It is the opinion of the author that if fire departments are serious about this issue, they must be willing to recommend the following: a commitment from a financial, tactical and political standpoint, create a pro-active environment versus reactive, be willing to make modifications if needed to their program, and be willing to design, develop and implement such a program. They must also be willing to look to alternative sources for guidance and help in making this a reality.

Issues to be examined are: does the current system meet the needs of the department and personnel; what alternative methods of scheduling are available to fire departments; and what possible change may be needed to correct the problem. It is the authors opinion that an establishment of a 8/40 schedule versus the traditional 24-hour shift schedule is needed. The author further believes that difficulties will arise from such a move, and that fire departments must be ready to deal with the issues that are presented. Realization of the potential gains for staff officers and department programs from making such a switch must be foremost on decision makers minds.