Recruitment
The Forestburgh Fire Company is always looking for dedicated community members who are interested in serving their neighbors as volunteer firefighters and support personnel. As a 100% volunteer department, our ability to protect the community depends on local residents stepping forward to serve. Volunteering with the fire company is an opportunity to learn valuable skills, build lasting friendships, and make a meaningful difference in the safety of our town. No prior experience is necessary.
The department provides training, equipment, and support to help members succeed. Opportunities exist for firefighters, exterior support members, administrative support, and event volunteers. By joining the Forestburgh Fire Company, you become part of a proud tradition of service that has protected the Town of Forestburgh for generations.
If you are interested in learning more about volunteering, please contact us at join@forestburghfire.com or stop by the firehouse any Wednesday night between 7 and 9 p.m.. We would be proud to have you join our team.
Benefits of Becoming Member
Serve Your Neighbors When They Need It Most
When emergencies happen, they happen close to home. As a member of the Forestburgh Fire Company, you'll respond to:
Responding to
- Structure and vehicle fires
- Medical emergencies
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Storm and weather-related incidents
- Community service calls
You won't just be helping strangers — you'll be protecting your neighbors, friends, and family.
Financial & Tax Benefits (New York State)
NYS Income Tax Credit
Active volunteer firefighters in New York State are eligible for a refundable state income tax credit:
- $200 annually — individuals
- $400 — joint filers (if both qualify)
Property Tax Exemption
New York State law allows municipalities to provide a partial property tax exemption for qualified volunteer firefighters. This can reduce the taxable assessed value of your home and lower your annual property tax bill (subject to local adoption and service requirements).
Free Training & Education Incentives
100% Free Firefighter Training
All required training is provided at no cost to you. Courses include:
- Firefighter 1 & 2
- SCBA & Safety
- Emergency Scene Operations
- Interior Firefighting
- Vehicle Rescue
- And much more
No experience is required — we will train you from the ground up.
NYS Training Stipend Program
New York State now offers training stipends for volunteers who complete certain courses:
- $500 – $1,250 (or more), depending on the course
This program helps offset time and commitment required for training.
Scholarships & Tuition Assistance
- Volunteer firefighters may be eligible for:
- State and county scholarship programs
- Fire service association scholarships
- College credit opportunities for certain courses
Line-of-Duty Protection & Insurance
Volunteer Firefighters' Benefits Law (VFBL)
New York provides:
- Workers' compensation coverage
- Medical benefits
- Disability benefits if injured in the line of duty
Department-Provided Gear & Equipment
You will be issued:
- Full turnout gear
- Helmet, boots, gloves, and protective equipment
- Access to modern firefighting apparatus and tools
There is no cost to you for required protective equipment.
Career & Personal Development
Volunteering builds real-world skills that carry into every area of life:
- Leadership and decision-making
- Teamwork under pressure
- Emergency medical skills
- Confidence and discipline
- Mechanical and technical knowledge
Many volunteer firefighters use their experience as a pathway toward careers in:
- Career Fire Service
- EMS / Paramedicine
- Law Enforcement
- Public Service
- Skilled Trades
Brotherhood, Camaraderie & Community
The firehouse is more than a building — it's a second family. You'll build lifelong friendships and become part of a tradition of service that has protected Forestburgh for generations.
Our volunteers participate in:
- Community events
- Fire prevention programs
- Fundraisers
- Public outreach
Who Can Join?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are at least 16 years old (Explorer program coming soon for younger (14-15 year old) applicants)
- Live or work in or near the Forestburgh Fire District
- Are motivated to serve your community
We welcome individuals of all backgrounds — no prior experience necessary.
Take the First Step
If you're ready to:
- Give back to your community
- Develop valuable skills
- Earn financial and educational benefits
- Be part of something bigger than yourself
Contact the Forestburgh Fire Company today to learn how to apply.
Contact us through our website, email us at join@forestburghfire.com, speak to a member or stop by the firehouse any Wednesday evening from 7–9 p.m. for more information.
