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LA Fire Commission To Review Response Times, Aging Dispatch Equipment

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — City fire officials will meet this week to address concerns over response times and equipment problems after a new investigation showed a number of dispatching issues.

KNX 1070's Chris Sedens reports the Los Angeles Times investigation revealed the LAFD published statistics showing rescuers were responding to medical emergencies faster than they actually were.

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The Times report showed system problems have created confusion at station houses and have forced dispatchers to rely on antiquated backup plans, which have in turn delayed responses to emergencies including a fire in South Los Angeles on Mar. 2 in which two people were killed.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Chief Brian Cummings held a news conference last week to dispute findings of slow response times and pledged new steps to o enhance the department's communication system.

Officials continue to blame the instability of the dispatch system on aging equipment and a move to a new facility last month.

Mayor Villaraigosa has ordered a full review of the operation.

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