Setauket FD Badly in Need of Volunteers

In need of volunteers, the Setauket Fire Department is opening its doors to area residents so they can learn about what it takes to be a volunteer Firefighter or Emergency Medical Technician.

According to chief Bill Rohr, the department has anywhere from 12 to 20 fewer volunteers than what they should have. 

"In addition those members we do have already are so overburdened with family and work obligations that they have less time to respond than they did in the past," Rohr said. 

As to why the department is so low on volunteers, Rohr points to and increased number who commute away from the area for work, as well as the increased requirements and training needed to become a volunteer.

"In the slumping economy people are working more hours at their jobs or even working second and third jobs," Rohr said. "Finally, the requirements have become so much more involved than in years past. The increased training is good for the safety of our members, however it only adds to the burden of time spent away from family and other obligations."

The recruitment will be held on April 27 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Setauket Fire Department located at 190 Route 25A cross of Old Town Road. It takes place as part of National Volunteer Week 2013.

"Now, more than ever, it really takes a special kind of person with the heart and commitment to drop what they are doing at a moments notice to help a neighbor or a stranger they've never met," Rohr said.

This story includes reporting from Christine Sampson.