Joylyn Wilson

Contributing Writer

The East Stroudsburg Fire Department urgently needs emergency volunteers right now. The volunteer department, operated by ACME Hose Company #1, is facing a massive shortage.

“A small crew of just 40 active members is currently left to handle roughly 400 emergency calls a year,” said the department’s Facebook page.

To fight against this shortage of handling fires, the station leaders are relying on East Stroudsburg University students to download an application online or attend their weekly drill nights every Monday at 7:00 p.m. at the 380 Chestnut Street firehouse at East Stroudsburg.

While the firehouse stood as a timeless shield and rock for the borough since 1890—giving locals a breath of relief that it has been here “since forever”—the community’s rapid growth is putting its legacy in jeopardy. East Stroudsburg’s Fire Chief Nathan Black explains that East Stroudsburg borough has shifted into a “bedroom community” for New York City and Philadelphia.

“This has made keeping the department going difficult as our residents are commuting two hours each way everyday, this makes it difficult to get the training hours in,” said Black.

Furthermore, he has noted that many commuters moving in from New York and New Jersey are not aware the local department relies entirely on unpaid volunteers. This local strain on the department reflects a devastating statewide public safety crisis reported by WNEP-TV.

“In the 1970s, Pennsylvania boasted roughly 300,000 active volunteer firefighters. Today, that number has plummeted by nearly 90% to just 38,000 active volunteers, leaving communities dangerously exposed.” – WNEP-TV.

To put out this hazard, the department is heavily wanting recruiters on campus and no prior experience is required to join. New recruits receive a 200-hour Essentials of Firefighting course through Monroe County, opening doors to specialized roles like wildland firefighting. For students who prefer not to fight fires, support memberships are available to assist with the department’s major annual fundraiser and community outreach events.

The station is fully prepared for students, offering a gym, kitchen and quiet study areas for all those on staff. Three ESU students currently serve on the roster.

“We encourage ESU students to join as it is a great way to gain experience and knowledge outside of the normal college experience,” Chief Black emphasized. “And being a firefighter looks great on a resume.”