Leighton, Alabama – When the alarm sounds, the town’s two police officers are ready to answer it in more than one way. Police Chief Austin Evans and Officer Austin Smith have added firefighting duties to their regular police shift, stepping in to support the Leighton Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) whenever a fire call arises.
Why the dual role matters
“All the volunteer departments in the area are short‑staffed,” Smith explained, noting a shortage that mirrors a national trend. Leighton VFD lists 25 active members, but Smith emphasized that “25 active doesn’t mean 25 always available.” Availability can range from a single volunteer on a given call to a full crew, and sometimes there are none at all, forcing neighboring departments to cover the gap.
On‑scene assistance and coordination
When a mobile home showed signs of smoke this past weekend, Evans and Smith were the first on the scene. Though the structure was unoccupied, the officers quickly secured the area and coordinated with arriving firefighters. “It gives us the ability to advise the firefighters on the way to the scene so they can get there and get straight to work rather than trying to figure out what’s going on,” Evans said.
If the situation requires it, the officers are also prepared to handle a hose. “With volunteer fire departments, most of these guys and girls are responding from work or home,” Evans added. “If they’re not already close by and we’re already on shift, it benefits the community for us to be able to grab a truck and get started while other units are on route.”
Benefits for the community
The ability for police officers to act as first responders in fire incidents shortens response times, especially in rural areas where distances between stations can be significant. By providing traffic control, scene security, and initial fire suppression, the officers free up volunteer firefighters to focus on extinguishing the blaze.
Both Evans and Smith believe the model could be replicated in other small towns facing similar staffing challenges. “I think it would be a benefit for small‑town police departments to do the same thing if they’re able,” Evans said, highlighting the potential for broader regional cooperation.
Looking ahead
The Leighton Police Department plans to continue training its officers in basic firefighting techniques and maintain the shared equipment needed for rapid deployment. As volunteer fire departments across Alabama and the nation grapple with recruitment and retention issues, Leighton’s approach offers a practical, community‑focused solution that aligns with the town’s commitment to safety and self‑reliance.
Residents can expect faster emergency response and a stronger partnership between law enforcement and fire services, reinforcing the town’s dedication to protecting families and preserving the values that make Leighton a close‑knit community.
Original reporting: WAFF 48 Huntsville (news) — read the source article.
