Welcome to The Volunteer Firefighter™, the official magazine of FASNY.
FASNY’s publication strives to bring topical, educational and entertaining information to the volunteer emergency service decision-makers and volunteers throughout New York State. It offers feature articles and columns directly relating to the emergency services, as well as editorial content, training and education opportunities, legislation, fire prevention and life safety articles, and real-life experiences. Read the most recent news and insights below.
By Kevin D. Quinn, NVFC Chairman I recently attended two funerals for firefighters who died in the line of duty. As with every tragedy when we lose a brother or sister, my heart went out to the family, department and community that now must deal with the loss and figure…
Read moreBy Past Chief Brian F. McQueen, FASNY Director Somewhere in the U.S., there are two young volunteer firefighters who have become great friends through the fire service. They enjoy the brotherhood and elation of helping others on their worst days. Sadly, statistics have shown that one of these dedicated firefighters…
Read moreBy John Kolb, FASNY Fire Prevention and Life Safety Committee When fire departments start looking at creating a fire prevention presentation or program, they must first determine what message they want to deliver to the public. Your audience will be your guide. Use what you know from experience, whether it…
Read moreBy Eddie Buchanan Ever since we started to pay attention to the fire dynamic research over a decade ago, there has been a battle brewing between those who think firefighting should be done from the inside versus the outside. Thousands of website clicks, Facebook page likes and retweets are generated…
Read moreBy Gina Salvato Shultis, Director of Development With a gleam in his eye and his memory sharp as a tack, William A. (Bill) Hills greeted more than 100 of his family and friends who came to the FASNY Firemen’s Home to celebrate his momentous 100th birthday. Among the guests were…
Read moreEXPANDED CANCER IMPAIRMENT – Provides a rebuttable presumption that several types of cancer are covered under the VFBL and VAWBL. Corresponding legislation: S.1411 (Griffo) / A.711 (Gunther) THE FAIR PLAY AMBULANCE COST RECOVERY FOR FIRE DEPARTMENTS – Allows fire departments to bill for ambulance services to even the playing field…
Read moreBy John S. D’Alessandro, FASNY Secretary I love being a firefighter. Let’s get that straight from the beginning. Aside from my marriage and the birth of my children, it is my greatest accomplishment. Yet, despite the personal satisfaction it has given me, I have often been frustrated with the lack…
Read moreBy Candice McDonald, MA Serving as a firefighter can be stressful, which can lead to issues with retention and team morale. Finding ways to destress and promote team continuity is important. Incorporating team-building activities into an organization is one way to reduce stress and promote an effective and cohesive team…
Read moreBy Jamie Smith Quinn, Executive Director of the FASNY Museum of Firefighting The FASNY Museum of Firefighting’s staff and Muster Committee have been busy planning the muster, which will coincide with the 125th Anniversary Celebration of the FASNY Firemen’s Home. This event will occur on May 20. The muster team…
Read moreBy Robin Schott, FASNY Legislative Committee Chair The FASNY Golden Trumpet Award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional support and assistance to the volunteer fire service. Historically this award has been given to New York State legislators, government officials and others who have shown a commitment to supporting…
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