Arguably one of the most important jobs in the community is becoming one of the toughest to find volunteers for.
A recent report says around 65% of firefighters across the nation are volunteers. Those volunteers are becoming increasingly harder to recruit, and Spokane is no exception.
“We’ve definitely seen a slight decrease in a traditional volunteer,” said Deputy Chief Orlando Sandoval.
Sandoval says he’s seen about a dozen fewer volunteer firefighters than when he came to Spokane Fire District 10 six years ago.
“There’s really no guidebook, there’s really no manual that says how to keep your traditional volunteer firefighter active and involved,” said Sandoval.
District 10 hired a recruiter, but Sandoval says it’s still difficult.
“Most people are working two jobs and most people want to spend that weekend with their family,” said Sandoval.