Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti's overhaul of how the city hires new firefighters - launched 16 months ago amid allegations of nepotism and bias - has so far failed to meet his aim of diversifying the LAFD and may require further reforms to succeed, according to interviews with city officials and a Times analysis of government data.
- PUB DATE: 11/17/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: los angeles times

Lexington County is telling its 350 firefighters and paramedics they need to be in shape. Being ready physically is required under a fitness plan adopted by County Council last week. All firefighters, paramedics and other ambulance crew members will be tested yearly as well as command staff who normally supervise activities.
- PUB DATE: 11/17/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: the state

For years, Rohnert Park had a bad reputation among local fire departments. Fire bosses in neighboring cities said Rohnert Park’s firefighters lacked training and supervision, were understaffed and relied too heavily on outside agencies to extinguish fires and call the shots. City Hall and public safety officials have flatly dismissed the criticisms.
- PUB DATE: 11/17/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: santa rosa press democrat

Austin city officials announced the temporary suspension of a fire battalion chief for being involved in what they described as a preventable car crash involving one of the fire department's vehicles. Battalion Chief Jeff Pine was suspended for three days, with his suspension starting Tuesday, a disciplinary memo from Austin fireChief Rhoda Mae Kerr said.
- PUB DATE: 11/17/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: firehouse