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January 25, 2013

House burns 3 miles from station, chief: 'Not our problem'

The Ariz. fire chief said the blaze was out of their coverage area

By FireRescue1 Staff

ELOY, Ariz. — An Ariz. fire chief is defending his decision to not battle a blaze that was just three miles from his station.

Eloy Fire Chief Coy Amerson reasoned that the fire, in a rural area called Picacho, was not in their service area and did not need to respond, according to Tuscon News Now.

"It's like everything I had I don't have anymore," Edward Ortiz said.

His home was burned down, but he says it might have been saved if the Eloy Fire Department had responded, saying crews were only three miles away.

The news outlet requested access to the 911 dispatch tapes where the Eloy Fire Department says they will send out crews, only to call the dispatcher back to say they actually weren't going to respond to the blaze.

"That's going to be out of our area and no one's going to be able to respond," a member of the Eloy Fire Department said.

Chief Amerson said that because the residents of Picacho don't pay for fire service, they didn't need to respond.

"Not our problem. Sorry, but you're not in the district you're not our problem," Chief Amerson can be heard saying on the tapes.

He added that if someone had been trapped inside of a structure fire, they would have sent crews, but that was not the case with this blaze.

Another fire department 20 minutes away from the fire also did not respond to the blaze. It was Avra Valley Fire that responded, driving 30 miles to the scene.

Chief Amerson says he has approached residents in the past about paying for the fire service, about $50 to $250 per year, but some residents said they've never received an option to pay for the service.

Comments

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Wheeling Fire Department Station 5- Wheeling Island Friday, January 25, 2013 1:05:01 PM Hard to believe here in 2013 that this happens. Damn you Chief for putting $ in front of YOUR duty. Resign and move aside letting someone with more freaking sense of civic duty take over. Appalled by this and any other FD in our great country that would do this over "service fees". Hope it your house next.

Michael Tremblay Friday, January 25, 2013 1:10:30 PM Hey, Chief, try DOING YOUR JOB and then sending them a bill after the fact! We are here to serve the people, not check lines on a district map! Shame on you!

Chris Lucas Friday, January 25, 2013 1:19:29 PM that chief needs to be fired.

Richmond Wayne Harris Friday, January 25, 2013 1:29:03 PM This might be more of a mayor problem than a Chief problem. I am finding this to be more of a political problem that city board members might have had more to do with this. an example http://www.wpsdlocal6.com/news/local/Firefighters-watch-as-home-burns-to-the-ground-104052668.html

Richmond Wayne Harris Fri Jan 25 13:49:36 PST 2013 I think on this one it is a subscription service. They offer it as long as you pay upfront on the subscription rate. You could charge nonpaying customers a premium charge at up to three times the normal amount I believe by law. So why not just charge them afterwards for the service if they haven't subscribed. You could charge other expenses I am sure. It is better to do this than assume that these people know this information and it might even be taken care of by the insurance Also the reason that people do not pay on the taxes for one is because like where we live our fire department would be over run with calls 40 miles away. Since we are part of a very large county so even though they are right next door it is going to be awhile for them to get back to us if they are that far away.

Stacey Nicholas Fri Jan 25 17:43:39 PST 2013 I would never assume that people who do not pay for their fire service have paid for home insurance. Homeowners insurance is often mandated by the lender to protect the lender's interest. Persons in homes that are paid for are not required to purchase home owner's insurance. So billing at 3x the limit would still get you nothing.

Richmond Wayne Harris Fri Jan 25 22:58:53 PST 2013 if they don't pay you put a lien on their property.

Neal Davison Friday, January 25, 2013 2:14:45 PM The Emergency services in Australia is the responsibility of the States and Territories and funded as such...you dial 000 and someone will come... no ifs, buts or maybe's.

John Novak Fri Jan 25 19:45:29 PST 2013 That is not the case in Arizona. We have the freedom to choose to purchase property in an area which is free of certain taxes. We also have the freedom to live with those choices.

Sherri Simmons Jewell Friday, January 25, 2013 2:24:23 PM I hope they got rid of that man. What if it was his home or family. Pitiful!

Craig Breeden Friday, January 25, 2013 2:42:54 PM what about mutual aid? must companies have mutual aid all the time but I guess this station don't believe in this thought process!

John Novak Fri Jan 25 19:34:02 PST 2013 Pinal County has a great mutual aid system. You can only request mutual aid when you are enroute or on scene.

Harold Shingler Friday, January 25, 2013 2:49:09 PM The chief of this dept. should be removed from his post, you take a oath to protect lives and property 24/7 no matter where, and this indeed is a very bad exsample for his men and women, and the community, If you stop and look, ill bet that the tax payers provide money grants to that dept.HOMELAND SECURITY.This just looks like lazyness to me, Appalled is not the word...IGNORANT.

Charles Cunningham Friday, January 25, 2013 3:13:25 PM In our volunteer community we spend more time fighting fires as a mutual aid company than we do fighting our own fires. I understand the pay for service but I do not agree with it. Our department is tax supported but our neighboring departments that we work with are not.

Doug Terrell Friday, January 25, 2013 3:21:53 PM We don't know any of the history behind this story. And all the feel good " Firefightes protect Life and Property... Do your duty, etc." sounds real nice. But the bottom line is every run cost someone something. If nothing more that fuel for the trucks. But the actual expense is far higher, ask any volunteer who had to take a vacation day from their paying job the next day. The bottom line is home owners should know and care about their community and prepare. Not wait for the poo to hit the fan and expect someone else to be there! Every few months we read a similar story, Citizens WAKE-UP you expect a truck to show up when you dial 911, then pay the piper. Know what you have and where your taxes are or are not going!

Doug Terrell Friday, January 25, 2013 3:23:32 PM Second point - What is going to happen if the Chief is our giving charity and the resources are needed back home?

Terry L. Wise Fri Jan 25 15:57:41 PST 2013 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHYPZBpxeZE

Gary Bloch Friday, January 25, 2013 3:29:03 PM Didn't they ever hear of a thing called mutual aid dispatching ?

Warren Kelly Friday, January 25, 2013 4:00:10 PM I agree with Neal Davison, Nearest brigade responds with backup as required. Fire is Fire and the role of firefighter is not something that is for sale to the highest bidder.

Jim Hensel Friday, January 25, 2013 4:08:40 PM Wow I thought this type of thinking went out the window 30 years ago. This just makes me ashamed.

Byron Ostrom Friday, January 25, 2013 4:14:49 PM Wow! Way to give the fire service a bad name!!!

Mike Price Friday, January 25, 2013 4:18:56 PM I am grateful that I work for a dept that wouldn't stop me from going outside the county line.. I hate to hear of a story like this, but if it is contract work and people have to pay for this individual service then why would anyone pay if the department will always respond. The chief stood his ground.. I do hate to hear of a story like this..

Kenny Herinckx Friday, January 25, 2013 4:19:01 PM If they responded out of thier area without a mutual aid agreement it is very possible that their insurance would not have covered them. I say good job Chief for making the tough decision to keep your taxpayers covered with the service they paid for.

Alex Schoen Sun Jan 27 21:53:32 PST 2013 They dont want the risk dont be a ff, its about helping everyone gets caught in politics and forget what we should do as ffs and emts. Risk a little to save a little stop being cowards.

Kyle Mish Mon Jan 28 11:58:28 PST 2013 Alex Schoen Wow, last time I checked a human life was worth quite a bit more than a "little". Every single time you enter an involved structure, you risk a whole lot. I wouldn't want to have to explain to a family member, why, God forbid, funeral costs were not covered due to an out of service area insurance issue. Think, before you speak and call people cowards, who are clearly not.

Jim Richards Friday, January 25, 2013 4:23:35 PM As a firefighter, seeing these stories time and time again disgusts me.

Alvan Bello Friday, January 25, 2013 4:24:50 PM This is not good at all. That wont happen in my country.

Royette Williams James Fri Jan 25 16:36:01 PST 2013 u can say that again. not when my committed roommate is just a stone through away...lololololol

W Joseph Lacks Friday, January 25, 2013 4:31:00 PM FIRST OF ALL THE CHIEF WAS WRONG. HE SHOULD HAVE SENT A CREW THERE. 2ND, WHAT's THE DEAL WITH THE TOWN OF ELOY? DOn't THEY HAVE A CONTRACT WITH THE DEPT? IF NOT, HOW LONG HAS THIS BEEN GOING ON. IS THEIR ANY AGREEMENT AMONG ANY ENTITY OR CITIZENS. LOOKS LIKE THE STATE NEEDS TO LOOK INTO THIS. MUST BE THEY DOn't HAVE MANY FIRES THERE.

John Liebfred Fri Jan 25 16:38:53 PST 2013 There's some townships in Oregon that have no municipal fire services Either,.... Home owners have to contract with the likes of Rural/Metro and the such..... But that "Chief".......Needs to read my post a couple hours ago and ponder it.

John Novak Fri Jan 25 19:37:54 PST 2013 The town of Eloy has nothing to do with this. The call was outside of the town and fire district limits.

Frank Mea Friday, January 25, 2013 4:31:34 PM Disgusting

Friedrich VonDeitsch Friday, January 25, 2013 5:04:29 PM People please! All of you who have negative feelings for the Chief obviously have never had the enormous responsibility or understanding of being in command. When you are responsible for an entire department you are afforded the information that many outside of the organization do not have, such as, the mandates of the controlling council board officers as well as the state and national codes governing the operation of public service entities. The Chief knew his hands were tied and had to make a call that I am positive made him as angry and hurt as all of us here responding to this news. He not only should not lose his job, as some here have suggested, but in fact be supported for having done the "right" thing that was obviously going to be meet with a powerful cry from all who are ignorant of the rules Fire officers are bound by. It sure would have been nice to just go and help your neighbor but not if it means you will possibly hurt someone else doing it. I am positive the Chief was not thinking of "the money" issues but the liability issues instead. It is truly tough being in command. Especially when so many people have no idea of the demands placed on you. Stay well and safe all. Respectfully, Lieutenant Frederick Georges. N.S.V.F.A./Orleans Fire and Rescue-Retired.

Richmond Wayne Harris Sat Jan 26 00:36:59 PST 2013 The peoples feelings are run on emotion of only what is pictured. If they understood all that was going on which as you stated the public is not informed of this information then they would be less emotional. The case here the man said he had no knowledge that you had to pay first who knows if that is the case. How would he have even known ? Who informs people of this.? I know that most calls are not fire related most are emergency calls from car wrecks and so many others. So how are they handled ? Maybe there needs to be a better way to help people find out what is required such as mandatory billing sent to their house like water and sewage.

Friedrich VonDeitsch Sat Jan 26 08:15:46 PST 2013 Richmond Wayne Harris , Thank you for your understanding of the emotional aspect of human nature. To address your quandary as to "who informs people of this" I respectfully submit two words, town meetings. The citizens today see it always as someone else's responsibility, as you yourself suggest:"mandatory billing sent to their house like water and sewage", which of course will cost everyone more tax dollars! When it would be more user intensive to go to public meetings, it would be beneficial to every citizen so as to have knowledge of the public service responsibilities to the community. I know I am tested now but I become frustrated with the view that all of an Americans free time must be their own. If one prefers to watch tv or golf or whatever rather than being an active member in their community as it was fifty years ago, then I am at a loss to feel very empathetic when bad things happen to them. Understand that I have volunteered over forty years of my life to the communities I chose to serve protecting them, so it is not as if I were antisocial but it is hard to weep for those who choose to be ignorant and leave everything up to "others".

Richmond Wayne Harris Sun Jan 27 01:23:30 PST 2013 Town meetings oh help us, Lol I thought you would say that. The tax dollars for extra billing on the water and sewage cost would be so little it wouldn't even be noticed. I can say this is the best way to deal with this. I empathize with you on people getting more involved. Everyone should try to get involved sometimes. In this world of today I know it doesn't always work for the younger people with their busy lives. I also couldn't imagine a whole town or even a quarter of them showing up it would be something too see. We would need police to watch over ours if that was to happen.

Friedrich VonDeitsch Sat Feb 2 11:44:50 PST 2013 Mr. Harris, My apologies for my late response. I had other stuff,.. sorry. You wrote " Town meetings oh help us, lol I thought you would say that". Well of course I would, where else would a person go to find the answers being sought?! I must at this point ask you if you or someone close to you who "can talk" to you about the town office responsible for what it costs to change an existing program... to add or delete an item, policies or protocol, has outlined what it would actually take to do this in time and money? My understanding of the "cost" of things for government offices is that it is not just the price of a stamp! It involves a great deal of effort by people who are known for there inability to make anything happen effectively for a minimal cost. I am stunned that you feel notifying hundreds, if not thousands of citizens, would be minimal. Perhaps you would understand if you personally had to pay for a letter sent to everyone in your community. Forty seven cents times ..what, three thousand?, equals... one thousand four hundred ten dollars! This is minimal to you? Please remember to address the multiple languages that the notice will have to be printed in as it is not a billing but important information about the districts coverage from public service entities. To send out public service announcements today in one language would leave public service offices wide open to law suit. Additionally, any one single person with sufficient desire and attention span could go to the meetings, no need for everyone to show up!, and glean the needed facts to bring back to post on the internet like we are here or just "word of mouth" as most information is disbursed so all who are interested will have access to it. I feel no citizen is "too busy" to know about things that can safe their lives and property. If they have time to waste watching television then they have time to look into this. Visit the local Fire Department and ask the commanding officer. They will tell you or direct you to the needed people who can help. Finally, I am shocked to read " we would need police to watch over" at the end of your response. Why? Are you and your fellow citizens a bunch of animals that can not come together for the betterment of all without needing police supervision? Really? If it is truly this feral an environment in your locality then I feel each will have to be emotionally wounded in their individual time of crisis as was the home owner in the posting here. Stay safe ...and informed! Fireman Fritz

Friedrich VonDeitsch Tue Feb 19 07:16:40 PST 2013 Mr. Harris, This link is to an article that sheds light on my point of how difficult it is to give the level of service citizens demand and deserve when people are not willing to make an effort on their part to aid the communities public servants. The efforts of this communities government to help are just ignored. My point here is that sending everyone a notice is not always enough. http://www.firefightingnews.com/article.cfm?articleID=104878

John Novak Friday, January 25, 2013 5:11:05 PM He is legally required to cover his own area. If his crews were in Picacho and a fire broke out in his district, they would get sued for not covering the area which pays taxes for fire protection. Nobody wants to annex into a fire district because of the taxes. They are willing to roll the dice until there is a fire then depend on the court of public opinion to destroy a fire district's reputation. I have the same potential issue in my fire district. If I do not have adequate staffing or one of my two engines is out of service, there will be no out of district response. It truly sucks, but it is what it is. There is nothing preventing the citizens of Picacho from forming their own fire department.

Dustin Dinwiddie Fri Jan 25 17:47:36 PST 2013 It was handled poorly they should have gone used it as a teachable moment and made a political push for funding

Eric Hoser Fri Jan 25 18:21:44 PST 2013 Sucks but i agree with you john he did the right thing.

John Novak Fri Jan 25 18:25:51 PST 2013 Dustin, and when they miss a call, what reason do you give? You are right about a teachable moment. Hopefully, the citizens of Picacho learn from this and vote for annexation into Eloy's fire district or form a volunteer fire district. They could possibly contract with Regional Fire/Rescue for a station. As a fire chief, I cringe everytime I get an out of district call and I don't have manpower. I have been lucky and my troops have jumped out of the woodwork to cover the district.

Dustin Dinwiddie Fri Jan 25 18:50:28 PST 2013 I could completely agree with you if he was sending a truck outside a reasonable response are where they could not return in a timely manner they could gave gone provided exposure protection which reduces injury odds and equipment use and been in service for other calls im sure they have more than one truck the fact that they did not respond just to investigate for a victim or any other life safety issue is ridiculous not to mention how was this not ever thought of

Dustin Dinwiddie Fri Jan 25 18:51:26 PST 2013 Sorry using my phone fat fingers

Dustin Dinwiddie Fri Jan 25 18:56:28 PST 2013 I bet they travel farther and use more resources to get breakfast

John Novak Fri Jan 25 19:00:48 PST 2013 Dustin, how many trucks does your DOD fire department send to a fire, just one? I doubt it. With one truck there is no 2 in 2 out, there is no water supply. Would you rather have had Eloy respond, dump a tank of water on it and say "that's all there is" and pack up and leave the fire burning? My first paid Captain's gig was in that area. I used to hustle subscriptions for my boss. People do not want to part with a couple hundred bucks for a years worth of fire and ems protection and are willing to take a chance they will not have a fire. The Fire Chief was protecting his troops, his citizens and his job.

Dustin Dinwiddie Fri Jan 25 19:07:15 PST 2013 Yes my dod department dose send one eng just one to off post. Not in our area fires we play it safe as we can and sometimes it is a one tank show and wait for or i should say hope the fd responsible for the area is coming

Dustin Dinwiddie Fri Jan 25 19:13:21 PST 2013 I get the argument but its three miles 3 not ten the state needs a auto aid system you know it i know it and im positive this department gets some state funding plus they could of billed this guy even rural metro would not sit and let this happen they would of had a life long subscription

Peggy Morton Friday, January 25, 2013 5:25:38 PM What a damn shame. Chief Amerson. God forbid ANYTHING like this should happen to you or your family. I cannot seriously believe the stories I see like this on daily basis. He IS a disgrace to his uniform, his towns people, especially to his comrades. I'm sorry, I would not want this man as my chief. How 'bout you? regular basis. Why do we even have first responders, if they refuse to do what they've been hired to. Volunteer or paid

Pete Miller Friday, January 25, 2013 5:32:48 PM Disgraceful and appalling.

John Novak Fri Jan 25 19:34:36 PST 2013 Yes, all these attacks on the chief and his district are!

Victor Junior Barbee Friday, January 25, 2013 5:34:13 PM I can't sit here and let these people bash this chief on a decision that is hard fron anybody to make. First of all good job brother and sorry you had to make a tough decision for the better of your department. Second blinded ppl of America stop being dumb butts. Yall all know money talks and BS walks. Yall are so simple minded when it comes to things in this nature, but do you know how much it cost to send one fire truck? More than most ppl make in a year. Not to mention how much fire EMS, and police are underpaid for there jobs and hazards the face every shift. Talking linguistics well he did he thought about it and made the better decision for his department. Im sure they had plenty of time to pay for their fire service, and if was that important to them you will find who they need to pay. But just like many ppl the had the what ever mind set and they will respond BC they have to

Ted Hall Friday, January 25, 2013 5:38:28 PM Yeah, it's a shame that the Chief realized that his department would have been crucified if anyone got hurt on the job while out of their jurisdiction... We all want to save the world... but dirty financial considerations come up.... How would YOU like to be the guy with a broken back on this job and denied workman's comp because you weren't covered? Or the IN DISTRICT homeowner that lost his family while resources were out wildcatting where they didn't belong? This isn't the first time we've discussed this issue on the forum here... and the answer is always the same the FIREFIGHTERS safety comes first! Worse yet... getting sued by that homeowner because you "didn't do enough" and the house was a total loss... and having to settle for the price of your next four new engines since you were there but not covered by THAT liability insurance either...

Victor Junior Barbee Friday, January 25, 2013 5:39:20 PM Are the ones who look at their Ambulance bill and put it in the bottom of the pile. I think he did a great job and its about time someone stepped up and held them accountable for there negligent and it came back to them. I know if my local fire department said hey we are 2mins away from your house you can add us for additional what ever a year I would asked rite then who do I meed to pay. Again great job chief/brother great work...

Steve Adams Friday, January 25, 2013 5:43:55 PM When you let common sense replace the wide eyed emotions that you are displaying, you have to realize that the Chief did exactly the right thing. Under the laws of the land, he is forbidden to use the assets paid for by one entity, to protect the property of another. That's the law, and he did the right thing. Emotionally and in some cases depending upon your moral code this is a hard pill to swallow, but it is the law. Those of you who are hollering the loudest should honestly answer what you would do if your house caught fire, and when you called for the fire department, you were told they would be then in about an hour because they are currently at Edward Ortiz's residence putting out a fire there...because it was the morally right thing to do... Yes, I can hear your shouts of anger from miles away. So please put your emotions away and be logical. As for those proud volunteers who would ignore the law and go put it out? Hope you and your dept have tons and tons of insurance that protects you while doing illegal acts - because regular insurance doesn't... would it be worth jail time or losing your own home in a judgement because of your illegal act? There is a simple cure - join a fire service area and pay the fees/taxes.. Then those big red trucks will show up when you need them.

Crosby Hanson Fri Jan 25 18:43:18 PST 2013 Unfortunately the chief could have used a more tactful approach to notifying the residents that they were out of the service area. That being said he did the completely right thing. No one in our service wants to see people hurt emotionally or physically, but our world does not run on a moral code alone. There are rules and regulations to everything we do.

Cody Johnson Fri Jan 25 18:44:57 PST 2013 Very well put uncle Steve!

Dave Dickerson Sat Jan 26 11:36:39 PST 2013 Where is the governing body of this community? If they are to small to fund a department why was there no contract for the neighboring community to come for coverage .Do not all property owners have some form of governing body? In the area where I live many rural area do not have fire departments many have volunteer Departments and some have paid or part time paid/ volunteer but all are covered by someone the governing body makes it happen .Are there still places in the USA that you can own property with no governing body looking over you?

Steve Adams Sat Jan 26 21:58:45 PST 2013 There are quite a few areas in the US that don't have fire service provided by a Municipal (government) fire department. In those areas they have what are called subscription fire departments wherein you pay a yearly fee for protection. Many people do not want to (and don't) pay for the service, but squall like a scalded cat if they have a fire and nobody shows up to put it out. Nobody to blame but themselves, but having a federal government trying to care for people cradle to grave, gives some folks a sense of entitlement... a false sense I would hasten to add...when it comes to fire service.

Rob Scott Friday, January 25, 2013 5:45:48 PM What a asshole

Stacey Nicholas Friday, January 25, 2013 5:48:16 PM Sorry, but I find it interesting that the people who do not take the responsibility for their property are usually the one's arguing against paying a unified service tax, are against the "government getting in their business," but expect "big brother" come come and pull their fat from the fire. The chief said they would have responded if there had been a question of life endangerment. Charging them 3x the rate is not any promise of payment and there is a responsibility to those who have subscribed to the service. A few years ago, we tried to expand our service area to a community that is close to one of our stations. The vocal minority responded "why should we pay taxes to your district. You're closest, you're going to come anyway." That whole experience changed my opinions on this issue.

Ted Hall Fri Jan 25 18:03:56 PST 2013 The last time we had a similar incident on the forum was a fellow that had sat with his cronies and laughed at the idea of paying $75 a year for fire response outside of the city limits... He was quoted as saying the same thing... "they going to come anyway" Turns out they did... since his neighbors were covered and THEIR property was entitled to protection. It's understandable that anyone who wants to be a Firefighter has the impulse to respond... that's what we're about.... You don't become a Firefighter to get rich and famous! HOWEVER: Scene Safety for the Chief includes those "what if" situations that the Initial Attack crew doesn't have time to worry about.... like "are we covered if we do this?" Our district includes state and federal land, so crossing those jurisdictional boundaries are part of the process too... sometimes over a hundred foot difference in location. Some of the folks that don't get it right now will eventually catch on, after they have some time to get seasoned... and see what happens when it's all covered and their friends get hurt...

Richmond Wayne Harris Sat Jan 26 06:13:38 PST 2013 So who on here has argued about paying the tax. I have not seen one person ? What we have a problem is we know people always don't know it is a subscription. All we see is some ass that decided to save himself some money or was trying to use gangster style tactics on people to make them pay.The person who wrote it was inciting hate by painting this picture in the peoples minds of what was going on. The fix So I say send them a Mandatory Billing with their water and sewage and spread it out over the year they won't argue or even sweat it but make them pay all at once and it can be a problem for them. In a lump sum they are likely to put it off and forget about it. On their water bill just have a check off area and have them sign that they don't want to pay for the service then what can they say ? fire calls are only about 3% but your cost is far above what a community of say1k would pay. it is in your best interest to take the fewest call you can in a year maybe you guys don't want the people too no ???? . The people that are angry on here is because they hurt for this family and his loss and they also are the heroes that care for others over themselves. Who they find are less fortunate and it is not about the money it is about doing something, anything to help them. This could have been your grandmother or father who is just getting by trying to just get food on the table. These are not those gimme socialist that live in tents and on the system as a career. These are people that have worked their whole lives and have been ripped off by sharks and now are just trying to survive. There are people that are cheap and skimp that can afford to pay but, don't put everyone in the same box your labeling. Mandatory Billing with their water and sewage I have given you an answer to this problem please tell me why this wouldn't work ?

Stacey Nicholas Sat Jan 26 16:07:06 PST 2013 well water and septic tanks......that's our way of life in rural America.

Richmond Wayne Harris Sun Jan 27 01:44:20 PST 2013 You probably still have garbage if not send them a billing option anyways to sign on if they want the service once you get the bill in have your book keepers or accountants figure out the cost to service those who signed on also compensate for things that can't be unforeseen and admin fees. It will take all of this fighting out of the problem of people saying they didn't know. I hope there is some extra for helping those who would need help with this.

Neil Clark Mon Apr 22 08:23:37 PDT 2013 It is illegal in many areas of the country, including where my fire district is located, to add mandatory billing for the volunteer fire departments to water bills. Or garbage bills, or power bills, etc.

Doug Gregg Friday, January 25, 2013 5:49:31 PM He made the only legal option there is. No policy or agreement for "no man's land" than no response. If the resources are out of their jurisdiction than what happens if an incident happens to a taxpayer/owner of the resource? That "what if" should have been addressed before it happened. I bet if he could he would choose other words to decline the response request.

Bruce Whaley Friday, January 25, 2013 5:54:21 PM What a shame ,

John Drady Friday, January 25, 2013 5:59:56 PM How can you be certain there is no one trapped? That situation can change in an instant.

Jim Wold Friday, January 25, 2013 6:05:00 PM Incredible that this crap can still happen, GO TO THE FIRE, PUT IT OUT! sort out the bullshit after. Geeeeeeeeeees

Dave Ridley Friday, January 25, 2013 6:10:06 PM The fire service is going the same way as healthcare. If you don't have coverage, don't expect the service. Sad as it is, this is today's reality. Ethics, morals, and civic duty are in third and fourth place behind corporate insurance dictatorships and the almighty Dollar. Nobody blinks an eye when a Doctor refuses to give life-saving treatment because the patient doesn't have health insurance. It is accepted as the norm. So how is the fire service any different? I'm not saying I agree with this Chief's actions, but I can see the other side of the dilemma he faced. As is often the case, there is more to this story than we are being told at this time I'm sure.

John Bussell Friday, January 25, 2013 6:12:04 PM That's why there's mutal aid agreements............

Richard C Nix Friday, January 25, 2013 6:16:43 PM As an awesome Chief once told me; "Communities have the fire protection they deserve". IE; if they care about proper fire protection they will incorporate or form a district or other means of funding a fire department. If the citizens don't give a hoot if their home burns, they get to deal with that to. Too many freeloaders now days expect a mutual aid response, or charity. FD's are then in the untenable position of having to provide protection for a far greater number of homes that will never contribute. Fire protection is not a right. Property owners have to pay the piper. I seriously doubt if this homeowner ever called this dept and asked to subscribe or pay in advance for protection. You cant buy a house now days without knowing who provides this essential service. it's right on your tax bill when you see where your $ goes. It sounds like this dept was one of the first of several departments to refuse to respond, yet no one is attacking the other nearest departments. If Avra has resources to send a residential assignment 30 miles away, then good on them. This is Arizona. Not back east. There are no county fire departments out here. You only pay fire tax in a district or municipality. If you choose to live in an unincorporated part of the state, which is the vast majority of it, you may have no fire protection. Stop judging Arizona by your yankee ways. I love the comments on here in all caps that state "any real firefighter would never let this burn" blah blah.. grow up. The world is complicated and running a district is tougher than being some whiny probie that gets your firefighting ethos from watching backdraft over and over.

Jon Whiskey Friday, January 25, 2013 6:27:27 PM What a DIRTBAG. How EMBARRASSING! How DISGRACEFUL can you possibly be? There is N-O EXCUSE for this! That Fire Chief should be put in the hole, no daylight, no exercise, no solid food. Unbelievable!

Richard Corso Friday, January 25, 2013 6:30:50 PM Pathetic. Is it the 1913's or the 2013's - surely the attendance costs could have been covered by the home insurer with the fact the damage to the house would have been minimized!

Alan Casey Friday, January 25, 2013 6:47:17 PM well I hope that chief sleeps well now and thank for given other some dept. with manpower shortages a black as that chief would say "not his problem" thanks again.

Barb Hutchinson-Pante Friday, January 25, 2013 6:48:29 PM The way the chief approached this, without a doubt, UNACCEPTABLE! Not all areas are covered the same way. If and when the coverage is paid, not only can they respond but the fire fighter is covered if he is injured, the trucks are covered if they are destroyed. In such an article I think it would have turned down the heat a great deal if it was explained how it actually works. If a fire fighter is injured, who is paying the bill? The fire fighter and his/her family, why? Because the homeowner did not sign or pay for the service, who is going to cover all of the medical expenses, cover his/her pay during recovery, physical therapy....or worse his/her funeral expenses and carry on all the finances in the household. In order for a lot of fire companies to survive they have had to resort to this. They do not have a financial backing of fire districts, the money they get in covers there expenses, the insurance covers the equiptment, the fire fighters and there families god forbid when needed. Does it suck? Yes it does! I also lost my home due to districting and distance. The answer is, come up with a better way to cover all the costs so we can all go back to volunteering without boundries!

Ted Hall Fri Jan 25 19:45:28 PST 2013 I can't imagine where you would get YOUR workman's comp insurance...so you can go where you like... much less liability coverage... Our coverage just applies where we're SUPPOSED to be... and going back and forth between... Our fire district gets around $30/100k of property taxes on 3,000 homes... and THOSE homeowners are our responsibility... Signing up for mutual aid with other districts is INSURANCE that if we've got trucks out we're still covered as needed... AND it gives us LEGAL authority to operate in those other districts...

John Fabian Friday, January 25, 2013 6:56:16 PM They are a fire dept that is paid we city money r tax money if you want the service Pay the tax. Nothing these days is cheap.

Tom Kelly Friday, January 25, 2013 6:58:09 PM Why is doing the right thing so difficult?

John Novak Friday, January 25, 2013 7:03:18 PM And for those who do not think I care about folks outside of my area. I have responded one of my engines, by myself to a structure fire because that is all my district could spare. I'm not going to ask anyone to risk their neck solo on a structure fire if I wouldn't be willing to do it myself.

Jerry Montgomery Friday, January 25, 2013 7:04:42 PM This chief and his department truly disgrace the firefighters of America. The entire department - especially the chief - needs to be replaced with honorable firefighters, not cheap bureaucrats with small minds, totally lacking in honor, and not having a conscience.

Frank Lemaire Sat Jan 26 12:49:53 PST 2013 Dr Jerry, all I can say is"WOW" Thats like seeing someone drowning and just walk by and say "I don't know them"

Keri Benner Emmenegger Sun Jan 27 11:27:38 PST 2013 Cheap shot Jerry. First, you're dead wrong. Second, don't degrade the entire fire department for following their chief's orders. I'm willing to bet this didn't sit well with any of the "small minds" you so easily second guess.

Louisiana Colorfest Engine Rally Friday, January 25, 2013 7:08:54 PM Good job chief. People need to realize what this chief did was within his rights and the law. If u don't pay ur fire dues then a dept can't operate fuel cost etc. If u pay taxes like a city dept of fire protection dist. You have to respond. Search this it has happened nefore and fire dept r not liabl

David Clinkenbeard Friday, January 25, 2013 7:10:44 PM I believe Gov. Brewer signed a law that any fire department has to respond to a call that is outside of the service area. This has happened before in AZ. I won't mention any names but a city department responded to a mobile home fire and stood by and watched it burn down. The fire was in a county island. There were no reports of persons trapped. That is why no fire suppression was done. The town in this article is a unincorporated area in the county. I am a reserve firefighter for a small department about 60 miles away in the same county. If we get a report of any call for service outside are town limits we will respond. It is a shame this happened. Makes me want to help start up a volunteer department there so the residents and travelers on I-10 have someone to respond.

Kenneth Cooley Fri Jan 25 19:31:14 PST 2013 Nothing against Eloy firefighters but the chief pretty much sounded like an asshole. He should not be in the position he is in.

John Novak Fri Jan 25 19:41:01 PST 2013 You believe wrong. What was passed is it is lawful for a county island to form a "county island fire district" for the purpose of collecting taxes and being able to contract with the municipality which surrounds the county island fire district area.

Scott Miller Sat Jan 26 05:53:14 PST 2013 I would never work for a Fire Dist like Eloy!

John Novak Friday, January 25, 2013 7:14:26 PM I had a conversation with one of my mentors last week at AZ fire district association conference. Glenn was my district chief 21 years ago. I told him that when I was a yellow, then red helmet, I viewed the world through a totally different set of glasses. As a fire chief, I don't have the luxury of making emotional decisions and saving the world. I have a responsibility to my tax payers and community, firefighters and my family. He told me I had it right and that I can never go back. It is a very weighty responsibility that folks who have never been a fire chief will ever understand. Do not vilify Eloy fire district and their chiefs. I am sure they were not happy to have to make that call. It may have not been a popular call, but it was the right call. The responsibility ultimately rests on the shoulders of the homeowner. Why don't some of you critics go to Picacho and start a fire district annexation? Until you do, you are entitled to your opinion, but you have no right to grab the proverbial tar and feathers.

Jim Hass Tue Jan 29 10:01:58 PST 2013 They all say it is free, and does not take any time away from their family and jobs, It should be easy to get equipment and housing and training, and insurance to cover at least 12 firefighters. Lets all set back and let the ones that said they would do it do it.

Guy Dover Friday, January 25, 2013 7:47:04 PM Our department when notified of a fire have to respond as it is a requirement of our Fire Act, we are rquired to respond to save life and property wether in inside a fire district or not.

John Novak Friday, January 25, 2013 7:47:58 PM Complete set of turnout gear for 1 firefighter - $2500.00 +. I self contained breathing apparatus -0 $6000.00 +. I fire engine - $280,000.00 +. I water tender/tanker - $300,000.00+. Fuel for each vehicle $3.80.00/gallon. Fuel economy for a fire engine or tender/tanker 5MPG. These are the basics, you do the math. Why should the tax payers have to fund fire protection, or anything else, for those who CHOOSE not to be taxed?

Joe Don James Friday, January 25, 2013 8:59:43 PM Unfortunately it has all come down to the almighty dollar in our lawsuit happy society today. Our municipalities and governing bodies have disgraced the fire service by putting them in this position an no one seems to have the spine to just "do the right thing" anymore. Sorry chief, an I'm a retired chief officer as well, but based on the info provided it seems like a bad call on your part. I can't help but wonder if you would have stayed in the house if it had been your home burning?

Mike-Traci McRae Sat Jan 26 09:43:42 PST 2013 Thats BULL... should not matter what district or what ever the excuse. Did someone just throw all are morals away as americans or what?

Mike-Traci McRae Sat Jan 26 09:44:32 PST 2013 correction "our"

Linda Patton Friday, January 25, 2013 9:20:17 PM That is sad. Just because someone says its an empty structure does not mean they know for sure. Should have sent a truck out anyway just to be safe. Since it appears the chief was concerned about payment, he could have put out the fire and billed the district who WAS responsible. House doesn't burn down, out of district firefighters get paid - everyone wins.

Richmond Wayne Harris Friday, January 25, 2013 9:28:28 PM @John Novak, and others who feel as he does. Question can you live with your consequences of your decisions. I would have rather responded and did my job and got fired than to have done nothing and have somebody have to go through this. Whether it means I showed up with nothing but a shovel and an axe. I would have been trying something to help. What if its some of the elderly who gets by check to check? What if this same call resorted in a death because some kid tried to go inside and see if someone needed help. Nobody would have came to help. Imagine yourself explaining yourself to this mans father. You better be glad the tax payers paid for the police to protect your ass when he comes to see you and understand what ever he does to you will be the consequences of the decision you made regardless how you see it.

AikenCounty Crimewatch Friday, January 25, 2013 10:47:18 PM It's a good feeling to say that we respond to everything and save all lives and the like. But once you run a department, you tend to see things as they really are. We don't know of the insurance agreements, we don't know a lot of this story. It's easy to armchair quarterback

Bob Lergner Saturday, January 26, 2013 3:31:12 AM "Not our Problem" the chief and those who support this attitude should be fired! He and those that subscribe to those beliefs do not reflect upon the mission, vision, values of the majority of the fire service in this country. There must be another way to fund these fire service entities.

Steve McCabe Sat Jan 26 03:34:50 PST 2013 I agree completely Bob! Put the Fire OUT!

Bob Lergner Saturday, January 26, 2013 3:35:20 AM It is also amazing that the "chief" could determine there was no life safety issue from his office. We usually conduct a "Primary Search" to determine that the structure is "All Clear"!

Judson Vickery Saturday, January 26, 2013 4:18:39 AM I can side with the chief some, There is liability when you operate outside your district. Here in New York we have mutual aid agreements the call is answered. If something goes wrong he would liable for the damages. the different here is our fire companies by taxes on property, not a lot but 1 percent or so.

Thomas Callaway Saturday, January 26, 2013 4:34:37 AM I understand that some departments are strapped for cash, but to just sit back and say "not our problem" is an abomination to the fire service. Note the term SERVICE!

Gary Karns Saturday, January 26, 2013 5:40:34 AM Does not the local goverment, either local or county, depending on where you are, have the responsiblity to supply basic services? I am talking, road, police, EMS and oh yeah, fire services? That is where a lot of this anger should be directed! If they are not taking care of items like this so ALL the people are covered, then why have them, (the local goverment)? If it such an issue then the local goverment should have a local tax on the people, of some type, to help pay for the BASIC services they should be suppling! OK, I will get off my soap box now! Sorry!

Denis Whyte Saturday, January 26, 2013 6:29:23 AM I thought we were in the business to save life and property. I am a volunteer and that is what I am in this business for. Nobody ever told me we cant respond because it is not in our district or I would not do this job. To ignore someone in time of dire need is ridiculous.What is this world coming to. Now a days it is all about the money.These people ought to be out of a job and see how it feels to be helpless.

Guy Hall III Saturday, January 26, 2013 7:51:44 AM Agreed Jack

Jeff Robinson Saturday, January 26, 2013 8:27:51 AM A Fireman is a Fireman- I have gone to numerous fires, wrecks, ems calls that "weren't in my district". if something went wrong- Yes I would have to find a way to pay for my own bills, but at least I would know I did what I could. I guess that's from Marine Corp look on LIFE. They had to make their own decision on that one. I just know, I sleep real good at night & don't have to "save face" to anyone.

Lucille Gamelin Saturday, January 26, 2013 8:38:50 AM Understood that it costs money to run a dept. and also the insurance concerns however you don't wait until the horse is out of the barn to solve the problem. Call a meeting with the town fathers and the people & discuss ahead of time. How much is the additional cost of homeowners insurance for not having adequate fire protection? The extra cost per structure would probably cover the fire dept. needs for there operational expenses. Fire Dept. Chiefs don't just fight fires they are also expected to manage their district in a proactive manner.

Karen Marie Vela Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:04:39 AM cold ass bullshit! we are put on this earth to help others, not be selfish pricks. My husband is a volunteer firefighter. unpaid force. they respond all over the place. nobody gets paid for it, they do it out of their hearts. As it SHOULD be! The FD is sponsored by the local people. but even those who cannot pay anything are still offered the same protection as those who can. Why? because we know the value of life and property. And that some people would lose their life without their property, so there is always a life in danger, even if a person isn't trapped.

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James Conard Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:05:54 AM I agree with the Fire Chief , nothing is free in this world! Those residents should know what fire department response to their location before renting or buying a house. If not their insurance agent should have given them the information. If someone was treapped that is another issue , Firefighters stay safe.

Don Hammond Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:16:46 AM Right or wrong, the Chief needs a PIO with some media experience. This was an opportunity for the Chief to educate the public on the realities of rural fire fighting

Norman Rutheford Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:23:35 AM Hrd to believe that they would put money before their duty.

Steve Bouffard Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:30:10 AM Why is everyone blaming this chief. Blame the chief thats in charge of the district where the house burned. Its his responsibility for his area weather its next door or 100 miles away. Its there area not the town overs.

Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:42:06 AM To all that say to respond anyway, would an insurance company pay out on a homeowner's policy you pay for after the house burned? No. Fire departments have up front costs. Sorry but the homeowner gambled and lost. Nobody was injured. The Chief was doing his duty to the paying population that he was sworn to protect. Don't make more out of this than it is.

Joseph R. Rivera Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:48:23 AM hey guys..no matter what's the situation, our motto is to save lives and properties, isn't it..discuss financial matters later.proceed there and show them why we exists!

Brian Blackburn Saturday, January 26, 2013 1:48:18 PM This could have been easily taken care of with mutual aid agreements and one radio call from responding officer in district to dispatch. We've had incidents right outside our district and were never called to MA even though our station is closer. Were the out of district chiefs word a poor choice, yes, but to go to a call you weren't asked to go on is freelancing.

Garland Saunders Saturday, January 26, 2013 2:06:55 PM seems to me the owner of the house could have a law suit. isn't the fire house bound by some moral rule like the good samaritan? if not they should b! back to buckets and friends I guess. if their firehouse is ablaze should those people help?

Jeff Poole Saturday, January 26, 2013 2:36:41 PM I get the subscription deal, but if a home owner has insurance the fire dept can bill for the service. So, my question is, Why let the house burn when you could bill the insurance company and probably get more than your subscription price? My department is in West Virginia. We are 5 minutes out of Ohio and 10 minutes out of Pennsylvania. We are supported by WV tax dollars and the fundraisers that we do. We respond anywhere anytime! Therefore I can't understand letting a house burn down!

Bob Beals Saturday, January 26, 2013 3:46:22 PM If you choose not to have flood insurance and your house is washed away in a flood do you blame the insurance company that didn't cover your house for the flood.

Jay Marlin Hoffer Jr Saturday, January 26, 2013 6:46:02 PM Sorry. Their house is burning down, you go help them. That is what WE are supposed to do no matter what. Like going to a Dr in another town and he asks if you live here and if you don't he wont treat you because you don't live in his town. Put the fire out and help people and then figure out the money thing later. WE don't do this for the money WE do it to help people and save lives.

Jack Nelson Saturday, January 26, 2013 7:29:47 PM Both sides sense! So if they had a mortgage why wouldn't the bank or whomever demand. proof of insurance coverage? What about the rest of the belongings in the house? Do people still have the "it can't happen to me attitude" So where do they their property taxes go and pays for what? A portion of our property taxes go the our fire district, schools etc! I feel we lacking logical information here, plenty of emotional ones...Bottom line, my agree with the chief's decision, but not necessarily the way it was handled. The dept needs to do more public outreach & education to that unincorporated part of his area and let them know this is what is going to happen! Tough Love if you will! Good luck chief and to everyone else who has that issue...

Aaron Chambers Saturday, January 26, 2013 10:47:58 PM I don't truly condone this, but think of it like this, you get in a car accident an refused full coverage before then call your insurance company and ask why you were not covered. They will tell you because you didn't pay for it.

Ray Lott Emtiv Sstn Sunday, January 27, 2013 10:05:25 AM THIS TRASH SHOULD NOT EVEN BE IN THE FIRE SERVICE AND THOSE OF YOU THAT DEFENDS HIS ACTIONS SHOULD BE KICKED OUT OF THE FIR SERVICE.

Ray Lott Emtiv Sstn Sunday, January 27, 2013 10:06:16 AM WHAT HAPPEN TO SERVICE OVER SELF.

Dennis Russell Sunday, January 27, 2013 3:41:05 PM I am sorry I understand that maybe these people didn't pay because of one reason or another but we are public servents. To me there is no excuse let it be in my area and no matter weather they pay or not we provide the service for them not to respond is just wrong. I have Been a vol. fire fighter 35 years and we are trained to protect property after this they may have seen you were right and help the fire dept. out

Alex Schoen Sunday, January 27, 2013 9:44:02 PM Who cares that's our jobs career or volunteer. If some one was trapped they would of responded, even if we know somebody isn't in there we still search. Come on who cares if they didn't pay fire tax. life and property is important but come on who would turn down a fire?

Alex Schoen Sunday, January 27, 2013 9:48:40 PM People are saying who would pay the bills if the ff was injured.well if they are worried about that change your profession, don't be a coward and get some

Fred Steneck Monday, January 28, 2013 7:01:52 AM I come from an area were everyone pays for fire protection. it is part of the taxing structure of the village and town and all the. surrounding villages and towns. So we can respond to a neighboring dept. fire if we are called. We also all pay county taxes to supplement. the training center and mutual aid responses coordination and radio dispatch. These area in the country that do not help pay for the fire protect. need to get together and put a line in there tax bills for fire protection. so that this kind of thing does not happen. And yes I think it is a horrible thing. that these people lose their homes but it is their fault not the local fire dept. if I paid for fire protection and my fire department in out fighting a fire. out of district 30 miles away and I need them they should be available to me. With gas and diesel fuel at over $4.00 per girl. And apparatus at around. $300,000.00 these people out in the rural areas need to pay there fair share. They need to understand that you pay for it now or you will pay later. but this is a taxing problem not a fire department problem. For all the. good and loyal firefighters out there your neighbors, friends, family. come first. This is not the first time this has happened nor will it be the last. so do not be shocked every time it happens. Think, train hard and be safe.

Jeff Gibbons Monday, January 28, 2013 11:14:31 AM well that's just bullshit. you call yourself fire fighters? if fighting fires becomes to be about the money then we're in trouble.

Kyle Mish Monday, January 28, 2013 12:07:52 PM what kind of public outcry would there be if a homeowner didn't pay homeowners insurance and the insurance company didn't pay for fire damage to their house? Pretty sure we would just call the homeowner an idiot for not insuring. Lets say they did go, someone got injured or a LoD death occurred, would the fact that the insurance company didn't cover losses even make the news? The chief made the correct call, as crappy as it had to be. I'd also hope the communication made was a little more appropriate as well, if not, maybe take a radio comms class for proper OTA transmission.

Craig Shevlin Monday, January 28, 2013 12:59:02 PM Obviously this is not a volunteer fire department. Volunteers respond first then worry about paperwork later. Even if they needed to get funds for this jurisdiction a letter campaign would collect funds to offset expenses. There is something called mutual aid, where one fire company goes into another district to help with fires and rescues. I belong to an 100% volunteer company that raise money's from letter drives and a chicken BBQ. We not only take care of our service area but go into service areas miles away. As they do for us. It is not uncommon to have two to three companies at one fire. Shame on you Chief Amerson.

Chuck Clayton Monday, January 28, 2013 1:49:08 PM Considering the times and the hardships some people are having putting bread on the table and paying insurance (both property and health) and then taxes, I can understand if a family doesn't have money enough to pay a fire department. BUT, if that fire department gets $1.00 from any state government agency from tax dollars, they should be held accountable and slammed. I didn't know you get to pick and choose who and when you help someone whoose house is burning, Must be a new NFPA standard. Glad we don not make those decisions. Wonder what they do on Motor vehicles accidents and vehicle fires on the streets. Do they check to see where the driver lives before rendering help and assistance?

Chuck Clayton Mon Jan 28 13:56:02 PST 2013 Wonder if anyone checked to see if anyone was or could be entrapped inside the house. Could be someones Grandmother or children. Check the donation list prior to responding. Would seem they were not in a hurry in either case if they do that first!

Kyle Griffin Monday, January 28, 2013 8:02:09 PM Put the fire out then sent them a bill for wages, water, equipment, gas, and anything else. People will get the idea that its cheaper to pay for the service than to get the bill. I will go anywhere I am asked, be in zone out of zone, different county, or even a different state.

John Miller Tuesday, January 29, 2013 9:28:39 AM Somebody said this is politics I say it is common sense and the lack thereof. Our job motto is saving lives and property and if you don't do the job for that purpose then you shouldn't be doing it at all. There are times when we do this job for the money and times when we don't. I am glad to know that where I live That every station in Hamilton County Ohio whether it be a City, Township or Village is covered by Mutual Aid and many of these Departments Cross State lines into Indiana as well as County lines and we are also automatic mutual aid for the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport in the event of a major crash. So those who think that the Chief is right I guess you haven't thought of enough scenarios where if this Chief just decided not to respond that he would dare be thought of to be doing the right thing. I am glad that when I see someone that needs help that I don't ask them how much money they have or if I might get hurt helping them, I just help them. When you look at this story it shows the lack of compassion that some people have and those that also believe and would follow and agree. Instead of making a friend and helping to give a positive image, it is a good chance he has made many enemies which tarnishes the image of all firefighters.

James Michael McBride Wednesday, January 30, 2013 9:39:24 PM I think its sad that because they didn't pay for service you refuse to help someone yea nobody got hurt but that was still someone home and we become firefighters to help people

Wayne Worthington Thursday, January 31, 2013 3:39:09 PM Sounds a little off key, but when you think about it someome has to pay for all the expenses and just because of where you live is within 3 miles of a fire station dosent mean you are entitled to fire protection if this is how they operate, I am sure everyone knows how they operate in that area but they should have a signed waiver if the resident declines a service contract

Robert Downs Thursday, January 31, 2013 4:44:04 PM Isn't humanity great? If it isn't about money, it's about legalities. It's never about someone else, it's always about you. Society is becoming more and more of a cesspool every day. Can't wait for the next black plague to take most of us out so we can start all over again. Hopefully the next generations will learn from all these mistakes.

Larry Via Tuesday, February 05, 2013 7:04:46 AM IM A RETIRED FIRE CHIEF AND I WOULD NOT CARE IF IT WAS 50 MIN. TO THE SCENE YOU DO WHAT YOU CAN TO HELP SEEMS LIKE THAT CHIEF IS MONEY HUNGRY AND A LAZY ASS HE IS A DISGRACE TO FIRE FIGHTERS ABOUT AS BAD AS THOSE MONEY GRUBBERS IN TENNESSE WHAT's THIS WORLD COMING TO OH WAIT POLITICS GOT IT GLAD I RETIRED.

Matt Bell Sunday, February 10, 2013 12:34:05 PM you would think it would be logical for it to be in their jurisdiction seeing that it was only 3 miles away.

Cade Huffman Sunday, February 17, 2013 11:15:44 AM As I go through all these comments I can't help but separate the emoional response from the realitiy of the world comments. The reality if it cost money to operate to operate a fire dept. It makes no diffrence howe noble you some of these firefighters are that nobility will not pay the bills. NO ONRE is entitled to free fire protection. Have you every tried to obtain automobile insurance after you wrecked your car? Try it and see how that works out. This is all about taking responsiblity for you yourself and your property. If you were a homeowner and paying your dues how would you feel if your house was on fire and your fire dept was out fighting a fire of someone who NEVER paid anything? This chief made the correct call...and I will bet you now a lot more of those neighbors have learned and are now paying....as they should be doing. This chief showed the traits of a true leader by making the hard choice to do the right thing and not make an emotional deceision.

John Willis Saturday, April 20, 2013 1:04:19 PM I worked for a small town fire dept in tx, where none of us were paid for anything. we have 17 firefighters, and the state of tx paid our dept 20,000 dollars a year. we had 2 engines, 1 truck, and a 2 wheel drive brush truck. 20,000 isn't even enough to keep 1 engine in service and running in most circumstances. so I also agree the public should have to pay for fire service. I mean look at the 1800's in order to fight a fire houses had to have insurance. IE a fire stamp on the front of their homes. no fire stamp resulted in no help from the FD. I think that was a great idea and we should go back to that. my volunteer dept was not only underpaid, but we had the biggest engine in central tx, and the fastest response times.

John Willis Saturday, April 20, 2013 1:18:36 PM as a firefighter in most states and counties the only time you are required to respond to a call outside of your service area is if your off duty and you witness the scene. you are then REQUIRED to stop what you are doing and to respond to your knowledge. if I was a chief in this situation I would have made the same call. my men are more important that the community... as any fire chief would agree. I wouldn't risk the lives of my men for a civilian who chose to neglect the cost of insurance.