A shrinking volunteer force is pushing fire departments to recruit teenagers just to keep trucks rolling, according to Spectrum News 1.
At Black River Fire Department, leaders say fewer volunteers—and more emergency calls—are straining crews. Nationwide numbers have dropped sharply, leaving departments scrambling, especially during weekday hours.
To fight back, departments are hosting open houses and launching junior programs for teens as young as 16. Leaders hope early exposure builds long-term commitment, even if recruits leave for college. The goal: grow the next generation before today’s firefighters age out.
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