The D.C. Fire Cadet program extended its application deadline because not enough recruits have registered and the program could lose funding if the slots are not filled, officials said.

The one-year program typically needs at least 120 applicants to fill the 35 slots, program coordinator Lt. Juan Carter said. As of two weeks ago, there were only about 25 applicants, he said. The program needs a larger pool of applicants because many recruits are weeded out for health reasons or they fail an extensive background check.