By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• An Illinois fire department reported a surge in firefighter recruitment after switching to a 24-hours-on, 72-hours-off shift schedule.
• Department officials said the change improved work-life balance and made the organization more attractive to recruits.
• Firefighters and recruits cited better rest, family time and reduced burnout as reasons for increased interest.
• The department plans to continue monitoring staffing levels and operational readiness under the new schedule.
ILLINOIS — A fire department in Illinois has reported a notable increase in firefighter recruitment after transitioning to a 24-hours-on, 72-hours-off shift schedule, officials said.
Department leadership said the change was implemented to improve firefighters’ work-life balance and retention, and that the updated schedule has resonated with both current personnel and prospective recruits.
Firefighters and recent recruits commented that the longer off-duty periods allow for more rest, family time and personal obligations, reducing overall fatigue and improving job appeal.
The department’s human resources and command staff said they will continue to track staffing numbers, response performance and personnel feedback as the schedule remains in place to ensure operational readiness is sustained.