West NY News

Chautauqua County fire departments are embracing a new training stipend program designed to address the recruitment challenges faced by the fire service. The initiative, spearheaded by the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC), aims to support volunteer firefighters in small municipalities by providing financial assistance for essential training courses.

Fire Chief Joshua Myers of the Fredonia Fire Department has been a vocal advocate for the program, highlighting its potential to attract more individuals to serve their communities as volunteer firefighters. Chief Myers emphasized, "This stipend program represents a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to strengthen and stabilize the volunteer fire service."

Noel Guttman, Director of Emergency Services for Chautauqua County, echoed the importance of the program in supporting fire departments across the county, stating, "The launch of this stipend program is a significant step forward in addressing the recruitment challenges faced by fire departments throughout Chautauqua County."

Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr., who also has a background as a volunteer firefighter, emphasized the critical role of first responders in community safety. He remarked, "This stipend program presents a unique opportunity for individuals to join our dedicated community of firefighters, forging bonds that transcend duty and enrich the fabric of our county."

Village of Fredonia Mayor Michael Ferguson commended the state's commitment to bolstering volunteer firefighting ranks through the program, stating, "By investing in our local heroes, we not only enhance public safety but also reinforce the spirit of community resilience that defines our town."

The stipend program, backed by $10 million in funding, offers financial support to volunteer firefighters upon completion of essential training courses. Eligible courses include Basic Exterior Firefighter Operations, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus and Interior Firefighting Operations, and Fire Officer 1. Stipends range from $750 to $1,250, with additional funding available for further training courses as determined by state fire officials.

Chief Myers reiterated the importance of the program in supporting volunteer firefighters, expressing gratitude for the state's recognition of their contributions. He stated, "We are grateful for the State's recognition of the invaluable contributions made by volunteer firefighters and look forward to the positive impact this program will have on recruitment efforts in Chautauqua County."

Fire departments interested in participating in the program must meet certain requirements, including submitting fire reporting for the previous calendar year and completing the annual fire department demographics form. More information on eligibility criteria and application details can be found on the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control website.