rangers - User contributions [en]

Radio Basics

2017-05-05T12:01:57Z

Drama: /* How to Make an Emergency Call */

'''''Radios are an important tool all Rangers & many volunteers use at Firefly, allowing rapid communication over large distances.'''''

== Who to go to get your radio & for radio problems ==
'''Echelon at Ranger HQ'''
*If you are having problems, you might need a new battery. Come to Ranger HQ.
*'''Note:''' Echelon is not the shift lead. They are just a ranger who gives out radios. If you have ANY issue OTHER than technical problems with your radio, call KHAKI on SAFETY1.
*Once you get your radio, do a quick Radio-check with Echelon to verify that your radio functions.

== How to turn your radio off & on ==
'''Use the volume & on/off knob on top of the radio'''
*If you are having any problems with your radio, first try turning it off & on again.

== How to adjust the volume on your radio ==
'''Use the volume & on/off knob on top of the radio'''
*If you are using a shoulder mic, be aware that sound will only come in & out of the mic.

== How to Make a Call ==
*'''THINK--LISTEN--PUSH--PAUSE--TALK'''
**THINK about what you need
**LISTEN for other radio traffic
**PUSH the PTT (Push to Talk) Button on the side of your radio or mic
**PAUSE for 3 seconds (it takes 3 seconds for the radio to start transmitting)
**TALK (be brief: no one else can talk when you are transmitting)
***Hold the radio or mic about 2 inches from your mouth; antenna pointing UP to sky

*'''ACTION--BRIEF--CLEAR'''
**“I need X at Y for Z”
**Speak slowly and clearly
**You can make multiple transmissions -- keep each transmission brief
**Check for understanding. Respond using language that verifies the ongoing communication.
***IMPORTANT: Repeat back for clarity (creates a “close loop communication”)

*Say handle of who you are calling twice, followed by your handle
**“Khaki, Khaki, this is . . . “
**Response should be “Go for {Khaki, etc.}”
**“I Need X at Y for Z, over.”
**Khaki, etc: “Sending X to Y for Z
**If you need Khaki to wait for more information, say “Hold”
**When you are done, say “clear"

*Speak Professionally & Respect Confidentiality (please do not use names)

*KEEP THE ANTENNA POINTING UP(not parallel to ground)

== How to Make an Emergency Call ==
*Use the SAFETY1 channel Channel# 1
*'''“BREAK BREAK BREAK”'''
*Say '''WHERE''' you are, '''WHAT''' is the emergency, and '''WHAT''' you need ("I need X for Y at Z.")
**The focus of your radio call should be your '''location''' and '''nature and severity''' of complaint. This allows First Aid to send the right response at the right priority level.
**'''Things you absolutely need to mention:'''
*** Severe bleeding

*** Difficult, uneven, or no breathing

*** Unconsciousness If you don’t say any of these things, it will be assumed that the participant is conscious, breathing, and not bleeding heavily.
**Format: “This is . . . ; I need {Medical, etc.} at {location}, for {injured participant, is/is not breathing? is/is not conscious?}
*Example: “Break, Break Break. Khaki, Khaki, this is Ranger Beta. I need First Aid at Diode for participant who is complaining of chest pain. He is semi-conscious and his breathing is labored.”

For more details, see [[Emergencies|Emergencies]].

== Understand Basic Radio Lingo ==
*'''BREAK BREAK BREAK''' Emergency call, keep channel clear
*'''Khaki''' Shift lead on radio
*'''Go For/Go''' Please speak
*'''Copy''' Understand
*'''Repeat''' Last caller, repeat
*'''Over''' Next speaker may begin, channel still in use
*'''Clear''' I’m done with transmissions, channel is clear
*'''Hold''' Please wait for more info
*'''Open Mic''' Someone is holding down the transmit button, stop now
*'''Allcom''' All stations, everybody with a radio

== What NOT to Say on the Radio ==
*Do not use profanity
*Do not use participant names (respect confidentiality)
*Do not say dead or dying (instead say not breathing, not responsive)
*Do not make references to drugs or name any substances (you can say “disoriented”)

== What NOT to do with your radio ==
*Do not hold the radio by the antenna
*Do not wear your radio in the porta-potties
*Do not hand off your radio to the next person on shift without contacting Echelon
*Do not change the channel unless you have to

== When your Shift is Complete ==
*Return your radio to Echelon
*Tell Echelon if you had any issues with your radio

== Everyone has Four Communication Responsibilities ==
#Brief others as needed.
#Communicate hazards to others.
#Acknowledge messages.
#Ask if you don’t know.

[[File:Baofeng-bf-888s-walkie-talkie cropped.png|frameless|center|Baofeng Radio BF-888]]

Communication

2017-05-05T11:45:56Z

Drama:

Communication Skills are key in all steps of [[F.L.A.M.E]].. We use communication skills while [[Find Out: Approaching the Situation|finding out]] about a situation, and especially when listening. When interacting with participants, we first focus on Communication skills, and then can integrate Mediation Skills.

We communicate by '''Thinking''', '''Talking''', '''Rephrasing''', '''Listening''', and '''De-escalating'''.

'''Communication is the exchange of information'''.

Parts of it are or can be:
* The words used in a message
* How the message is transmitted (paper, face-to-face, or by radio)
* Asking for validation of messages transmission (“Did you mean…”, or “Confirmed. You need first aid at the bug”)

Communication is a complex process. Differing perceptions may cause difficulties in the communication of ideas and information.
== Thinking ==

Before you talk, you need to pause and think about what you want to communicate. It may be helpful to ask yourself a series of questions to help you figure this out. These include questions like:
*'''"What do I want to have happen here?"'''
*'''“What more info do I need?”''' (Determining if someone is at their camp or finding out why someone is speaking loudly)
*'''“What do I want these people to do?”''' (Be mindful of requests vs. demands for action)
*'''“What extra resources do I need?”''' (Requests for help from participants, Asking Khaki to send medical help)
Think through ways you might talk, listen, rephrase, and deescalate.

== Talking ==

=== Respectful Attitude ===
When talking be relatable, polite and respectful. The word “Please” does wonders! Always make sure to introduce yourself.

Express that you are there to help. Be aware of how you may be perceived as an authority figure. Keep social capital in mind.

Examine your possible biases and personal assumptions about the issues you’re communicating. Disclose your own interests and agendas. The receivers will quickly tune out if they suspect that you have a hidden agenda. By being authentic, you will gain credibility, which is essential for effective communication.

=== Clarity ===
If your message is not clear, or if it can be interpreted in more than one way, it will leave the receivers wondering about what you mean. Make sure that your message is clear and unambiguous.

Your communication can be effective only when received in a language the receivers can understand. You need to speak not in your own language or style of thinking but in the language and style of thinking of the receivers. Understand their educational level and their demographics and communicate to them accordingly.

Even when communicating in the language of the receivers, you can still lose them if you overload them with too much information or overly complex ideas. Use the '''KISS principle (Keep It Short and Simple)'''.

=== Timing ===
In effective communication, timing is critical. For example, a message of praise and recognition should not come too late after the fact or it will lose its effectiveness. “Better late than never” may be true, but a timely message is the best.

=== Silence ===
Sometimes, the best way to communicate is by not talking. Silence can be comfortable or uncomfortable and both can be useful in the right situation. Sometimes silent companionship is all that someone needs if they're stressed out. Uncomfortable silence can be a useful tool for getting people to think about what they've been saying or get them to talk more.

=== Non-Verbal Communication ===
We communicate a great deal with tone of voice and body language. See section on de-escalation for body language.

Non-Verbal communication includes:
* Facial expressions
* Tone of voice and other "paraverbal" communication (HOW we say what we say) such as volume, rate of speech, and inflection)
* Movements
* Appearance
* Eye contact
The more stressed and individual may be:
* the less able they are to process verbal information effectively
* the more reliant they become on non-verbal communication

== Rephrasing ==
=== Questions: Open & closed ===
Asking questions is key to finding out information. Think about the types of questions you’re asking.

'''Open-ended questions''' invite more participation and detail from speaker. Examples of open ended questions include: "What are you up to today?" and "How's your Burn going?".

On the other hand, '''closed-ended questions''' invite a yes/no or factual answer. Examples of close-ended questions include “Do you understand?” and "How old are you?".

Both types of questions are useful in the right context. Open-ended questions encourage free communication. Closed-ended can decrease the level of engagement, which can be useful if you want the person to focus, slow down or be less chatty.

=== Avoid negativity when possible ===
As you listen to participants explain their perspective you’ll want to respond without agreeing or appearing to contradict what they are saying. Eliminating contradiction avoids confrontation without conceding the point. Here are some tips for doing this:
*“Yes, but …” It can negate everything that came before it, and/or lead to argument. Try “Yes, and …” or just “Yes.”. For example:
**“I love you but I’m upset with you” vs. “I love you and I’m upset with you”
**“I’m not going to do that” vs. “You’re right, and I can’t figure out how to make that work” vs. “You’re right. Can you show me how it could work?”
*"Wait, I think I might have misunderstood you...” works better than “No, you’re wrong.”
*“Hang on, maybe I wasn’t being clear...” works better than “No, that’s not what I said.”

Most people don’t like negative communication and bad news. Passive, weak, or negative communication will turn people off. Even the most negative, critical, or difficult communication will be better received when presented in a positive, affirmative style. Instead of saying, “This is a terrible idea,” try, “Tell me how we can make this idea work.”

Move to Mediation:

Finally, help create more options. Often, when people get riled up, options seem to disappear. Offering more options (or helping them think of options themselves) can calm someone down. People without options can feel trapped. Listening and clarifying the real issues is important to help generate solutions that resolve the issue.

== Listening ==
Communication is not just speaking - it’s both speaking and listening. One-way communication is no communication at all. Make sure to listen and understand the others’ needs and points of view.

When listening try to listen honestly in the moment, acknowledging the person you’re speaking with. It is also beneficial to read what they are saying emotionally as well as what words are said.

'''Listening styles''' can be on a spectrum of reactivity:

Passive, non-reactive: Sometimes just being silent and not reacting at all is uncomfortable but helpful.

Silent but reactive: Giving non-verbal cues such as nodding, moving hands, facial expressions, encouraging.

=== Active Listening ===
Active Listening is a communication tool in which the speaker restates or rephrases what they have heard in their own words to confirm understanding of the communication. This is often a very useful listening style when rangering (and in life), so a very good skill to learn and practice.

Also see the section on [[Mediation|Empathy and Empathetic Attunement]], which includes reflecting emotions while actively listening.

== De-escalation ==
The final element in communication is de-escalation. De-escalation techniques are used to calm people down--which is sometimes the most helpful intervention in a situation. De-escalation can be useful for yourself as well as the participant you’re dealing with.

=== Start with de-escalating yourself ===
You’ll need to start by de-escalating yourself if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or charged by a situation. Remember that we want to be calm when approaching situations. You want to calm people with your presence and actions, not by telling them to calm down. It’s hard to get people to calm down if you’re acting anxious or angry. It also doesn't help to tell someone to calm down. If you need to slow a situation down, stop and take a deep breath and think about what you want to do.

=== Then de-escalate others, if possible ===
Once you’ve de-escalated yourself you’ll want to de-escalate those around you.
* Separate arguing people.
** Ideally, get them out of each other’s sight (while maintaining sight of your partner). Tip: if the participants are back-to back, you and your partner can be facing each other.
* Calm people with your presence and actions and example, not by telling them to calm down.

** It’s hard to get people to calm down if you’re acting anxious or angry.
** Never tell anyone to calm down.

=== De-escalation Techniques using Body Language ===
When interacting with someone who is upset, your non-verbal communication may be the most valuable tool you have:
*'''Non-threatening stance''': Stand or sit 45 degrees vs. face-to-face, leaving sufficient personal space, usually about an arm and a half (Easy rule: Can I see your feet? If I can’t, I’m too close.)
*'''Sit down''': Especially if a person is agitated, it can be helpful to sit down.
*'''Leave an exit''': Position yourself so that both you and the participant can leave.
*'''Open posture:''' Stand or sit without arms or legs crossed or closed, if possible.
*'''Pacing and leading''': match speaker's speed/energy, then gradually slow/calm down.
*'''Relax''': People have a tendency to synchronize their mood and tone with those around them. If you project a relaxed, calm and confident presence, it can be helpful in influencing the other person to be calm as well.
*'''Break state''': do anything else (go for a walk, re-lace your boots, eat something, ask irrelevant questions)
*'''Eye contact''': enough to show you’re paying close attention, not so much that you seem threatening (especially with an angry participant)
*'''Writing down''': keeps your facts straight and lets participant know you’re taking it seriously (remember to ask permission)
*'''Touch''': Be very cautious and use your best judgment. (Touching a participant can calm them down or can make things much, much worse.)

=== De-escalating Techniques Using Words ===
Some verbal communication techniques can help de-escalate an upset person as well. Active listening is particularly helpful.
* Define emotions: Help the person to define what they are feeling. For example, you can say “I understand that you are upset” or “It sounds like you’re really angry about this.”
* Use “we” and “us” to generate connection with people.

=== Disengaging from the situation ===
If the conflict is not resolving, it can be tempting to do more. Don’t. Do less. Step back, slow down, think more, listen more carefully, talk less. One reason it can be tempting to do more is that your ego gets involved. It can be hard to accept that you can’t help, or that you don’t know what to do or say, but you don’t want to admit defeat. When you notice this happening, kick it sideways. Get your partner to take over, or call Khaki and ask for another pair of Rangers or a shift lead. If you notice your partner getting over-involved or overwhelmed, kick your partner sideways and see if you can help out (for instance, by tapping him/her on the shoulder and saying, “Hey, you’re wanted on the radio. Could you come over here for a sec?”

A useful warning sign: If you or the participant are starting to repeat yourselves, something has gone wrong in the communication cycle. The speaker may feel misunderstood, or you may be getting overwhelmed or over-involved. If this happens, slow down and ask more questions, or kick it sideways to another set of Rangers.

See more in the next section on [[Mediation]].

Find Out: Approaching the Situation

2017-05-05T00:17:31Z

Drama: /* Your Reason for Approaching the Situation */

During the "F" of Flame, we Find Out about the situation.

==First, "Do Nothing"==
The first thing most Rangers will do when they encounter a situation that might need Rangering is … NOTHING. Of course, they're not actually doing nothing – they're forming their initial impressions about the situation – but they're not actively interfering; it only looks like they're doing nothing.

Standing back and observing is the first thing we do when approaching a situation.

Many situations resolve on their own and we never have to "do" anything. We call these situations "self-Rangering.”
==Your Reason for Approaching the Situation==
There are times when Rangers need to approach participants. The basic skill of Rangering starts with how we approach participants and what our reason is for approaching them.
* Are we informing them of something such as Bacon at a nearby camp?
* Are we pointing out danger?
* Are we offering to be a neutral party to help?
* Did the participant approach us?

== Situational Awareness ==
Situational awareness is a key part of the F in FLAME-Find out--and worth repeating.

=== Safety First! ===
When entering a situation, always check for safety of both yourself and your partner.

Make sure you take a look at the immediate area around the situation and then at the larger area around that.

Maintain situational awareness (participants safety, partners safety, hazards in the area) and/or try to not lose sight of your partner.

Questions to ask regarding scene safety include:
*Is the scene safe for you and your partner to approach?
*Is there any danger to the participants?
*Is there fire?
*Is there violence?
*Is there an animal, slip, trip, or fall hazard?
*Is your partner safe?
'''If there is a safety issue where you feel that you, your partner, or participants are in danger, call Khaki immediately.'''

=== Other things to assess in a situation ===
* What is the mood/tone of the situation?
* What is the body language of the participants? What does it tell you?
* What is your own body language? What does it communicate to others? (See more below)
* What reaction do participants have to your presence? Be aware that sometimes a Ranger presence can be triggering for participants.
* How loud is the area? One of you should always be able to monitor/use radio.
* How private is the area? For both having conversation with participants and radio calls, we want to protect '''confidentiality'''.
* How are you and your partner standing in relation to one another? Are you able to keep track of each other and communicate if needed?
* Who is around that can be a community resource?
* What information do you need to develop a complete picture of the scene and understand what is going on?

==Self-Awareness==
In addition to being aware of the situation around you, always check in with yourself. You are the most important resource you have available! Be aware of how you are communicating with participants, and what is informing your own behaviors and choices.

=== Body Language ===
What is your body language going to tell them? This will be the first thing participants see. Your body language should communicate an openness to listen and also be nonthreatening. For more detail, see Communication and De-escalation with body language sections.

=== Mindset ===
Related to body language is our mindset: Your point of view can affect how you approach the scene and how you’re first presented to participants. Have you checked your preconceived notions at the door? (Or at least made the attempt?) Are you going in open minded? Be aware of your own biases and the “way you think things are.”

=== Appropriateness of Intervention ===
Always consider if you are the best person or in the best position to intervene in a situation, and you might want to stand back or kick it sideways. Things to check:
* What is my emotional state? If you are triggered (see section on trigger issues), you might not be the best person to step in right now.
* Who else is already involved? If there are already other participants or other volunteers involved, your help might not be needed.
* Does this situation call for resources beyond myself? If so, consider calling into to Khaki before engaging with participants.

== Introduce Yourself ==
Remember to introduce yourself early on when you approach participants. It doesn’t have to be the very first thing you say, however participants should know who you are before you get too involved in a situation. Be polite, express your desire to help, and be mindful of perceptions of [[Rangerly and Unrangerly Behavior#Authority|authority]].

== Using your Notebook ==
You should always have a notebook with you. It will come in very handy when passing on information to Khaki. If you are going to take notes during a conversation with a participant, make sure to ask if it is okay! Using your notebook can help in all steps of FLAME, so that you can use what you find out in other steps.

Unless the participant is asking you to pass on personal information, do not record participant names: use initials. Even in our notebooks, we need to respect confidentiality.

Read more about interacting with participants in the next section on [[Communication]].

Emergencies

2017-05-04T23:46:20Z

Drama: /* If you have medical experience */

Below are procedures for Medical Emergency and Lost Child.

== Medical Emergency ==

Rangers who encounter participants having medical difficulties should engage the participants and call Khaki to request medical response.

===Calling For First Aid ===

When calling Khaki to request First Aid for medical assistance, the focus of your radio call should be your location and nature and severity of complaint. This allows First Aid to send the right response at the right priority level.

Things you absolutely need to mention:

* Severe bleeding

* Difficult, uneven, or no breathing

* Unconsciousness

If you don’t say any of these things, it will be assumed that the participant is conscious, breathing, and not bleeding heavily.

Use the phrasing “I need X at Y for Z.”

Example: “Khaki, Khaki, this is Ranger Beta. I need First Aid at Diode for participant who is complaining of chest pain. He is semi-conscious and his breathing is labored.”

[To note: this protocol replaces the previous “LOGIC-B” protocol.]

=== Things to Note ===
* Describe, do not diagnose! Describe what is happening in terms of symptoms (dry skin, lowered level of consciousness, burns) rather than making diagnoses (dehydration).
* Don’t use words about “death” or “drugs” over the radio: If you believe someone to be dead, call it is as a medical for an “unconscious and not breathing” person and request an immediate face-to-face with Khaki. This goes along with the “do not diagnose” guideline. You CAN use the word “disoriented” over the radio.
* Be mindful of the environment around you! Make sure that the same thing that injured the participant doesn’t injure you and that well-meaning participants don’t make the situation worse.
* If needed, the Medical Supervisor will call 911. Having a single, informed point of contact will ensure that the right help gets to the injured participant as quickly as possible.

=== If you have medical experience ===
Rangers with medical or first aid certification can operate up to their own scope of practice but must call First Aid or Medical Supervisor to the scene if the injury is any more serious than injuries that might normally be treated at home by Mom (band-aid, etc). In such situations, Rangers cannot terminate care, but they must release the scene to First Aid or Medical Supervisor upon arrival. Rangers should defer to the judgment of the First Aid staff or Medical Supervisor.

Let Khaki know at the beginning of your shift if you have medical/first aid experience. It's always helpful for Khaki to know what resources are available. (Having such first aid experience is called being a "blue dot" ranger.)

See section on the First Aid Core.

===Creating a perimeter===
First Aid personnel may request that Rangers on scene provide a perimeter to keep onlookers at a distance while they work. Stand so that you can easily see the crowd, the medics, the patient, and your partner. Recruit participants to help you with your perimeter: two Rangers is a weak perimeter, but two Rangers plus five participants is a strong one.

===Stay on the scene===
Once you have called for First Aid/Medical Supervisor, you MUST stay with the participant until help arrives and you are cleared from the scene by Khaki. Inform Khaki when First Aid or Medical Supervisor arrives on scene.

=== Staying in contact with Khaki ===

In any situation involving medical response, there are three points at which you should call Khaki:
1. When you arrive and asses that First Aid (or Medical Supervisor) is needed on scene.
2. When First Aid arrives.
3. When First Aid has released you and you are ready to continue your shift.

== Lost Child ==

If someone reports a lost child, call Khaki immediately with the last place seen.

Wait for Khaki to respond! There may be a delay! Khaki has a specific protocol to follow that involves closing the gate and calling the board.

While waiting, make sure you collect the following information to give to Khaki:
* Where/when last seen
* Name, age, height, weight, clothing
* Eye/hair/skin color
* Names of parent(s)
* Home camp
* Reporter’s relationship to child

Beyond the Rangers: other Firefly Cores & Resources

2017-05-04T23:41:05Z

Drama: /* Gnomes */

In some situations, you or Khaki might need to interact with these other cores or individuals. These are good groups to know about: First Aid, Sanctuary, Fire, Radio, DPW, Gate, Security, Firefly Event Leads, Board

== Other Safety Cores ==

The other Safety Cores are in our Safety Cluster: First Aid, Sanctuary, Fire, and Radios.

=== First Aid Core ===
The First Aid Core is available for help with both serious and minor injuries. There are always First Aid Volunteers and a Medical Supervisor on-call (on the same radio channel with us, SAFETY1), but it's best to make the call to Khaki to coordinate with them.

For participants who are looking for very basic first aid items to self-treat injuries (band-aid, tylenol, etc), Rangers have access to basic supplies at HQ (look for "Self-Service First Aid Kit.") If that kit does not have what they need, then Khaki can call for a First Aid Volunteer.

See the section on [[Emergencies|Medical Emergencies]] for calling First Aid. When calling, include your location and information about the nature & severity of the injury.

If you would like to volunteer for First Aid, see [https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/medical/ their page on the Firefly website.]

If you are a Ranger who can help out with minor first aid, tell Khaki when you start your shift.

=== Sanctuary===
Sanctuary is a safe space where the citizens of Firefly can seek an outlet or assistance with any emotional trauma. Sanctuary is located at the top of the field by the entrance to the woods towards Steam Bath. Sanctuary volunteers will always be available there, and there is a Sanctuary supervisor on-call.

If appropriate, Rangers can offer to escort or direct participants to Sanctuary if they’d like a quiet, safe place to talk with someone confidentially. If you think a participant could benefit from some time in Sanctuary, contact Khaki. There may be a "green dot" ranger (someone with experience working with individuals in emotional distress) available that could help - Khaki will know. Remember that Sanctuary is a limited resource and, in most cases involving participants in some degree of distress, not a necessity. Use your discretion when suggesting or accessing Sanctuary as a resource. Sanctuary should not be used as a “drunk tank.” If you do end up escorting someone to Sanctuary, let Khaki know.

If you are interested in volunteering for Sanctuary or receiving Sanctuary training, please email [mailto:sanctuary@fireflyartscollective.org sanctuary@fireflyartscollective.org]. Also see their page on the [https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/sanctuary/ Firefly Website.]

===Fire Core and Fire Arts Safety Team (FAST)===

Fire Core includes several teams: FAST (Fire Art Safety Team), Fire Enclave, and Fire Marshal.

Fire Core/FAST may be called to handle unattended fires and should be called to handle potentially unsafe flame effects. Fire Core will be on the same radio channel as Rangers, but call any situation in to Khaki.

See section on [[Other Situation-Specific Procedures|Unattended Fires]].

Fire Core also provides fire safety training during Firefly that is open to anyone who is interested. This training occurs early in the event and for the Bug Burn Perimeter.

If you are interested in Fire Core, email fire@fireflyartscollective.org. Also see [https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/fast-fire-art-safety-team/ their page on the Firefly website].

==Radio Core==

The Radio Core (now separate from Rangers, but we work with them) maintains especially with testing radios and equipment. If you are interested, email radios@fireflyartscollective.org.

== Other Firefly Cores & Roles ==
While not part of the Safety Cluster, '''Khaki may call on these groups for assistance''', and you may find yourself interacting with them in some situations.

We recommend that you are aware of all the firefly cores. See this page for more information: https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/

Some particular groups include:

=== DPW ===
DPW handles most event infrastructure. Read more at https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/dpw/.

=== Firefly Event Leads & Board ===
The Firefly Event Leads and Board Members are available to help on event-level issues.

=== Security ===
At the gate, there are both Firefly Volunteers and hired Security. You are very unlikely to need to interact with them, but they are also part of why you should never have to have a direct, physical confrontation with any participant or other person on the property.

=== Gnomes ===
Gnomes are super helpful volunteers that often run errands for other cores.

=== Accessibility Squad ===
Accessibility Squad is a group of participants that helps out participants with mobility issues. While not an official core, they are a valuable part of the Firefly Community. You can contact them by a box in either upper or lower parking.

''Accessibility Squad is most staffed during the first few days and Exodus.''

Beyond the Rangers: other Firefly Cores & Resources

2017-05-04T23:37:43Z

Drama: /* Fire Core and Fire Arts Safety Team (FAST) */

In some situations, you or Khaki might need to interact with these other cores or individuals. These are good groups to know about: First Aid, Sanctuary, Fire, Radio, DPW, Gate, Security, Firefly Event Leads, Board

== Other Safety Cores ==

The other Safety Cores are in our Safety Cluster: First Aid, Sanctuary, Fire, and Radios.

=== First Aid Core ===
The First Aid Core is available for help with both serious and minor injuries. There are always First Aid Volunteers and a Medical Supervisor on-call (on the same radio channel with us, SAFETY1), but it's best to make the call to Khaki to coordinate with them.

For participants who are looking for very basic first aid items to self-treat injuries (band-aid, tylenol, etc), Rangers have access to basic supplies at HQ (look for "Self-Service First Aid Kit.") If that kit does not have what they need, then Khaki can call for a First Aid Volunteer.

See the section on [[Emergencies|Medical Emergencies]] for calling First Aid. When calling, include your location and information about the nature & severity of the injury.

If you would like to volunteer for First Aid, see [https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/medical/ their page on the Firefly website.]

If you are a Ranger who can help out with minor first aid, tell Khaki when you start your shift.

=== Sanctuary===
Sanctuary is a safe space where the citizens of Firefly can seek an outlet or assistance with any emotional trauma. Sanctuary is located at the top of the field by the entrance to the woods towards Steam Bath. Sanctuary volunteers will always be available there, and there is a Sanctuary supervisor on-call.

If appropriate, Rangers can offer to escort or direct participants to Sanctuary if they’d like a quiet, safe place to talk with someone confidentially. If you think a participant could benefit from some time in Sanctuary, contact Khaki. There may be a "green dot" ranger (someone with experience working with individuals in emotional distress) available that could help - Khaki will know. Remember that Sanctuary is a limited resource and, in most cases involving participants in some degree of distress, not a necessity. Use your discretion when suggesting or accessing Sanctuary as a resource. Sanctuary should not be used as a “drunk tank.” If you do end up escorting someone to Sanctuary, let Khaki know.

If you are interested in volunteering for Sanctuary or receiving Sanctuary training, please email [mailto:sanctuary@fireflyartscollective.org sanctuary@fireflyartscollective.org]. Also see their page on the [https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/sanctuary/ Firefly Website.]

===Fire Core and Fire Arts Safety Team (FAST)===

Fire Core includes several teams: FAST (Fire Art Safety Team), Fire Enclave, and Fire Marshal.

Fire Core/FAST may be called to handle unattended fires and should be called to handle potentially unsafe flame effects. Fire Core will be on the same radio channel as Rangers, but call any situation in to Khaki.

See section on [[Other Situation-Specific Procedures|Unattended Fires]].

Fire Core also provides fire safety training during Firefly that is open to anyone who is interested. This training occurs early in the event and for the Bug Burn Perimeter.

If you are interested in Fire Core, email fire@fireflyartscollective.org. Also see [https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/fast-fire-art-safety-team/ their page on the Firefly website].

==Radio Core==

The Radio Core (now separate from Rangers, but we work with them) maintains especially with testing radios and equipment. If you are interested, email radios@fireflyartscollective.org.

== Other Firefly Cores & Roles ==
While not part of the Safety Cluster, '''Khaki may call on these groups for assistance''', and you may find yourself interacting with them in some situations.

We recommend that you are aware of all the firefly cores. See this page for more information: https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/

Some particular groups include:

=== DPW ===
DPW handles most event infrastructure. Read more at https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/participate/join-a-core/dpw/.

=== Firefly Event Leads & Board ===
The Firefly Event Leads and Board Members are available to help on event-level issues.

=== Security ===
At the gate, there are both Firefly Volunteers and hired Security. You are very unlikely to need to interact with them, but they are also part of why you should never have to have a direct, physical confrontation with any participant or other person on the property.

=== Gnomes ===
Gnomes are super helpful volunteers, that can often run errands for other cores.

=== Accessibility Squad ===
Accessibility Squad is a group of participants that helps out participants with mobility issues. While not an official core, they are a valuable part of the Firefly Community. You can contact them by a box in either upper or lower parking.

Situation-Specific Procedures

2017-05-04T23:33:37Z

Drama: /* Situations that Must Be Reported to Khaki */

If you are ever in doubt of how to handle a situation, you can contact Khaki.

== Additional Pages in this section ==

=== [[Beyond the Rangers: other Firefly Cores & Resources|Beyond the Rangers: other Firefly Cores & Resources (eg First Aid, Sanctuary, Fire Core)]] ===

=== [[Emergencies|Emergencies (Medical Emergency, Lost Child)]] ===

=== [[Other Situation-Specific Procedures|Other situation-specific procedures]] ===

== Situations that Must Be Reported to Khaki ==
Firefly Rangers are entrusted with considerable flexibility in how they handle the situations they encounter at Firefly. Rangers are trained to rely on their own judgment and abilities and to escalate matters (generally Khaki and then the Officer of the Day) for assistance when appropriate. There are, however, situations which require Rangers report what they observe to Khaki immediately.

In general, Rangers should call in any emergency or incident immediately and should report any event as soon as is reasonably possible.

It is important to note that this policy only requires that a Ranger escalate required information to Khaki. Khaki will then follow up with appropriate actions, which may be as simple as noting the event in the shift log or may include further escalation. It is not the individual Dirt Ranger’s responsibility to contact Law Enforcement or Medical Supervisor.

The requirement to report is in place to ensure that the Firefly Board is aware of events that are critical to maintaining agreements we have in place with other departments and agencies, our internal reporting metrics, or legally required or advisable record keeping and reporting.

Examples of Must-Reports:
* Lost or found child
* Child or elder abuse
* Domestic violence
* Sexual assault
* Non-consensual physical violence
* Death
* Medical emergencies
* Psychiatric emergencies
* Any situation that is likely to put a Ranger in harm’s way
* Any situation that is likely to put a participant in non-consensual grave danger
All reports begin by calling Khaki on the radio. Use plain English to clearly explain what the situation is, and, if you know them, what resources you think you need. Khaki may send other resources as well, and may roll to your location for a face to face.

If you are not sure whether something falls into the above categories, go and and report what you see. Let Khaki figure out whether any follow up action is required.

== Incident Command System (ICS) in brief ==
ICS is a way to manage emergencies and planned events in a swift, efficient, and effective manner.

When ICS is “activated”, a few things will happen:
* There will always be an IC (Incident Commander) “in charge”--the person may change, but someone will be the IC
* There is a “chain of command” of who to report to: everyone should only have to report to ONE person
* Unless/until Khaki or the IC says otherwise, as a Ranger you STILL report to Khaki
If you are the first on-scene at an emergency, call it in to Khaki!
* If Khaki initiates ICS, you may technically be the IC until someone else with more training arrives.
** Use your judgement to keep the scene safe
** Continue to update Khaki!
** You may be asked switch over to the TAC1ICS radio channel
** When the IC arrives (maybe Medical or the OOD), update them on what has happened and let them take command

=== Four rules ===
* Be sober
* Check with the IC
* Know your role (check with Khaki!)
* Don’t freelance
'''Other ICS resources:'''
* FEMA online ICS 100b course: http://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-100.b
* [[ICS I-Basic Concepts]]
* [[ICS II-For Safety Core Volunteers]]
* [[ICS III-Managing Developing Incidents]]
* [[ICS IV-Organizational Structure]]

Ranger Shift Logistics

2017-05-04T23:28:56Z

Drama: /* Food & Drink Safety */

This section covers coming on shift, during your shift (includes: partnering, meet & greet, awareness, food & drink safety), going off shift, decompressing after your shift (including support vs. gossip). Also see the '''[[Preparing_for_your_Shift#Required_Equipment_.2F_Ranger_Checklist|Firefly Ranger Shift Checklist]]'''.

== Coming on Shift ==
HQ is the base of Ranger operations. HQ is the first and last place you’ll visit during a shift. For participants, HQ is a convenient place to find Rangers. HQ is located in the woods close to the intersection of Mercurial and Verdant near the stage.

=== First, check in with Echelon ===
Check in with Echelon FIRST to:
*Get your radio
*Get your shirt, laminate, and swag
*Check in on the shift schedule
*Check the schedule for your future shifts
*Sign up for more shifts

=== Next, check in with Khaki ===
Once you are ready with all your ranger equipment, check in with Khaki to find out:
*Who you’ll be paired up with
*Where you should go while on shift
*What’s going on around Firefly

== During your shift ==
=== Partnering ===

Rangers always travel and work in pairs - never alone. Your safety and your partner’s safety are always your top priority. Use your time at HQ before shift to meet somebody new and partner with them for your shift; Rangers without partners will be assigned a partner by Khaki.

=== Meet and Greet ===
While on shift, meet and greet your fellow participants. This is important. It will not only melt away the walls of “us and them,” allowing a greater sense of community but will also allow you to get a better sense of city dynamics and potential problem areas. If a problem occurs in your area, you may have already developed a relationship with the citizens involved or their neighbors. Keep in mind that every interaction is a chance to improve our social capital and educate participants about what Rangers do and why we do it.
=== Awareness ===
As you move through the event, trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, pay attention and follow up. If you think that an intervention may be necessary but are not sure, contact Khaki. Remember, always err on the side of safety - yours and the participants’.

In approaching any situation, a Ranger’s initial default action is DO NOTHING (exception: must-report situations like medical emergency, lost child, etc.). If, in the process of doing nothing, you decide that your presence would be helpful, engage by helping participants solve their own problems. If they are unable to do so, try to help them solve the problem. If you are unable to help or need additional resources, call Khaki.

Awareness also applies to your partner and to radio traffic. Do not lose sight of your partner during your shift (with the obvious exception of using the restroom), and always pay attention to radio traffic. Practice listening to the radio while being aware of the city at the same time.

=== Food & Drink Safety ===
Rangers are a respected part of the Firefly and many participants offer to share their food and drink with them. The possible inclusion of psychoactive substances creates a risk that should not be taken lightly. If you do not know the person offering food or drink, the safest thing may be to decline or ask to come back when your shift is done.

To be an effective team, all Rangers must “share the same reality.” Being aware of and in control of what you consume helps ensure this.

'''Intoxicants in Costume '''

All Rangers must be sober while on duty. Rangers should never be in costume off duty. Being intoxicated while in costume may get you kicked out of the Rangers.

It is important to remember that the Ranger costume is a key identifier to participants that you are on duty and there to help; if you are unable to help, then it is time to change your shirt. We trust your judgement. We admire your discretion.

== Going off Shift ==
=== Go back to HQ AND check in with Khaki! ===
Plan to head back to Ranger HQ about 5 minutes before the end of your scheduled shift so that you have time to debrief with Khaki.

If you are in the middle of rangering an incident or emergency, please do not leave your assigned location until explicitly told by Khaki it is okay to do so.

At Headquarters, check in with Khaki to debrief. If Khaki is busy, please wait. Return your radio to Echelon and check when you are next scheduled to be on shift.

Please remove your lam and change your shirt to signal that you are no longer “on duty”.

== Decompressing After your Shift ==

Sometimes there are things that happened on shift that we want to talk to someone about. Sometimes we are excited about what happened, but we need to keep in mind that it is our responsibility to respect participant confidentiality and to maintain our professional integrity. Rangers should not gossip on or off shift. Details of events on shift are not public information.

Sometimes, we want to talk because we need support around what happened on shift. There are many resources available to you to receive appropriate support: Khaki, the OOD, members of the Ranger Council, and other experienced Rangers are available to support you. There is space behind Ranger headquarters available to use to talk privately. Sanctuary is also always available to you.

=== Support Vs Gossip ===

To try to determine if your conversation could be gossip or seeking support, consider the intention, content, audience,and setting:

'''Intention/Content:''' Do you want to share details about persons/camps because it’s interesting/scandalous, OR do you want to share your personal reaction to what happened on shift because you need support?

'''Audience:''' Are you talking to someone that understands confidentiality?

'''Setting:''' Are you somewhere private, or is your conversation likely to be overheard?

{| class="wikitable"
!
!Gossip
!Seeking Support
|-
|'''Intention:'''
|Sharing information about a person/group because it’s interesting, scandalous, etc.
|Sharing information about your personal reaction to what happened on shift.
|-
|'''Audience:'''
|Friends, campmates, other Rangers.
|Individuals who understand that information needs to be confidential.
|-
|'''Content:'''
|Names of individuals or camps; details of the event.
|No names; talk about the experience and how it affected you.
|-
|'''Setting:'''
|Where others might overhear your conversation.
|In private, where you won’t be overheard
|}

Rangerly and Unrangerly Behavior

2017-05-04T23:10:01Z

Drama: /* How much authority do Rangers have? */

This section covers key points in the HOW of rangering.

== Authority ==

=== How much authority do Rangers have? ===

Absolutely none—until and unless a participant chooses to give it to us at that particular time.

Or, more accurately, no more than any other participant at Firefly.

One of the inherent contradictions to being a Ranger is that we have no inherent authority. We make an effort not to be authority figures, but people WILL look to us as authority figures, and there are rare times in which we DO need to act as authority figures.

The rare times in which Rangers act as authority figures are:
# Burn perimeter: We help enforce the perimeter that is set by the Fire Safety Team
# In an emergency: We help create a perimeter to ensure that First Aid staff can do their job sufficiently.
# The OOD is authorized to act on behalf of the Firefly Board in certain limited conditions having to do with participant and event safety.

That is it.

In those cases, Rangers are just acting as sober, identifiable assistance to other teams: to Fire Safety and First Aid, or on behalf of the Firefly Board. Often, we end up being the communicators of rules that have been determined by the community and the Board, but even then we rarely dictating or enforce. We strive to help hold the Community and its values together.

Any situation where someone is asking you to make a judgment call or enforce a rule, you can kick it sideways. You can pass it to Khaki, who will pass it to whoever needs to be involved.

== Non-confrontational, Non-authoritarian Methods ==

So what do we do if we DON’T have authority?

* Focus is on participants: It’s not about us
* We use non-confrontational methods
* We mediate, influence, and persuade rather than dictate, enforce or dominate
* Help participants help themselves
* We provide good information
* Walk away when needed

== Social capital ==
=== What is social capital? ===

We use the term “social capital” to describe the trust and confidence that participants, staff, law enforcement, and medical personnel have in the Rangers: our “street cred.”

Social capital is our sole source of authority; it is what we run on. Without the confidence of participants and staff, we would be unable to function effectively.

Rangering involves building and using social capital appropriately.

=== Reputation, Credibility and Effectiveness ===
By helping participants in trouble, by treating everyone with respect, and by acting professionally and with integrity, we have, over time, built up a lot of social capital with participants and staff.

Because of the Rangers’ social capital:
* People will listen to you in way that they would not listen to a random participant offering advice or asking them to change their behavior.
* Law enforcement, medical, and other departments will often seek your assistance and pay attention to your input.
* When Rangers are perceived as helpful, effective, collaborative, professional, and impartial (i.e., high social capital), we will be listened to, taken seriously, and trusted.
* When Rangers are perceived as authoritarian, uptight, entitled, unprofessional, or incompetent (i.e., low social capital), we will be ignored or resisted.

=== Adding & subtracting Social capital ===
Social capital is like a bank account: every good interaction you have with a participant or staff member makes a deposit into our social capital account, and every bad interaction withdraws from it.

Unfortunately, bad interactions with Rangers often make good stories, so participants will tend to tell all their friends when they’ve seen a Ranger acting unprofessional or authoritarian.

When you do good, you make a small deposit in our account; when you do bad, you make a huge withdrawal.

We expect every Ranger to act as an ambassador and an educator, both to participants and to other volunteers. When out in the city or on a call, talk to participants and staff about what we do and why we do it. Let them know that we’re here for them, and show them by your actions that we are a resource they can trust.

== Un-Rangerly Behavior ==

=== What is Un-Rangerly Behavior? ===

Both members of the community and fellow Rangers can report incidents of un-Rangerly behavior to any member of the Ranger Council, the Firefly Conduct Committee, or a similar community organization dedicated to the oversight of Ranger behavior.

Un-Rangerly behavior shall include, but is not limited to:
* Harassment
* Violence
* Sexual misconduct
* Misusing community trust
* Failing to report an emergency
* Knowingly neglecting ranger responsibilities
* Being intoxicated on-duty
* Failing to keep the privacy of confidential information

=== Ranger Responses to Un-Rangerly Behavior ===
The Firefly Ranger Organization takes incidents of un-Rangerly behavior while identifiable as a Ranger (coming on or off shift, while at HQ, anytime you are in costume or wearing a Ranger laminate) very seriously. Ranger Leadership (Khaki, OOD, Ranger Leads) will follow up on any reported incidents. See more in the [[Firefly Ranger Charter|Ranger Charter.]]

==== Results of un-Rangerly behavior ====

Khaki may choose to remove any Ranger from a shift.

The Ranger Lead & Ranger XO (each) may choose to de-lam a Ranger for the duration of the event. De-lamming a Ranger means that they are no longer considered a Ranger for the duration of the event.

The Ranger Council may vote (after a fair hearing) by majority to remove a Ranger permanently and/or recommend further community action.

A Ranger may also self-recommend consequences for their own un-Rangerly behavior, subject to approval by the Ranger Lead, Ranger XO, or the Ranger Council.

=== Violations of the Firefly CODE OF CONDUCT ===

If un-Rangerly behavior also violated the Firefly Code of Conduct, then the Conduct Committee with be consulted, as indicated in the [https://www.fireflyartscollective.org/firefly/firefly-policies/ Firefly Code Of Conduct].

What Rangers do on Shift

2017-05-04T23:05:11Z

Drama: /* Shift Tasks */ for lols

Also see the [[Overview of the Firefly Rangers]] page.

== Shift Tasks ==

While on shift, Rangers may need to do a variety of tasks. These could include but are not limited to:
* Walk around the event: We try to have rangers check on all areas of the event periodically.
* Stay in one place for a while: it’s recommended to hang out and chill with other participants, especially if it’s a quiet day and there are a couple teams of rangers on.
* Assist participants in acclimating to the woods and the community.
* Answer questions like:
** Where are the porta potties?
** Where can I camp?
** Can I light my art on fire?
** Have you seen my pants?
* Help out agitated and disoriented participants.
** They may need to go to Sanctuary
** They may need medical attention
* Mediate situations and disputes between participants.
* Address and report any instances of non-consensual physical or sexual assault.
* Inform participants of potentially hazardous weather situations.
* Maintain safety perimeters and scene control as needed.
* Provide other non-confrontational mediation and safety activities as needed.
* Mobilize medical, law enforcement, fire response, or other life-safety services.
* Just hang out: maintain a presence at the event & forge relationships with the community.
* Have fun!

Some shifts will be intense, most of the time they will be “boring”.

== Rangers balance helping and staying out of the way ==

Keeping participants safe & happy/being helpful

Not getting in way of people’s experiences

== Rangers do nothing! ==
What is the main thing we do as Rangers? Nothing!

* Active process
* Let things play out
* Intervene as little as possible
* Goal to get participants to solve their own problems
* Sometimes just being there is a reminder to participants to think about their behavior

== Rangers have fun! ==

* Participate!
* Engage!
* Chill!
* Wander!
* Enjoy Art!

== Rangers stay aware, alert, sober & available! ==

It is possible to have “too much fun.” Engaging in an activity where you cannot stay aware, alert or available is not appropriate for a Ranger shift. For example, cuddle puddles do not need Rangering.

How to become a Firefly Ranger

2017-05-04T22:47:20Z

Drama: /* Experienced Rangers Joining us from other Burns */

This page is for NEW Firefly Rangers.

If you are an experienced Ranger from another burn joining us, please see the section below on Experienced Rangers from other Burns.

== New "Alpha" Rangers ==
As a new ranger, you are considered an “alpha” until the end of your first (“alpha”) shift. Below are the steps from Firefly participant to alpha to Firefly Ranger.
=== Live Life ===
Have you been living your life? Have you been paying a small amount of attention along the way? Have you ever been willing to assist other people? Are you willing to be part of a team that is identifiably helpful? Are you unlike anyone else on the planet, with your own experiences and your own perspectives that make you, you? Have you been to Firefly before?

Great! Then you just might be a good fit for the Firefly Rangers.

=== Be a Firefly ===
We want all our Rangers to be Fireflies first. The only (very rare) exception might be for long-standing members of another Burner Community who have significant prior experience rangering other burns. Generally speaking, we want Ranger membership to come from within the event itself, this helps to ensure that Rangers "get it" just like any other group of participants.

=== Choose a Ranger Handle ===
If you don’t already have a Ranger Handle, you will need one to be a Ranger! A Ranger Handle is a unique, radio-friendly name that has some personal meaning to you. Most are two to three syllables. Please do not use your legal name.

If you would like to change your Ranger handle, please contact the Personnel Team [mailto:ranger-personnel@fireflyartscollective.org ranger-personnel@fireflyartscollective.org].

=== Fill out the Annual Ranger Survey ===
Each year, we need to collect information about a lot of Rangers. Please fill out this form so that we can keep in touch!

[http://tinyurl.com/ffranger2017 2017 Survey]

=== Take Your (Annual) Ranger Training ===
All Rangers train every year—from the shiniest pennies to the muddiest vet. Why is this? It's so that as a group, we can draw from a common set of values and expectations on how we do what we do and then do it well. Procedures may change from year to year, sure - but procedures are just a small piece of training compared to all the learning, growing, and skill development it takes as we re-commit ourselves anew each year to serving the Community from a shared perspective.

Trainings are typically offered several times a year. Any seven-hour BRC (Black Rock City) Ranger training will qualify you as having been fully trained for the Firefly Rangers. There will also be several four-hour Firefly Ranger trainings offered in May and June on at least one weekday evening and one weekend.

Please look on the Firefly website, or keep an eye out on Community mailing lists for sign-up announcements & annual training dates.

If you cannot attend one of these pre-event trainings, please contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org].

'''BRC trainings:''' http://rangers.burningman.org/training/

See the [[Get Involved - 2017#Training Overview|Training Overview]]
=== Sign up for your shifts ===
After the successful completion of your first Ranger training, you will be asked to sign up for an "Alpha" shift. After your this first shift, you can sign up as a dirt ranger.

See [[Get Involved - 2017#Shift sign up|Shift sign-up]], [[At-Event Ranger Roles]]
=== Walk An Alpha Shift ===
Your "alpha" shift is simply a shift walked with a more experienced Ranger (“mentor”) or two (Khaki may ask you to switch partners during your Alpha shift), during which you will wear a khaki-colored t-shirt, carry a radio, and do your best at balancing a funny combo: knowing when to stay out of the way of everyone else's burn and how to be available to help others upon request.

=== Consult With Mentor and Khaki ===
After you walk your Alpha shift, the mentors you walked with will meet in conjunction with Khaki (the shift lead) for a brief meeting and then again with you. This is where you will decide as a group if the Firefly Rangers are a good match for you. If so, then congratulations! You are now a Firefly Ranger!

Most folks pass, though it's not guaranteed. Alternatively, if anyone in the discussion (including you) decides it's just not your year to become a Ranger, you've just been "bonked". That's okay too. We thank you for your service. We really respect you for taking time to volunteer. Please try again next year and go have a great Firefly.

=== Decide Jointly If You Are A Good Fit For The Firefly Rangers ===
If everyone in the group agrees, and you choose to become a Firefly Ranger, you will soon get to wear a khaki-colored costu-form and carry a radio while on shift. If you haven't learned this already, learn right now that Rangers have absolutely no authority except that which individual participants choose to give us at any given time, that social capital is our most valuable resource we as Rangers share, that our diversity is our strength, and that humility is wisdom. Now - go be awesome!

=== Ranger! ===
You can now work as a Dirt Ranger! After this Firefly is over, you can join one of our Teams. During your second year as a Ranger, you can become an Echelon Ranger, or a mentor, and in your third year you can be a Khaki-in-training (KIT). (If you are really enthusiastic about about any of these roles earlier than usual, contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org])

== Experienced Rangers Joining us from other Burns ==
We are always happy to have rangers joining us from other burns. Depending on your level of experience, you may be eligible for exceptions to training requirements. Please contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org] for more information.

Please be aware that there are some differences between Firefly and other burns, particularly Burning man.
We are a much smaller event (about 1000 participants), and as such everything is smaller.
*Our ranger council is much smaller and hands-on that the BRC Ranger council
*Echelon at Firefly is stationary at HQ. See Echelon section.
*We do NOT have law enforcement, EMT, or Firefighters on site at all times.
*We use ICS for emergencies. See ICS section.
*We have a different Early Arrival process, as well as Exodus. Let us know if you have questions.

How to become a Firefly Ranger

2017-05-04T22:46:13Z

Drama: /* Ranger! */

This page is for NEW Firefly Rangers.

If you are an experienced Ranger from another burn joining us, please see the section below on Experienced Rangers from other Burns.

== New "Alpha" Rangers ==
As a new ranger, you are considered an “alpha” until the end of your first (“alpha”) shift. Below are the steps from Firefly participant to alpha to Firefly Ranger.
=== Live Life ===
Have you been living your life? Have you been paying a small amount of attention along the way? Have you ever been willing to assist other people? Are you willing to be part of a team that is identifiably helpful? Are you unlike anyone else on the planet, with your own experiences and your own perspectives that make you, you? Have you been to Firefly before?

Great! Then you just might be a good fit for the Firefly Rangers.

=== Be a Firefly ===
We want all our Rangers to be Fireflies first. The only (very rare) exception might be for long-standing members of another Burner Community who have significant prior experience rangering other burns. Generally speaking, we want Ranger membership to come from within the event itself, this helps to ensure that Rangers "get it" just like any other group of participants.

=== Choose a Ranger Handle ===
If you don’t already have a Ranger Handle, you will need one to be a Ranger! A Ranger Handle is a unique, radio-friendly name that has some personal meaning to you. Most are two to three syllables. Please do not use your legal name.

If you would like to change your Ranger handle, please contact the Personnel Team [mailto:ranger-personnel@fireflyartscollective.org ranger-personnel@fireflyartscollective.org].

=== Fill out the Annual Ranger Survey ===
Each year, we need to collect information about a lot of Rangers. Please fill out this form so that we can keep in touch!

[http://tinyurl.com/ffranger2017 2017 Survey]

=== Take Your (Annual) Ranger Training ===
All Rangers train every year—from the shiniest pennies to the muddiest vet. Why is this? It's so that as a group, we can draw from a common set of values and expectations on how we do what we do and then do it well. Procedures may change from year to year, sure - but procedures are just a small piece of training compared to all the learning, growing, and skill development it takes as we re-commit ourselves anew each year to serving the Community from a shared perspective.

Trainings are typically offered several times a year. Any seven-hour BRC (Black Rock City) Ranger training will qualify you as having been fully trained for the Firefly Rangers. There will also be several four-hour Firefly Ranger trainings offered in May and June on at least one weekday evening and one weekend.

Please look on the Firefly website, or keep an eye out on Community mailing lists for sign-up announcements & annual training dates.

If you cannot attend one of these pre-event trainings, please contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org].

'''BRC trainings:''' http://rangers.burningman.org/training/

See the [[Get Involved - 2017#Training Overview|Training Overview]]
=== Sign up for your shifts ===
After the successful completion of your first Ranger training, you will be asked to sign up for an "Alpha" shift. After your this first shift, you can sign up as a dirt ranger.

See [[Get Involved - 2017#Shift sign up|Shift sign-up]], [[At-Event Ranger Roles]]
=== Walk An Alpha Shift ===
Your "alpha" shift is simply a shift walked with a more experienced Ranger (“mentor”) or two (Khaki may ask you to switch partners during your Alpha shift), during which you will wear a khaki-colored t-shirt, carry a radio, and do your best at balancing a funny combo: knowing when to stay out of the way of everyone else's burn and how to be available to help others upon request.

=== Consult With Mentor and Khaki ===
After you walk your Alpha shift, the mentors you walked with will meet in conjunction with Khaki (the shift lead) for a brief meeting and then again with you. This is where you will decide as a group if the Firefly Rangers are a good match for you. If so, then congratulations! You are now a Firefly Ranger!

Most folks pass, though it's not guaranteed. Alternatively, if anyone in the discussion (including you) decides it's just not your year to become a Ranger, you've just been "bonked". That's okay too. We thank you for your service. We really respect you for taking time to volunteer. Please try again next year and go have a great Firefly.

=== Decide Jointly If You Are A Good Fit For The Firefly Rangers ===
If everyone in the group agrees, and you choose to become a Firefly Ranger, you will soon get to wear a khaki-colored costu-form and carry a radio while on shift. If you haven't learned this already, learn right now that Rangers have absolutely no authority except that which individual participants choose to give us at any given time, that social capital is our most valuable resource we as Rangers share, that our diversity is our strength, and that humility is wisdom. Now - go be awesome!

=== Ranger! ===
You can now work as a Dirt Ranger! After this Firefly is over, you can join one of our Teams. During your second year as a Ranger, you can become an Echelon Ranger, or a mentor, and in your third year you can be a Khaki-in-training (KIT). (If you are really enthusiastic about about any of these roles earlier than usual, contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org])

== Experienced Rangers Joining us from other Burns ==
We are always happy to have rangers joining us from other burns. Depending on your level of experience, you may be eligible for exceptions to training requirements. Please contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org] for more information.

Please be aware that there are some differences between Firefly and other burns, particularly Burning man.
We are a much smaller event (about 1000 participants), and as such everything is smaller.
*Our ranger council is much smaller and hands-on that the BRC Ranger council
*Echelon at Firefly is stationary at HQ. See Echelon section.
*We do NOT have law enforcement, EMT, or Firefighters on site at all times.
*We used ICS for emergencies. See ICS section.
*We have a different Early Arrival process, as well as Exodus. Let us know if you have questions.

How to become a Firefly Ranger

2017-05-04T22:43:33Z

Drama: removed for brevity

This page is for NEW Firefly Rangers.

If you are an experienced Ranger from another burn joining us, please see the section below on Experienced Rangers from other Burns.

== New "Alpha" Rangers ==
As a new ranger, you are considered an “alpha” until the end of your first (“alpha”) shift. Below are the steps from Firefly participant to alpha to Firefly Ranger.
=== Live Life ===
Have you been living your life? Have you been paying a small amount of attention along the way? Have you ever been willing to assist other people? Are you willing to be part of a team that is identifiably helpful? Are you unlike anyone else on the planet, with your own experiences and your own perspectives that make you, you? Have you been to Firefly before?

Great! Then you just might be a good fit for the Firefly Rangers.

=== Be a Firefly ===
We want all our Rangers to be Fireflies first. The only (very rare) exception might be for long-standing members of another Burner Community who have significant prior experience rangering other burns. Generally speaking, we want Ranger membership to come from within the event itself, this helps to ensure that Rangers "get it" just like any other group of participants.

=== Choose a Ranger Handle ===
If you don’t already have a Ranger Handle, you will need one to be a Ranger! A Ranger Handle is a unique, radio-friendly name that has some personal meaning to you. Most are two to three syllables. Please do not use your legal name.

If you would like to change your Ranger handle, please contact the Personnel Team [mailto:ranger-personnel@fireflyartscollective.org ranger-personnel@fireflyartscollective.org].

=== Fill out the Annual Ranger Survey ===
Each year, we need to collect information about a lot of Rangers. Please fill out this form so that we can keep in touch!

[http://tinyurl.com/ffranger2017 2017 Survey]

=== Take Your (Annual) Ranger Training ===
All Rangers train every year—from the shiniest pennies to the muddiest vet. Why is this? It's so that as a group, we can draw from a common set of values and expectations on how we do what we do and then do it well. Procedures may change from year to year, sure - but procedures are just a small piece of training compared to all the learning, growing, and skill development it takes as we re-commit ourselves anew each year to serving the Community from a shared perspective.

Trainings are typically offered several times a year. Any seven-hour BRC (Black Rock City) Ranger training will qualify you as having been fully trained for the Firefly Rangers. There will also be several four-hour Firefly Ranger trainings offered in May and June on at least one weekday evening and one weekend.

Please look on the Firefly website, or keep an eye out on Community mailing lists for sign-up announcements & annual training dates.

If you cannot attend one of these pre-event trainings, please contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org].

'''BRC trainings:''' http://rangers.burningman.org/training/

See the [[Get Involved - 2017#Training Overview|Training Overview]]
=== Sign up for your shifts ===
After the successful completion of your first Ranger training, you will be asked to sign up for an "Alpha" shift. After your this first shift, you can sign up as a dirt ranger.

See [[Get Involved - 2017#Shift sign up|Shift sign-up]], [[At-Event Ranger Roles]]
=== Walk An Alpha Shift ===
Your "alpha" shift is simply a shift walked with a more experienced Ranger (“mentor”) or two (Khaki may ask you to switch partners during your Alpha shift), during which you will wear a khaki-colored t-shirt, carry a radio, and do your best at balancing a funny combo: knowing when to stay out of the way of everyone else's burn and how to be available to help others upon request.

=== Consult With Mentor and Khaki ===
After you walk your Alpha shift, the mentors you walked with will meet in conjunction with Khaki (the shift lead) for a brief meeting and then again with you. This is where you will decide as a group if the Firefly Rangers are a good match for you. If so, then congratulations! You are now a Firefly Ranger!

Most folks pass, though it's not guaranteed. Alternatively, if anyone in the discussion (including you) decides it's just not your year to become a Ranger, you've just been "bonked". That's okay too. We thank you for your service. We really respect you for taking time to volunteer. Please try again next year and go have a great Firefly.

=== Decide Jointly If You Are A Good Fit For The Firefly Rangers ===
If everyone in the group agrees, and you choose to become a Firefly Ranger, you will soon get to wear a khaki-colored costu-form and carry a radio while on shift. If you haven't learned this already, learn right now that Rangers have absolutely no authority except that which individual participants choose to give us at any given time, that social capital is our most valuable resource we as Rangers share, that our diversity is our strength, and that humility is wisdom. Now - go be awesome!

=== Ranger! ===
You can now work as a Dirt Ranger! After this Firefly is over, you can join one of our Teams. During your second year as a Ranger, you can become an Echelon Ranger, or a mentor, and in your third year you can be a Khaki-in-training (KIT). (If you are really enthusiastic about about of these roles earlier than usual, contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org])

== Experienced Rangers Joining us from other Burns ==
We are always happy to have rangers joining us from other burns. Depending on your level of experience, you may be eligible for exceptions to training requirements. Please contact [mailto:rangers@fireflyartscollective.org rangers@fireflyartscollective.org] for more information.

Please be aware that there are some differences between Firefly and other burns, particularly Burning man.
We are a much smaller event (about 1000 participants), and as such everything is smaller.
*Our ranger council is much smaller and hands-on that the BRC Ranger council
*Echelon at Firefly is stationary at HQ. See Echelon section.
*We do NOT have law enforcement, EMT, or Firefighters on site at all times.
*We used ICS for emergencies. See ICS section.
*We have a different Early Arrival process, as well as Exodus. Let us know if you have questions.