Firefighter & EMS Recruitment Event To Be Hosted In Suffolk

YAPHANK, NY — A Firefighters and EMS Recruitment Event is scheduled for Saturday in Yaphank, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone announced. The event is set to run from 8 a.m. to noon at the Suffolk County Fire Academy, at 102 East Ave., Yaphank. The Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) and the Suffolk County Fire Academy are set to host the event.

The function is due to feature various vehicle demonstrations and on-site resources for potential future firefighters and emergency medical service members to become familiar with, including a drone demonstration during a firefighting and rope rescue class.

Recruitment specialists from Suffolk County plan to discuss the benefits available to potential first responders.

"As we’ve seen throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our volunteer firefighters and emergency responders in Suffolk County make countless sacrifices as they answer the call of duty every single day," Bellone stated. "Suffolk County is hosting this showcase to call upon those who may be interested in giving back to their communities and joining alongside our hometown heroes, who have worked tirelessly through the last 18 months."

The event is also set to feature antique fire apparatus equipment, a first responder classic car showcase and the latest equipment used by firefighters.

"Recruitment events are a terrific opportunity for perspective first responders and community members to learn about emergency services, how volunteer organizations operate and why they’re essential to our communities," Suffolk County FRES Acting Commissioner Patrick Beckley said. "We encourage individuals of all ages to attend and be a part of the future of the fire service."

In addition to prospective first responders, junior firefighters and educational groups are invited to attend. Coronavirus guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are expected to be followed at the event.

Candidates who are interested in becoming a first responder but are not able to attend the recruitment event can check the Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services website.