Thursday, January 13, 2011

Re: [californiadisasters] CA budget proposal to eliminate 4th



As a former firefighter, I can tell you that 4-0 staffing is more efficient, safer and effective.  However in a slow season, I recognize that it appears wasteful of monetary resources.  We don't come cheap, I know.  To have less staffing is also less effective and safe, costing perhaps more in losses and resources (you have to order more on the line to do better and save more).

I started in the days of one firefighter per piece of apparatus.   It was pretty hairy at times and the public deserves better.   When I left, we had 3-0 staffing with a few rigs at 4-0.  That was MUCH more cost effective.   Google 'synergy' if you don't understand. 

The main "product"' of the fire service is a non-tangible, assurance.  The "consumer" is assured that EVERY time they call for help, it will be sent.  Be it mud slide, fire, transport to a hospital, a blood pressure check, safety inspections or advice on garden plants, the fire service does it all.   The public knows this and is assured, can rest easier and focus on the more pleasant aspects of their life.  That's the 'product' we offer. 

So having said this, your answer is to be a thorn in the side of the politicos in your area.  If you feel less safe by staff reductions, make it known to those we have granted control.  It may come down to paying more for the service, or at the cost of another service. 

Without debating politics, THAT is what we pay them to do.   It's up to us to let them know how we feel so they do a more effective job.  If we don't, they won't know and may make a less correct choice on our behalf. 

Rick

Blame the typos on the iPhone. It's awkward to type on one. 

On Jan 13, 2011, at 9:30 AM, "debbygirl55" <debtidwell@yahoo.com> wrote:

 

Not sure if this is too off topic, but Browns proposed budget cut eliminates the 4th firefighter on every engine! I am concerned this will result in dangerous situations for both the public and the firefighters! What can we do?



__._,_.___


Be sure to check out our Links Section at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/californiadisasters/links
Please join our Discussion Group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/californiadisasters_discussion/ for topical but extended discussions started here or for less topical but nonetheless relevant messages.




Your email settings: Individual Email|Traditional
Change settings via the Web (Yahoo! ID required)
Change settings via email: Switch delivery to Daily Digest | Switch to Fully Featured
Visit Your Group | Yahoo! Groups Terms of Use | Unsubscribe

__,_._,___

No comments:

Post a Comment