The Asahi Shimbun
TOKYO, Japan — For well over a century, the volunteer firefighting system has served as the first line of defense for many communities in this country prone to natural disasters. But on its 120th anniversary this year, Japan’s volunteer fire brigade is desperately trying to increase its numbers to maintain the ability to save lives.
Volunteer groups have lowered their requirements for membership and are raising publicity campaigns to sustain and develop the next generation of firefighters.
Although the numbers have not reached optimum levels, a significant rise in students and women has been seen among volunteer firefighters since the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami caused widespread devastation on March 11, 2011.
Full story: Women, students prop up sagging numbers in volunteer firefighting corps