Many fire departments across the country are expecting 2023 to be a record year for fire calls.
Fire departments across West Michigan expect a similar outcome, having seen calls they've received increasing and doubling over the last decade. They suspect the storm that blew through in August and an increase in accidents along I-96 to also play a factor.
Fire Chief Dennis Van Tessel with the Wyoming Fire department tells WOOD TV that it could also be a combination of other things, such as increase in population and more buildings having been built.
The good news is that to address the increase in calls, a millage passed by voters back in May will allow the department to add 12 additional firefighters. Even so, fire departments across West Michigan are keeping an eye on their staff numbers to ensure the best way to keep their communities safe.
For the full story, head on over to WOOD TV.