Over the last two decades, New York’s volunteer firefighter ranks have plunged by 33%, leaving roughly 80,000 active personnel.
To address this decline and increase staffing at the state’s volunteer departments, FASNY will launch a “Fire Up NY Red” (#FireUpNYRed) campaign from April 1-14, coinciding with the start of RecruitNY weekend on Saturday, April 13.
“We’re working with state and local officials to get some of our biggest landmarks involved,” said FASNY President Edward Tase, Jr. “We are still refining the details, but our goals are high. We’re shooting for sites like the Empire State Building, Gov. Mario Cuomo Bridge, Niagara Falls, and JMA Wireless Dome to get involved.”
Tase stressed the need for all firehouses statewide to glow red in the week leading up to RecruitNY. He also urged firefighters to light their homes and businesses with red lights. The lights symbolize their commitment to a tradition of neighborly help and the need for more volunteers. Additionally, Tase called on residents to join the effort by switching on red porch lights in support of their local fire departments.
FASNY would like to showcase your Fire Up NY Red efforts — both in the magazine and on our social media platforms. Please send your photos with a short caption to photos@fasny.com.