The Beloit Fire Department is battling an ever increasing number of calls for service. The department is on pace to respond to a record number of calls this year. Chief Brad Liggett says fire crews were called out more than 500 times in January alone. Liggett says when he started in the late 80’s the department responded to 2100 calls. Last year the number was 5600. He says the department is facing this challenge with virtually no increases in the number of personnel. The chief calls the trend unsustainable. He says paramedics have become a primary access to health care for many impoverished members of the community. Yet another challenge will be the anticipated loss of three full time positions when Staffing for an Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant runs out next year.
