06/14/2026
This is a problem plaguing the entire country, including us.
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming an EMR, EMT or AEMT, Wittenberg Ambulance would love to meet with you and work out a pathway for that to happen.
If you are interested, below is a link to our application form. We can also look into setting up a “ride along” for those who are very serious. Please contact us at (715) 253-3733 if you have any questions or are interested in learning more. Thanks!
https://public.eolas.click/public/ORG%23wittenberg-area-protective-services-district%234903a8c1-9d49-435d-8f53-a569c634dcbe/EOLAS%23ORG%23wittenberg-area-protective-services-district%234903a8c1-9d49-435d-8f53-a569c634dcbe/patientLeaflets/WittenbergBlankApplicationForm_1779589402826.pdf
The decline in volunteer EMS and fire service across the United States has been a growing concern for decades. Common reasons include:
* Aging workforce – Many long-time volunteers are retiring, and fewer younger people are replacing them.
* Increased training requirements – Modern EMS and firefighting certifications require significant time commitments that can discourage volunteers.
* Work and family obligations – People often have less free time due to careers, commuting, childcare, and other responsibilities.
* Population shifts – Rural communities may experience population loss, reducing the pool of potential volunteers.
* Higher call volumes – EMS agencies, in particular, respond to far more medical calls than in previous decades, increasing volunteer burnout.
* Financial pressures – While volunteers are unpaid or minimally compensated, equipment, training, and operational costs continue to rise.
* Mental health and stress – Exposure to trauma, long hours, and sleep disruption contribute to burnout and attrition.
* Changing community culture – Civic organizations and volunteerism in general have declined in many areas compared to previous generations.
Many departments have responded by:
* Creating combination paid/volunteer systems.
* Offering stipends, retirement incentives, or tuition assistance.
* Reducing unnecessary training burdens while maintaining standards.
* Increasing recruitment efforts through schools and community programs.
In many rural areas, the biggest challenge isn’t finding equipment—it’s finding enough people willing and able to answer the call at 2 a.m. for years at a time.
