The Role of Participation In A Rescue Department Community Of Practice

This paper reports the findings of a study conducted for the design considerations for a rescue department community of practice (CoP). Focus group interviews with firefighters and fire officers were conducted to examine how to establish and facilitate the CoP and implement knowledge management practices. The findings indicate that employees value peer support and have a high degree of trust in their colleagues. Facilitation and rotating leadership are critical in driving the community and implementing good practices for maintaining engagement and the preservation of knowledge.