Fire departments push for volunteers

NEW YORK STATE — Firehouses across New York State will be opening their doors this weekend, hoping people in their communities will visit and perhaps make a decision to volunteer.

Volunteer fire departments have been hard hit in recent years by declines in membership. The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York is hoping visits to view the latest equipment and training techniques may help convince more people to sign up for a role as a firefighter or in some support position. They know it’s not an easy sell.

“We’ve got families in suburbs, like out here. Two families work. Children. Other commitments. Sometimes, people are working second jobs and time is a big thing,” said George Davenport.

Most fire departments are planning events for both Saturday and Sunday and will have firefighters on hand to discuss the work they do