RUSH, N.Y. — The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs says volunteer ranks have dropped, creating dangerous staffing shortages and public safety risks.
Legislation has been proposed that would allow fire districts to give stipends to volunteer firefighters. News10NBC’s Garrett Chan reports from the Rush Fire Department that the stipends are for volunteer firefighters who respond to calls and other standby services.
Right now, current state laws prevent fire departments from reimbursing volunteers for their time and training. The bill is currently in committee in the State Assembly.
“By sharing resources and providing nominal compensation for around the clock staffing, we can reduce burnout and ensure reliability,” Melfi said.
Paul Melfi of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs says the funding would be supported by potential state grants. He adds the nominal stipend wouldn’t be mandated but another tool in the toolbox of incentives aimed to improve recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.
“Other states have successfully used models such as paid per call or paid on call, staying within the federal cap of 20% of the average career firefighter wage in the locality,” Melfi said. “These modest incentives would help offset the financial and time burdens and encourage more individuals to step up.”
The Rush Fire Department currently has about 40 volunteer firefighters. Assistant Chief Dan Kwiecien says it’s been able to take more volunteers but also lost some.
“You know some calls we get you know just a chief or two to respond but it’s a challenge,” Kwiecien said.
As more volunteer agencies close around the state, Melfi says response times are increasing, creating an unsustainable fire response system.
“We are working hard to shore this up nor response to the public we serve,” Melfi said.
The nominal stipend wouldn’t be a flat rate across the state. It would vary department to department as long as it follows New York State labor laws.
The Rush Fire Department is one of many fire houses across the area hosting volunteer recruitment events Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m.
You can see a complete list of fire departments taking part, and the schedule for each event by clicking here to our other article.
Assembly bill
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