ANNA, Ill. (WSIL) â€� Anna Fire and Rescue Department says they need volunteer firefighters.Â
Officials say those interested in applying can go to Anna City Hall Community to fill out an application. You must be over the age of 18.Â
The fire department says applicants must undergo a background check and drug screening.Â
Unfortunately, officials say they are a part of the departments impacted by a nationwide shortage of volunteer firefighters.Â
The National Fire Protection Association says that in 2020, the number of volunteer firefighters was 676,900. That is over 220,000 less than it was in 1984. In that year, the association says there were 897,750 volunteer firefighters.Â
The NFPA also noted that as the national population has increased, volunteers have decreased.Â
The association says age is also a concern. In 2020, a report showed that 50% of all firefighters were between 30 and 49 years old.Â
Officials with Anna Fire and Rescue say if you do not want to go physically to City Hall, they will be happy to provide a link to the application.Â
You can contact the Anna Fire and Rescue Department at 618-833-2231 or their email at [email protected].