Many Israelis would argue that the next military conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is on the horizon, possibly in the immediate future chas v’sholom. Unfortunately, rocket attacks have increased they are once again part of life for residents of Sderot and the surrounding communities, and IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz has stated recently that the current situation must not be permitted to continue.

With all of this information, firefighters in Sderot are questioning why they are left with a total of six firefighters, with the realization that if chas v’sholom one of the rockets strikes a structure the need for qualified manpower is urgent and immediate.

One should realize that the firemen from Sderot are also responsible for responding to the nearby Shar HaNegev Regional Council communities, as well as the communities in the Yoav and Chof Ashkelon councils.

The daily HaMevaser reports that there are six firemen employed in the station, and while the minimum number of personnel per shift is supposed to be five, the current reality is two firemen per shift in this volatile area.

Firefighters in Sderot add they are sorely underequipped, and lack the proper adjuncts to battle a blaze in any of the area factories, many of which containing hazardous chemicals including Ammonia. They point out that ironically, the fire station is not fortified and if an incoming rocket hits them, the area fire service will abruptly be out of business.

Israel Fire Services officials indicate additional manpower is scheduled for deployment in the region, including the Sderot station, in “the coming year”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)