Oakland's fire department has a secret weapon - a candid spokesperson
Some public information officers obstruct access by stonewalling, while others prioritize transparency and prompt communication to serve the public and support journalism.
'It's a labor of love and a sacrifice': A Q&A with Oakland's fire chief
Damon Covington, Oakland Fire Department chief, emphasizes addressing staffing shortages, overtime costs, wildfire risks, and firefighter mental health after 26 years as a firefighter-paramedic.