Texas Order of Firefighters (TXOFF) Social Media Policy

Updated - May 27, 2025

1. Purpose and Scope

The Texas Order of Firefighters (TXOFF) recognizes the widespread use of social media as a powerful tool for communication, networking, and advocacy. This policy outlines guidelines for all TXOFF members, volunteers, and staff (collectively referred to as "members") when engaging with social media, both personally and professionally, particularly concerning TXOFF-related matters.

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Protect the reputation and integrity of TXOFF and its members.

• Ensure consistent and appropriate communication.

• Maintain professionalism and respect online.

• Minimize legal and reputational risks.

• Promote a positive and constructive online environment.

This policy applies to all forms of social media, including but not limited to: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, blogs, forums, and any other online platforms where content is shared publicly or semi-publicly.

2. General Principles

When engaging on social media, TXOFF members are expected to adhere to the following principles:

• Professionalism: Always maintain a professional and respectful demeanor. Remember that your online conduct can reflect on TXOFF.

• Accuracy: Ensure all information shared is accurate and truthful. Do not spread misinformation or rumors.

• Respect: Show respect for all individuals, including fellow members, fire service professionals, public officials, and the general public, regardless of their views. Avoid discriminatory, harassing, or offensive language.

• Confidentiality: Do not share confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information related to TXOFF, its members, or any fire department operations. This includes internal discussions, meeting minutes, and personal information of others.

• Compliance: Adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and TXOFF bylaws and policies.

• Accountability: You are personally responsible for the content you publish on social media.

3. Representing TXOFF on Social Media

3.1 Official TXOFF Social Media Accounts: Only authorized TXOFF representatives (e.g., designated administrators, board members) are permitted to post on official TXOFF social media accounts. All content posted on official accounts must be approved and align with TXOFF's mission, values, and communication strategy.

3.2 Personal Social Media Accounts:

• Identification: If you identify yourself as a TXOFF member on your personal social media profiles (e.g., in your bio, job title), you must include a disclaimer stating that your views are your own and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Texas Order of Firefighters. (e.g., "Opinions expressed are my own and do not represent the Texas Order of Firefighters.")

• Tone and Content: Even when posting on personal accounts, consider the impact your words may have on TXOFF's reputation. Avoid posting content that could be perceived as:

  • Hate speech, discrimination, or harassment.

  • Threatening, defamatory, or libelous.

  • Illegal activities or promotion of such activities.

  • Blasphemous, obscene, or sexually explicit.

  • Endorsements of political candidates or parties that do not align with TXOFF's non-partisan mission (unless explicitly authorized for specific advocacy efforts).

  • Personal attacks or disparaging remarks about individuals or organizations.

• Sharing TXOFF Content: When sharing official TXOFF content (e.g., press releases, event announcements), do so accurately and without alteration.

• Responding to Critics: If you encounter criticism or negative comments about TXOFF, do not engage in heated debates. Instead, consider directing the individual to an official TXOFF contact for further discussion.

4. Prohibited Conduct

The following actions are strictly prohibited on social media by TXOFF members, whether on official or personal accounts, when related to TXOFF or the fire service:

• Sharing Confidential Information: Disclosing any non-public information about TXOFF, its members, financial details, strategies, or internal discussions.

• Harassment or Bullying: Engaging in any form of online harassment, bullying, or intimidation of other members, fire service personnel, or the public.

• Defamation: Publishing false or misleading statements that could harm the reputation of TXOFF or any individual.

• Misrepresentation: Impersonating other individuals or organizations, or falsely claiming to represent TXOFF.

• Copyright Infringement: Posting copyrighted material without proper attribution or permission.

• Illegal Activities: Posting content that promotes or depicts illegal activities.

• Personal Attacks: Engaging in personal attacks or derogatory comments about individuals.

5. Monitoring and Enforcement

TXOFF reserves the right to monitor public social media content that mentions or relates to the organization or its members, in order to protect its reputation and ensure compliance with this policy.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including:

• Request for removal of offending content.

• Suspension or termination of TXOFF membership.

• Other actions as deemed appropriate by the TXOFF Board of Directors.

In cases where illegal activity is suspected, TXOFF may cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

6. Personal Responsibility and Good Judgment

Remember that what you post online can be permanent and accessible to a wide audience. Always exercise good judgment and consider the potential long-term consequences of your online activities. If in doubt about whether content is appropriate to share, err on the side of caution or consult with a TXOFF Board Member.

7. Reporting Violations

If you become aware of a potential violation of this social media policy, please report it to a TXOFF Board Member or designated contact person.

8. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically and may be updated as necessary to reflect changes in social media platforms, best practices, or TXOFF's needs.