Seaside Heights Fire Department Launches FEMA-Funded Recruitment Campaign

Seaside Heights, NJ – Seaside Heights residents and visitors have always relied on the Seaside Heights Fire Department to protect them and their property, in their homes, on the roadway, and in the water. After 113 years of providing top-tier fire protection and rescue, the department launched a campaign asking residents to return the favor by becoming a fire department volunteer. The word is being spread through a new volunteer recruitment campaign, website and slogan: “Your Community. Your Beach. Your Turn!” It was developed by fire company volunteers during a brainstorming session, and will be featured on its new website www.JoinSeasideHeights.org

The volunteer recruitment campaign will also include compelling social media volunteer profiles, recruitment videos, recruitment events, targeted mailings, and much more – all at no cost to local taxpayers. The four-year Seaside Heights campaign is funded entirely through a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grant program recognizes that Seaside Heights and fire companies across the nation face a shortage of volunteers.

“Our fire department was founded in 1913, the same year as Seaside Heights Borough. People who live, work, or visit Seaside Heights have never been without the emergency services our volunteers provide,” said Fire Chief Tim Farrell. “To continue our work and keep up with the growth of our community, we need more volunteers. We need community members to step up, take the free training, and make a difference.”

By visiting www.JoinSeasideHeights.org, community members can learn about the Seaside Heights Fire Department, explore ways to volunteer, view member testimonials and find the answers to common questions. A no-obligation inquiry form, once completed, is the gateway to visiting the fire department for a tour and an overview of volunteer opportunities. The opportunity is ideal for year long and seasonal residents alike.

The volunteers of Seaside Heights are confident that once their community understands the need for volunteers, they will respond – especially when they realize this is a volunteer experience like no other.

“There’s nothing more rewarding and satisfying than saving somebody’s life, and you also get to spend time and train with some remarkably talented and interesting people,” said Firefighter and Water Rescue Team Member Michael Kachmar.

“Joining the fire department has helped my confidence and made me realize I’m capable of doing more physically than I would have expected,” said Firefighter Madison Baun.

Ways to Volunteer

Firefighters, junior firefighters, fire police and ocean rescue team members respond to a wide range of and growing number of calls. Due to the high volume and variety of calls, more volunteers are needed and no prior experience is necessary to join. No prior experience is necessary – training and gear are free! Non-emergency members also play vital roles at the fire department and in the community!

Firefighter

Protect lives and property by responding to fires, accidents, hazardous conditions and other emergencies, whether you’re already certified or completely new to firefighting but at least 18 years old and ready to learn.

Ocean Rescue

Rescue people from the water, provide first aid, and otherwise ensure the safety and well-being of beachgoers, protecting them from hazards such as rip currents, high surf, and other dangers.

Junior Firefighter

Start making a difference at age 16. Train with other members and be ready to get certified at age 18.

Fire Police

Help direct traffic and bystanders and keep the emergency scene calm and clear so firefighters or ocean rescuers can focus on their work.

Non-emergency Volunteer

Help keep our fire company strong by running community events and fundraisers, educating the public in fire safety, maintaining our building and apparatus, tackling business and administrative tasks, and more

“Our volunteers come from many backgrounds, but they share the desire to help the community we serve,” said Chief Farrell. “You don’t need experience, you just want to help in an exciting and very rewarding way.”

To bring attention to the need for more volunteers, Seaside Heights Fire Company is working with The Communication Solutions Group Inc., a full-service public relations marketing firm based in Jenkintown, Pa. The company has successfully run recruitment campaigns for other NJ fire and EMS companies including Ship Bottom Volunteer Fire Company, Neptune EMS, Toms River and Laurence Harbour.

To learn more about Seaside Heights Fire Department or fill out a volunteer inquiry form, visit www.JoinSeasideHeights.org