AboutJohn Grussing Expertise I am able to answer questions related to fire service careers, fire suppression tactics, technical rescue procedures, emergency medical services, as well as fire department management and supervision questions.
Experience I am a 19 year veteran of the Normal, IL. fire department and currently hold the rank of Captain. I am also a past member of the MABAS Div. 41 Technical Rescue Team.
Organizations Golden Key Honor Society
International Association of Firefighters
McLean County EMS communications committee
Publications Fire Engineering Magazine (Roundtable Discussions)
Education/Credentials I hold an Associates degree in Fire Science from Illinois Central College as well as a bachelor of liberal arts degree from Western Illinois University. My emphasis of study was fire and disaster response planning. In addition, I hold numerous certifications in firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Technical Rescue, and Fire Department Administration from the Illinois Fire Service Institute.
Question My babys father said he is going to school to be a paramedic. He is on probation at this time for his dui and he also had a crimenal restraining order on him for demestic violence againt me. He also has demestic violence on his record in 2005 that he did to another girl and she has a restraining order on him too . Is he really able to be a paramedic with all these things on his record. Please let me know
Answer The answer to your question is maybe. The restraining orders will, in all likelihood, prevent him from being hired by a fire department. However, many private ambulance services do not perform as stringent a background check as a fire department would. Most agencies will not want someone with a violent criminal record having access to narcotics. The state or the EMS system where he wants to work may also refuse to grant him a license based on his criminal background. It will all depend on where he works, what type of agency he works for, and how extensive a background check they perform. For your part, if you hear he has applied to a specific agency go in and talk to the Chief or Director and make sure he/she is aware of this guys past. Also, make sure the school he is attending for paramedic is aware of it as well. Just make sure you don't make any statements that cannot be fully documented or he could have a slander claim against you.
