The Yakima Fire Department needs a few more firefighters if it is to meet recommended standards.
At a current staffing level of 90, the department is below the service level recommended by the National Fire Protection Association.
Fire Chief Bob Stewart is quick to point out his department is usually able to meet the needs of the city and keep residents safe. But having an adequate staffing level would help at especially busy times, such as the day in 2015 when the department responded to 16 fire calls, including three that turned into major blazes.
The National Fire Protection Association, a national codes and standards organization, suggests 1.3 firefighters per 1,000 residents for a city of Yakima’s size