Of the hundreds of fire departments in Western New York, only a handful are full-time, paid departments. The rest rely on the manpower of volunteers.
That's why several departments are participating in a statewide push to recruit volunteers. RecruitNY is a weekend where companies open their doors to show off their equipment, answer questions and urge the communities they serve to contribute their time.
About 24 fire companies in Erie County, a dozen in Chautauqua County, a dozen in Niagara County and several others across WNY have signed on to host Recruit NY events the weekend of April 28th-29th.
Chief Mike Schreiber of the Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Company in Clarence says it's important for people of all ages to consider helping the communities they live in. "We have positions for anyone," says Schreiber, noting the company's wide age range from 14 years of age to retirees over the age of 60.
Fire departments are filling positions from accountants to firefighters. There's options for anyone willing to contribute their time!
You can find a list of participating fire companies and contact phone numbershere.They're listed by county.
