Fire Department Looking For Volunteers

Fire Chief Michael Garrahy is focused on two things when he’s not at a scene: recruitment and retention of

"You don't only have to bring them in, you have to keep them," Garrahy said recently.

But this task isn’t as easy as it sounds and Garrahy could use at least 10 new volunteers to help with department responsibilities.

In the proposed fire department budget, there is an increase of $11,850 for training new members; Garrahy said that it would cost about $1,500 to certify one basic level firefighter.

Volunteers will need to commit to 300 hours per year, but with training available, no experience is needed and the only requirement is time, Garrahy said.

There will be two training session a month and volunteer firefighters are expected to respond to a minimum of 23 percent of the emergency calls per month.

By volunteering, people would be eligible for the following perks:

• Tax Abatement 
• Free Training
• Uniforms and Cleanings
• Personal Equipment Protection Insurance
• Physical
• Life Insurance
• Worker's Compensation

Volunteers are also paid $6 per call after their six months' probationary period is over.

Garrahy will be sending a notification through a local publication or by a flyer. The decision on how the notification will be sent out will be based on cost.

For more information, contact the department at (860) 258-7603.