From PoliticEarly&Often: As the Chicago Fire Department prepares for a major upgrade in its ambulance services, it’s making changes that have raised serious concerns among union leaders—concerns they say could endanger both paramedics and the public. The department is removing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) from all 75 ambulances. Additionally, around 70 newly graduated paramedics won’t be receiving standard firefighter gear, including helmets, boots, and bunker gear, which are typically issued to firefighters. Without these tools, veteran paramedic Pat Fitzmaurice says paramedics will no longer be able to enter burning buildings or hazardous environments, such as a high-rise fire or a subway accident. That means they might have to wait outside, potentially delaying critical care and putting lives at risk. According to Fitzmaurice, this change could result in seconds—or even minutes—being lost during emergencies, especially when time is of the essence. “If we don’t have SCBA, we can’t be anywhere near a toxic environment,†he said. “That means precious seconds are lost.†The decision was announced by Deputy Fire Commissioner John McNicholas in an order dated Thursday. However, the reason for the change wasn’t explained, leaving many wondering why such essential equipment is being taken away now. The Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2 has filed a grievance, arguing that the move violates their contract with the city and puts residents in danger. The union also expressed concern over the timing, especially given the global threat of terrorism and the city’s status as a potential target. Chicago Fire Department spokesperson Larry Langford defended the decision, stating that single-role paramedics don’t respond to fires or hazardous situations. He claimed that the new gear is more suitable for EMS work and includes items like a traditional helmet and waterproof boots. Existing paramedics will keep their gear until it needs replacement. Despite the official explanation, some argue the move doesn’t make sense, especially since most 911 calls are medical-related, not fire-related. Fitzmaurice pointed to past incidents where paramedics used their gear to save lives during emergencies, including rescuing a firefighter who went into cardiac arrest. This change comes as the department ends a 15-year experiment with a two-tier ambulance system. Starting next week, all basic-life-support ambulances will be upgraded to advanced-life-support units, increasing the number of ambulances capable of providing the highest level of care. While the shift is meant to improve response times and meet standards, it has sparked debate. Some aldermen on the Northwest Side are worried about losing ambulances and are pushing back before any final decisions are made. As the city moves forward, questions remain about whether these changes truly prioritize safety or if they’re just another step in a larger, ongoing debate over resources and preparedness. Thanks, Scott Foam Tiare,Clay Tiare,Plastic Tiare,Silk Tiare, Artificial Tahiti Tiare Xuzhou Kylin Craft & Gifts Co., Ltd. , https://www.kylincraftandgifts.com
July 13, 2025