The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: From Recruitment to Response Optimization

In this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department podcast, host Tom Merrill engages in a dynamic conversation with fire service veteran Jerry Knapp. Their discussion focuses on the multifaceted challenges facing volunteer firefighters, including dwindling participation, burnout from frequent false alarms, and the need for strategic leadership. Merrill’s insights into the 2025 fire service landscape highlight a busy conference schedule aimed at fostering professional growth within the volunteer community. And Knapp shares his expertise on mitigating the persistence of nuisance alarms and emphasizes the importance of effective communication and proactive solutions to enhance response motivation among firefighters. Tune in for actionable strategies to revitalize volunteer firefighting organizations nationwide.