By FRES Commissioner Rudy Sunderman
YAPHANK – In Suffolk County, nearly all 109 fire departments and 27 ambulance corps consist of a completely volunteer-based force from the community. While there are over 11,000 volunteers that make up the fire and emergency medical services in Suffolk County, the need for more volunteers has increased. Becoming a volunteer comes with comradery, tangible and intangible benefits, and a way for everyone to serve.
Besides volunteering to fight fires, administer emergency medical treatment, or both, there are many other ways to get involved. Administrators, dispatchers, fire police who direct traffic, and service personnel to provide comfort and support at the scene are just a few of the many opportunities that exist for adult volunteers of any age. Volunteering requires you to devote time to learning and maintaining skills. All your training and equipment will be provided. Once your training is complete, you will be expertly prepared to respond professionally as part of your community’s first line of defense in time of emergency. “These brave men and women are our friends’ loved ones and community members. But now more than ever they need your help”, says Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches).
Volunteering benefits you in both personal and public ways. As a volunteer you will earn the respect of your community, gain immense pride from your accomplishments, increase your knowledge and skills from your training, make strong social ties with your fellow brother and sister volunteers, and, of course, there is little that can compare to the satisfaction that comes from doing an important job that contributes to the security and welfare of your community.
There are also numerous material benefits as a volunteer as well. With a variety of incentives available from the federal, state, and Suffolk County governments, as well as your local Fire and Emergency Medical Service companies.
- Property Tax Reductions
- State Income Tax Benefits
- Free Health Checkups
- Free Insurance
- FASNY College Tuition Reimbursement
- Suffolk County Higher Education and Vocational Training Reimbursement
- Service Pensions
- Affordable Housing Options
- New York State Fire Training Stipend
- Suffolk County Fire Academy College Credit
To volunteer or to learn more of the incredible rewards that come with being a volunteer, scan the QR code above or visit: www.suffolkbravest.com/volunteernew
We look forward to seeing you in uniform! Stay Safe Suffolk County!
Commissioner Rudy Sunderman has served as Commissioner of Suffolk Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services (FRES) since 2024.
