Officials have warned of serious consequences after the number of volunteer firefighters, the bedrock of firefighting in the US, plunged, leading to entire departments closing in some states. About 65% of American firefighters are volunteers, serving in their free time alongside their regular jobs. In 2008 there were 827,000 volunteers nationwide, but that figure dropped to 635,000 in 2023, the last year data is available. Raymond said volunteers provide 93% of “fire protection” across the state, but dwindling numbers forced six fire departments to close in New York communities in 2025 alone. Volunteers used to flock to the role, but Raymond and other officials blame the cost of living for preventing people from becoming involved.

Source: The Guardian March 22, 2026 16:30 UTC