Like others, Houston firefighters are doing their best to stay cool as the area is baking in a heat wave.
But operating at a fire isn't the only time they're dealing with the extreme heat.
Five fire stations and three support facilities are currently having issues with air conditioning, KPRC reported.
Assistant Chief Michael Mire told reporters supply chain issues are to blame for the delayed repairs.
“It’s not a matter of money. It’s not a matter of labor. It’s a matter of putting the needed parts in to repair the air conditioning unit. The mayor has directed the fire chief to take all measures necessary to ensure that we provided a comfortable environment in the fire station.”
The assistant chief added: “The performance that these firefighters have done over the last six months is quite impressive. Over the last two weeks, they’ve pulled five people out of burning structures and two of them are going to walk out of a hospital any day now. And that’s impressive. And for what they do, they absolutely deserve the best accommodations that the city can provide."
He noted that one station is waiting on a compressor and a coil to fix the air conditioner.
“That part is expected sometime between July 28, August 10. Now, that doesn’t mean the department, nor the city is waiting on that date to come. We’re actively searching other vendors throughout the country. Our department has begun a global search to look for the needed parts as well."
Sandy Ditta noticed just how hot it was in one station when she went to drop off cookies. It was at least 85 in one room and felt hotter in other areas.
“They’ve been without AC for almost two months. They’re called to a fire that is very hot and they come back and they have no relief,” said Ditta, who participates in Operation HFD Cookie Drop.
“These men and women do an incredible job. They work very hard for the citizens of Houston and we owe them so so much."
