The rapid growth of Walt Disney World is a huge plus for guests of the parks and resort, but it also means a lot more work for the Reedy Creek Fire Department. Firefighters have a lot on their plates and it keeps piling up, according to the Orlando Sentinel.
- Tim Stromsnes, president of the Reedy Creek Firefighters Association, told the Orlando Sentinel they are “stretched to the max.”
- “They’re asking us to do more with less,” Stromsnes said, voicing concerns regarding the long list of coming attractions at Walt Disney World, which includes the Disney Skyliner and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
- Stromsnes also shared concerns that Reedy Creek has added more equipment but not more manpower.
- Reedy Creek has reportedly spent $1.4 million on equipment and a truck that can go up to 116 feet and another truck for about $840,000 that can reach 173 feet, presumably for handling potential emergencies involving the Disney Skyliner.
- Stromsnes explained that the issue isn’t the equipment, saying “we have the equipment. We just don’t have the people.”
- Reedy Creek Fire Department made a budget request this year for 40 new positions but only two were added and both were administrative positions.
- The Reedy Creek Fire Department’s force is made up of 138 firefighters, with at least 32 on duty at all times.
- Reedy Creek Improvement District administrator John Classe downplayed the concerns, accusing Stromsnes of “trying to negotiate its current collective bargaining agreement in the media.”
What they’re saying:
- Disney spokeswoman Andrea Finger: “The safety of our guests and cast is, and always will be, our core focus in operating our parks and resorts.”
ICYMI – More Walt Disney World news:
- Disney Parks and Cruise Line guests will be among the first audiences to get a sneak peek at Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 4.
- Disney shared a video of the recent progress being made on the TRON attraction to Tomorrowland.
- The Edison at Disney Springs is bringing a Latin flair to its industrial gothic themed venue with “Havana Nights.”