STATter 911: Lt. Gerald Burton vs. DC FEMS

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Lt. Gerald Burton vs. DC FEMS

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I have been looking a little further into the story of DC Fire & EMS Lt. Gerald Burton. Lt. Burton is being charged with disobeying an order from a battalion chief, when his crew, on the way to training, began an attack on a row house fire.

I've known Gerry for most of his career in the fire department (full disclosure: many years ago Gerry did some part time work at Channel 9). Talking to Gerry by phone on Tuesday, he told me that he believes the radio traffic and the AVL data, along with following "Rube's Rules" about customer service, will vindicate him in this matter.

What this story has been missing is any insight into what the brass at DC FEMS are saying. As I am sure you have heard, no one from the administration will go on the record, because it is a "personnel matter". But on background, sources in the department are also pointing to the radio traffic and AVL data. They say that information will likely support the charges.

The sources claim that Burton and Engine 9 were told to take the 3rd due position and that there was very little gap between Engine 9's arrival and the 1st due engine company. The sources portray this as an important safety issue, saying that by freelancing and not assuming the assigned position on the fireground, Engine 9 put everyone in jeopardy.

I don't know which version of this story is correct, but I hope we will eventually get to see the AVL data and hear the radio traffic. The story has certainly attracted enough attention, that a few hard facts might help clear the fog a bit.

Watch 9NEWS NOW story from Tuesday

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# posted by Dave Statter @ 11:15 AM

Comments:

Wow!! Being held responsible for your assignments and positioning on the fireground. 33 hear that!! Go were your due!!

# posted by

Just try'n to due right : December 20, 2007 3:05 PM

Why did Lt. Burton choose to try this issue in the press before he excercised all of his internal options? In my opinion, that was a bad move on his part. Whenever you drag your department down publicly, you might win that battle, but my bet is the war has just now begun.

# posted by

Anonymous : December 20, 2007 8:42 PM

It looks like after many years the DC Fire Department finally has some accountability and leadership. The good old boys are gone and now you must be accountable for your actions. Thompson can't get you out of this mess....

# posted by

Anonymous : December 22, 2007 10:59 AM