Circleville, Ohio — The Circleville Fire Department has reported another record year for emergency responses, closing out 2024 with a total of 4,853 calls. This marks a significant increase from previous years, continuing a steady rise in call volume. The 2024 total includes 3,576 EMS calls, 1,277 fire calls, and 955 mutual aid runs, averaging 13.26 calls per day. This is a notable jump from 2023, which recorded 4,605 total runs.
The steady increase in calls highlights the growing demands on the department. As a result, the Circleville Fire Department has been taking steps to ensure it can meet the needs of the community, thanks to a combination of staff expansion and strategic funding.
One of the key contributors to the department’s growth is its successful acquisition of federal grants. A standout is the SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant, which provided $1.58 million to fund six additional full-time firefighters. These positions are fully covered by the grant for three years, offering the department significant support without burdening local taxpayers.
Additionally, the fire department secured a $975,000 federal grant in the last few years to replace its aging ladder truck, which is nearly 30 years old and nearing the end of its lifespan. The city has already allocated 5% of the matching costs, and the new truck has now been received and is at the fire department.
In staffing, the department is nearly at full strength. As of mid-2024, Chief Thompson reported that there is a waitlist of qualified candidates, all of whom have already passed background checks. Lateral transfers have played a key role in filling positions, with six new hires from the SAFER grant, four of whom are experienced paramedics.
“We’ve shifted from being top-heavy with basic EMTs to having a strong base of experienced paramedics,” Chief Thompson shared. “One hire had 14 years of experience as a paramedic, which has been a huge asset to the department.”
The fire department has also made improvements to its facilities, including the installation of new laminate plank flooring in the 21-year-old building on North Court Street. Chief Thompson explained that the new floors are not only more hygienic and easier to clean but will also aid in the decontamination process at the station.
With the increase in staffing, the department has saved the city around $90,000 in overtime costs compared to previous years, allowing more efficient management of resources.
Looking ahead to 2025, however, the department faces financial uncertainty due to a failed safety levy, which could impact funding for safety services. Chief Thompson, along with Major Blanton and other city staff, is working on a revised budget to address the shortfalls and ensure the department’s continued operation.
Despite these challenges, the Circleville Fire Department remains committed to providing top-tier service to the community, continuing to adapt and grow to meet the increasing demand for emergency response.
