ORISKANY, N.Y. — Fire departments across New York State are working to bring in new members through the “Recruit New York Weekend” event held this past weekend.
Locally, the Oriskany Fire Department combined the event with safety demonstrations, fire prevention activities and an open house.
Visitors had the chance to operate a fire hose, experience the weight of a rescue victim and learn how a fire truck works.
Departments have been offering incentives like free healthcare, gas cards and property tax breaks to attract volunteers, but they are finding that everyone has different needs.
“The fire service has been struggling for 20 years with membership so it’s not just getting new members in the door, it’s keeping members in there once they’re there,” Chief Jeff Burkhart said.
“Because on average it’s about 2-3 years to get somebody fully trained up where they need to be so that that way, they’re effective and efficient on a fireground. So, you figure 2 years give or take. You know somebody may come in and figure out that it’s not for them,” Burkhart said.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter can visit their local firehouse for more information.