The Winslow Township Fire Department in Camden County once had 140 volunteer firefighters serving in nine stations, including in some firehouses dating back to the early 1900s. But, as a nationwide volunteer firefighter shortage has hit local communities over the last decade, the South Jersey township’s firefighter ranks have dwindled to just 35. Because of “critically low” staffing, Winslow will close three of its four remaining volunteer fire stations by the end of the year and consolidate the department into one headquarters, Fire Chief Marc Rigberg announced last month.
The Albion, Elm and Tansboro fire stations will close, leaving Station 25-3 on Cedar Brook Road as the department’s sole location, the chief said. “At many times we are spread too thin with staffing and are unable to properly respond to calls for service with enough qualified firefighters and in a timely fashion,” Rigberg said in a statement . “It is desired that by forming one large station, our volunteer firefighters will have an easier and more effective ability to respond.
” The township has been sounding the alarm on the declining interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter for the last few years. In 2022, Winslow Township’s Cedar Brook Volunteer Fire Company temporarily ceased operations due to low staff levels — despite call volume increasing. Winslow tried several tactics to attract volunteers, including providing a $60 to $90 stipend for each six-hour volunteer period.
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