Trying to attract volunteer firefighters

Trying to attract volunteer firefighters
Ad campaign attacks dwindling numbers
By Jack Dew, Berkshire Eagle Staff
Article Launched: 10/26/2008 02:59:18 AM EDT


Sunday, October 26
LANESBOROUGH — Their numbers dwindling, volunteer firefighters from around the state are turning to the mass media in the hope of luring new recruits.
Yesterday, a video crew spent the morning at the Lanesborough Fire Department, interviewing volunteers and shooting action footage for a statewide ad campaign expected to kick off in the spring. Financed by a federal grant, the effort is being led by the Massachusetts Call & Volunteer Firefighters Association, which is hoping to boost the flagging numbers of men and women willing to take on a tough job.


Lanesborough Chief Charlie Durfee said his department had 44 volunteers a dozen years ago. Now, its down to 20.

"The guys got older, their kids got older, they don't have the time anymore and the time requirements (for firefighter training) are getting worse," Durfee said. "Now the problem is that a guy works days, he has to hustle home so his wife can go to work at night. They can't afford to volunteer time."

Williamstown Fire Chief Craig Pedercini said he has similar manpower problems, with only 18 volunteers. Ideally, he said, the town would have 35.

"It's harder to find people now who are willing to give up their time, their daily schedule, going to their kids soccer or football games," Pedercini said. "And it's only going to get worse with the economy the way it is. People need to work two jobs just to pay the mortgage."

While the
work, training and hours may be rigorous, the reward is great, said Paul Vallone, a 12-year volunteer firefighter in Clarksburg.
"I like to help my community, give it good service and be there in a time of need," he said.

The commercial is being made by VidBoston. Producer and Director Steve Melzer said the plan calls for shooting in four towns — Lanesborough, Shelburne Falls, Lakeville and West Barnstable. The concept is to capture the volunteers in action and let them describe their experience in their own words.


"They are so passionate about what they do, so we have been concentrating on just talking to the volunteers, finding out why they do it, what they get out of it, and how the need is there for more volunteers," Melzer said. "What will really make it work, form my perspective, is having people tell their heartfelt stories."



The chiefs said that anyone interested in volunteering should contact their local department.

To reach Jack Dew: jdew@berkshireeagle.com (413) 496-6241