Supply chain issues preventing HFD's air conditioning fixes, fire chief says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Some first responders working out in the sweltering heat are having a hard time cooling down because of air conditioning units that don't work. This is impacting firefighters and paramedics at stations in the City of Houston.

ABC13's Chief Meteorologist Travis Herzog brought the issue to light. He posted online about a medical episode he experienced last week to let people know he was OK, but he also mentioned that the A/C unit in the ambulance he was riding in couldn't keep up with the heat.

"You shouldn't have to work in those hot conditions as you go about saving lives all day," Herzog said.

HFD Chief Samuel Pena ordered that same unit to be brought to the shop again to test the AC system. He said the thermostat was set to 72 and was cycling appropriately on Tuesday.

"This is an issue that should never be a problem in our line of work, ever," Houston Professional Fire Fighter's Association President Marty Lancton said.

He was inflamed over an issue that he said flares up far too often in the summer: air conditioning units that can't beat the heat.

"Not only is that dangerous for the men and women who are working, but it's dangerous to the patients and it's unacceptable," Lancton said.

Chief Peña confirmed 10 fire stations have reported issues with their A/C. They all have portable chillers until the parts needed for repairs are secured, or a new system can be installed. He also said staff found no issues with the ambulance that took ABC13's chief meteorologist to the hospital.

The City of Houston released a statement in response saying, "By procedure, an active ambulance is removed from service and replaced with a reserve unit when the interior temperature of its patient care compartment cannot be kept below 80-degrees. This incident is being investigated. Preliminary findings indicate the ambulance believed to be associated with this report is currently in active service and paramedics are not reporting any issue with its climate control system. The investigation will continue." They also pointed to the fire department's $593 million budget for the next fiscal year, which prioritizes replacing aging equipment.

Mayor Turner and City Council have approved $16.3 million for fire trucks, aerial trucks, and utility vehicles, plus another $3.8 million for tools and personal protective equipment in FY24.

"Public safety and protecting all Houstonians have remained a priority during my administration in the past 7 1/2 years. The City has invested in equipment and budgeted additional cadet classes for FY24 to enhance HFD's response capabilities. Whether we are replacing aging equipment for fire and rescue or providing new high-water rescue apparatus, I do not want the public to overlook our commitment and the taxpayers' investment in building a highly -skilled and well-equipped department," said Mayor Turner.

"If you're throwing all this money that you say you are, then why is it still broken?" Lancton asked.

In response, Peña said the city's General Services Department is dealing with supply chain problems.

"This administration has remained steadfast in its support of the brave men and women of the Houston Fire Department," a City of Houston statement read, in part.

"Do better," Lancton said. "You can try all you want, or you can do. The excuses are getting old."

As the temperature rises, so is the pressure on the city to find an adequate fix for firefighters and paramedics who brave the heat.

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