The fire department ethics program needs to include

• A. An example of specific unethical behaviors
• B. Permission for members to do what they think is right
• C. Written code of ethics or ethics policy
• D. An assumed expectation of rewards and incentives

Answer: (C)

Establish clear, shared standards for how members should behave and make decisions. A written code of ethics or ethics policy serves as the foundation by providing defined expectations, guidance for tough situations, and a basis for training, supervision, and potential discipline. It communicates values to every member, supports consistent decision-making, and creates a reference point for accountability and investigations. Merely listing examples of unethical behavior doesn’t give a formal standard to follow, and allowing members to decide what’s right on their own undermines consistency and discipline. Relying on rewards or incentives to shape behavior shifts the focus from ethical principles to personal gain, which isn’t how a formal ethics program should operate.