Letter: Shift trading is practical solution for firefighters

Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2004 | 9:14 a.m.

Shift trading allows firefighters to accommodate other commitments around their firefighting duties, without leaving the department shorthanded. When a scheduled firefighter takes vacation, the department has to ensure that enough people are on duty to handle emergencies.

Through the use of shift trades, the department remains fully staffed. I use shift trades each year to attend the Muscular Dystrophy Association camp -- a volunteer activity that has recently received negative attention in the Las Vegas press. By trading shifts with other firefighters, I can attend the camp without cost to the community. If someone had to cover my shifts because I took vacation, the taxpayers would pay his or her overtime.

I willingly and voluntarily accept shift trades with Capt. John Oceguera, an assemblyman who trades shifts while serving in the Legislature. I know that for the last five years, Capt. Oceguera has worked both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day so others could spend the holidays with their families. Also, I willingly trade shifts with him when the Legislature is in session.

John is a regular guy. He understands the issues that are important to the average, working-class Nevadan. This is the type of guy I want in Carson City fighting for me. If, by agreeing to trade a few shifts, I allow him the opportunity to participate in the Legislature, I am glad for that -- and the rest of you should be as well.

MICHAEL BAKO