Personal Electronic Usage 110-22

Question 1

Under what circumstances are personal cellular telephones and tablets permitted?

Answer 1

Personal equipment is permitted except in the following circumstances:
* Between the dispatch of a call and the time the call is cleared
* While driving or riding in RFPS vehicles
* While conducting RFPS business with members of the general public
* While conducting fire inspections
* When involved in staff meetings, training or drill sessions.

Emergency situations may be an exception but all provincial laws must be followed.

Question 2

What mode must personal cell phones be kept in while on duty?

Answer 2

Vibrate or silent mode

Messages may be checked during ‘down time’ when not performing work-related duties.

Question 3

Can a personal phone interrupt a meeting or training session?

Answer 3

No, it should never interrupt except as permitted in specific circumstances.

Refer to section 2.1.2 for exceptions.

Question 4

Who is responsible for damage or loss of personal equipment due to work-related conditions?

Answer 4

The City of Regina or Regina Fire and Protective Services is not responsible.

This includes theft.

Question 5

Is the use of personal cameras allowed while on duty?

Answer 5

No, the use of personal cameras is prohibited unless prior approval is received.

This includes cell phone cameras and other devices.

Question 6

What must be disclosed as part of the approval process for using personal cameras?

Answer 6

The expected use of the images

This is to ensure privacy legislation requirements are met.

Question 7

Can images or videos taken while on duty with RFPS be shared without approval?

Answer 7

No, they cannot be used, printed, copied, scanned, emailed, posted, shared, or distributed without express, written approval of a Chief Officer.

Question 8

Are there exceptions to the prohibition of sharing images taken on duty for investigation purposes?

Answer 8

Yes, dissemination for fire investigation or other enforcement purposes is not covered by the prohibition if done in accordance with applicable legislation.

Question 9

What forms of sharing are included in the prohibition of images or videos taken on duty?

Answer 9

The prohibition includes posting on websites and all forms of social media, including emails to friends or colleagues.