Downstate EMS workers fill ranks

The lack of “affordable” housing in the county has several fire/rescue departments using labor from outside the peninsula.

At least three departments are staffed with firefighters/paramedics from downstate — working their shifts (48 hours) and going back to their homes in Big Rapids, Manton, Flint and Saginaw. Other “local” staff lives in Benzie or Grand Traverse counties, which offer more affordable housing options.

Much has changed in emergency services since John DePuy began firefighting in 1972. Fifty years ago, departments had an all-volunteer staff.