Why Should You Volunteer?

Have you ever wondered about the sadness and horror a family goes through as they stand on their front lawn watching fire begin to destroy everything they own. Imagine the feeling they have as they hear the sirens of the approaching fire trucks, knowing that their friends, neighbors and members of the community are coming to their aid.

Now imagine that same family, only this time there are no wailing sirens, no trucks and all of their possessions are gone forever.

Who Are the Professional Volunteer Firefighters?

They are people like you - men and women of all ages and careers. They are students, police officers, career firefighters, accountants, doctors, business owners, teachers, mechanics and postal workers. They are people from all walks of life. They are people who will leave their homes and families on a moments notice to fight the menace of fire or to assist at the scene of an accident.

What Are the Requirements?

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and in good physical condition. You must be able to pass a physical exam and a drug screening. These exams are given AT NO COST TO THE APPLICANT. In addition, you will be required to submit to a criminal background check. Upon acceptance, the new member will spend the first probationary year attending mandatory fire schools in order to complete the Firefighter 1 training requirements. All training is provided at no cost to the member. Upon completion of the basic required courses, the member will receive further training in such fire related courses as Firefighter 2, Confined Space & Technical Rescue, HazMat, Rapid Intervention, and CPR / AED, just to name a few. Our training is extensive and ongoing. In addition to training at the Suffolk County Fire Academy, members participate in various drills each Sunday.

PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOU HAVE PRIOR FIRE FIGHTER EXPERIENCE, SOME OR ALL OF THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS MAY BE WAIVED IF YOU HAVE ALREADY TAKEN THE REQUIRED BASIC COURSES.

What Do I Get Out of This?

When you become a member of the Mount Sinai Volunteer Fire Department you are automatically covered by Workers Compensation in the event of an injury during your volunteer duties. You are also covered by a whole life insurance policy and you become enrolled in the N.Y. State Length of Service Award Program. You have use of the fire department facilities including the physical fitness center. Most importantly, you get the personal satisfaction and pride that comes with being an important part of your community - a professional volunteer firefighter.

It Sounds Easy!

Make no mistake about it. Volunteering in the Mount Sinai Fire Department requires a commitment that few are willing to make. You will be required to put in some long and hard hours. Emergencies do not care about time, temperature, birthdays or holidays. On some nights you will be asked to get out of a warm, comfortable bed and respond to a fire or other emergency. As a firefighter you can expect to loose sleep, miss meals and push yourself to limits beyond what you thought you were capable of. Take our word for it....what you see on TV or in the movies doesn't begin to describe the reality of fighting a fire. It is a dangerous and demanding task. But it is also one of the most rewarding things you can do...knowing that you helped make a difference.

If you are a resident of the Mount Sinai Fire District and would like more information on joining the Mount Sinai Fire Department please call 631-473-2418, ext. 112 and leave us a message OR complete the form below. Give us your name, your age, a phone number and your home address. A member of the Candidate Screening Committee will contact you.

Volunteer Firefighting - It's An American Tradition

Email:* First Name:* Last Name:* Address: City: State: ZIP: Phone:* Birthdate: Are you now or have you ever been a firefighter? Yes No If you answered YES, please provide details in the remarks field below: