By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• A survey of Connecticut fire departments found strong support for increasing staffing levels to address operational needs.
• The survey was conducted in late 2025 by the Connecticut Fire Chiefs Association and two academic partners.
• Respondents cited call volume, response times and safety as reasons for staffing increases.
• A majority of participating departments reported difficulty filling and retaining positions.
• The findings are intended to inform ongoing workforce discussions in the state.
HARTFORD, CT — A survey of fire departments in Connecticut found broad support among respondents for increasing staffing levels to meet call volume, improve response times and enhance crew safety, according to results released this month.
The survey was conducted in late 2025 by the Connecticut Fire Chiefs Association in partnership with researchers from the University of Hartford and Central Connecticut State University, and included responses from departments of various sizes across the state.
Respondents identified factors such as rising emergency call volume, concerns about timely responses and the physical and mental strain on personnel as key drivers for advocating increased staffing, according to the published findings.
A majority of surveyed departments also reported challenges with recruiting and retaining qualified firefighters, underscoring workforce pressures felt across the state’s fire service.
The survey findings are expected to inform ongoing discussions among fire service leaders, municipal officials and state policymakers on workforce strategies and resource planning.