In an effort to inspire new recruits, the Center Moriches Fire Department held an open house on April 29th. It was the first time the department participated in a larger event known as RecruitNY, a day where firehouses across NY State opened their doors to the public in an effort to increase membership in the volunteer fire service.

Community members were invited to the Center Moriches Fire Department for a tour of the equipment, an opportunity to try on gear, and hear about the rewards of being a volunteer firefighter. Some of which include property tax breaks, college tuition reimbursement, and enrollment in Service Awards Program for volunteers.

According to the Center Moriches Fire Department’s recruitment committee, the number of volunteer firefighters have declined statewide in recent years. The RecruitNY initiative is a way to bring community awareness to this shortage, and it’s also a great opportunity to show the public what the fire department does for its community”

During the RecruitNY campaign the Center Moriches Fire Department received 6 new applications for membership.

While the RecruitNY weekend is over, the doors of the Center Moriches Fire Department are always open. If you’re interested in volunteering with the Center Moriches Fire Department click on the link to visit our webpage for additional information on becoming a member.

Photographs Courtesy Of Brian Renzetti Photography