Freeport's fire department is a few men short. The National Fire Protection Association recommends at least 16 firefighters are on hand to fight each fire. In Freeport, there's usually just 12.
"Our full staffing is 15, if we have a full shift. We've had 2 days since May 1st where we've had 15 firefighters," said Chief Kevin Countryman.
Freeport’s firefighters are on double duty. At any time up to four of them can be called to a medical emergency. That leaves only eight firefighters behind to battle a blaze.
“We'll still respond and do some firefighting. But it takes away our ability to be aggressive and really do a just service to the community and if that involves a rescue then we're really hampered; we're gambling with people's lives at that point," said Robin Gorsline, a shift captain.
The fire department used up its overtime budget five months ago to make up for sick and injured firefighter's time off. City leaders hope to come up with some solutions that won't break the bank.
"We're looking at being creative. Maybe using the manpower we have, maybe on call systems, or the deputy fire chief and the fire inspector could go back to the firehouse and working there. There's nothing set in stone," said Mayor George Gaulrapp.
The main reason Freeport's fire department doesn't have more staff is because it's not in the city's budget. But many of the firefighters say the city probably spends enough money on over-time that it could afford to hire one or two more people instead.
