Seaford Fire Department calling for all hands on deck

SEAFORD, Del. – The Seaford Fire Department is calling on its residents to become volunteer firefighters. Chief Jack Wilson says a lack of firefighters causes longer response times and puts lives at risk. “We know that within a certain period of time, every 90 seconds from the time of call, someone calling for help increases their chance of survival. Increases the chance of your home being saved,” said Chief Wilson.

Seaford Fire Department depends on volunteer firefighters. Chief Wilson says so do most fire departments in Delaware. “Our community is basically built around a volunteer basis where you’re a neighbor helping a neighbor by responding and, you know, providing the infrastructure needed for the city,” he said.

Chief Wilson says the number of volunteer firefighters has gone down nationally. He explains that as the city of Seaford grows, so does its need for volunteer firefighters.

“With the influx of all the people and housing developments and stuff proposed ’til 2025 there’s probably going to be an increase of probably about 12,000 people. So it’s going to put an increase of pressure on a lot of the law enforcement, fire, and EMS,” said Chief Wilson.

Chief Wilson says if you want to become a volunteer firefighter you can visit your local fire station and ask about an application. The application process includes a criminal background check.
You can also visit firefighter.delaware.gov