ENDWELL, N.Y. (WBNG) — Community leaders gathered Friday to discuss the future of volunteer firefighting in New York and honor those who have dedicated their lives to the service.
Patrick Gavin, president of the Central New York Firefighters Association, said the organization represents about 500 fire departments and 14,000 volunteer firefighters across Central New York.
“The volunteer fire service is really in a decline, and we’re kind of at a crossroads now,” Gavin said. “So we’re trying to figure out creative ways to incentivize volunteering again.”
The volunteer fire service provides significant economic benefits to New York taxpayers, according to Gavin.
“I saw a figure recently, the volunteer fire service in New York saves the taxpayers about $4 billion,” he said. “And that’s because, obviously, volunteers, for the most part, don’t get paid.”
The meeting included awards for long-time members Rob Brady and Alicia Fiacco of the Broome County Firefighters Association.
“Rob has been at it for over 40 years. Alice has been at it for 30-plus years,” Gavin said. “So they are true public servants we wanted to honor and recognize today.”
Susquehanna Hose Company Number One of the Owego Fire Department received recognition for celebrating 175 years of continuous service.
“Susquehanna Hose Company, number one, who is celebrating their 175th continuous anniversary of service to the village of Owego, making them the longest-serving continuous fire company in Owego,” Gavin said.
Gavin encouraged anyone considering joining the volunteer fire service to visit their local fire station.
“The Volunteer Fire Service in your community is always looking for volunteers,” he said. “Stop down, visit your fire station if you have time to give. We certainly would appreciate to bolster our ranks.”
The Central New York Firefighters Association will hold its convention in July in Auburn.
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