Fire and EMS schedules, explained
Straight answers on Kelly days, 24/48 versus 48/96, FLSA 7(k) overtime, and reading your platoon rotation. Written for the people who actually work the shifts, with the real hours math and no fluff.
Guides for firefighters and medics
What Is a Kelly Day? The Real Hours Math
A Kelly day is supposed to trim your average weekly hours toward the FLSA cap. Sometimes it does. Sometimes it is just a 24/48 relabeled. Here is how to tell.
24/48 vs 48/96: Same Hours, Different Life
Both rotations land near 56 hours a week and the same overtime picture. What actually changes is your commute count and how long your block of days off feels.
FLSA 7(k) Explained: Why Firefighters Hit Overtime at 212 Hours
Firefighters do not hit overtime at 40 hours. The 7(k) exemption sets a 212-hour cap over a 28-day work period, and that one rule shapes every rotation you will ever work.
How to Read Your A/B/C Platoon Rotation
A shift, B shift, C shift, and a wall of colored squares. Once you know how a three-platoon rotation is built, you can tell who is on duty any day for years out.
Covering a Shift Without Blowing the Cap: Trades and Overtime
A trade and a pickup both cover the tour, but only one adds hours to your work period. Knowing the difference is how you keep coverage solid without triggering avoidable overtime.
Put your whole rotation on autopilot
RescueShift keeps your shifts, Kelly days, trades, and coverage in one place, synced across your phone and the web. Free for individual firefighters and EMTs.