From PoliticEarly&Often:

As the Chicago Fire Department prepares for a major overhaul of its ambulance services, union leaders are sounding the alarm, claiming that recent changes could endanger both paramedics and the public.

The department is removing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units from all 75 city ambulances. Additionally, around 70 new paramedics graduating from the fire academy this Sunday will not receive standard firefighter gear, including helmets, boots, and bunker gear—items typically issued to firefighters.

Without these essential tools, veteran paramedic Pat Fitzmaurice says paramedics will no longer be able to enter burning buildings, subways, or areas affected by explosions or derailments to rescue victims or fellow firefighters in distress.

This shift could also mean that paramedics will be stationed farther away from emergency scenes, potentially adding critical seconds or even minutes to response times, Fitzmaurice warned.

The decision was announced in an internal memo signed by Deputy Fire Commissioner John McNicholas, who oversees operations. He stated that SCBA units would be removed starting September 20, though he did not provide a clear explanation for the change.

The Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2 has filed a formal grievance, arguing that the move violates their contract and puts residents at risk, especially with global terrorism threats at a high level and Chicago identified as a potential target.

“The timing of this change is concerning,” said Ryan, a union representative, in a message to the Chicago Sun-Times. “We must be ready for any emergency, especially the worst-case scenarios.”

Chicago Fire Department spokesperson Larry Langford defended the decision, stating that the city is the only major department that equipped paramedics with full firefighter gear. He explained that single-role paramedics do not respond to fires or hazardous situations and therefore don’t need the equipment.

Langford added that new paramedics will be given more comfortable clothing better suited for EMS work, including a traditional helmet, waterproof boots, and gear designed to prevent the spread of bodily fluids. Existing paramedics will keep their current gear until it needs replacement.

Mayoral spokesman Adam Collins emphasized that the city respects the men and women who protect residents and will ensure they have the tools needed for their jobs.

Fitzmaurice, however, argues that the changes make little sense when most 911 calls are for medical emergencies, not fires. Without breathing masks, paramedics can't safely enter toxic environments, which could cost lives during critical moments.

He cited two recent cases where firefighters suffered cardiac arrest on scene and were saved by paramedics using breathing gear. He also recalled an incident in 2013 when paramedics used their gear to rescue someone trapped in a burning house.

This decision comes as the city ends a 15-year experiment with a two-tier ambulance system. Starting next week, all 15 basic-life-support ambulances will be upgraded to advanced-life-support units, giving the city 75 ambulances capable of providing the highest level of care.

The move follows investigations by the Inspector General, WBBM-TV, and the Better Government Association, all of which found that more advanced ambulances are needed to meet response time standards.

A new firefighters’ contract also includes a six-member committee to study the need for even more ambulances. Meanwhile, another study is looking into relocating existing units, causing concern among some aldermen on the Northwest Side who are already opposing the changes before a final decision is made.

Thanks Scott

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