The new fire chief in Dallas on Thursday said he has big plans to shape up the department.
Eddie Burns, 46, said he will institute a physical fitness regimen for all firefighters, much like the one Fort Worth has had for the past 20 years.
"They do a medical physical, and then there are some physical requirements like push-ups, sit-ups, crunches," Burns said. "Actually look at your weight, your body fat."
Before taking up his new post, Burns had worked for the Fort Worth Fire Department for 27 years.
Dallas chose Burns after a nationwide search.
He will become the first African-American fire chief in the city's history.
His first day on the job will be April 19.
Before that time, Burns will take his wife on a vacation of her choosing, he said.
Previous Stories:
- March 1, 2006: Dallas Names Fire Chief, Makes History
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