Local fire companies make push for recruits

Three local fire companies are joining a state-wide push this weekend to recruit volunteer firefighters, drivers, emergency medical technicians and more.

Wilson, Cambria and South Lockport fire companies are all hoping to gain more volunteers during the seventh annual RecruitNY weekend, a major initiative of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY).

Across the state, about 420 fire departments are hoping to pull in some brave and hardworking men and women to support their communities. Participating departments will open their doors and have volunteer firefighters conduct tours of the facilities, demonstrate firefighting techniques and allow visitors to try on turnout gear. Firefighters will also discuss the requirements and rewards of volunteering, and answer any questions visitors have.

Wilson Fire Company will hold its open house Saturday, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at 250 Young St.

South Lockport Fire Company will be open Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 5666 S. Transit Road.

Cambria Volunteer Fire Company will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at 4631 Cambria Wilson Road.

Edith Walker, second assistant chief of Wilson Fire Company, said the department has seen a steady decrease in membership in recent years.

“We pretty much need membership across the board,” Walker said.

Available volunteer positions include interior firefighters, exterior firefighters, drivers, fire police, emergency medical technicians and more.

Contrary to popular belief that volunteering for a fire company is a major commitment and only for the most fit, Walker says they are open to members of all ages and availabilities.

Participants simply need be 18 years old and pass a physical exam. Even those with physical ailments, Walker said, could find a less physically-demanding role in which to serve.

“We’re just looking for people who want to help the community and support the fire company,” Walker said.

Prospective members must undergo a basic firefighter training class, for a total of 79 hours. Classes are usually held at local fire halls.

There is no cost to join.

Volunteer firefighters and EMTs provide an invaluable service to communities throughout the state.

According to FASNY, the annual cost of a replacement, all-paid fire service throughout the state would be $3.87 billion, which would necessitate a property tax increase of 26.5 percent (though this would not fall equally across communities).

What’s more, many volunteers say the experience of volunteering has been an extremely rewarding one.

“Personally, I think that’s a role for everybody — whether you want to give a little (time) or a lot,” Walker said. “Every little bit helps.”

For more information on participating local departments, visit www.recruitny.org.

OPEN (FIRE) HOUSES

Wilson Fire Co. No. 1

250 Young St.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday

South Lockport Volunteer Fire Co.

5666 S. Transit Road

1 to 4 p.m. Saturday

Cambria Volunteer Fire Co.

4631 Cambria Wilson Road

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday