'I would call it catastrophic' | Harlan Township FD seeks levy to combat significant firefighter shortage

HARLAN TOWNSHIP, Ohio — Off the rural roads of Harlan Township, the fire department is feeling the heat. Now, they are turning to residents for help.

The department historically has relied on volunteer firefighters. However, in recent years, Interim Fire Chief Steve Pegram said volunteer participation has declined.

He said that while that's happening, the number of emergency calls has increased.

"There are times of the day when there is literally no one available," Pegram said.

Harlan Township fire levy aims to fix severe volunteer shortage

Pegram said they're on track for their busiest year ever and that this summer has been particularly difficult.

"Seven out of every 10 calls that we got called on, we didn't get enough volunteer response to handle the call," Pegram said.

He said t