Firefighter shortage in Berrien County

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich.-- There's a shortage of nearly 100 firefighters in Berrien County and volunteer firefighters are needed in almost every township.

Many firefighters are working double time to help make up for the lack of manpower.

Mike Davidson, the President of the Berrien County Fire Chiefs said that two years ago there were 700 firefighters in the county, and now there are under 600.

“The less urban areas have smaller budgets. You just can’t afford to have a fully staffed fire department, but that doesn’t mean that fire doesn’t happen there," said Davidson.

Davidson said being a firefighter is not for the faint of heart, but he hopes more people will apply.

“Again it’s very gratifying to save someone’s life, their property, their dog, or extricate them out of a vehicle accident. It’s very rewarding," said Davidson.

The Chief of the New Buffalo Township Fire Department said he's looking to add up to 7 more firefighters to his team.

For more information on how to become a part time firefighter, call your local township.