Fire Department Reports Record Call Volume Amid Staffing Challenges

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the operational statistics and budgetary needs of the local fire department, highlighting a significant increase in call volume and the department's response capabilities.

The fire department reported an average of 325 fire responses annually, with approximately 12 firefighters responding to each call. In 2023, the department recorded its highest call volume to date, with 1,694 total calls, marking a steady increase from previous years. As of the meeting date, the department had already surpassed 1,000 calls, a record early in the year.

The department operates primarily with part-time staff, which presents unique challenges, particularly in training and response times. Firefighters are required to complete a minimum of 72 training hours annually, but many exceed this to ensure readiness. The proposed budget for part-time employees in 2025 is estimated at $270,000, reflecting the increasing demand for services.

Response times were also a focal point of the discussion. The average response time for EMS calls was reported at 4 minutes and 24 seconds, while response times for building fires averaged 5 minutes and 12 seconds. These figures are notably below national standards, which are 8 minutes for full-time departments and 10 minutes for part-time paid on-call departments.

The department's collaboration with Lakeview Ambulance was emphasized, showcasing their joint efforts in emergency medical services. The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining high response standards despite the challenges posed by increasing call volumes and staffing limitations.

Overall, the fire department's commitment to effective service delivery and continuous training was evident, as officials expressed confidence in their operational model while acknowledging the need for ongoing support and resources to meet the growing demands of the community.