As part of a statewide program called Recruit NY, on Saturday, April 9 and Sunday, April 10 many local fire departments are opening their doors to area residents, so they can learn what it takes to be a volunteer firefighter in their community. According to Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I – Corning) it is becoming increasingly more difficult for many fire departments in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes Region to recruit and retain volunteers for a variety of reasons.

“This is a great opportunity for our neighbors to observe the exciting tasks of a firefighter,” said Palmesano. “Being a volunteer firefighter is immensely rewarding. They are the everyday heroes who help protect their communities. I’d like to encourage interested parties to contact their local fire department about participating in this rewarding experience.”

Local fire departments will discuss the requirements to be a volunteer, as well as conduct demonstrations, answer questions, and let visitors know how to get involved in the fire department. Interested individuals can contact their local fire department to determine if they are participating in the open house and, if so, when their doors will be open to the public.

As well as highlighting the duties and rewards that come with being a volunteer firefighter, Recruit NY will help raise public awareness about the real need for more volunteers in our state. The hope is that a collaborative effort among volunteer fire departments statewide will turn the declining number of volunteer firefighters around.

For more information, contact your local fire department.