Looking to make it easier for local fire departments and ambulance services to recruit and retain volunteers, Suffolk officials called on the state legislature to pass a package of bills to benefit first responders.
“Our volunteer first responders are the heart of our communities and deserve to be supported as they save lives and protect our homes and businesses every day,” said Suffolk Executive Edward Romaine, who was a part of a group of officials rallying for the measures in Dix Hills. They focused on legislation to assist first responders with mental health issues, fund vital equipment, and provide tax credits and other financial security initiatives to attract more volunteers.
“As a 37-year member of the Volunteer Fire Service, and still quite active as a Fire Chaplain and Team Leader in Suffolk County Emergency Services, I personally thank you for your recognition of the important role that we in fire and rescue continue to play in the protection of life and property in Suffolk County,” Joseph McCarthy told the officials. He thanked Assembly members Steve Stern and Joseph DeStefano for carrying the bills in Albany.
“You cannot put a price tag on what our volunteer firefighters and ambulance cost because their services are invaluable,” Stern said. “But if we had to, l can say with certainty that we would not be able to afford it. Therefore, we must do everything we can to maintain this vital part of our emergency infrastructure.”
“The bottom line is we would be less safe if we didn’t have the dedicated men and women who volunteer to protect us day in and day out,” DeStefano said. “When the alarm rings, no matter the time, no matter the weather, they answer the call.”
One of the bills would create a First Responder PTSD peer-to-peer program, modeled after the Dwyer Program for Veterans. Another would provide state funding for local departments to purchase gear and other equipment the volunteers need to do their job.