One proposal calls for dramatic changes to work schedules such that they concentrate more paramedic shifts during peak times.   The union that represents the paramedics agrees with the fire chief that the issue is not, as the firefighters union argues, insufficient resources but a lack of flexibility in the system.

 http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/dc-fire-and-emergency-services-in-need-of-overhaul/2013/03/17/cce7b3be-8b50-11e2-9f54-f3fdd70acad2_story.html