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Plano Approves 24/72 Firefighter Shifts, a First in Texas

The unanimously approved contract targets a 42-hour week to improve firefighter health.

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.