Joining volunteer fire service is a rewarding experience

For too many years people, especially those living in rural communities, have taken their volunteer fire companies for granted.

Part of that is due, of course, to the widespread impression that should a fire or other emergency occur in a home, business or industrial site, the volunteer firefighters would arrive on the scene within minutes. Regardless of the hour — day or night — it seems they’re always there at a crucial time. We know from countless experiences that their valuable service often makes the difference between life and death. In addition, their intensive training and expertise at handling dangerous situations can be a key factor in preventing the spread of the fire and saving the home or business from a total loss.

An aging population in countless towns and villages, plus endless changes in lifestyles, has left volunteer fire companies in Niagara County and across the Empire State undermanned. Faithful members who served for decades reach a point where younger people are needed to fill the shoes and respond to the alarms. That’s been a constant challenge as evidenced by messages on the electronic sign boards in front of the fire halls. It’s usually a succinct plea, “Volunteers Needed, Inquire Inside.”

Later this month, some 300 fire companies in the state plan to participate in the seventh annual RecruitNY weekend, an initiative of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY). On April 29 to 30, the fire halls including some in Niagara County plan to open their doors to the public in an all-out effort to boost the membership in their volunteer firefighting ranks.

For the public, it’s an ideal opportunity to visit the firehouses and tour the facilities, perhaps the first time for many. In addition, visitors will be given a close-up demonstration of firefighting techniques and children no doubt will be thrilled for the rare chance to try on turnout gear and check over some of the equipment that is usually seen from a distance. The volunteer firefighters also will be there to discuss the requirements and the rewards of fulfilling such a vital role in the community.

“Joining the volunteer fire service has been the most rewarding experience of my life, and I know that I’m not alone in saying that,” said FASNY President Kenneth Pienkowski. “We invite all New Yorkers to visit their local fire halls. They may be surprised to find their very own neighbors and friends are already in the fire department, and just may be inspired to join them in protecting the community.”

Established in 2011, RecruitNY is a joint undertaking by the state firemen’s association, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC), the Association of Fire Districts of New York State, the Volunteer Fire Police Association of New York State and the County Fire Coordinators Association of New York.

For area residents trying to find out if your fire department is participating in RecruitNY, visit recruitny.org. Founded in 1872, FASNY now represents the interests of an estimated 110,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel in the state.