Calif. Firefighter Claims On-Job Drinking

City firefighters often drink at the firehouse during ``cocktail hours'' tolerated by their bosses, says one firefighter whose claims have spawned investigations by the department and the city.

Nov. 22, 2003

2 min read

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- City firefighters often drink at the firehouse during ``cocktail hours'' tolerated by their bosses, says one firefighter whose claims have spawned investigations by the department and the city.

Though the department has a zero tolerance policy for drinking on duty, Kristen Odlaugh, 39, said alcohol use was ``prevalent'' at one firehouse where she worked -- and that it made life hard for anyone who refused to join in.

``Our job is dangerous enough without having somebody impaired at the wheel or giving you orders as a boss,'' she told the San Francisco Chronicle.

Her allegations, contained in a sexual harassment complaint, have riled top brass.

``Driving a big red truck around with sirens while drinking, I don't think anybody thinks that's a good idea,'' Chief Mario Trevino said Friday.

Odlaugh, who is seeking more than $17,000 in damages, claims sexual harassment began within months of her joining the department in May 1999.

``The firefighters who drink on the job are much more confrontational and undisciplined toward me and other women and minorities,'' she wrote in her claim letter.

Pat Norman, a fire commissioner, praised Odlaug for coming forward.

``There has been a long history and a culture that has allowed for drinking in the firehouse,'' Norman said. ``Her bravery, her courage to come out is really exceptional, and I support her.''

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