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The Los Angeles and Palisades wildfires received national attention. As Americans watched this tragedy unfold, watching the devastating footage of flames engulfing homes and firefighters working tirelessly to stop the destruction, the question was: How can we help? A common question arises.
While not everyone can travel to California to fight these fires, there are meaningful ways to contribute. It starts with your own community.
Many people don’t know that a significant portion of the United States’ emergency services rely heavily on volunteers. According to the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), 65% of firefighters in the United States are volunteers. However, the number of volunteer firefighters has been steadily declining for decades. In 1984, there were approximately 897,750 volunteer firefighters. By 2020, that number had fallen to 676,900, a loss of more than 220,000 volunteers.
California wildfires: Essential phone numbers for Los Angeles area residents and how to help them
This decline comes as the U.S. population grows, placing additional strain on fire departments. Volunteer firefighters do more than just respond to fires. They respond to medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, and disaster relief. The decline in the number of volunteers has placed an enormous strain on paid departments and mutual aid networks that rely on strong local responses to deal with large-scale crises like California’s wildfires.
Firefighters work to extinguish the Palisades Fire, which burns multiple buildings in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, January 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics also face recruitment challenges. According to a study by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT), only 13% of paramedics work as volunteers, and the remaining 87% have paid positions.
Additionally, a 2023 NAEMT study found that applications for paramedic and paramedic positions were down an average of 13% compared to 2019, with nearly two-thirds of agencies reporting fewer applications. I am. This trend is exacerbating staffing shortages in emergency medical services, impacting response times and patient care.
Law enforcement agencies are not immune to these challenges. According to data reported by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Bulletin, police departments saw an 18% increase in attrition rates and a 45% jump in retirement rates between 2020 and 2021. A staffing shortage of this magnitude puts public safety at risk, especially in rural and underserved areas. Resources are already at their limits.
So while it may not be practical for most of us to help directly in California, we can make a difference by working in our own communities. Joining your local volunteer fire department, rescue squad, or law enforcement agency can help address these critical shortages.
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These organizations not only need people to fight fires and patrol the streets, but also to help with administrative tasks, fundraising, and public education. Although the volunteering process can seem daunting, many departments offer flexible training schedules that can accommodate busy lives.
By devoting just a few hours a week, you can help your community prepare for emergencies and reduce the strain on overburdened public safety systems across the country.
Firefighters battle the Palisades Fire burning a structure in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)
Every time disaster strikes, Americans demonstrate resilience and generosity. But our commitment to service shouldn’t only be visible during high-profile events. By answering the call to serve on the ground, we strengthen the foundations of public safety across the country.
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I look at the wildfires in California and think, “How can I help?” Please remember this. The best way to make a difference is to start at home. Visit your local fire department, rescue squad, or public safety agency today to find out how you can help.
America’s strength has always come from our communities. Let us be sure that our strength endures not through tragedy, but through our shared commitment to each other.
