Chattanooga Fire Department hiring age lowered from 21 to 18

Chattanooga Fire Department

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Chattanooga City Council approved the hiring age of Chattanooga firefighters to be lowered from 21 to 18.

The Chattanooga Fire Department (CFD) says this will allow them to begin recruiting a new demographic group.

“This change represents a critical step forward in expanding opportunities for young people in Chattanooga who are eager to serve their community,” stated Chattanooga City Mayor Tim Kelly.

Kelly went onto say that CFD will benefit from the lowering age by being able to recruit “motivated high school graduates”.

“I’m grateful to our city leaders for supporting this initiative, which will strengthen our fire department and allow us to keep pace with departments nationwide. Together, we’re investing in the future of our fire service and the safety of our city,” said Kelly.

CFD also says this age change provides them access to potential hires right out of high school, insteading of candidates having to wait three years to seek employment.

“This is a positive, welcome change for the Chattanooga Fire Department and the surrounding community. It will greatly help our recruitment efforts,” said Phil Hyman, Fire Chief.