COLUMBUS, Ohio — Hundreds of communities across Ohio rely on volunteer firefighters to respond in times of crisis. Now, the Division of State Fire Marshal is working to bolster volunteers with a new online portal aimed at making it easier for residents to get involved.

The portal connects people interested in volunteering directly with fire departments across the state.

“Most of those (volunteer fire departments) are out in rural areas of Ohio. They are always looking for someone to come in, back support and fill,” said Scott King, bureau chief at the Ohio Fire Academy. “The majority of people doing this for a while are older, retiring out.”

Volunteer firefighters often live in the communities they serve, balancing full-time jobs while responding to emergencies when needed.

“A lot of t

See Full Page