Rossford, Ohio to Swear in First Full-Time Firefighter Class

Rossford, Ohio – Rossford is making history as it prepares to swear in the first-ever class of full-time firefighters for the city’s newly established full-time fire department. The swearing-in ceremony, set for Thursday, March 20 at 6 p.m. at the Rossford Junior-Senior High School auditorium, marks a monumental shift for the community.

For years, the Rossford Fire Department operated with a volunteer model, relying on part-time responders. However, with the recent voter approval to transition to a full-time department, the city will now boast its own group of dedicated, professional firefighters. Fire Chief Rick Syroka, who was appointed earlier this year, emphasized the significance of the ceremony, calling it “unlike any other” in the department’s history.

The inaugural class will consist of eight new full-time firefighters, a number that signifies the end of the volunteer era and the beginning of a more robust and reliable emergency response team. “This is a fabulous step for the department and for the city of Rossford,” said Chief Syroka, expressing his excitement about the change.

The hiring process for the historic class was a challenging one. Over 21 candidates applied for the eight open positions, and Syroka said the selection process was rigorous. Candidates were evaluated based on their skills, qualifications, and commitment to the profession. “I’m looking for the professional firefighter that is ready to step up and serve the city,” Syroka explained.

The new recruits are not only highly skilled but also have strong local ties. Chief Syroka revealed that seven of the eight firefighters hired have previously served as part-time members of the Rossford Fire Department. The eighth recruit is a local resident with a deep connection to the community. “All of them have a history with Rossford Fire and a lot of them live in the community,” Syroka said.

The transition to a full-time department is a move that has long been anticipated by Rossford residents. Over the years, the community has been vocal about its desire for a local, full-time fire department to ensure faster, more reliable emergency services. The hiring of this first class of full-time firefighters reflects the city’s commitment to enhancing safety and service for its residents.

The public is invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony and witness this historic moment. “If you want to come out and witness history, because this is historical for Rossford, it’s the first full-time firefighter class,” Chief Syroka encouraged.

Following the ceremony, the new recruits will begin their duties on Monday, March 24, officially becoming the first full-time firefighters in Rossford’s history. With this new chapter in the city’s emergency services, Rossford looks forward to a safer and more responsive future.