As some volunteer firefighters return to their paying jobs in an office after a year and a half of enforced remote work, fire service leaders should prepare for the long-term impacts the changes may have on the volunteer fire service. In 2016, I conducted a research study on retention in the volunteer fire service, and the results showed it is not financial incentives that motivate volunteers to stay engaged.1 Three of the top motivators for retention found in my study were family engagement, a flexible schedule, and nonwage benefits.1 Keeping these motivators in mind post-pandemic is critical for the success of volunteer fire departments. Read More…
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