Baxter’s First Ever Full-Time Firefighters Go To Work

Baxter has implemented its first-ever full-time fire crew this week.

Chief Matthew White said the three full-time personnel will ensure someone will be at the station at all times.

“So that helps us a lot with the response time it cuts down somebody having to come into the station having to pick up a truck,” White said. “Someone will be here 24 hours a day seven days a week. We’re really excited about it it’s going to help with our fire suppression, our medical responses.”

White said the city hired experienced firefighters to serve as the full-time crew. He said they will work hand-in-hand with the city’s part-time and volunteer firefighters as well.

White said getting full-time firefighters has been a goal of his since he became chief in 2015. He said seeing it become a reality is extremely gratifying.

“It is a huge step for a town like Baxter to be able to provide this,” White said. “And it’s going to be a great benefit for the citizens and the community around us.”

White said as the city continues its growth, he hopes to eventually hire more full-time firefighters.