Firefighters are taught from their first day to think outside the box and respond appropriately.
And, that's just what officers from three Greene County did.
Though the names on their vehicles and buildings were different, all were experiencing the same problem -- a shortage of volunteers. So, they decided to consolidate.
On Monday, the Eastern Greene Fire Territory went into operation, WTHI reported.
It's a merger involving the Center, Beech Creek, and Jackson Township Fire Departments. They are operating under a single organizational structure.
Among the issues causing a nationwide shortage of volunteers include burnout, generational differences, and required training. The population continues to grow as the number of responders dwindles.
Assistant Fire Chief Trevor Yoho said he was excited about the changes.
"We're gonna be able to buy better equipment to serve them, along with paid staffing, they are gonna be guaranteed to get a response, so it's really big for the community; No cost to them and better service, so it's really a win-win."
