Creating a public safety hazard in the process.

The Associated Press
WFLS News

Date published: 8/4/2008

BIG SPRINGS, Neb. (AP) - The simple mathematics of money could be working against volunteer fire departments and creating a public safety hazard in the process.

An interstate accident near Big Springs, Nebraska, highlights the issue. Six people were hurt but the town had only enough people to run one of its two ambulances. Help from another department added 20 to 30 minutes to the response time. Fortunately the injuries weren't life-threatening.

Volunteer fire and rescue departments nationwide are struggling with declining membership, increased costs and changing attitudes. Some say the shortage presents a looming crisis.

State and federal lawmakers are taking action to help reverse the trend because volunteer fire and rescue personnel represent 72 percent of the nation's 1.1 million firefighters.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Date published: 8/4/2008