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Los Angeles wildfires The barriers captured the nation's attention. As Americans watch this tragedy unfold, devastating images of flames sweeping through homes and firefighters working tirelessly to contain the devastation raise a familiar question: “How can we help?”
while Not everyone can travel to California To fight these fires, there's a meaningful way to contribute — one that starts in your community.
Many do not realize that a large portion of emergency services in the United States rely heavily on volunteers. According to the National Volunteer Firefighter Council (NVFC), volunteers make up 65% of firefighters in the United States. However, the number of volunteer firefighters has been steadily declining for decades. In 1984, there were about 897,750 volunteer firefighters; By 2020, that number had fallen to 676,900, a loss of more than 220,000 volunteers.
This decline is occurring as the U.S. population increases, putting additional pressure on fire departments. Volunteer fire departments don't just respond to fires; They handle medical emergencies and vehicle accidents and disaster relief. The shrinking number of volunteers places an enormous burden on paid departments and mutual aid networks, which rely on a strong local response to address large-scale crises like the California wildfires.
Firefighters battle the Palisades Fire as it burns several buildings in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, January 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics also face staffing challenges. A study by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) found that only 13% of emergency medical services professionals work as volunteers, while the remaining 87% work in paid positions.
Additionally, the 2023 NAEMT survey reported that applications for paramedic and emergency medicine positions have declined an average of 13% compared to 2019, with nearly two-thirds of agencies seeing a decrease in applications. This trend exacerbates staffing shortages in emergency medical services, impacting response times and patient care.
Law enforcement agencies are not immune to these challenges. According to data reported by the FBI's Law Enforcement Bulletin, police departments saw an 18% increase in resignation rates and a 45% increase in retirement rates between 2020 and 2021. Staff shortages of this magnitude put public safety at risk, especially in rural and underserved areas where resources are already stretched.
So, while it may not be practical for most of us to help directly in California, we can make a difference by stepping up in our communities. Joining your local volunteer fire department, rescue squad, or law enforcement agency can help address this critical shortage.
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These organizations need people not only to fight fires or patrol the streets, but also to help with administrative tasks, fundraising, and public education. The volunteer process may seem daunting, but many departments offer flexible training schedules to accommodate busy lives.
By committing just a few hours a week, you can help ensure your community is prepared for emergencies and reduce pressure on overburdened public safety systems across the country.
A firefighter battles the Palisades Fire as a building burns in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, January 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)
Every time disaster strikes, Americans show their resilience and generosity. But our commitment to service shouldn't only be demonstrated during headline-grabbing events. By answering the call to serve locally, we strengthen the foundations of public safety across the country.
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As you watch the California fires and wonder, “How can I help?” Remember this: The best way to make a difference is to start at home. Visit your local fire department, rescue squad or public safety agency today and find out how you can contribute.
America's strength has always come from its communities. Let us ensure continued strength – fueled not by tragedy, but by a shared commitment to each other.
