THE CHIEF-LEADER welcomes letters from its readers for publication.
Correspondents must include their names, addresses and
phone numbers. Letters should be submitted with the understanding
that all correspondence is subject to the editorial judgment of this
newspaper. Letters can be e-mailed to: RSTEIER@RCN.COM or
mailed to: Richard Steier, Editor, 277 Broadway, Suite 1506, NY, NY
10007.

FDNY Gives Water Updates

To the Editor:

Regarding Uniformed Firefighters Association President Steve Cassidy's letter, "FDNY Neglects Safety," in your July 3, 2009 edition, I am writing to correct his assertion that this department has "yet to take action" on the UFA's August 2008 suggestion that dispatchers provide regular water status updates to the Incident Commander and firefighters at a scene.

On Dec. 16, 2008, Mr. Cassidy along with UFA Vice President James Slevin, UFA Recording Secretary Joe Miccio and members of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association, including UFOA President Jack McDonnell, attended a meeting at Fire Department headquarters on this very issue.

FDNY's Communication Manual already requires transmission of a 10- 70 signal if the first engine on scene does not have a water source. We made several changes after meeting with the UFA and UFOA, requiring that borough dispatchers request all relevant information, including hoseline operation status, whenever two engines and two ladders are operating. We also began requiring that borough dispatchers contact the Incident Commander if required progress reports, which include hoseline information, are not transmitted.

The UFOA fully supports these changes.
STEVE RITEA
Press Secretary, FDNY