BETHSADIA, Ala. (WIAT) — A volunteer fire department in rural Cullman County is calling for help on social media after answering nine calls in the last 24 hours.
When we reached out to Bethsadia Volunteer Fire Department, several other Cullman County volunteer departments spoke to CBS 42 about their urgent need for volunteers.
Chief Mo Reynolds is a salesman by day – and first responder by 911 call – but being short volunteers makes it tough to keep up.
“It’s just a satisfaction of being able to help the community,” Reynolds said. “At one time here at Bethsadia, we probably had 10 active that run a lot of calls. Same thing with neighboring departments. Right now, we’re probably down to three or four.”
Wes Sweatmon is the Assistant Chief at Crane Hill. He’s been working to recruit the younger generation – including his son.
“We need more young personnel because this is a fire service here in Cullman County that’s getting older with our population,” Sweatmon said. “We need younger folks that wanna come in here and be part of the department and give back to their communities.”
Sweatmon said nationwide over three-quarters of firefighters are volunteers, which saves communities billions of dollars. Cullman County has 26 volunteer departments that work together to do just that.
“During the day it’s an automatic three tones which is three different departments because of the lack of individuals helping with us so we always work together,” Sweatmon said.
Working together – plus the thank yous from the community -- certainly helps.
“Really, the only reason it is to give back to the community,” Reynolds said. “That’s it to help take care of your neighbor and support your community and your county.”
Reynolds said Bethsadia averages about 50 to 60 calls a month and most of them are medical emergencies. He said it would cost each household $4,000 extra a year to be able to fund full-time staff.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter, you can reach out to the Cullman County Association of Volunteer Fire Departments. In Alabama, you can get reimbursed for going through training to be a volunteer member.