Blog_2013-03-27-mjg-StationSeven.JPG

Firefighter Andrew Carducci prepares for the night shift at Syracuse Fire Department's Station No. 7 at 1039 E. Fayette St. The station was closed later that year due to the cost of structural repairs to the building.

(Michael Greenlar | mgreenlar@syracuse.com)

To the Editor:

On Dec. 14, 2016, more than 100 Syracuse firefighters were honored for their actions above and beyond the call of duty, including bravery and valor for the years of 2014-2015. All of them are to be commended for a job well done. These acts of bravery were all done during a time that included the reduction of personnel.

In the spring of 2013, Fire Chief Paul Linnertz and Mayor Stephanie Miner made the irrational decision to close Fire Station 7. In their eyes, this would not impact the response of the Syracuse Fire Department. This decision has reduced the on-duty strength of responding personnel to an all-time low. Since the closure, this city has experienced 26 fire-related civilian deaths. This amount is higher than the cities of Philadelphia and Chicago. This should be a real eye-opener. Can this be related to the closure? The answer is unknown.

Along with the fire fatalities, there are tragedies that occur nearly every day - structure fires, medical calls, drug overdoses and motor vehicle accidents. The burden of these tragedies is placed on fewer firefighters, and this has taken its toll both physically and emotionally. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a real concern and should be treated as such. The effects on the well-being of the Syracuse firefighters is a concern. These men and women have families and put their lives on the line regularly for the citizens of Syracuse, and without question their actions have saved many lives and preserved property.

I am asking the fire chief and mayor to keep in mind the impact on your firefighters, not only from a financial view but a personal one, and to recognize the need of personal safety and training along with emotional and physical support for the men and women of the Syracuse Fire Department. The past four years has taken a toll on all involved. We must move forward. There is no doubt in my mind that the professionals that make up the Syracuse firefighters will and have moved forward. Please do not forget the human nature of this dangerous occupation and its effects.

Paul K. Motondo

President

Local 280

International Association of Fire Fighters

Syracuse