You awake to the sound of an alarm. Then you smell smoke.

Panic sets in as you realize this is not a dream. Your house is on fire. You need to get out and call 911.

How long could it take for first responders to arrive?

That question was at the heart of “Community Conversation: Sounding the Alarm,” hosted Aug. 27 by Lehigh Valley Public Media at the Allentown Fire Academy. The event explored challenges facing fire departments across the Lehigh Valley, including staffing shortages, declining volunteer participation, funding concerns and increasing demands for service.

Lehigh Valley News reporter Brittany Sweeney moderated the discussion, which brought together local fire chiefs, volunteer firefighters, community organizations and state officials to discuss how these challenges affect emergency response and disaster recovery throughout the region.

More than 50 people attended in person, while additional viewers watched via livestream.

The discussion highlighted growing concerns that fire departments are being asked to do more with fewer people.

Basic requirements for firefighters typically include being at least 18 years old, possessing a valid driver’s license and holding a high school diploma or GED. Some departments also require EMT or paramedic certification. Candidates may also be required to pass a Candidate Physical Ability Test, written aptitude exams, background checks and polygraph testing.

Volunteer firefighting and military service can help applicants stand out, but panelists noted that fewer people are willing or able to commit the time required for training and service.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, volunteer firefighters account for about 65% of firefighters nationwide. However, speakers said volunteer numbers continue to decline.

Allentown Assistant Fire Chief Jonathan Steed said many volunteer departments are struggling with aging memberships.

“The average age of most of the firefighters is 54 years and older,” Steed said.

Combined with continued population growth throughout the Lehigh Valley, declining volunteer participation is resulting in increased demand on departments already facing staffing challenges.

Several municipalities have turned to mergers in an effort to maintain services.

Upper Macungie Township recently combined Fogelsville Volunteer Fire Company, Goodwill Fire Company No. 1 of Trexlertown and Upper Macungie Station 56 into a single organization known as Upper Macungie Fire and Rescue. Lower Macungie Township also merged with the Alburtis Fire Department.

Upper Milford Township board of supervisors Chair Angela Ashbrook said discussions have occurred regarding a possible merger of the Western District and Vera Cruz fire departments, though both have expressed reservations.

Easton Fire Chief Henry Hennings said consolidation can benefit both firefighters and residents.

“We fight burnout, too,” Hennings said.

Lt. Lou Jimenez emphasized the importance of cooperation among departments.

“Mutual aid is important because two minutes in a fire is critical,” Jimenez said.

Steed agreed, saying municipalities may need to move beyond tradition and local rivalries to ensure long-term sustainability.

“We need to give up our egos, pride and traditions and be able to cut costs and merge to make things happen if we need to,” he said.

The conversation also addressed occupational hazards, particularly cancer risks among firefighters.

A video presentation featured Bethlehem resident Angela Malpedo, whose father, Lewis Malpedo, served with the Bethlehem Fire Department for 25 years before being diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017.

“They don’t just battle structural fires. They also battle the many toxins within the structure,” Malpedo said.

Another video segment featured Bethlehem homeowner Fontaine Wood, who described losing her home in a fire and the long recovery process that followed.

“It has been months and we are not sure when we can move back into our home again. I feel hopeless,” Wood said.

Fire officials stressed that unattended cooking remains one of the leading causes of residential fires and cautioned residents against throwing water on grease fires.

Steed urged residents to install working smoke alarms and test them monthly.

“If it’s going off, it’s going on for a reason,” he said.

Representatives from the American Red Cross and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley discussed emergency housing assistance, recovery services and disaster preparedness programs.

American Red Cross Executive Director Peter Brown emphasized the importance of family fire escape plans and practicing them regularly.

United Way Community Engagement Coordinator Jose Rivera said families often need months of support after a fire.

“This is the lowest part of their lives and they lost everything. We try to offer hope,” Rivera said.

The event concluded with a discussion of firefighter mental health.

Jimenez shared his own experiences seeking help following difficult emergency calls.

“There are things I’ve seen on calls. I needed help,” he said. “The bravado and ego is a cover. We are teddy bears. You see someone down. You talk to them and get them help.”

Looking ahead, speakers warned that staffing, training and funding demands will continue to grow.

“The public doesn’t care where the fire truck comes from,” Hennings said. “They just want the fire truck at their house if there is a fire.”

“Operations, safety and mental health are just as important as an annual budget,” Jimenez said.

As communities continue to grow across the Lehigh Valley, panelists agreed that maintaining reliable emergency response will require greater collaboration, sustained funding and stronger community support for those who answer the call.