Wisconsin fire departments struggle with firefighter shortage

 

BARABOO, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin fire departments are seeing a shortage of firefighters. 

In Baraboo, a "Firefighters Wanted" sign hangs from one of the firehouses. 

The chief there says only four of the 34 firefighters he has on staff are full time. He says firefighting just isn't a lifelong career anymore.

One challenge is pay, another is the time commitment. 

"We are dealing with a composition of a department where we are relying on people coming from their homes or their full time jobs to answer the call when people need help," said Chief Kevin Stieve. 

The Baraboo Fire Department is working to recruit potential firefighters by hosting open houses. They're also putting on training programs for high school juniors and seniors so they'll be completely trained by the time they graduate.