RANDOLPH — As part of the 12th annual RecruitNY statewide initiative, the Randolph Volunteer Fire Department will host an open house 1-4 p.m. Saturday at the department, 70 Main St.
During RecruitNY Weekend, Randolph Fire Company Hose #1 will be joining other departments across New York to raise public awareness regarding the need for volunteers and to highlight the life-long rewards of being a member of a volunteer fire department.
“We welcome the community to join us during RecruitNY Weekend at our open house,” said Chief Don McElwain, Jr. “This is an excellent opportunity for people to meet their local volunteer firefighters and learn more of what the United States Fire Service is all about.
Throughout the afternoon, fire company officers will conduct tours of the station and apparatus, allow visitors to try on gear, demonstrate firefighting activities and address questions on becoming a member. Applications for membership and junior membership will be available.
Attendees could tour the facilities, see firefighting vehicles and equipment, see how the volunteers do what they do to save lives and protect property and learn how they can serve their communities.
Large display panels will show information on training, entry-level and advanced firefighter jobs and assignments and the extensive educational opportunities, many tuition free. Refreshments will also be available.
Volunteer departments across the state are struggling with decreased membership and increased call volume. Like many fire departments, Randolph and East Randolph need to bolster their ranks so they can continue to provide the optimum level of protection for residents.
“We are always looking for new members and it is our hope that, after meeting us, more people will be interested in becoming a part of our family,” McElwain said.
Additionally, the Randolph Fire Company Junior Firefighter Program, under the direction of 1st Asst. Chief Brian Pitts, is now back in operation. Teens ages 14 to 17 are encouraged to apply.