Emergency Responder Hotline

HARRISBURG - Every day, in every city and town in Pennsylvania, emergency responders answer the call for help, and you can be part of that team, according to Rep. Ellen Bard (R-153).

Volunteer fire departments and emergency services across the state need help to keep answering the call. They’re looking for dedicated men and women, of all ages, to fight fires, respond to the scene of an emergency, organize fundraisers and assist with daily administrative duties.

The Pennsylvania Fire and Emergency Services Institute has created a toll-free hotline, 1-800-FIRE LINE (347-3546), to help recruit volunteer firefighters and emergency service personnel.

Over the years, Pennsylvania’s fire companies have experienced a decrease in the number of people stepping forward to volunteer. In 1984, the average fire department had as many as 50 active members. Eleven years later, in 1995, that figure dwindled to 21-30 active members per company.

The institute is a non-profit group that educates elected officials, emergency service workers and the general public about fire and life safety issues.

In addition to 1-800-FIRE LINE, the institute also offers information site at www.psfi.org .