The problem is much, much deeper than presented here. Since Prop 13, the department has lost many positions in fire suppression and rescue. Combine this with the current EMS service model which was designed for life threading emergencies only. Low level emergencies such as nose bleeds or severe aches are overloading the system. This is a train wreck that has been coming for a long time. I have to disagree that beefing up the department will be the panacea to solve the problem. So long as the system is abused as a quick and easy trick to get into a hospital, where they have their own staffing issues, the problem will persist. Adding more RA’s will just result in these units sitting idle at the hospital, and not turning over quickly for the next response. You would think Crowley, being a paramedic would understand this. I’m certain she does, but when you’re a coward you go with the mob sediment and don’t rock the boat. To put it in just a few words…what’s the point in adding Rescues if the hospitals can’t carry the added load? It’s just moving the wait time from the front end to the back end. There is no actual improvement. Remember EMS is a system, and the LAFD is just a component of that system.

The problem with the LAFD not keeping pace with growth and increased call loads, lands squarely upon the city leadership/politicians. The dirty little secret that they don't want you to know... a municipality saves $$ by operating its FD understaffed. OT is a lot cheaper than bringing on new hires and paying the roll ups in a benefit package. Sadly, this slight of hand by the mayor & council shows that Public Safety is NOT a priority for them. Unfortunately this will NEVER be addressed until the voters stop voting for the same old, do nothing status quo candidates who's priorities lay elsewhere.

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