Firehouses across NY open doors to recruit volunteers

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — More than 450 volunteer fire departments across New York state are holding open houses this weekend to recruit new members.
The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York has organized the seventh annual RecruitNY weekend on Saturday and Sunday. Volunteer firefighters at local departments will conduct firehouse tours, demonstrate firefighting techniques and allow visitors to try on gear.
13WHAM stopped by Chili’s department Sunday, which relies solely on volunteers.
“Teamwork is huge. You get a good sense of purpose, sense of belonging, you know you’re giving back to your community and that’s a big thing for a lot of people, knowing that they’re contributing to a very positive outcome in a very negative situation,” said Battalion Chief Andrew Wilkinson of the Chili Fire Department.
You have to be at least 18 years old to be a volunteer in Chili.
Residents can find out if a local department is participating in the open house event by looking online at the FASNY website .
The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York represents about 110,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel in the state.