Fire departments across the state are opening their doors this weekend in an effort to court new volunteers.
The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is holding its annual “RecruitNY” initiative April 25 and 26.
“Last year, over 500 fire departments across the state participated in RecruitNY and we’re optimistic that turnout will be even better this year,” said Robert McConville, president of FASNY. “We encourage New Yorkers across the state to come down and visit their local volunteer fire departments on April 25 and 26. At the firehouse, they can learn all about becoming a member of a very special family — the volunteer fire service.”
RecruitNY, which is entering its fifth year, was born of a collaboration among FASNY, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC), Association of Fire Districts of New York State, Volunteer Fire Police Association of the State of New York and County Fire Coordinators Association of the State of New York.
This year also marks the final year of FASNY’s four-year “Fire in You” campaign to recruit and retain volunteers. The effort resulted in 12,600 recruited in 2011-12, with a goal of 15,000 recruits.
According to Fire in You’s website, volunteer firefighters can reap benefits such as property tax offsets, free health checkups, tuition assistance and more. But the perks of volunteering can go beyond the material.
“The personal rewards and satisfaction received from what we do [are] often beyond description,” reads the North Syracuse Volunteer Fire Department’s guide for prospective volunteers. “There is the sense of accomplishment when you control a building fire, joy and elation when a child is born, compassion for accident victims and fulfillment from teaching fire safety.”
Becoming a fire department volunteer isn’t just about fighting fires, either. While only chief officers respond to fires, fire police help direct traffic and manage crowds at the scene of a fire or accident.
Volunteers can also apply for an emergency medical services (EMS) position. Fire departments partner with other local agencies, such as the Onondaga County Departments of Health and Emergency Services, to provide training and certifications.
Fire departments are often an integral part of a local community, providing fire and safety education and hosting community events such as pancake breakfasts or field days.
For more information, visit recruitny.org or contact your local volunteer fire department.
