PROCTORVILLE, Ohio (WCHS) — There is a great need for volunteer firefighters across the country. Ohio is tackling the problem head-on by launching a nonprofit campaign to raise awareness.
The volunteer fire departments welcome the recruitment campaign, but have doubts as to whether it will actually attract more members.
“It’s hard to find recruits who will stick with you,” said Thornton Thomas, chief of the Proctorville Volunteer Fire Department.
Thomas has been with the department for nearly 50 years and has seen dozens come and go.
“It kind of hurts. It really does,” Thomas told Eyewitness News. “You think you have some good people. And all of a sudden they’re gone for other reasons.”
A recent public service announcement highlighted the satisfaction first responders get from helping others and building relationships with their neighbors.
“I do it to help the community. That’s the main thing. I enjoy helping other people,” said Lt. Travis Hoke.
Hoke has been with the Proctorville VFD for 16 years. He is one of 24 active members.
Hoke doubts that the campaign will be successful at the state level because the work is dangerous.
“You’re risking your life for nothing and not many people want that,” Hoke explained.
According to the National Volunteer Fire Council, 65% of all firefighters are volunteers and 64% of all departments are volunteer-run.
In 2020, the number of volunteer firefighters in the country reached an all-time low, while call volume has more than tripled over the past 35 years.
Chief Thomas said it is difficult to find reliable volunteers.
“We never have enough because when we depend on someone, they’re gone,” Thomas said. “If we had 40, maybe only two-thirds would show up.”
According to state data, about 70% of all fire departments in Ohio are volunteers.
Click here for information on how you can serve your community as a firefighter.
