В Огайо запустили программу для решения нехватки добровольных пожарных

New program helps address Ohio’s volunteer firefighter shortage TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) - As emergency calls increase, the number of volunteer firefighters is decreasing. The Ohio State Fire Marshal says a new program is helping address the shortage. Departments face rising costs and calls Out of Ohio’s nearly 1,200 fire departments, 70% rely on volunteer firefighters. Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon says even though the majority of fire departments in Ohio are made up of volunteers, these departments are facing significant challenges. The cost of running a department can be more than a community can handle, from equipment to emergency vehicles. Reardon also says there’s been a significant increase in the number of emergency calls departments have to respond to. “Runs have skyrocketed with the demand of baby boomers needing emergency medical services, increase in fires. I mean, increase after increase,” Reardon said. If these challenges are too difficult for a department to face, Reardon says they are forced to close their doors and a community is left without help. He’s seen one or two volunteer fire departments close every year. Oftentimes another nearby department will step in and help with mutual aid, but Reardon says that strains resources even more. Recruitment portal shows early success Just over one year ago, the State Fire Marshal launched a program to help support volunteer fire departments. The Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Portal connects potential volunteers to stations in their area, making the recruiting process faster and easier. It has seen success. More than 500 applicants have gotten connected through the portal. Still, more are needed. Reardon is urging people to apply. It doesn’t have to be just for firefighter or EMS positions; Applicants can reach out to their local fire department to see how they can help in other ways like fundraising or supporting firefighter’s families. Click here for the Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Portal. Latest Local News | First Alert Weather | Crime | National | 13abc Originals Copyright 2026 WTVG. All rights reserved.