RAPID CITY, S.D.(KOTA)- Despite a class of 18 new firefighters, a number which Rapid City Fire Department public information officer Tessa Jaeger said could be a local record, the RCFD is still not fully staffed.

Making an appearance on the Rapid City Morning News, Jaeger said the department, despite a lean staff, is more than capable of handling Rapid City’s growing needs.

Jaeger highlighted the job environment with the RCFD, just in case any curious ears were tuned in.

Call volume for the RCFD has increased 10% over last year. The dates for the next RCFD academy will be announced in coming weeks.