Havasu Fire Department Seeks Heroes: Join the Fight to Expand Its Firefighter Ranks

The Lake Havasu City Fire Department is preparing for significant staffing changes. Fire Chief Peter Pilafas addressed community members during the first recruitment open house on Wednesday at Fire Station 2, highlighting the urgent need to fill at least 15 high-level positions due to anticipated retirements.

During his speech, Pilafas acknowledged that the fire service currently faces a challenging recruitment environment. “In the past, it was very competitive, but now we struggle to attract candidates,” he said, emphasizing the need for innovative recruitment strategies.

The department has historically benefitted from a steady influx of applicants, but interest appears to have waned. Pilafas pointed to the impending departures of experienced personnel as a critical issue, stating, “We already know we have to plan for it. I have a lot of people that I need to replace. That’s a lot of experience that is going to go away.”

Prospective recruits learned about various career pathways, including firefighter and paramedic roles, during the event. Pilafas also mentioned an upcoming apprenticeship program designed to provide additional career development opportunities.

Collaboration with local education institutions plays a vital role in developing future employees. Lake Havasu High School continues to offer courses through its Career and Technical Education Fire Service program, preparing students for careers in fire service.

Representatives from River Medical and Mohave Community College were present to discuss partnerships aimed at enhancing career development in the community.

Looking ahead, the new Fire Station 7 is set to open in December 2026, which will require at least nine additional staff members. This new facility will be located on McCulloch Boulevard North at Sloop Drive, reflecting the department’s growth and evolving needs.

In addition to firefighter positions, Pilafas highlighted roles for public safety dispatchers, fire inspectors, and volunteer opportunities within the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which assists during emergencies.

“We’re shocked at how many people are actually interested,” Pilafas remarked, expressing optimism about the younger generation’s eagerness to serve. He underscored the importance of this engagement for the future of the fire department.

In 2021, the department responded to approximately 10,000 calls, a trend that continues. “We’re a progressive department,” Pilafas stated, indicating a slight decrease in call volume but still maintaining strong activity.

The open house concluded with an informative session where attendees could ask questions and participate in a tour led by Battalion Chief Ryan Felish, further fostering community interest in fire service careers.