Applying Honesty and Ethics in Today's 911 Centers

Written by Ted Bourgeois
AEP Director of Education

There's a pervasive notion that emergency management employees are inherently honest and ethical. Many gravitate towards familiar patterns, staying in their comfort zones. Even when challenged to think differently or to redefine a task, there's a tendency to retreat to familiar, risk-free terrains. However, with this approach, where does innovation lie? From where will the truly effective best practices emerge?

I believe it's time to reshape our approach to emergency management. Let's make honesty and ethics foundational in every decision. This shift would have transformative effects. Firstly, it would eliminate the influence of labels and egos which, more often than not, hinder effective decision-making. Based on my two decades of experience in emergency management and military service, I've seen how decisions rooted in ego rarely yield the best results. Instead, they often lead to more problems, thereby increasing the workload and stress levels of an already overburdened team. It's alarming how often such flawed decisions are made merely to save face, rather than being acknowledged as failures from which to learn. In fields like engineering, a recognized failure is seen as a success because it pinpoints what to avoid in the future.

When decision-making is guided by honesty and ethics, there's a clear framework for evaluating successes and failures. With such a foundation, decisions are no longer shackled by hierarchy but are judged based on merit. I find it disconcerting to recall the number of times I've been told, “Wait till you get some seniority before you share an idea.” This mindset hampers collective growth.

Consider the results of consistently applying honesty and ethics. Wouldn't it transform our work culture, relationships with colleagues, and interactions with management? By dispelling ambiguity, sidelining egos, and fostering a confidence-driven team (as opposed to one steered by egos), the entire operational atmosphere would likely undergo a positive change. Would such environments lead to better retention?

The world today stands at a crossroads, requiring numerous changes. For me, the starting point is reinstating a culture steeped in honesty and ethical behavior.