Johnstown, Cambria County--- The number of calls is up, but the number of volunteers is down. 

Several volunteer fire departments in the Allegheny region merged to increase membership numbers, but sometimes consolidating is not always the answer or even an option. 

Years ago when the fire siren blew dozens of fire fighters would swarm into stations.  Even with advanced equipment fire officials said that they are lucky if they get five men or women to respond to a call.  Fire companies across the region said they are not just fighting flames but also a lack of interest in volunteerism.

"Over the past few years there has absolutely been a decrease. I just think it is the times right now and people are just not interested like they use to be,” said Deputy Chief Matt Rainey of Dauntless Fire Company.

"The new generation it's a definitely difficult to get them in front of a fire truck and out from the video game today,” said Jason Ober of Richland Fire Department.

For many fire fighters joining their local department is a family tradition.  That’s why 18- year- old Mike Yanche Jr. and Nikolai Kosh joined their neighborhood department.

"It was about being with my dad.  I thought it was always cool to hop in the truck being able to help people,” said Yanche of Dauntless Fire Company.

"It’s a family tradition,” said Kosh of Gallitzin Volunteer Fire Department.

For many fire fighters it is a tradition they are sad to see dying. Several stations in Cambria County have had to merge with neighboring stations. That way when the siren goes off they have enough man power to handle the situations that could save someone's life or home. That is why Geistown's Volunteer Fire Department recently merged with Richland’s department.

“The main reason we merged was because back in 2007 we were down to less than seven active members.  We didn't have enough people to fill the positions,” said Bill Newcomber of Geistown Volunteer Fire Department.

The volunteer fire service saves taxpayers billions of dollars each year. Almost three-fourths of the nation's 1.1 million firefighters are volunteers, and two-thirds of all fire departments are volunteer.

"Volunteer fire companies are a way to give back to your community and save on taxes,” said Senator John Wozniak.

And, it’s about being involved in something you just can't appreciate in front of the television. No matter what game you are playing.

"Honor duty that sense of citizenship," said Kosh.