In a recent meeting of the Nebraska Legislature's Business and Labor Committee, the challenges facing rural fire departments took center stage, highlighting the struggles of volunteer firefighters in small communities. As discussions unfolded, committee members expressed concern over the declining number of volunteers, a trend that many attributed to the increasing demands of modern life.

One committee member shared insights from their own experience, noting that their small department, with just 20 members serving a population of around 500, was a point of pride. However, they acknowledged that many rural departments are struggling to recruit new firefighters. "Parents are so much busier now, and both spouses are often working," they explained, emphasizing how these changes impact volunteer availability.

The conversation also touched on the serious issue of firefighter health, particularly the risk of cancer. A member pointed out that while volunteer firefighters may not respond to calls as frequently as their professional counterparts, they still face significant health risks. "Our firefighters are not as likely to get cancer as the professional firefighters that are answering calls almost daily," they noted, but the fear of cancer is nonetheless a deterrent for potential recruits.

In an effort to better understand these risks, one member mentioned a recent cancer study conducted with the Miami Cancer Institute, where volunteer firefighters wore latex bands to measure exposure. The results of this study are eagerly awaited, as they could provide valuable insights into the health challenges faced by these essential community members.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the future of rural firefighting in Nebraska hinges on addressing these recruitment and health issues. The committee's discussions underscored the need for ongoing support and innovative solutions to ensure that these vital services remain available to rural communities.