he Florida Legislature got it right in 1861 when it carved out a swath of scrub land that encompassed then-Eastern Hillsborough and Western Brevard counties.

With a roll call of votes and the signing of a bill, Polk County was created – just months before the nation plunged into the Civil War.

In those days, Polk’s population barely topped 3,000 residents. The railroad, citrus, cattle and phosphate industries hadn’t taken root. And roads were little more than a dirt path cut through thick brush.

Officially dubbed Polk County Feb. 8, 1861, it became the state’s 39th county with the passage of Chapter 1201 of the 1861 Florida Statutes.

Early History - more info

More than 150 years have passed since those early days, and times have certainly changed. Here is a snapshot of today’s Polk County:

MAJOR FUNCTION

This is responsible supervisory and technical fire, emergency medical and rescue work supervising Fire
Rescue Division employees usually on an assigned shift. Tasks include working in the areas of fire prevention, firefighting, fire training, hazardous materials handling, emergency medical and rescue activities in a working capacity of a Company Command Officer.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES

Work involves responsibility for directing and participating in the activities of company level  personnel at the scene of a fire or other emergencies, to include responsibility for their safety and effective and efficient operation at the scene until relieved of command at the scene by a senior commanding officer. Work includes responsibility for conducting pre-incident surveys and limited code compliance inspections of buildings and other facilities within the County.

An employee in this class is responsible for the appraisal and performance evaluation of company level  personnel under their jurisdiction and for participating in their training, safety and discipline. Work involves an element of personal danger and requires working on extended shifts. Work requires the
exercise of considerable judgment, tact and initiative in dealing with individual work situations and the
public. Although new or unusual problems may be referred to a supervisor for advice and assistance,
work is ordinarily performed independently following well established procedures. Work is
reviewed through conversation, observation and the analysis of submitted reports. May be assigned to
supervise a specialized group of personnel assigned to teams. Other assignments may include; Training
Officer, Fire Inspector, or Resource Officer. Inspects uniformed personnel and equipment at roll call,
takes roll call; makes assignments, assigns equipment; briefs company personnel on current written
communications and other important events.

Appear before community, civic, educational and professional groups to provide better  understanding of the Fire Rescue Division’s activities; receives input from those present and explains and promotes diverse subjects including fire prevention, life safety and community relation

Responds to fire alarms and other emergencies as Company Command Officer and, as such, is  responsible for the supervision, performance and safety of assigned employees as well as to protect the welfare of any endangered citizens.

Plans, coordinates and participates in work assignments of fire company personnel, at emergency scenes, in the station, and in other situations. Supervises and participates in routine station maintenance, including light maintenance on equipment and vehicles. Responsible for the readiness and serviceability of tools, equipment, personnel and apparatus utilized in firefighting, rescue, and emergency medical activities.

Participates with supervisor in the selection, placement, promotion, training, safety and discipline of assigned employees; prepares employee performance appraisals and evaluations. Responsible for providing, attending and/or conducting continuous company training for assigned personnel and volunteers as directed by the safety and training division. Prepares reports and records, including personnel and payroll. Supervises and participates in the on-duty company physical fitness program. Aids in the evacuation of portions of the county during natural or other disasters. Supervises and participates in pre-incident surveys in buildings and installations as assigned. Determines cause and origin of fires and requests assistance of the State Fire Marshal’s Office when needed. Supervises and participates in the home inspection program.  Acts in a higher capacity when assigned.

Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma and have a valid

Certificate of Compliance as outlined in the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal Uniform Fire Safety

1. Rules and Standards Chapter 69A-37, or a verification letter indicating that the individual meets the

above requirements, and will be issued a Certificate of Compliance from the Florida Division of

State Fire Marshal, Bureau of Fire Standards and Training Office. Must possess and maintain a valid

State of Florida Emergency Medical Technician License or State of Florida Paramedic License andIs at least 18 years of age

B. Must have a minimum of four (4) years experience as a full time paid Firefighter in an organized,   public   sector,   career   Fire   Department   within   the   State   of   Florida.

C. Meets the requirements in Florida Statute 401.281 as this position may be required to drive an advanced life support vehicle in the event of an emergency.

D. Must have a valid driver's license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license at the time

of employment.

E. Has not, within the past three (3) years, been convicted of reckless driving or driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances and has not had a driver's license suspended under the point system provided for in F.S.S. 322.

F. Meet the following driving history requirements:

• Have not accrued 12 points within 36 months or 18 points within 48 months.
• Have not been convicted on alcohol/drug related offenses within 36 mounts.
• Have not been convicted of two (2) alcohol/drug related offenses within 10 years
• Have not had a suspension, revocation, or restriction due to moving violations or
• alcohol/ drug related problem, including failure to take a breath test within the 36
• months prior.
• Must provide proof of insurance when required to use their personal vehicle as part oftheir daily job duties.
• Have not had two (2) failures to pay fines within 36 months.
• Have not had two (2) seatbelt violations within 36 months.
• Have not had three (3) lapses of insurance within 36 months.
• No serious traffic violations such as leaving the scene or driving on a suspended license
• within 36 months.