The day starts early for West Metro firefighters. Most days, it's before sunrise.

But beginning next month, our crews will start their day a little later.

After a year-long look at how station life impacts firefighter health, West Metro is moving shift start time from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. to help improve rest and recovery.

Firefighters voted on the change, and the goal is simple:

Healthier crews, ready to respond when the community needs them.