New role for Chicago firefighters …

NBC5 Chicago has reported on the city's plan to assign firefighters to help ensure the safe passage of students this fall as several schools are closed. The initiative has sparked debate over whether it is the right move. As the controversy continues around ensuring the safety of Chicago students whose elementary schools are being shut down, Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s administration has quietly assigned firefighters to take on security roles, a task many argue they aren't trained for. From the moment the city announced the closure of numerous schools, parents raised concerns about children crossing dangerous areas to reach their new schools. The mayor and Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy highlighted “safe passage” routes, which are meant to provide extra protection and are typically staffed by police and school security personnel. However, NBC5 Investigates has discovered that firefighters have been quietly ordered to join these efforts starting on August 26, the first day of school, and will remain involved for the first three weeks of the term. Fire Commissioner Jose Santiago sent a memo to all firehouses on May 5, stating that during certain hours, all fire companies would be stationed on the routes to offer a visible presence to students traveling to and from school. He emphasized that the firefighters would be on duty and available at all times. Santiago told his team that it was crucial for the Fire Department to provide reassurance to children during their commutes. He described the role as one of public presence, acting as positive ambassadors to the community, and offering support when needed. Some firefighters, however, are uneasy with the assignment, noting that they are not trained for security duties or law enforcement. They are unarmed and have not undergone police academy training. Tom Ryan, a union leader, said his members would follow orders but stressed that they are not police. He warned that if a violent situation arose, they wouldn’t be equipped to handle it. Santiago clarified that the Fire Department isn’t being asked to engage in crime-fighting. Instead, he said, their role is to serve as a positive presence. If something serious happened, he advised them to contact the police immediately, just as they would during a fire emergency. Despite the fire department’s cautious approach, the police union was more vocal in its criticism. Fraternal Order of Police President Michael Shields accused the administration of admitting a lack of police officers on the streets. He noted that it was unprecedented for firefighters to be deployed for security purposes. Police spokesperson Adam Collins denied the claim, saying that the mayor has asked all city agencies to participate in expanding the Safe Passage program. He added that police would continue working closely with other departments to ensure student safety. Collins also pointed out that the police have never been the main staff for safe passage routes. Instead, trained CPS workers manage the existing 39 routes, with police providing support as needed, similar to how coverage is handled at all schools. Ryan tried to put a positive spin on the situation, emphasizing that firefighters are always ready to assist whenever called upon. He said, “It’s often been said that when people can’t think of anyone else to call, they call the fire department.” The full article can be found HERE.

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