PARMA — Fire departments across the country are experiencing staffing shortages, an issue also being felt here in Ohio. 

What You Need To Know

  • U.S. fire departments are experiencing staffing shortages.

  • Parma Fire Department said fewer people are interested in doing the job.

  • The department says requirements to become a firefighter have always been intense and while they continue to add up, so does the cost.

The Parma Fire Department said fewer people are interested in doing the job, and that about four firefighters are getting ready to retire, but eight more will be added to their ranks in the new year.

Alex Colon has been a firefighter and paramedic with the Parma Fire Department for about 10 years. Colon said getting certified for a job like his isn't easy. 

"Really, the schooling, it was a big challenge, but you definitely have to be dedicated to it," he said. "You have to do clinical hours at an emergency room, riding in an ambulance, or even labor and delivery."

Martin, on the other hand, said he's also seen fewer people interested in doing the job. He said only 46 people took the test the last time it was administered.

The department currently has about 100 firefighters. Firefighter T.J Martin said the problem is fewer people are coming forward to take the firefighter eligibility exam.

"Just when I took the test during my time, there were about 500 people that took the test with me, because of all the economic feasibility of taking this exam, being prepared to take the exam, and the economic factor of what most public safety people make," he said.

The department said requirements to become a firefighter have always been intense and while they continue to add up, so does the cost.

"You would have to pay for your EMT school, which is roughly around $1,000, paramedic school is probably about $7,000 and fire school is another $3,000 or $4,000," Martin said.