Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, and Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato joined officials from the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office and members of the North Massapequa Fire Department to announce a volunteer firefighter recruitment drive that took place statewide. On April 18 and 19, fire departments conducted tours of their firehouses and apparatus, allowed visitors to try on turnout gear, and offered activities throughout the firehouse. Residents were encouraged to attend and learn more at their local departments.
“The men and women of our fire service are heroes in our communities, and Long Island’s bravest need our help finding new recruits,” said Supervisor Saladino. “These individuals are not just firefighters. They are our neighbors, our friends, and Long Island’s first line of defense. While most of us are asleep, they’re on call. While we’re with our families, they’re ready to leave theirs at a moment’s notice. When the alarm sounds, they don’t ask, ‘Why me?’ They say, ‘send me.’”
During the weekend of April 18-19, volunteer fire departments across the state opened their doors so residents could learn what it takes to be a volunteer firefighter as part of the statewide RecruitNY program. The volunteer fire service has 10,000 fewer members today than it did a decade ago. In recent years, departments have faced challenges recruiting and retaining volunteers for a variety of reasons. Volunteer fire departments continue to seek additional members to maintain optimal emergency response services. To help boost recruitment, County Executive Bruce Blakeman launched nassausbravest.com, outlining requirements and benefits of volunteering.
“You don’t need to be a hero to start – but you’ll become one when you do,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Today’s volunteer firefighters are responding to more complex emergencies than ever before, and they need the next generation to step up. While there are real benefits, such as tax breaks, tuition assistance, and incentives, the greatest reward is earning the trust and gratitude of your community.”
For more information on the recruitment drive and benefits of joining a local fire service, residents were encouraged to visit recruitny.org or nassausbravest.com.
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