Madison Volunteer Firefighters Celebrated. More Needed

MADISON, NJ - The Madison Mayor and Council honored six volunteer firefighters with certificates of recognition for their years of volunteer service last week.

Their combined years of service comes to just over 250 years, officials said.

According to Fire Chief Lou DeRosa, the volunteer membership at the Madison Fire Department is low. Forty years ago, Madison boasted 80 volunteers. DeRosa said for generations the Madison Fire Department volunteers have answered the call, 24/7 to protect life and property. The Department has served Madison since 1881.

Because of the combination department, Madison has the immediate response of paid personnel, complemented by volunteer manpower which responds directly to the scene with their own personal protective gear. The department responds out of one firehouse, located on Prospect Street. The department operates 2 pumpers, an aerial truck, a rescue truck, and a utility truck and responds to over 1,300 calls a year.

Those accepted will be on probation for a two-year period. During that time, candidates will be expected to attend two courses at the Morris County Fire Academy: Firefighter 1 and Firefighter 2. Each module will require a commitment of two or three nights per week for 12 weeks. Recruits may also need to commit to one or two weekends. Probation can be extended if deemed necessary. Those interested will be required to attend drills and meetings usually held on Monday nights, work details and most importantly, fire calls.

DeRosa said while firefighting is physically demanding and at times a dangerous job, the the satisfaction of helping your neighbors during a time of need is immensely satisfying and very rewarding.

"If you're a male or female between 18 and 45 years of age, in good physical and mental health please consider joining," DeRosa said. "Your fire department needs your help."

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