Some Upstate fire departments looking to try out 'Portland Schedule'

SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) - Fire departments in the Upstate are implementing a new schedule known as the 'Portland Schedule' to improve firefighter retention and morale.

The new schedule involves firefighters working a 24-hour shift followed by three days off, and then a 48-hour shift with another three days off.

The change is being trialed by the fire departments in the City of Greenwood, North Spartanburg and North Greenville.

Typically, firefighters work a 24-48 schedule, which is a 24-hour shift followed by a two-day weekend. The new schedule aims to provide more rest and recovery time for firefighters.

"I think that the 24-48 has served its time," said Jonathan Martin, a firefighter with the City of Greenwood Fire Department.

Nick Fortner, Chief of the South Spartanburg Fire Depar