Plano Fire-Rescue Approves 24/72 Shift Proposal

New Work Schedule Aims to Improve Firefighter Well-Being

Over the past decade, Plano Fire-Rescue has seen a significant increase in the number of calls for service. According to city records, there has been a 30% rise in demand for their services. This growing workload has led to extended work hours, with a 56-hour workweek being common for many firefighters.

Nathan Averett, a firefighter paramedic with Plano Fire-Rescue, shared his perspective on the challenges faced by the department. “It seems like we’re awake at night more than we’re sleeping,” he said. This sentiment highlights the toll that long shifts can take on both mental and physical health.

To address these concerns, the Plano City Council took a decisive step by approving a new work schedule aimed at reducing the strain on firefighter-paramedics. The decision was made unanimously, reflecting a strong commitment to improving the well-being of those who serve the community.

The new schedule is part of a revised contract with the Professional Firefighter Association, Local 2149. Under this agreement, Plano Fire-Rescue will transition to a 24/72 shift model—meaning firefighters will work 24 hours and then have 72 hours off. This change marks a departure from the previous 24/48 schedule, which had been the standard for many years.

Fire departments across the country have been exploring longer rest periods as a way to combat the challenges associated with their demanding jobs. These include not only fatigue but also increased risks of health issues such as cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Plano Fire Chief Chris Biggerstaff acknowledged the importance of this shift. “A lot of times you don’t even realize it when you’re in it,” he explained. “When you get to the fire station that morning, your stress level just goes up because you’re already aware that you have to be alert, ready to go all the time.”

Supporters of the new schedule argue that having two days to recover is often insufficient. They believe that the 24/72 model provides better opportunities for rest and recovery, which is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health over a long career.

In addition to the new schedule, the agreement includes some concessions that were overwhelmingly supported by union members. One of these is a four-year pay freeze. Biggerstaff noted that firefighters were willing to make this sacrifice because they understood the importance of prioritizing their health.

Other cities are also making similar changes to their shift schedules. For example, the fire department in Allen plans to adopt a 24/72 and 48/72 shift model starting in January 2026. Meanwhile, the Lewisville Fire Department is transitioning to a 48/96 shift schedule. Fire Chief Mark McNeal explained that this model is widely used in the area and has a high satisfaction rate among departments that use it.

McNeal highlighted several benefits of the 48/96 schedule, including extended recovery time, improved work-life balance, and reduced commuting costs. He also mentioned that the shift adjustment was driven by firefighters themselves and had minimal financial impact on the city.

While Plano considered other models, such as the 48/96 shift, the city leadership opted for the 24/72 schedule, citing safety and effectiveness as key factors. The new contract also includes plans to add an entire shift to PFR, with 22 new positions being hired each year over the next five years.

Biggerstaff reported that the initiative has already led to an increase in applicants interested in joining the department. Averett, for one, is excited about the potential benefits. “I think it’s pretty incredible,” he said. “The wear and tear on our body over the course of a career. I mean, we’re looking at 700 plus hours less per year… That’s pretty significant.”

Plano Mayor John Muns praised the decision, emphasizing the city's commitment to the safety and well-being of its residents and first responders. “By investing in this new 24/72 schedule and additional personnel, we are not only protecting the health of our firefighters but also ensuring the highest level of service for our community.”