'Third Watch' Premieres on NBC

[webteam]

What did you think of the premiere of NBC's new show, 'Third Watch'? Did it accurately reflect and portray the emergency services community? How about the EMS notion of "transporting" a patient to the clinic for an appointment ... is that positive or negative for the general public to see portrayed? How accurate was the action? Discuss it all right here!

For more reviews, visit:
http://www.Firehouse.com/news/entertainment/1999/thirdwatch.html

[This message has been edited by WebTeam (edited September 23, 1999).]

[cfdtruckman]

Third watch was pretty good. It will take a litle time to learn the characters and such, but I think it certainly has potential. I know there will be the negative neysayers out there who say that " it isnt really like that on the streets" Please remember it isnt COPS or a documentary on TLC or Discovery. It is a drama for network TV and if it makes the public a little more aware of what we do in a positive way than I will give it an A+. I will certainly be watching Sunday to see if the medic lives>

[emt9898]

Considering that this was the start to a new show i think it was good..they r at least going to keep every one waiting till sunday to see if the medic lives or dies... For the most part I think the show is off to a good start and that it will be a hit at least with the die hard fire EMS people....like we dont get enough at our jobs but we come home to watch it on T.V!!!!!

[Fire Mechanic]

I guess I was hoping for more FD material. I think EMS and police have been pretty well covered on other programs. We will see what happens on Sunday though.
Glenn

[nsfirechap]

Watched the premiere of Third wathch last night-was suprised. I had not expected much. Granted, there could have been more of the fire side, but...Found the characterizations and drama really well done. This show sure is a long way from "Emergency". One old show I really enjoyed that you don't here much about was"Firehouse" with Richard Jaeckel(Didn't last too long). I'll definitely continue wathcing TW.

Jeff

[APG1]

Speaking as someone who's seen the point of view from each angle, Police, Fire, and EMS, all I can say is the show rocked. NBC has definiatly got a hit on it's hands. :>

[FireSki]

Gimme a break...
The TV season is going to involve burnt-out cops, firehouse meals, and abused EMT's and paramedics? An entire television season of overused cliches, cop vs. perp antics, and firehouse meals?
Sundays will be highlighted by the sound of
make-believe sirens, maternity cases, and firehouse meals? The only true part was the cops yelling and screaming at the fire, as if they were the ones that started it, causing more panic than the fire itself.
When was the last time both cops and and ambulance show up on the scene of a job in NYC? Probably never. The fire department gets there and the front of the building is full of cop cars and ambulances? (that actually has happened, but still...) Not too sure about the paramedics handing out prescription drugs in the street either.
And for anyone who was curious and was about to ask where engine 57 is located, engine 57 does not exist, it was created for the show. Once again the FD doesn't get the credit they deserve.

[Fire Escape 70]

It had its moments. The cop who thought he was God should become a meter maid so we don't have to deal with watching that idiot's behavior.

It's hard to escape reality and watch a show like this without being critical. When the ambulance pulled up to the structure fire, my only thought was "typical lizard luggers, parking their short bus in front of the job so the truck can't get in!"

I laughed myself silly when they talked about taking meds from the departed and handing them out to the needy! Next week on Third Watch, the entire crew gets arrested for dispensing controlled medications!!

At least it isn't half as bad as that fire show Fox had out a few years ago in L.A. Now that was a true disgrace to firefighting.

I give it a "let's wait and see" rating.

[This message has been edited by Fire Escape 70 (edited September 24, 1999).]

[LWO132]

I was kind of disappointed. Will use the "wait and see" term also. Just like at work, too much EMS. Will watch Sunday to make my final decision on tuning in each week.
I did see a realistic part; Police cars parked in front of a burning building. Looks like "Emergency" will still be the best ever.

[D.C. Kron]

It wasn't nearly as good as I expected. I'm going to need to see a lot more Fire Dept for me to keep watching.

[17Pumper]

Well, the show was not too bad. I must say that although the truck and engine do not exist(to my knowledge) the writers went to pretty good detail to come up with the rigs. I would like to see more fire than ems and pd. We shall see what happens. Don't park your meat wagon in front of a burning building!

[BC White]

If a network was going to put a solid fire/EMS/cop show on TV and make it successful....NBC would be it.
A ride to the clinic.......why not....customer service, even in a big city, I agree. Drugs to the needy, a tough call. Maybe the clinic could help out here.
Saw the bus take the front of the building on the fire, but the next shot looked like it was on the sidewalk (the truck made it anyway).
Kind of like the cops added in, I think they are nuts anyway (take a dark-hot hallway any day over drugged out nut with a gun that will try to kill you then turn around and try to sue you.....I respect their job..... all donughts aside).
Enjoyed the clown when the cops avoided the dog in the street!
Showing EMS is good for the general public, after all, many fire departments are kept alive by EMS.
But I too would like to see MORE fires and rescue.
This show could be good for us (the fire service). I opened the LA Firefighters can of worms on this post many months ago, and thought it did a poor job at best of showing what we are all about. Many agreed.
We could pick this show apart every week, but maybe we should ask non-firefighters what they think about the show.
I'm a BIG Emergency fan, but think about this. Some of us were not quite old enough to be on the job when that show ran, yet we loved it. It even pushed some of us into the job....even if you did not want to be a para-god.
If we had this forum back then, and were on the job, what would we post about it?
I'll be watching this Sunday. Hope the guy lives and wears a vest the next time he takes in a GSW before the cops get there.
I enjoyed the show with an open mind, understanding that no matter what was on the show, some would pick it apart.
I hope it makes it.
Who knows.....maybe this is the show that does for the next generation what Emergency did for ours.

[chaplain5]

A big Amen and ditto to what BC White said. I thought the show was very good. Sure it could have used a little more of the fire side of things and they may not get evrything right all the time, but it's a show not a training video. Actually seen some training videos that didn't get things right either. I too was a huge Emergency fan and wonder what would be posted about it back then. I too hope the show makes it and will be watching again.

[RyWfd]

I was glad to finnaly see a good interaction between the services all together. You got to remember though, that its for a Television audiance. The portrayal of Emergency workers is good but the ideas they portray might need to be improved. Meds on the street is a no-no like that is a no-no. Firefighters, where going to take a hit if all those guys do is sit on there buts at the station and go to an occasional call.
Now, As a Fire and Safety Technician for the Studios in our area, They usually try to go out of there way to portray the lives of Emergency Workers properly. The feed back they usually get is from the people they see there most often. If they showed the public what alot of the services do in there daily routines, no one would watch. So theres always got to be an aire of excitement and drama to keep the attention of the Audiance. Doctors and Nurses will pich through ER Just as Cops pick at those shows that portray them down at the local Dunkin'. Lets try to watch this for the reason it is there for. To entertain us.
Ry

[John Myers]

I am for any stories, movies, books,tv shows etc. that has to do with firefighting/ems.I have been a volunteer for years and when Backdraft came out, well let's just say that my wife was ready to either divorce me or throw out the VCR(with tape included).I applaud any shows dedicated (in all fairness)to firefighters.

[E54R54]

I wish Hollywood would get off this kick of of trying to make emergency service shows.The directors are doing us a great disservice by not showing how things really are on the streets.At fault are the technical directors for not speaking up and saying that this is not the way things are.
I watched "Third Watch" and I will not watch it again.I wanted to puke.
This is all we need "Baywatch" type shows for emergency service.Pass the barf bag,PLEASE!

[e33]

hey, did anyone notice that there is no Engine 57 and Ladder 100! And i do think the fake sirens are kinda funny too. There must be one siren sound that all producers buy from some sound salesman !! Thay all are the same. I like that they actually use the appropriate apparatus...for the most part and the Gear is close too. I need to see more to decide..althogh i agree that it is kinda hollywoodish so far. we'll see

[warren35]

I thought the show turned out ok until the giving away of free drugs to the homeless. Lets make it look like we are all drug dealers!!!! The rest of the show we will have to see if it stays REAL.

[Rescue2a]

I think Third Watch is going to turn out to be a really good show. It was very realistic and serves as a good tribute to the people who do that job every day.
I know there are people who are going to say negative things about the show like, Thats not real, Thats not how we do it in the streets, etc. But you have to keep in mind that the show is for entertainment. It is not a training or educational show.
I give THIRD WATCH a big thumbs up ! !

[APG1]

Ok. Lets look at this.

1. Yes, it's Hollywood.
2. Yes, Hollywood has completely and totally wrecked the public's view of EMS'ing
3. I forget number 3.
4. It's a -TV- show. If you want real life, go watch the discovery channel. :>

[Lieut156]

I believe that "Third Watch" will last. At first I didn't think much of the show, but as I continued to watch, I was hooked. I do however think that these type shows need to be more true to life. Take "Emergency" for instance (for those of you that remember it), there was a true to life Fire/EMS show. Those guys handled each and every incident just like we do today. I watch it everytime I get the chance (4:00 pm EST, on TVLAND). I will be watching Sunday night, you can bet on that. It is time we get and keep a show like this. Lets face it, the Rescue 77's, LA Firefighters, etc....they only make our profession look bad.

[AXMAN620]

I SEE IT FAR FROM BEING "EMERGENCY" BUT CONCIDERING ALL THE LAME SHOWS ON T.V. @ THE PRESENT TIME I CANT BITCH TOO MUCH, GIVE IT SOME TIME YA'ALL, THE ONE THING WE ALL HAVE TO DO IS QUIT LOOKING AT IT AS A REAL LIFE DOCUMENTRY, WE ALL KNOW THAT T.V. DOSENT PORTRAY OUR LIVES AS THEY ARE!!!!!

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SEE YA' A'' @ THE BIG ONE!!!!!

[blackhat]

Watched Third Watch. I was a rookie when Emergency premired on tv. Emergency served its purpose in the 70's, and has so far proved better than anything Hollywood has produced since, especially rescue 77. I think with the writers from er behind the program it has a chance. Realistic situations and real personalities might make this a hit, but time will tell. I liked the peanut butter on the bottom of the boot trick. Yall keep your leather together.

[DCEngineCapt]

I hope the producers of this show read this forum so that they will get the message that the firefighters on this show should be portrayed in a more positive manner. We do much more than sit around and wait for fires (most of the time we are standing around on the scene of medical calls waiting for EMS to show up!) Show more fires and firefighters in action! (by the way, did anyone happen to notice that the brother from Engine 57 is wearing a Boston F.D. shield on his helmet?)

[This message has been edited by DCEngineCapt (edited September 26, 1999).]

[Battalion5]

I watched Third Watch again tonight and even though it is a good show, I am very dissapointed that there has been almost no firefighting in either episode. The EMS people and the Police Officers out there must be happy with all the exposure that they are getting. Meanwhile, the Firefighters are almost non-existant.<S> As far as television is concerned, I think the show is very good. You have to look at it with an open mind or you will be dissapointed. Those of us who do the job and are more informed than the general public will find all kinds of things wrong with the show, like EMS parking right in front of the fire building. I hope that the have some episodes planned that deal more with the fire side in the future.

[This message has been edited by Battalion5 (edited September 26, 1999).]

[APG1]

Well, take a look at the cast guys. Seriously. We have paramedics and police. There's almost no fire fighters in the cast, except for the sleazy ex. Not really 'in' the program.

[matty]

I loved it! Remember its a TV show, not really life.Of course somethings are fictional and would never happen. Its the closes thing right now to a show relating to the Fire service that might make a year on the air. Keep watching.

[Jeff801]

Well, at least the "station" didn't have raquetball courts!. (I still miss Code Red). I challenge Mr. Webmaster to post an address that we could Email OUR stories, real or sounded sorta good after a few beers. See if we can be the Technical Advisors, that would be fun. "Next on 3rd Watch...A cop lights a flare for traffic control when an 8" natural gas line is cut by the city water department...who will survive!

[Capt-EJ12]

"Third Watch" will do good, as long as the producers and FDNY & NYPD work together. If the real facts are shown and not the "Hollywood" stuff, it will be a hit.

The other TV programs that had the Fire Department as the main theme, never hit off. since they were always controled by the producers and the fire department, had very little say in the show.

Good luck, I have liked the show so far.

[dougco100]

I watched the sunday night broadcast of TW, a friend recorded the thursday program and have not had a chance to watch. I was impressed with the real time aspect of the program. Good interaction between all parties and good movement from one group to another without loosing the story line. I think that this in its infancy is showing the diversity of such a complex emergency service system in one of the largest cities in the world.

It will never be middle america or small town USA and anyone who expects it to be will always be disappointed.

I feel it did a good job of portraying the inner needs and conflicts of persons on the job. The paramedics each examining themselves and their performance when one of their own was shot and how nobody really knew what each other had done in the heat of the moment when seconds seem like days but are in the end a blur of action. How much can any of you reading this remember of the details of action in a fast moving incident that you were involved in??????

The paramedic giving a friend a vest in the suggestion that she protect herself. Her conflicts with wearing it. Should she put up with the discomfort of wearing it? She knows it will provide protection. Be Honest! What would you do?

Many said that ER would not survive and yet we found ourselves glued to it week after week and this show has the same potential.

I think that the writers have started something that is likely to survive as long as they listen to some criticism, give the fire guys a little more exposure and don't get too wild in the big ones. I think that the balance is about right at this time. The old smoke-eaters don't like to admit it but today we do a lot more medical and rescue than we do firefighting. The show should show that balance. It should show the mundane drunks, cuts and scrapes, garbage fires in stairwells and burning autos in the street. Those are real. The audience will agree.

[LWO132]

I taped the Sunday show because the best show on tv was on. "Touched by an Angel" Then I watched the 2nd episode. This one was much better than the 1st. More personal situations. Still not enough Fire side. I'll call it an OK show that I will watch but not go out of my way to watch. Like I did "Emergency" at age 10. Reactions have been very interesting to read. We take our "job" very seriously and that's GOOD. Take Care everyone.

[mwalshnh]

Ok, I really think this show is more true to life than most are giving it credit for. For instance, a Blue Canary parking his car right in front of a burning building (only would have been better if they were in front of the hydrant.)

Second, no matter how we look at it EMS is currently the bread and butter of the Emergency Services. Now I can't speak eloquently of FDNY procedures, however, it would be more realistic if an Engine Co was dispatched for EMS runs as well (I think that is pretty much standard in most areas).

Thirdly, Firefighters in general get no recognition from anyone unless their house is burning. Everyone sees cops and EMTs because there are far more calls for their assistance then there are building fires. So as in real life, the firefighters remain the unknown, unsung heros.
I do suspect that the writers will add in more fire related scenes as the show goes on, but they had to get people hooked and lets face it, police and EMS shows are watched by millions and so it only makes sense to try to bring those folks on board before expanding to include more fire fire fighting.

Finally, I grew up on Emergency, I used to watch it all the time with my dad, used to make the noise of the station tone when dipatching my Hot Wheels Engine 51, Squad 51 replicas (still do) and can probably attribute a lot of my love for the Fire Service to that show (and hanging out in Boston Fire Stations). That said, if you want to watch that show today critically, you could have a field day. First every call utilizes the Paramedics as the primary rescuer, the other FFs simply stand and wait until Johnny or Roy tell them what to do, not to mention that everything can be fixed with 20cc of D5W, etc. I love that show and am not bashing it in any way, I am just saying that TV shows are just that and we have to take them (or in the case of LA Firefighters leave them) for what they are worth. I like these shows because when it comes to the Emergency Medical Service helping others (real or on TV) always sends a shiver up my spine. I say Good Luck to First Watch, you have my vote and both of my thumbs up. And if you can, add in some more Fire Service scenes...thanks.

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[mlevy172]

This show is HORRIBLE!!I am a career volunteer firefighter on Long Island, New York and work in Manhattan. I have many friends who are New York City firemen, cops and ems techs. No one, BUT NO ONE.. talks, acts or does the ridiculous things they portray on this awful program. It's not even filmed in Manhattan! It is truly an insult to the hard working members of all the emergency service groups in NYC and around the country. Take it off.

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[This message has been edited by mlevy172 (edited September 29, 1999).]

[IRESQU2]

NOT ENOUGH FIRE, NOT ENOUGH FIRE, NOT ENOUGH FIRE!!!! i AM SICK OF THIS WHINING CRAP.
We are dealing with three services here- police, ems, fire. Home many times have you ran more calls on an engine than an ambulance? or responded to more calls than the police... WE DONT!! however, when we are called into action it requires more effort. This is why we work 24 hr shifts (mostly). If we worked 24 hr shifts as cops or medics we would die. i dont ever want to be a cop and i would rather be on an engine or ladder than the ambulance.... what i am trying to say is that on the avg. we run alot more ems than fires... and the cops run alot more squaters, drunks and ****ters than we do...

[sparky_marky]

I was really hoping that the language would be a little better. I really don't want my little buddy talking like the firefighters on TV. Too much to ask for?

[E54R54]

I am truely hoping that many of my firefighting and EMS friends pray for quick end to "Third Watch".Of the many thing I find too phony are the following.
1.Sirens on vehicles are all the same.
2.Language.Way too clean.
3.Good looking women.Not in my house....or for that matter any house in my county that I can think of.Most even a bottle of Jack would not even make look good.
4.No dents or scratches in the trucks.
5.These guys do not even sweat when they get nervous.
6.Giving Drugs to the homeless...what the hell is this?

Face it friends,this is a show that should be cancelled as soon as possible.The producers will not show what is really like on the streets because they either do not know or the public really does not want to know.

[phyrngn]

I think that we're being a little too critical. Of course there are a few unrealistic things on the show...how many cop shows are on TV? And how many of them are completely true to life? You have cops that work one murder case in an hour show...the reality is that they probably work on several cases over the period of a day...If you watched the interviews and previews about this show, you saw that it was about "relationships"...amongst Fire/EMS/Police, etc. It is a microcosm of society...we can talk all we want about professional demeanor amongst co-workers, but we all know that when it all boils down to it, partners talk dirty to each other, cops ogle the women that they pull over, and we use tasteless humor...we do this to survive. I think Third Watch has hit the nail on the head...I'll keep watching...it makes my world of reality a little more tolerable...

[Bill]

I think the show was good. We all have to remember this is a drama for TV. ER people can point out problems with ER just like we can with this show. Lets sit back and enjoy the show for its entertainment value, maybe it will help with positive image of emergency services. If everyone wants to talk about a profession that has been showed wrong by TV lets talk about dispatch, did anyone die on Rescue 911!!!

[firemam]

Just wanted to let E54R54 know that there is beautiful women in the fire service. I am one of them, and everybody in my department would tell you the same. Sorry your not so fortunate... As for the show, I like it. I would like to see more of the fire service involved, but I do like how the show examines in the inner feelings that we all deal with after a major event occurs.

[cfdtruckman]

I am amazed at all of the criticizm. " It is not like that on the streets"....Last I checked almost all the bios of everyone responding are not from the " streets" were this is taking place. The above responses are a reflection of the fire service today. We always shoot ourselves in the foot with our comments. Here is an oppurtunity to put us in some good light, and everyone is just whining about it. Way to critical. Do any of you realize we are not watching a documentary. Do you think ER an NYPD Blue are "exactly" like the people they portray..of coarse not. Get a grip people and enjoy the show. And next time you are working the " streets" of a big city than you may have a bitch.

[FD345]

It will need to have more interaction with the Firefighters of FDNY to make it the best show.... But over all the show should do well...!

[FyredUp]

Another attempt to make a dramatic series into a training video by the critics here on this forum. It is TV, not IFSTA. And for darn sure this is better than LA Firefighter's and that God awful Code Red. Maybe it isn't EMERGENCY! but I think it is pretty good. My only gripe would be there is not enough FDNY fire present, but perhaps that will come.

[FyredUp]

Another attempt to make a dramatic series into a training video by the critics here on this forum. It is TV, not IFSTA. And for darn sure this is better than LA Firefighter's and that God awful Code Red. Maybe it isn't EMERGENCY! but I think it is pretty good. My only gripe would be there is not enough FDNY fire present, but perhaps that will come.

[DragonSlayer_64]

Over all, I thing the show was well written, the characters may need some detail work, but a good foundation was built in the first two shows. After the Disappiontment of moives like " Backdraft " and shows like " L.A. Firefighters " It's good to see that hollywood hasn't gotten a good hold of this one yet, I hope they don't make it too much like the other flops that we've all seen in the past. I'll stand with the "wait and see" attitude on this one,

[Lieut156]

Just wanted to say that i have read each and every reply. There is a pattern forming here. Lets face it folks, it is TV. We can look at it like this, Rescue 77 was a slap in the face as well as LA Firefighters. At least there is only the image of firefighters sitting in the house waiting, not making asses of themselves on the streets. I can remember when I was a kid. The image was the same, the firefighters stayed inside until after supper and then they came out and sat and enjoyed the evening air, chatted with citizens (kids like me bothering them all the time). Lets face it, a firefighters job doesn't require us to be moving 200 mph all the time. There is a lot of down time. Yes it would be nice to see some more fire related situations, but lets just make sure that we the firefighters aren't the reason for cancellation of this show. It will prove to be a very good show. NO EMERGENCY, but a very good show.

[FORT ff]

Third Watch is one of the best new shows out there. Granted it isn't your everyday comedy or soap. This is an action drama. I am just entering the fire services at the age of 17. I have been around the fire service though for most of my life. TW may not be the most accurate show, but it is very good overall. Everyone that wants this show to be 100% correct down the last piece of lettering on the truck, you are crazy. You have to relax and realize that it just won't happen. As for the numbers on the trucks, Hollywood can't use real truck numbers. If you go back in history all the way to Backdraft, Engine 17 and Truck 46; those two numbers do exist as Truck 17 and Engine 46, and those two pieces of apparatus are stationed together in Chicago. If every show on TV were absolutely correct most of us writing these posts wouldn't watch TV. EMERGENCY still is the champion of emergency service shows, but give TW a shot. They can't please everyone and I have seen an overwhelming number of replies that are for this show. Add me to the list, this is a great show and I can't wait to see how is turns out in the future. Feel free to email me to chat or whatnot, DASfw@aol.com
See you all out there, and be Careful.
DAN
Fort Washington Firefighter

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[SWIDFCWINS]

'Third Watch' should be renamed 'Broken Watch' and canceled. Here we go again! Hollywood trying to make a series "life like." Forget it! Those people who attempt to portray the lives and work of firefighters, cops and medics need a reality check of their own. The "Hollywood" types are hopelesly and forever lost in a world of pure fantasy when it comes to portraying us emergency service personnel and what we really do on the streets. Once again, "Hollywood" has to be politically correct in what they put on the TV screen. 'Third Watch' is doing us and the general public a disservice by sending the wrong messages. When is "Hollywood" ever going to get it right? A rhetorical question.
It is also very illegal for us to dispense drugs to street people or to any people for that matter, unless we are authorized to do so during a medical emergency. 'Nuf said!

[ffmd2]

First of all I would like to say that I loved the show! I tuned in thinking I was going to see a medic doing a hand stand on the chest of a code in a sewer(ref. back to Res.77 episode!) but instead was very pleasently suprised!!! The only embarrassment I feel with the show are the negative whiney posts I have read here! Grow up people! Like I have seen metioned here, this is not a training show, it is entertainment and should be treated as such. If you want training, do like myself and other true professionals do and go take a class! Then when you are done and want to relax, go home, prop up your feet flip on the tube and watch a good entertaining show called Third Watch!

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Jim

[HFD TOWER 1]

SO far the show really hasn't been to bad. Alot of people have to understand that it's in the "script" that way veiwers wont be totally lost while watching the program. I'm all for giving credit where credit is due, but in Hollywood it isn't gonna happen the way it is in the real world. Lets give it a chance then we can boot it like we did the last time they did this.

[Americas Heroes]

We've watched both episodes and read all the replies as of Tuesday evening, 9/28. It's tough to expect Hollywood to produce what most of us have gone through or still love through every day. It's like comparing ER to "Trauma Center," but at least ER did, for a while, maintain some high level of accuracy with incidents, terminolgy, triage, etc.
We cant' expect fictionalized, dramatic television to tell the "real" story. We know. We're learning that. Our show is NOT fiction. We will be real, in-you-face, as-it-happens (happened) television. Let's give Third Watch a chance..see what develops. Come January, check us out! "America's Heroes: The Volunteers of Fire/Resce" coming in syndication. Both shows can work!

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Best regards and a safe return from every call!

[blackhat]

If you want realism watch Paramedics, or Trauma, life in the er on tlc. Be grateful it's not another sit-com or lawyer show. Be safe out there.

[doc42864]

I did not like THIRD WATCH, as someone who grew up with EMERGENCY, I feel that this show is just a cheap knockoff. EMERGENCY
caused me to become a member of the emergency services, I don't think THIRD WATCH will have as much of an effect.

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DAJ EMT-B

[Daniel B. Hamilton]

Thumbs down. The bottom line question: Does "Third Watch" potray our profession in a positive way? NO. Bad attitudes, bad egos, etc. I was really hoping the show was going to increase our professional appearance, not damage it. I've developed a great deal of respect for my colleagues of FDNY (& NYPD) over the years. If they have any control over the show's content, act quickly to restore your (and our) image.

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[mwalshnh]

If you have never met someone with a bad attitude in the Emergency Services then you are a lucky person. Although they are relatively few and far between, we do have people with attitudes, egos and all sorts of other quirks working beside us everyday. But why focus on that...this show is not ever going to be real life...it is an action drama that does its best to portray life in the Emergency Services in an entertaining manner. Would you like to have episodes where they just sit at the station and conduct paperwork, interrupted by two alarms soundings, a malicious false alarm and an inspection...that isn't too exciting when you are on the truck, and I don't think I would want to sit through an hour of that...it would be boring.

I think Third Watch is doing very well, and I only hope that the negative attitudes displayed here are not indicative of the entire viewing public, because I like the show and I would like to see it stick around long enough to get better.

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[This message has been edited by mwalshnh (edited October 01, 1999).]

[62 Engine 10]

Episode one was great. Lots of action, suspense--very well-written. Everyone in the cast seemed to get equal exposure, and the story line was beliveable.

Episode two wasn't half bad, but the action seemed to be a little bit slower-paced. Also, the firefighters seemed to be treated as "extras" in the story line. Sure, we see everyone at a high-rise fire, but why not a little bit more from the firefighters' aspect?

I guess that I'd have to agree that the show needs to feature more F.D.N.Y. action, but as someone else said, EMS & P.D. get more runs anyway.

It's still early in the show's run, so time will tell what it will have to offer. For now, I'm giving it my OK. It's good to see something other that straight cop shows on the air!

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3-06

[FireMedic TAZ]

Ok I iwll start with I liked the show. Now we all need to get off of "EMERGENCY" it was a great show and why i am a FF/Medic, and if that is what u want to watch check out TV land it is on 2 times a day. Now lets give TW the chance it needs and i think it will bring new young people into the FIre and EMS world Just like EMERGENCY Did for all of us.



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Curtis B. "TAZ" Young

[E7engineer]

I find that TW is entertaining...Granted there could be more "Fire Related calls". But what the heck...most of our calls are medical orentated anyhow. Some of the stuff on on the show, is a little far fetched, but interesting...Remember McGiver..and his do anything pocket knife... "Emergency" is he one and only fire department show. I will be watching it at home and at the station.

[mtnfireguy]

There will never be another "Emergency" just like there will never be another "MASH", Dragnet or Adam 12.

But hey, lets give TW a chance. Sure it needs some work, but over all its not bad.
It is far better than the past attempts Hollywood has made.

[This message has been edited by mtnfireguy (edited October 04, 1999).]

[NBFDT1]

I saw this show for the first time last evening. From what I saw in last nights epispode, all I can say is this show STINKS!

[Deputy53]

I think after the 2nd week, I like it. it needs more FDNY Fire action, but overall its better than Rescue 77.

[WWFD86]

I like the show. Its about time they produce a show where all three agencies of public servince work together. I would like to see more story lines involving FDNY.

[mwalshnh]

ALright so whoever caught TW this Sunday and didn't laugh their butt off when the Squad was stolen and there was the 12 mph chase should have funny bone checked. Again, I agree there should be more Fire scenes, but going back to EMERGENCY, I think ENGINE 51 left that station about once per show as well, I hope the writers/producers read this and add in a little more FDNY.

I have one question about EMERGENCY...did anyone ever die on that show? I can't recall them ever losing a patient.

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[res54cue]

I think NBC has done a good job w/ Third Watch. I agree there needs to be more fire/rescue involvment, hopefully we'll see more. Remember, it's a TV drama; for real-life action nobody beats TLC/TDC & A&E. I grew up on Emergency as well, and after some of the recent deplorable attempts at fire related dramas, Third Watch is a breath of fresh air. Enjoy and stay safe.

[gitchell]

the show looks good so far however it will
probably turn into another nypd blue or another police drama. they did not cover the fire dept as much as we would like. it does show promise if they lean more in the direction of fire service and away from the police action.

[FF/EMT 19]

I only had the chance to watch the third episode and I was not impressed. I cannot figure out why Hollywood cannot make a series on TV about emergency service providers without making it look phoney. I do not know if any of the producers or directors rode along with any emergency service before they made this show, but it appears they did not. If they had they would quickly see that life on the streets is exciting and entertaing enough without some unbelievable script.

If they can make a series that is close to realty as cencorship would allow they may end up having a hit on they're hands. Shows like Emergency and Adam 12 did not stay on TV as long as they did because thay were unbelievable. This looks like a another cop show with medics thrown in to eat up time.

This show right now is not worth the effort to find the remote control to turn it on and in my house that's a helluva effort.

Stay Safe

[Commedic_94]

I have read most of the messages that have been posted about Third Watch. They are very interesting. I just want to know if everyone has forgotten the people we work with that are burnt out, that aren't professional all the time, and those who are just in it for the title. Have we forgotten that we are only human and make mistakes. Are we afraid of the show because it shows that we are humans and we get upset, are happy at times, and we have bad day's. It's better then people believing that we can save everyone and never get upset when we lose someone. That's what Rescue 911 and Emergency shows them. Yes, Emergency is probably the best show so far, but give this a chance. IT'S ONLY A TV SHOW. Watch it for entertainment, for real life go do your job. Thanks.

[Captain Hickman]

I got to watch the first two programs and I'll have to say I was a little disappointed, but still pleased with the show. I have to admit it's a lot better than some of the newer emergency related shows, excluding those which go into the hospital and show the real world. For those shows, it take a certain type of person to watch. Their not geared to be a family type program. Granted parts of Third Watch are not for all members of the family, but what on TV now days is. It's interesting to see some of the Stuff which goes on in the world of entertainment. Much like the real world..a lot of Stuff really does go on and we're not proud of it or would not admit it. Firefighters giving out drugs? Several years ago I remember a story were an entire station was caught dealing. Who knows what the writers have in mind? Maybe that individual is being setup for a fall in a later program. Reguardless of what we do or do not like about the show, I take it for what it is, A SHOW. Good or Bad it's hard to please everyone, but that's entertainment. Some of us which have been in the fire service can remember when things were black and white. You could get fired on the spot for a screw up. But with todays CYA attitudes, things go a lot farther than they use to or should. Screwups are in great numbers within the fire service. Have you never seen a rig, ambulance, cop car, chief vehicle, or anything else in the wrong place?
If your department is perfect, contact the writers and maybe they'll follow you around.
Bet they'll catch a mistake somewhere on camera.

[McCall]

Just watched tonite's episode. I was unable to see the first few shows, because of work. After this episode, I agree with everyone, a pretty poor display of firefighters. I hope it improves soon...

Terry McCall, Jr.
Marbletown Volunteer FD
Newark, N.Y.

[FF McDonald]

I have read all of the replies that have been posted to date. I have this to say.

It frustrates me, all of the people posting replies that say,"It's not like Emergency...." Hey-- maybe if they wanted it to be like 'Emergency'- they would have filmed it in LA County in the seventy's, and they would have saved every person they came across. This show is not 'Emergency'.

While I don't like the show 100%, I do find it entertaining. You have to take it for what it is-- Television, and entertainment. Yes, I do agree with a number of the replies that have been posted, I would like to see much more Fire, than what is currently being shown, but this is still only the third episode.

You can all sit here and complain and gripe about what a horrible show this is, or you can use the computer that you are sitting in front of to read this, and try and e-mail the producers of this program. Tell them what they can do to change the program to make it better. Tell them what they are doing that hurt's the Fire service, and ask them not to continue doing it. You just might be amazed. Believe it or not, the pen is mightier than the sword.

Stop complaining about how bad this show is. Help them make this show what it should be.

'Emergency' was taken off the air when I was 4 years old. Yes, i watched the re-runs as a child, and yes-- I enjoyed the show. But how realistic was it. Compare the two show's and I think that you'll see what I am talking about.

Here's hoping that NBC improves on a program that has tremendous potential, and what could be a huge public relations tool for the Fire, and Emergency services.

Semper Fi.

[actionj21]

I HAVE JUST WATCHED THE LATEST INSTALLMENT OF THIRD WATCH I FIND THE SHOW VERY INTRESTING . BUT I HAVE ONE COMPLAINT THERE IS NOT ENOUGH FIRE DEPARTMENT ACTION.I CAN NOT WAIT UNTIL NEXT WEEKS EPISODE. NBC YOU GOT A HIT ON THE THIRD WATCH. HTTP://WWW.DREXELHILLFIRE.COM


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[Lt. Webb]

I have watched the latest show tonite and then read most of the replies, FF & EMT are or should be in this line of work for the sick & injured people not for ourself gratification. Why are we the first to belittle our other FF brothers or fighting among ourselves. This show will help let the outside world see SOME of what we see and do every day, some good some bad. If we want the public to look at us as professionals we MUST act like it and look out for each other. "If you don't love what you do with your whole heart - your in it for the wrong reasons" www.wallsfiredept.org (http://www.wallsfiredept.org)

[Captain Hickman]

FF McDonald hit on the idea...
Thought it might be interesting to send this Forum to NBC's Third Watch, so I did. Wonder if it gets a response from them.

Maybe some of you have done it, but if you haven't, send them your thoughts. I'll bet they might find it interesting to see what you think.

thirdwatch@nbc.com

[Lieut156]

I watched the third episode. I have to say it is getting more interesting each week. I only hope as I mentioned in my last reply; that we the firefighters don't become the reason for cancellation of the show. I think we all just need to settle down and give it a chance, and please everybody e-mail nbc with your thoughts. It can only help by letting them know that there isn't enough fire scenes. I do however want to touch on the fire scene from sunday's episode. The fire in the restaurant. That made "us" look like the axe wielding wrecking crew that some people think of us as. And the thing with the PD vs. the FD...well that goes on where I am from too. A little competition between the two doesn't hurt anything, but it needs to be known it is all in fun. Lets keep watching and see how it comes out.

Stay Safe........LT156