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Canada is facing a volunteer firefighter crisis, threatening emergency response in rural and suburban areas. The 2023 Great Canadian Fire Census shows 9,500 experienced volunteer firefighters, with 10 to 12 years of service on average, have left the field. Adding to the strain, nearly 30% of firefighters are over 50 and nearing retirement.
Local Fire Chief Greg Saunders reports that while his stations currently have full compliments the problem is concering..
Rising call volumes and budget constraints are compounding the issue. The Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs (CAFC) is calling for solutions, including boosting the tax credit for volunteer firefighters and search and rescue workers to attract and retain personnel.
Fire Chief Stephen Rothwell outlines the upcoming changes to volunteer firefighting training.
This decline reflects a broader trend, with volunteers stepping back due to increased training demands, time constraints, and changing roles. Without intervention, essential services could be jeopardized.
Experts warn urgent action is needed to preserve the volunteer-based emergency response system that many communities depend on.