After years of declining numbers, the Yreka Fire Department is looking for volunteers.

After years of declining numbers, the Yreka Fire Department is looking for volunteers. Yreka Fire Department Assistant Chief Jason Suter spoke at a recent Yreka City Council meeting and shared some information about the department with councilmembers.

He noted that nearly 45 percent of YFD’s volunteers are age 50 or older. He also mentioned that the number of YFD’s members today compared to the year 2000 has decreased nearly 46 percent while the number of calls the department responds to annually has increased nearly 63 percent.

YFD Chief Jerry Lemos explained on Thursday that the department’s need for volunteers has been growing since 1998. In 2016, 1,098 of YFD’s total 1,585 incident responses were related to medical aid.

“There are fewer and fewer people signing up and more calls,” Lemos said.

In order to volunteer at the Yreka Fire Department, candidates must be 18 years of age or older, be in good physical shape, have a relatively clean background, and have no significant DMV violations. Experience is appreciated but is not a requirement. Candidates must also pass a physical, have their fingerprints taken and pass a drug test.

Lemos emphasized that the positions are truly on a volunteer basis and are not paid. “This is for people who want to get involved and help their community,” he said, adding, “We encourage anyone interested to initiate the process to become a volunteer.” Lemos stated that while being a volunteer firefighter can be demanding, “You see people on their worst day and you get to make that day better.”

Applications for YFD volunteers can be picked up at Yreka City Hall, located at 701 4th Street. Lemos directed applicants to ask for Renee. For general questions, those interested can call (530) 841-2383 and leave a message if necessary. To make an appointment to pick up an application from city hall, call (530) 841-2386.