It’s nothing new but it’s been exacerbated by the effects of the pandemic; a shortfall of firefighters across the country.
In Manchester, the department is making a plea to the public: they are looking for top talent to join their ranks. What has traditionally been a sought-after department to join, even in Manchester, they say, they have fewer applicants for paramedic and firefighter jobs.
“Everyone is in the same boat now, we’re all struggling for people now and we are doing the best we can to help one another,” Assistant Chief Josh Beaulieu said. “We need to get to the kids in high schools that might not know EMS is a great career choice.”
Lt. Moria Perez, a 23-year veteran of the Manchester Fire Department, is encouraging people to learn more about the profession, not just at her department but at departments across the state.