the never publicity shy david chiu wouldn't talk until he knew the cameras were rolling but wouldn't take a stand. is the chief's job in jeopardy? >> i certainly right now don't believe it is. >> reporter: but joanne hayes- white has little backing among her rank-and-file. the letter was drafted by leaders of every faction of the union. in the long history of the san francisco fire department that has never happened. it calls for the department to return to the levels of excellence which, quote, can only happen with a change in our current leader? in. will you resign? >> i'm not at this point thinking about resigning. >> reporter: in the shark- infested waters of the big city fire department hayes-white has lasted longer than any other san francisco chief. but the heat is on because of dangerous ambulance response times up to an hour in some cases. that's because of lack of equipment and personnel. the chief and mayor say things are getting better after more rigs are on the street and more emts are hired. >> i have confidence in the