PARIS – State Fire Marshal John Dean told several dozen Oxford County officials that finding a solution to save local fire departments will not be easy.

“I understand the issues. I don’t think I have necessarily the answers for you,” Dean told about 35 officials representing fire departments, emergency medical responders, town government and the business community Wednesday night at the Paris Fire Department.

The meeting was a continuation from last week when officials discussed how to tackle issues including the decreasing ranks of volunteers firefighters. They acknowledge that ranks are dwindling in part because of required training hours and daytime employment responsibilities.

“These are not easy issues for sure,” said Dean, president of the National Association of State Fire Marshals. “Fire departments all over the country are struggling with staffing and other issues.”

Dean said that in some parts of the country the county system is strong and regionalization of services has been the answer. Others have gone to salaried staff or at the least a full-time fire chief.

“You have to rely on people around you,” he said.

Last week, participants broke into several groups and began identifying and ranking problems. Among issues with the highest concern were maintaining training and certification requirements, funding for training, the growing demand for manpower and a need to develop a plan that crosses geographical boundaries. Among the greatest concerns is the shrinking pool of volunteers.

Wednesday night, participants regrouped to discuss possible solutions that could be presented in a meeting next week as the work continues.

The workshop was sponsored by the Oxford County Municipal Officers Association.