Fire officials sound the alarm for new firefighters amid increase in fires

Suffolk County executive Ed Romaine was joined by local officials and first responder agencies today to announce the urgent need for more volunteer firefighters due to the recent increase of house fires and dispatch calls throughout Suffolk County amid the ongoing harsh winter.

“The extreme cold and increased amount of snowfall this winter have led to increased activity among fire departments throughout Suffolk County,” said Romaine. “Now more than ever, our first responders need to be supported for the risks they take when responding to emergencies. I encourage our residents to explore the many financial and community benefits from being a volunteer first responder and to visit their local fire house today.”

“Our focus remains on supporting and retaining the dedicated men and women who have long served our communities while also encouraging the next generation to step forward and answer the call to serve. The long-term sustainability of our emergency services across Suffolk County depends on these efforts,” said Suffolk County Legis. Sal Formica.

According to the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES), here is a 16 percent increase in working house fires in Suffolk County this winter, a 37 percent rise in fire dispatch calls, a 68 percent spike in cold exposures reported by Suffolk County EMS and a 147 percent increase in service calls related to water flow issues.

There are currently more than 13,000 volunteer first responders throughout the County’s 109 fire departments and 28 EMS agencies. There has been a significant decline in the volunteer fire and EMS service in the state by 33 percent as there are currently 80,000 volunteers in New York compared to 120,000 in the 2000s.

“We ask you to protect your home, protect your family, and most importantly—be a good neighbor. Join your local fire or EMS agency today. Visit www.suffolksbravest.com or stop by your local fire or EMS station today,” said Suffolk FRES Commissioner Rudy Sunderman.

“I commend county executive Ed Romaine, Suffolk County lawmakers and fire/EMS professionals for shining a light on the urgent need for new recruits in our volunteer fire and EMS services. Across Suffolk County—and throughout the state—we are seeing a growing shortage of volunteers at a time when their life-saving work has never been more vital. These dedicated men and women are the backbone of our emergency response system, protecting lives and property in every community. Their service embodies the best of public spirit, and I join county executive Romaine in urging the public to answer this call to serve,” said Stephen J. Acquario, executive director of the NYS Association of Counties.

Residents who are interested in joining their local fire department or local EMS agency are encouraged to visit their local agency or go to suffolksbravest.com.