for a Squad member to a scene, when necessary; c.       To provide transportation when members are performing legitimate Squad errands.  SECTION XIV: CONDUCT OF MEMBERS 1.      CONFIDENTIALITY – Any member violating the confidentiality of meetings and/or calls of the Squad shall be subject to expulsion or other disciplinary action, as warranted.   2.      DUTY – All members of the Squad, except Honorary Members, are expected to make themselves available for as many meetings and drills as possible throughout the year.  Members are also expected to consider answering of calls of the utmost importance and, further, to consider their attendance at Squad meetings equally important.  SECTION XV: TRAINING CERTIFICATIONS AND CEU’S   1.      Training classes and seminars will be posted at both buildings.  It is the responsibility of each member to take the necessary courses to maintain his/her certification.  CEU vouchers will be issued upon request for EMT re-certification.  All records of training and fulfillment of CEU requirements must be provided to the Captain for inclusion in the personnel files of the Squad.  Failure of a Squad member to provide proof of current certification/renewals will result in suspension of that member’s riding privilege and may impact that member’s ability to meet LOSAP requirements.  SECTION XVI: MANDATORY TRAINING   1.      All members are expected to maintain their CPR, EMT, Driver and Ambulance Attendant status, pursuant to the Minimum Required Standards for New Jersey State First Aid Council Member Squads, of which Squad 14 is a member.  In addition, the following courses or classes must be attended by ALL members on an annual basis: a.       Right to Know b.      Blood-Borne Pathogens c.       Radiological Emergency Response (RERP) SECTION XVII: MEMBER INJURIES AND SERIOUS ILLNESSES 1.      Any member who suffers a serious illness, i.e. CVA, heart attack, etc., or has surgery for medical reasons, must get a signed release from his/her physician prior to returning to duty.  This release MUST be provided to the Captain PRIOR to resuming duty or responding to calls.   2.      Any member who is seriously injured, which impacts his/her ability to work, or on disability due to an injury or illness, MUST get a signed release from his/her physician PRIOR to resuming duty or responding to calls.  Any member receiving workers compensation or disability benefits will NOT be permitted to ride until such time as it is determined that the disability no longer exists and benefits are no longer provided.   3.      All injuries sustained by a member in the performance of his/her Squad duties MUST be reported to the Municipal Clerk of the Borough of Beach Haven within 1 business day of the injury.  A copy of all reports filed in conjunction with such injury must be provided to the Captain in a timely manner.