The Hanover Fire Department is upset with proposed legislation that is calling for mandatory retirement for firefighters at the age of 60.
Fire Chief Ken Roseborough says he has some concerns over this plan and wants it to be clarified.
Roseborough notes fighting fires requires a high level of physical fitness and stamina.
But he says there are a number of tasks older firefighters can perform outside of fire suppression.
He says these activities include being the accountability officer, safety officer or pump operator.
Roseborough says experience is another factor that needs to be considered.
He says seasoned firefighters bring with them a wealth of experience and expertise to the job.
Currently there is only one member on the Hanover Fire Department that falls in the 60 age category and he is the Department’s Accountability Officer.
Roseborough says although this individual no longer fights fires, he still plays a vital role in by taking care of all of their accountability issues.
Roseborough says he would hate to lose his Accountability Officer due to mandatory retirement rules.
