I *really like* option 4! Option 2 was completely possible if we spent a little time considering the situation.

My problem isn't the tire, in fact, I don't have a problem. My responsibility to the department, to the community, and to the crew is is to have a properly staffed and ready company to respond at all times.

I would also have a cup of java with the informal leader filling in as truck officer, explaining how “solving one problem” could end up creating many more, both today, and down the road if such permissions were granted.

Thanks for shining the light on fire service leadership. In my opinion, the vast majority of “issues” can be avoided with leaders who have effective people skills. Without followers, there are no leaders. You need to have followers buy into what you bring to the table Finding a way to do that on a consistent, predictable manner is paramount to the success of your group.

First, call your wife to come down and pickup the tire and bring it to the store. But maybe she's working.

Second, ask a fellow firefighter to run the tire down to the store and get it repaired. That way you don't afoul of the shift trade nonsense outlined above. It's a Saturday, it's likely one of them will be out running errands anyway and it wouldn't be a big inconveince.

Third, if departmental policies allow sick time preceeding a vacation period, burn a sick day. If departmental policies are so inflexible to not allow some discretion in a matter like this…that they have to pay o/t to someone held on coverage doesn't break my heart.

Fourth is to ratchet strap the tire to the back bumper, drive over to the tire store, drop it off, pick it back up later in the shift. Mission accomplished without breaking crew integrity.

The problem with options four or the one in the original scenario is should “the big one” hit during shift, you may end up not being able to pick the tire up later. The first three guarantee you'll have it for tomorrow.