What if you called 911 for fire service and nobody responded? Where would help come from? That is the case in some areas of MN where daytime firefighters are not available. I have heard this concern from the past MN State Fire Marshal B. West who is now the Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety. It is a reality in MN that recruitment and retention are a challenge. In Wright County, there are 15 fire departments and 2/3 of departments report openings they cannot fill. It would be accurate to state all departments in the county need more daytime responders.
Here are a few number facts about the MN fire service: There are currently 770 recognized fire departments in MN staffed by approximately 21,000 firefighters. There are less than 2,100 career firefighters in the state. That is about 90% paid on call. We don’t use the word “volunteer” as most receive a stipend to respond to calls. There are 3 folks in Wright County that are “career” consisting of 1 inspector and 2 fulltime chiefs. The total numbers of firefighters in Wright County is approximately 340 and the number fluctuates from year to year. The number of women in the fire service remains low but is a fast growing segment. Each year in MN, about 1,000 new firefighters come on board. The state of MN currently reimburses FD’s initial fire training costs for new firefighters. Minimum initial training is at least 144 hours, includes a live burn in a structure, and obtaining certifications for firefighting and hazardous materials response. It is not easy, but is rewarding.
In Maple Lake, there are 26 firefighters with 5 additional fulfilling the role of EMT only. Your local FD is always taking applications (visit city hall.) We have desperate need of daytime responders, especially for ambulance calls. We partner closely with Allina EMS, but they have a shortage of folks as well.
So, if you want a challenge, please reach out to us. We can share the requirements to be a part of the team. You would join a group of ordinary people I have seen do extraordinary things. Let’s make sure when someone calls 911 for a fire or medical emergency that someone shows up.
Be Fire Safe!
Scott Carriveau