On the same day that a package of bills was introduced at the State Capitol to help Pennsylvania’s fire and EMS workers, one midstate community is applauding the decision.
The Middletown Fire Department is 100% volunteer, so for about two years now, they’ve been offering a live-in program for young firefighters.
They live, eat, and sleep at the station full time; it’s all about attracting quality workers and giving them a reason to stick around.
It may sound easy, living rent-free, but these live-in firefighters earn their keep.
“The trade-off then is they’re here five out of the seven days a week, they respond to a majority of the calls,” said Middletown Fire Chief, Kenny Whitebread.
He said Monday his department relies heavily on its live-in staff; they must be full or part-time students or full or part-time workers to qualify.