After much speculation about the need of involvement, the South San Francisco City Council unanimously approved the participation of South San Francisco in the San Francisco Bay Region Automatic Aid Agreement last week.
The South San Francisco Fire Department responds to approximately 25 maritime emergencies each year.
With its participation in the agreement, the becomes one of 20 Bay Area fire departments in the agreement meant to provide effective and seamless response in emergency situations.
“It won’t only be serving our own interest,” said Fire Chief Phil White. “It will be serving the greater interest of the Bay Area.”
Councilmember Mark Addiego was particularly tentative at the December 14 city council meeting at which the council asked the fire chief to develop a more detailed report of the agreement’s needs.
By signing into the agreement, White said, the closest maritime unit is able to respond to emergencies with minimal response time.
“I think sometimes the process is what trips you up,” Addiego said. “Congrats to you chief, you made a believer out of me.”
Mayor Richard Garbarino commended White on his innovation and determination to bring new ideas to the department.
“You remind me of the energizer bunny,” Garbarino said.
