FALL RIVER, Mass. — The Fall River Firefighters (Local 1314) are renewing their call for critical staffing improvements and a fair contract following a demanding day that tested city resources.
According to an update shared by Fall River Firefighters, crews responded to three separate fires across the city in a single day. The incidents included a homeless encampment fire and two fires in multi-family residential buildings located on Rodman Street and Tremont Street. Thanks to the aggressive work and swift response of department members, both residential fires were contained quickly with minimal damage.
The Impact of the Fourth Firefighter
Union representatives emphasized that these outcomes highlight the tangible difference that proper staffing makes. The recent addition of a fourth firefighter to engine companies has allowed crews to operate more efficiently, execute critical tasks simultaneously, and stop fires before they escalate into major disasters.
However, the union stresses that the city’s staffing needs remain far from fully resolved.
Ongoing Advocacy and Demands
To ensure maximum community protection and firefighter safety, Local 1314 continues to advocate for the following vital additions:
- A fourth firefighter on all ladder companies
- A fourth firefighter on the heavy rescue
- A dedicated District Chief’s Aide in both command vehicles
A Contract 16 Months Overdue
Beyond operational staffing concerns, the union highlights a pressing labor issue: members have now gone 16 months without a contract.
While Fall River firefighters continue to answer the call and protect the community every single day, leadership asserts that it is time for the city to show that same commitment back to the department.
As Local 1314 states: “Proper staffing and a fair contract aren’t luxuries. They’re necessities.”
Source: Information provided by Fall River Firefighters.
