OWEGO, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) -An effort to recruit more volunteer firefighters has taken on a new sense of urgency.
The Firefighters Association of the State of New York hosted a kickoff event yesterday to raise awareness for this upcoming Recruit New York weekend. This weekend marks the 17th year that around 300 firehouses around the state will open their doors in the hopes of gaining new volunteers. It’s a crucial event because the number of volunteers firefighters has decreased substantially in recent years.
Patrick Gavin, President of Central New York Firefighters Association and life member of Owego Fire Department, says the number of volunteers has decreased due to multiple factors.
President of Central New York Firefighters Association and life member of Owego Fire Department, Patrick Gavin, says “Everybody’s busier today. You have two income homes. You got both mom and dad working which is a challenge when trying to volunteer. You got folks just doing two to three jobs to make ends meet. The training requirements in the state have gone up.”
Gavin says there’s a lot more that’s needed than just people to rush into burning buildings.
He says the volunteer companies also need secretaries, treasurers, drivers and other supporting members. The best way for people who are interested in volunteering to get involved is to contact their local station at FASNY.com or just showing up at their local station.
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