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SF fire commissioners face backlash over removing peer counselors from 911 calls

nbcbayarea.com · 13h · first reportShare

San Francisco fire commissioners are facing backlash over a recent decision to remove peer counselors from 911 calls. Advocates say the counselors work alongside paramedics to help people experiencing mental health or substance use crises. Opponents of the decision say removing the counselors will make emergency responses less effective. Fire department leaders, however, say the change is needed, citing scheduling challenges and an evolving 911 system. Community members attended Wednesday’s Fire Commission meeting to speak out against the decision.