Across the country, firehouses are running short-staffed, EMS rigs are rolling with skeleton crews, and police departments are holding hiring fairs with dismal turnout. At first glance, it’s easy to slap a tired label on the problem: “Nobody wants to work anymore.”
But that’s not the truth—and anyone still showing up for shift after shift knows it.
The real story behind public safety’s recruitment wall is deeper, more frustrating, and—if we’re being honest—preventable.
Let’s break down what’s actually going on.
1. Burnout Is Loud, and Word Gets Around
Ask a new recruit why they’re hesitating, and they might not point to the job itself—they’ll point to the stories.
- Long hours with no breaks
- Forced overtime
- Leadership that doesn’t listen
- Crippling understaffing
- Lack of mental health support
Burned-out veterans aren’t just leaving quietly—they’re telling the truth on social media, in forums, and yes, even on RateMyDepartment.com. And those stories? They’re shaping the next generation’s perception.
2. Pay and Benefits Aren’t Keeping Up
We’re asking people to risk their lives, take on massive liability, and work holidays for… what? In many places, new hires can make more stocking shelves at Costco or working remote tech jobs.
Public safety careers used to offer financial stability, pensions, and strong benefits. In some regions, those perks have eroded—fast.
3. The Job Is Getting Harder, Not Safer
Let’s be honest—fire, EMS, and law enforcement jobs have always been tough. But lately?
- Firefighters are battling wildland seasons that never end.
- Paramedics are dealing with opioid overdoses, mental health calls, and ERs that are constantly full.
- Officers face public scrutiny, legal liability, and increasing dangers on the street.
It’s harder than ever to do the job and feel supported doing it.
4. Leadership and Culture Matter More Than Ever
Good people don’t quit jobs—they quit toxic environments. The days of “suck it up and shut up” leadership are over, but some departments haven’t gotten the memo.
Modern recruits want mentorship, respect, and a team-first culture. When they see departments riddled with cliques, favoritism, or outdated command structures, they’ll walk away—or never apply in the first place.
5. There Are More Options Than Ever
It used to be that if you were called to serve, public safety was the path.
Now?
- Travel paramedics
- Contract firefighter gigs
- Private EMS companies
- Emergency management and tech jobs
- Remote work with no physical risk
People who want to make a difference can still do that—without the politics, danger, or burnout.
So What’s the Fix?
Departments that get it are already adapting:
- Improving pay and benefits
- Creating healthy schedules
- Investing in leadership training
- Publicly owning and addressing internal issues
- Using platforms like social media—and RateMyDepartment.com—to build trust and transparency
Final Word: This Isn’t About Laziness
This isn’t a “nobody wants to work” issue. It’s a “nobody wants to be treated like crap” issue.
If you’re still clocking in every day, fighting the good fight, know this: your voice matters. The culture won’t change until we talk about what’s really happening—and push departments to do better.
And for those thinking about joining? Look past the job posting. Look at the reviews. Look at the leadership. Look at the people.
Because the truth is, we need you—but we need to earn you.
Help make public safety better.
Share your experience at RateMyDepartment.com. Anonymous. Honest. Real.
