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For many Ohioans, particularly those living in rural communities, a call to 911 for a structure fire or wildfire is answered by the men and women of a volunteer fire department. They stretch to their limits to protect those living outside the service area of larger, professional departments. They make up nearly 70% of the departments in the state.
Those limits are being stretched thinner by the day, as shortages across the state make it harder for volunteer departments to do their jobs. But last week, Gov. Mike DeWine announced a new awareness campaign to address that shortage and encourage more Ohio residents to look into serving as volunteer firefighters.
"Many Ohio communities rely on volunteer firefighters to keep them and their families safe every day," DeWine said, according to a report by WKYC. "As volunteer numbers decrease, Ohioans are increasingly at risk, which is why it is so important to spread awareness for Ohio's need. We hope to encourage everyday Ohioans to become extraordinary heroes by serving their communities as volunteer firefighters."
According to WKYC, Ohio saw a decrease in the number of volunteer firefighters of 6.5% between 2018-21. At the same time, there was a 9% increase in calls. Those interested in volunteering but worried they do not have the skills may soon have new options. The Division of the State Fire Marshal is moving toward making training courses free to volunteer firefighters and departments.
"Many Ohioans underestimate or simply aren't aware of the critical role that volunteer firefighters play in our daily lives," said Ohio Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon, according to WKYC. "There is no question that volunteers are a key component in our ability to maintain a strong, robust and responsive fire service across the state. These are men and women who, despite working full-time jobs, have made the decision to step up and serve their communities and neighbors, often on what could be considered the worst days of their lives. The trend we're seeing at this moment in Ohio is unsustainable, which is why now is the time for Ohioans to step up and become the hometown heroes our communities desperately need."
Surely there are those willing to rise to meet the need. Start by asking questions of those already serving with your local VFDs. Check out resources such as makemeafirefighter.org. And then decide. You know you are needed. If you are ready, willing and able, don't wait to get involved.