Cleared Hot Episode 401 - David Dahlin - Seattle Firefighters Fired for COVID Mandate
Aug 6, 2025
David Dahlin, a former Seattle firefighter turned general contractor, shares his riveting journey after being terminated for refusing the city's COVID-19 shot mandate. He discusses the ongoing struggles of morale within the Seattle Fire Department and the legal battles faced by firefighters challenging the mandate. The conversation touches on the emotional toll of these decisions, the balance between personal freedom and public health, and the surprising findings surrounding fraudulent vaccination cards. His experiences shed light on the broader implications for first responders navigating these tumultuous times.
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Firefighter Dispatchers Improve Response
- Fire dispatchers in Seattle are mostly firefighters, improving understanding and resource allocation.
- This setup is costlier but yields better information and operational decisions.
Specialized Truck Drivers in Seattle
- Seattle firefighters don’t rotate truck drivers; the role requires specialized skills and is often inherited informally.
- As senior driver, David led Ladder Company 5, one of busiest in the city.
Handling Extremely Large Patients
- Moving very large patients, sometimes up to 750 pounds, requires specialized equipment called Mega Movers.
- Firefighters encounter unique challenges including hygiene and logistics with such patients.