Today the union leader for the Rochester Private Fire Company ‘won’ a decision by a State judge that ceases the Company’s participation in Rochester City “Cool Sweeps”. In the past, the professional and volunteer firefighters of RPFC would give back to their customers and achieve inexpensive advertising to attract new customers by opening fire hydrants on hot and sticky summer days.

These events were naturally quite popular among children and made them admire the firefighters as role models. Some even showed signs of wanting to become firefighters when they grew up. It’s just another way the RPFC brought value to their community and improved the health of young Rochesterians in the face of dangerous weather.

Last week Judge Jean Doerr ruled that “such tasks represent duties ‘not inherent in the duties of firefighters,’ and therefore constitute an unfair work practice.” Unfair to whom? We’re not quite sure. Chief Firefighter and CEO of RPFC John Caufield said that he is “disgusted” with this decision and believes this ruling to be a public relations disaster.

Caufield told our reporter, “We loved [participating in] the Cool Sweeps. It’s great to be out there in the community. Firefighters have always done more than just fight fires. Pick up any children’s book and you’ll see depictions of us rescuing cats, helping children cross the street and volunteering for Senior Citizens. We don’t find these tasks to be demeaning and we certainly don’t find them to be outside of our duties. In fact, most of us became firefighters to help in any way we could.” Caufield is worried about how the competition might react and has vowed to appeal the decision.

The competition is reacting quickly to the news. The steering committee for West Brighton Fire Service Organization (WBFSO) announced today that they will be opening two new stations on the edge of the city to provide service to residents on the edge of the city. According to a press release WBFSO will be delighted to continue Cool Sweep operations for Rochester residents and will match existing rates in their new service areas.

Other competing fire companies are interested in expanding their coverage as well. The Gates Fire Corporation has announced plans to fast-track construction on a new station in the City. Their CEO announced “We recognize the huge misstep the RPFC has made here and we are reaffirming our commitment to our current customers to put their interests first.”

Although Cool Sweeps are on hold for now, Rochester is not expecting sweltering weather until next month, giving businesses, neighborhood associations and fire companies a window of opportunity to find solutions.