DeWine announces new initiative to address volunteer firefighter gap

COLUMBUS, Ohio ( WCMH ) — There is a growing need for volunteer firefighters across the state. On Friday, Governor Mike DeWine and members of the State Fire Marshal encouraged Ohioans to step up.

While the calls for help keep going up, the number of volunteer firefighters is declining. Starting Friday, public service announcements will begin to air across the state encouraging Ohioans to become volunteer firefighters.

According to the Ohio Department of Commerce , 70% of all fire services provided in Ohio are performed by volunteer fire services. The goal is to improve and encourage volunteer fire service in Ohio.

“Now is the time for Ohioans to step up and become the hometown heroes that their community needs,” State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon said. “They only need to share a commitment and dedication to serving their neighbors and their communities.”

Fire marshals said there are many benefits to becoming a volunteer firefighter, including getting to serve your community and make lifelong friendships while making a difference.

Some barriers for volunteer firefighters include lack of pay and high costs of equipment. However, the Ohio task force is working to reduce those obstacles. Reardon said if volunteers complete their training through the Ohio Fire Academy, it is 100% free.

DeWine hopes that these PSAs will help attract volunteers.

“We believe that there are many individuals within the state of Ohio who really are unaware of the significant need for volunteer firefighters, many don’t realize that they have the ability to volunteer,” said DeWine. “Today that lack of awareness we hope will begin to change.”

The PSAs will be airing for eight weeks. Leaders said even if you don’t want to be fighting fires, there are other ways to serve .

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