Pasco County Fire Department Launches D-Shift For Staffing And Health

Pasco County Fire Rescue introduced the ‘D-Shift’ to address staffing shortages and improve firefighters’ mental and physical health by reducing weekly hours from 53 to the lowest in the Tampa Bay region. The new shift, which adds an extra day off, aligns with neighboring agencies and aims to alleviate overtime costs while enhancing recruitment and retention. Union leaders and officials credit the change to better staffing, reduced exposure to carcinogens, and improved work-life balance, though challenges like pay remain. The initiative, funded by previous overtime savings, marks a significant step toward sustainable operations.

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