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Counseling Services
Considering that the cost per call of an existing volunteer firefighter who responded to 25% or more of the Southington Fire Department’s calls in 2019 is 18.5% less than the cost of a new volunteer firefighter who responded to between 12.5 and 24% of Southington’s calls for service in 2019, the Southington Fire Department should make it a priority to retain their active existing volunteer firefighters.
When evaluating the cost of a volunteer firefighter compared to a career firefighter, ESCI used the total cost for an entry level firefighter based on the 2019 salary and a 38% multiplier to the total cost accounted for employee benefits. ESCI notes that the cost of a career firefighter per call is actually less than the cost of a new volunteer firefighter who responded to between 12.5 and 24% of the calls for service in 2019. A new volunteer firefighter who responded to 25% or more of the calls for service in 2019 does provide a savings for the town compared to the salary of a career firefighter.
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$350
$300
$250
$200
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$50
$0 Figure 80. Cost Per Call: Career and Volunteer Firefighters; 2019
$303.45 $321.36
$271.15
$213.37
$180.03
Cost per career firefighter Cost per call new FF 12.5% Cost per call new FF 25% Cost per call existing FF 12.5%
Cost per call existing FF 25%
ESCI suggests that the Town of Southington establish participation requirements for volunteer firefighters to ensure that the town is not paying a higher cost per call for volunteer firefighters than it does for career firefighters.
Counseling Services
Our nation’s firefighters face emotional needs that are quite different and unique to the occupation. The percentage of firefighters struggling with career-related stress is extremely high, with suicide rates climbing each year. These issues manifest themselves through higher divorce rates and addictions such as alcohol, drugs, or gambling. Frequently seen in recent studies and another major concern is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As these symptoms occur, personnel need a support system in place that is readily accessible from someone who is qualified and truly understands his or her circumstances.
