The following article summarizes the complement of the "Shifts" along with their daily routine which will give the reader insight as to how the members of the Rochester Fire Department ensure the readiness of it's equipment and personnel at a moments notice.

Currently, the suppression division is staffed by 30 members. These members are divided in four groups or as more commonly known shifts. Each shift is comprised of 1 Captain, 1 Lieutenant and 6 Firefighters. Each shift will work an average of 42 hours per week. The work week is broken down as follows. The members will work 2 consecutive day shifts of which the hours are 7:00 am to 5:00 pm and then 2 consecutive night shifts of which the hours are 5:00 pm to 7:00 am. Once the four day cycle is complete, the members receive four consecutive days off, this time is used to recuperate from long and busy night shifts along with attending to family matters.

The Captain (Shift Commander, Shift Officer) is assigned to Station 1 the supervisor for the six firefighters and one lieutenant. The shift officers job is to ensure the daily activities for the department are carried out. Also, the Captain will determine the needed resources to provide an effective response for emergency calls. Other responsibilities are but not limited to, evaluations, conducting training, performing various inspections and tasks otherwise assigned.

The Lieutenant is assigned to station 2 along with two of the six on duty firefighters. He is responsible for the supervision of the firefighters under his control at Station 2. Also, the Lieutenant will determine the needed resources to provide an effective response for emergency calls. Other responsibilities are but not limited to, evaluations, conducting training, performing various inspections and tasks otherwise assigned.

The six firefighters are split between the two stations and responsible for performing the daily activities along with maintenance and operating the departments apparatus and specialized equipment and tools. Daily activities which must be performed are station maintenance, which ensures a clean and safe work place for the employees as well as the public. A substantial amount of time is devoted to equipment care and maintenance. Devoting this time confirms that the equipment will be operable without notice at any time during the day or night. The firefighters also spend several hours training. This allows them to maintain the skills they have acquired along with staying current with new technology in the fire service. If time allows, the firefighters may also participate in a physical fitness program. The firefighters also perform several other duties from assisting the Shift Officer, conducting tours for visitors to working on special details and projects.

Along with performing the above listed functions, it must be remembered that the primary function of the suppression division is to respond to calls for assistance. Some examples of calls which we respond to are structure fires, car accidents, medical assist, alarm activation's, lock outs and public assists. In 1999, the average was 5 calls per day which required a response of some type.

STAFFING ASSIGNMENTS

As you have read, the members of the Rochester Fire department maintain a steady work schedule while on duty. Below you will find two time lines which mirror a typical day shift along with a typical night shift.

As mentioned earlier, we respond to an average of 5 calls per day. Therefore, the schedules will be altered or adjusted to allow for the time that is consumed attending to the incidents.

Should you have any further questions which you would like answered, feel free to either contact us by phone, e-mail or stop in for a visit.