Overview
- Plano will phase in the change by hiring 22 firefighters each year for five years, with the shift transition set for year four.
- The expansion adds roughly 110 positions, a staffing increase of about 25% that city officials say will be funded through modified fire budgets and additional resources.
- Firefighters accepted a four-year salary freeze as part of the agreement.
- Leaders say the 24/72 schedule cuts average duty time from 56 to 42 hours, aiming to reduce fatigue, toxin exposure and traumatic stress while increasing recovery time.
- Plano Fire-Rescue reports calls for service are up about 30% over the past decade, and the department has already seen a 300% jump in applicants.