Through attrition that will likely take 3-4 years, the department would save $36 million annually under the 12-hour shift system, Ellerbe said. Currently, DCFD Firefighters work a 24/72 schedule. Under FEMS Chief Ellerbe’s proposal, they would work two 12-hour day shifts on consecutive days, then two 12-hour night shifts, then a day off before restarting the cycle.
Ellerbe wants to go to a “3-3-3” system: three 12-hour days on and three days off. He said the system will increase the number of days worked from eight to 22 and add 60 to 80 firefighters per shift, eliminating the need for overtime. He also said it will allow the department to more quickly recall personnel during an emergency and will reduce the chances of accidents on the job. “During the second half of a 24-hour shift, mistakes can happen,” he said.
Finding time for training is also a dilemma, Ellerbe said. He also said there are "public safety" concerns, including tired firefighters likely to make mistakes in the second halves of their shifts and firefighters living hours away who are unable to mobilize for a major disaster. Ellerbe said 25 percent of firefighters live in the city while 41 percent live 30 to 100 miles away.
“They’re going to be probably angry,” he said. “All they know is the 24-hour shift. This does represent a dramatic change. … But the truth is, most Americans don’t work a 24-hour shift.” WTF!?
Take Care-BE CAREFUL,
