Torrington Fire Union advocates for increased staffing levels following busiest year on record – NBC Connecticut

The Torrington firefighter union is advocating for safer staffing levels after responding to a record number of calls in 2024. With 4,365 calls received last year, the union is pushing for a minimum staffing level of 15 firefighters per shift, as opposed to the current 11. President Tim O’Donnell emphasized the need for adequate staffing to address the demands of structure fires within the crucial first 20 minutes. While Mayor Elinor Carbone cited an increase in department staffing to 56 firefighters, O’Donnell highlighted that the minimum remains at 11, even with 13 personnel per shift. The department currently relies on mutual aid partners and off-duty firefighters to supplement their response capacity. While there are no active contract negotiations, the union is hopeful for a change in staffing levels to ensure firefighter safety and effective emergency response. Despite potential cost implications, both the department administration and city leaders are believed to be supportive of increasing staffing levels.

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