The decision seeks to improve work-life balance for first responders and reduce burnout among the county’s 700 firefighters.

The Batesville Fire Department consists of full-time, part-time and paid on-call staff. The department serves multiple municipalities, including multiple parts of Ripley County and Franklin County.

BERRYVILLE — Clarke County Fire Chief Wayne Whetsell is seeking eight new full-time employees for the Blue Ridge Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company so it can operate around the clock.