WHITE PLAINS, NY — In a panel discussion this past month at the Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York’s Summit, John Hauschild, Sullivan County deputy commissioner of public safety and fire coordinator, emphasized the significance of conveying a positive message during the recruitment process.

“It’s absolutely crucial that we attract new volunteer firefighters in a way that’s interesting, exciting and truthful,” Hauschild said. “We need to give people compelling reasons to join our ranks, and to stay long after.”

Hauschild shared the work of the Join Sullivan Fire Recruitment & Retention Task Force. The task force is involved in community events such as the Bagel Festival in Monticello and the Little World’s Fair in Grahamsville, and it collaborated with the Sullivan County Youth Bureau to create an Emergency Services Youth Academy this coming summer.

The panel included representatives from Suffolk County, Onondaga County and the NYS Office of Fire Prevention & Control. It delved into critical aspects of recruitment and retention within the fire service. Additionally, Luci Labriola-Cuffe, the deputy state fire administrator, talked about the state’s stipend program and the availability of training to support and incentivize individuals interested in pursuing a role in the fire service.

“By sharing successful initiatives and discussing ongoing activities, all of the panelists provided valuable insights into the importance of positive messaging, as well as the need for innovative programs and community engagement to attract and retain individuals in the fire service,” Hauschild said. “We’re taking a proactive approach to cultivate interest in the emergency services and ensure the continued availability of well-prepared responders.”