Local VFDs Face Volunteer Shortages
Across our region and country, there is a growing concern regarding Emergency Services and volunteers.
Volunteer Fire Departments across Warren County and the nation are facing a critical shortage of volunteers for Emergency Services.
“Over the course of especially the past twenty years that I have been around the Fire Service, we have seen a huge decline," stated Ryan Tipton, Pleasant Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief. "It's from people responding to not only the alarms, but also the administrative side of the Fire Service that a lot of people do not recognize is there.”
The decline in volunteers is due to a number of factors, including busy lifestyles and changing demographics. But the impact is clear, with fewer volunteers, VFDs are at risk of being shut down and replaced by paid services.
“As far as paid staffing goes, it’s a burden to every small community," stated David Schwanke, Russell Volunteer Fire Department Chief. "Most small communities cannot afford that. We are currently trying to gain new members. I hope that we can instill in people that we need help. This is a very vital service to every community.”
The hope is that by raising awareness of the crisis, more people will consider helping out in their community.
Warren County Volunteer Fire Departments:
Bear Lake Volunteer Fire Department
Columbus Volunteer Fire Department
Clarendon Volunteer Fire Department
Cherry Grove Volunteer Fire Department
Starbrick Volunteer Fire Department
Scandia Volunteer Fire Department
Russell Volunteer Fire Department
Tidioute Volunteer Fire Department
North Warren Volunteer Fire Department
Lander Volunteer Fire Department
Glade Volunteer Fire Department
Garland Volunteer Fire Department
Pleasant Township Volunteer Fire Department
Youngsville Volunteer Fire Department
Wrightsville Volunteer Fire Department
Sugar Grove Volunteer Fire Department
Spring Creek Volunteer Fire Department
Grand Valley Volunteer Fire Department