State Fire Marshal Recognizes More Than 150 ODOT Employees for Volunteer Firefighter, EMT Service

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Amid an ongoing shortage in the number of volunteer firefighters throughout the state, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) recently completed a three-stop statewide tour this summer to recognize the vital contributions of over 150 employees who, in addition to their roles at ODOT, serve their communities as volunteer firefighters or emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

This morning, Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon joined ODOT leadership at Clark State College in Springfield to recognize more than 30 employees who work in ODOT Districts 6, 7, 8 and its Central Office in central and southwest Ohio, thanking them for their dual commitment to public service.

Today's event marked the third and final recognition event to take place this summer. Last month, more than 70 ODOT employees in southeast Ohio were recognized at an event in Duncan Falls, and more than 50 ODOT employees in northern Ohio were recognized at an event in Huron.

"It has been an honor to travel across our great state to recognize these individuals who selflessly, tirelessly and bravely serve Ohio and its communities," Marshal Reardon said. "Volunteer firefighters and EMTs are the backbone of the fire service and these individuals, as well as so many other Ohioans like them, are critical to the safety and well-being of our communities. We sincerely hope others follow their incredible example."

In addition to thanking these ODOT employees, the visits were made to highlight the critical role these individuals play in their communities, particularly as the volunteer fire service in Ohio, and across the nation, faces ongoing challenges related to recruitment and retention. Approximately 70% of Ohio's nearly 1,200 fire departments rely on volunteers. While the number of emergency calls is increasing across the state, the number of volunteer firefighters is decreasing. From 2018 to 2021, there was a 6.5% decrease in the number of volunteer firefighters; meanwhile, from 2018 to 2020, there was a 9% increase in calls.

This trend makes the contributions of these ODOT employees even more significant, as their service underscores the importance of volunteerism and the difference it can make in ensuring the safety of Ohioans.

"ODOT employees truly demonstrate the meaning of service as they live a life full of compassion, courage, and an unwavering commitment to their communities," ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn said. "Whether it's on the clock keeping the roads safe, clear and connected, or volunteering to respond to a medical emergency, fire, or crash, our communities are stronger and more resilient because of their actions."

This recognition tour expands upon recent efforts by the Division of State Fire Marshal to address the decline in volunteer firefighters. Following a 2023 Governor's Volunteer Fire Service Task Force report, over the past year, the Division launched a media campaign to highlight this dangerous trend and encourage Ohioans to consider stepping up to volunteer in their community. In addition, the Division of State Fire Marshal continues to support future volunteer firefighter recruitment efforts by providing training and classes for volunteer firefighters and volunteer departments at no cost to them.

Volunteer roles are essential to the safety of and resilience of Ohio's communities, and these recognition events serve as a reminder that anyone can make a difference, even while working full time. Ohioans who are interested in exploring volunteer opportunities at a department near them are encouraged to visit the State Fire Marshal's new Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Portal.

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Kevin Reardon, Ohio State Fire Marshal, Division of State Fire Marshal, Ohio Department of Commerce

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About the Division of State Fire Marshal

The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.