Retaining Volunteer Firefighters with Ed Dolan

A lot of volunteer fire departments are worried about the dwindling number of new recruits.

But what about holding onto the members already in the ranks?

That takes a little effort and it may require some structural changes, too.

It may be necessary, though, because turnover is the enemy of a solid volunteer department.

Here to discuss that with me is Ed Dolan.

He’s been a member of the Catskill Fire Department in New York for 30 years, and he’s served 16 years as a chief officer.

Ed’s article: 19 Ways to Slow the Bleed in the Volunteer Fire Service

Article: Volunteer Fire Departments Are Struggling to Retain Firefighters

Article: Volunteer Departments Can Improve Retention through Specialization