The BUGLE

2025 Seminar Series Resumes This Fall

August 2025 -- Association News

Past Chief/Coordinator of Education Mike Healy (Central Nyack F.D./Rockland Co.) and Firefighter/Instructor Jeff Daniels (FDNY/Rockland Co.) will present “Short-Handed Firefighting” in the following counties: Cortland (October 28), Erie (October 8), Fulton (September 9), Jefferson (October 15), Monroe (September 30), Nassau (November 5), Oneida (September 24), Onondaga (October 27), Otsego (September 15), Rensselaer (October 20), and Westchester (September 3). Registration is $35 (NYSAFC Individual and Department Members) and $50 (non-members) per person. Pre-register or sign up at the door! Seminars begin at 7:00 p.m.

Regional Hands-On Training Opportunities

August 2025 -- Association News

Open enrollment is available for several NYSAFC Regional HOT courses scheduled for sites across New York state this fall. "Fire Behavior On the Inside" is coming to Fulton (September 13-14), Jefferson (September 20-21), Orange (October 4-5) and (October 25-26)*, Schenectady (October 18-19)*, and Sullivan (November 1-2)* Counties. "Flashover" is scheduled for Erie (September 27-28)* and Monroe (October 11-12) Counties. *Space is limited in denoted programs, so email to inquire about session availability.

NYSAFC 119th Annual Conference & FIRE 2025 Expo Highlights

August 2025 -- Association News

Pictures from training, the conference, and the show are available on the NYSAFC Flickr photostream! Thanks to the attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, instructors, volunteers, and our partners in Syracuse for your support of this event. Special thanks to our photographers, Sidewinder Photography and Wainwright Photo. Mark your calendar for the 120th Annual Conference & FIRE 2026 Expo – June 10-13 in Syracuse!

9/11 Memorial Stair Climb & Walk Supports the FDNY CSU and NFFF

August 2025 -- Association News

The NYSAFC FIRE 2025 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb & Walk was held on June 13 at Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial in conjunction with this year's Conference & FIRE Expo. The event to honor those lost on 9/11 raised over $17,000 for the FDNY Counseling Services Unit and family programs of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. More than 50 people took part in the climb, with an additional 125 completing the virtual walk as they toured the exhibit hall. Thank you to all who supported the event, including the Career Fire Chiefs of New York State. Special thanks to Randy Jensen, the many volunteers, and the entire NFFF team for coordinating the event.

Safeguarding the Future of FirstNet: Why New York’s Fire Service Needs Congressional Action

August 2025 -- Government Affairs News

The Middle-Class Tax Relief Act that created FirstNet contains a sunset clause. Unless Congress acts to remove this sunset provision, FirstNet will expire in February 2027.

Two Years After Chaumont Fire, New York Updates Fire Codes for Large Battery Installations

August 2025 -- Government Affairs News

State fire officials have adopted new standards for fire safety for large battery energy storage systems, the result of a safety push in part sparked by a major blaze in Jefferson County in July 2023.

Former FDNY Officials Declare Battery Energy Storage Systems Safe Under ‘Stringent’ New New York Code

August 2025 -- Government Affairs News

Six former New York City fire safety officials and experts have issued a joint declaration affirming the safety of battery energy storage systems under New York state’s newly updated regulations, which they describe as “among the most stringent in the country.”

EPA Administrator Weighs in on Proposed Lithium-Ion Battery Facility in Hauppauge

August 2025 -- Government Affairs News

The Hauppauge Fire District is calling for a moratorium on a proposed 79-megawatt battery energy storage system.

EMS News Briefs from Mike McEvoy

August 2025 -- Firemedically Speaking

White House Orders Critical Medicine Stockpile; Federal Resources for Prehospital Blood.

Fishers Fire District to Close: What This Means for Victor Residents

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The Fishers Fire Board of Commissioners has voted to dissolve the Fishers Fire District, officially ending its operation on October 1.

Assistant Fire Chief; How firefighters Worked to Save Lives After Deadly Bus Crash

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Five people were killed in a bus crash on the Thruway in Pembroke, Genesee County. First responders worked to save lives at the scene.

Fire Rips Through Living Quarters of Historic Firehouse

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Fire ripped through the upstairs living quarters of the Poughkeepsie Fire Department’s Hooker Avenue firehouse, which has been a part of the South Side neighborhood since 1926.

Syracuse to Address Vacant Building Fires with New Prevention Strategies

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Syracuse plans to implement a monitoring system for vacant property traits that predict and prevent fires and protect firefighters.

Former Fire Department Treasurer Pleads Guilty to $300K Theft

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The former treasurer of the Vernon Center Fire Department has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $300,000 from the volunteer department.

Fire Department to Undergo Sensitivity Training Following Video of Chief Cursing at Patient

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company will revise policies for handling minors and require sensitivity training.

Judges Recuse Themselves in Case of Fire Chief Accused of Groping Paramedic

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

A Columbia County fire chief charged with misdemeanors for allegedly groping a paramedic during an emergency overdose call will have his case heard at a different court.

Westchester County Volunteer Firefighter Detained by ICE, Sent to Michigan Correctional Center

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

A Westchester County family and community are fighting for the release of a father of three and volunteer firefighter who has been in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Lawmaker Files Charges Against Chief Amid Feud Over ICE Raid Protest

August 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Assemblyman accuses East Brentwood fire chief of storming into his office following tensions over ICE’s use of a firehouse parking lot.

Bring NYSAFC Training to Your Area in 2026

August 2025 -- Program & Event Updates

If your organization is interested in hosting NYSAFC Regional Hands-On Training or classroom-based programs next year, now is the time to let us know! NYSAFC will be scheduling 2026 dates for HOT courses, the Seminar Series, and Company Officers Leadership Training (COLT) soon. HOT is scheduled based on availability of association instructors and mobile training units. For classes, past attendance at events in the area and proximity to other host agencies are considered during site selection. Submit the appropriate Host Request Form for consideration.

Phoenix Firecamp 2025 Held in Utica

August 2025 -- Around the State

13 teenage girls graduated from the annual training program conducted by the Fire Service Women of NYS, Inc. (FSWNYS).

Port Jervis Fire Company Celebrates 135 Years of Service

August 2025 -- Around the State

Tri-States Hose Co. No. 6, at 135-years-old, is the youngest of Port Jervis Fire Department’s individual companies. Established in 1890, Hose 6 is the youngest, but its circa-1892 firehouse remains the oldest continuously operated.

Upcoming Training Programs and Events Across New York State

August 2025 -- NYSAFC Calendar of Events

View the NYSAFC calendar of events.

It is Time to Move Forward with a Workable OSHA 1910.156 Revision

July 2025 -- Association News

Editorial – Endorsed by the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York, and County Fire Coordinators’ Association of the State of New York.

NYSAFC Hands-On Training at the FDNY Training Academy

July 2025 -- Association News

NYSAFC Hands-On Training at The Rock – the FDNY Training Academy – was held May 17-18. This is the association's second weekend program at the renowned facility. 110 firefighters completed engine and truck company stations led by a cadre of FDNY and NYSAFC instructors. Students traveled from across New York state, as well as from Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, Texas, West Virginia, and Ontario, Canada, to participate. Thank you to our instructors, and special thanks to Chief Michael Myers, Chief Leonard Roe, and the entire academy staff for a great weekend of learning and networking. NYSAFC will be returning to the academy for training at a date to be announced.

NYSAFC Award Recipients Announced

July 2025 -- Association News

The association's 2025 award recipients were recognized during the General Session of the 119th Annual Conference & FIRE 2025 Expo on June 5 in Syracuse, NY.

Memorial Service for Jason McGlone at East Branch Fire Station Honors His Life

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Assistant Fire Chief Jason McGlone of the East Branch Fire Department (Delaware County) died in the line of duty on July 17 while responding to a scene.

West Colesville Fire Chief James Sitek Remembered for Service, 'Brilliance'

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

James Sitek, a volunteer firefighter for 40 years, died after suffering an apparent medical emergency in the line of duty while fighting a blaze in the early morning hours of July 4 in Broome County.

Saratoga Springs Fire Chief Returns to Helm After Two Years

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Chief Joseph Dolan was exonerated of all misconduct charges against him.

Fishers Fire District’s Board of Commissioners Delays Vote on Controversial Dissolution Proposal After Packed Hearing

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

After months of heated discussion and public outcry, the Board of Commissioners for the Fishers Fire District has decided to hold off on a vote to dissolve the agency, following a meeting earlier this month.

Syracuse Fire Reopens Engine Company 12 Amid Increased Call Volume, Construction

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The Syracuse Fire Department said the reopening of the station on West Genesee Street was crucial due to record-breaking call volume and changes to its infrastructure.

Former Fire Chief Admits Stealing $101,000 from Department

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The former chief and treasurer of the Marbletown Volunteer Fire Department in Newark, Wayne County, pleaded guilty to stealing more than $100,000 from it, state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said.

Former Fire Company Treasurer Admits to Stealing Nearly $450K

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

A former treasurer for the Sheridan Park Volunteer Fire Company in Tonawanda admitted to stealing nearly $450,000 from the organization over a period of six years, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office said.

Oneida County First Responders Vocalize Frustrations Over Communication Issues

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The Volunteer Fire Company of Western is urging Oneida County to fix communication issues that are critical in emergencies. Fire Chief Michael Anania is worried for those who live in the area that his department serves, along with his crew.

Oneida County Executive Responds to Western’s Communication Issues Claim

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Anthony Picente Jr. has responded to the Volunteer Fire Company of Western’s claims about communication issues.

Groundbreaking Held for New Montgomery County EMS Facility

July 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Sheriff Jeffery Smith said the Montgomery County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division Facility will improve emergency response times and strengthen public safety across the county.

Vernon Fire Department Celebrates 200 Years of Service

July 2025 -- Around the State

The Vernon Fire Department celebrated its 200th anniversary with a parade and a celebration.

Stittville Fire Department Celebrates 100 Years of Service

July 2025 -- Around the State

The department celebrated 100 years of service to the community with a gathering at firemen's field.

Elmira Heights Fire Department Honors 55-Year Member

July 2025 -- Around the State

Bradley Nicholson was recognized for his dedication to the fire service.

Upcoming Training Programs and Events Across New York State

July 2025 -- NYSAFC Calendar of Events

View the NYSAFC calendar of events.

New York Firefighters Focus on Health and Safety Training at Syracuse Conference

June 2025 -- Association News

Coverage of the NYSAFC Annual Conference & Expo.

New York State Association of Fire Chiefs 2025-2026 Officers Installed

June 2025 -- Association News

Chief (Ret.) Richard L. Lyman of the City of White Plains Fire Department, Westchester County, took office as president of the association on June 7 during the 119th Annual Conference & FIRE 2025 Expo Installation Ceremony held in Syracuse, NY. Lyman is a 44-year fire service veteran and served as chief from 2003-2021. He is the fifth White Plains fire chief to lead NYSAFC as president.

Thanks for Joining NYSAFC at FIRE 2025! Mark Your Calendar for FIRE 2026!

June 2025 -- Association News

Thank you to our vendors, sponsors, attendees, instructors, and volunteers for participating in the 119th Annual Conference & FIRE 2025 Expo in Syracuse. Special thanks to the city of Syracuse, Syracuse Fire Department, Onondaga County, and our host venues for the hospitality and support. Pictures from the event will be available in the coming weeks. Join us at FIRE 2026 in Syracuse from June 10-13! Exhibitor and attendee registration will open this fall.

Save the Date for the 2026 Long Island Metro Fire/EMS Expo

June 2025 -- Association News

The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs and Islip Town Fire/EMS Museum Educational Center are excited to announce the dates for next year's Long Island Metro Fire/EMS Expo. Join us from January 30 – February 1 for this exciting fire/EMS educational event and exposition held at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY. Exhibitor registration will open this fall. Details on educational opportunities will be available in the coming months.

NYSAFC 2025 End of Session Update

June 2025 -- Government Affairs News

New York state legislative briefing from Todd Vandervort and the Government Affairs Committee.

New York Leaders Concerned with Trump Plan to 'Phase Out' FEMA

June 2025 -- Government Affairs News

How funding would work under Trump’s plan isn’t too clear, but the overarching theme is to make it a state issue.

Trump Orders Consolidation of Federal Wildland Firefighting Under Interior Department

June 2025 -- Government Affairs News

President Donald Trump has directed the creation of a single wildland firefighting program, shifting thousands from the U.S. Forest Service to a new agency.

NYS DOH Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard

June 2025 -- Emergency Services Resources

Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S and New York state. The New York State Department of Health's Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard webpage includes numerous resources, including an interactive map to check the heat risk forecast in your area.

2025 Safety Stand Down Focuses on Responder Behavioral Health

June 2025 -- Emergency Services Resources

"Break the Stigma: Behavioral Health RESET" – The 2025 Firefighter Safety Stand Down (June 15-21) focused on the topic of behavioral health, asking departments to help break the stigma and RESET their approach to behavioral health through these daily focus themes: Recognize, Educate, Strategies, Empower, and Training.

EMS News Briefs from Mike McEvoy

June 2025 -- Firemedically Speaking

DOH Policy for Independent Study CME Recertification; Revised Statewide EMS Protocols Updated

"Fatal Firefighter Injuries in the U.S." Report Shows 62 On-Duty Deaths in 2024, a 31 Percent Decrease Over 2023

June 2025 -- Emergency Services News

NFPA released its “Fatal Firefighter Injuries in the U.S. in 2024” report in June.

Fishers Fire District to Dissolve? Former Chief Weighs In

June 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Concerns are growing over life-saving services in an Ontario County community, as the Fishers Fire District considers dissolving.

Rush Fire District 'Blindsided' by EMS Merger Decision

June 2025 -- Emergency Services News

All EMS services in the town of Rush will now be handled by CHS Integrated Healthcare. The Rush Fire District's board of fire commissioners voted to merge the district's volunteer ambulance with CHS.

How New York is Addressing the Safety Concerns that Come with More Electric Vehicles on the Road

June 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Electric vehicle fires create challenges when it comes to the time, water, resources, and money needed to battle them.

Memorial Service for NYS DOT Supervisor, Fire Chief

June 2025 -- Around the State

DOT Supervisor Robert Bornt died when a motorist struck him in a work zone in Pittstown. Bornt was also chief of the Hoosick Falls Fire Department in Rensselaer County.

Rockland Breaks Ground on Memorial for Fallen Firefighters

June 2025 -- Around the State

Long-held dreams of a memorial honoring Rockland County firefighters who died in the line of duty took a step toward reality.

New York Firefighter Explorer Program Celebrates 50 Years of Training Teens

June 2025 -- Around the State

A New York fire department has the oldest explorer program in the country, which is turning 50 this fall.

Oriskany Fire Department Celebrates Milestone

June 2025 -- Around the State

Village turned out to help mark the department's 125 years of service in Oneida County.

Rensselaer Falls Volunteer Fire Department Marks 100 Years

June 2025 -- Around the State

Rensselaer Falls Fire Department of St. Lawrence County celebrated 100 years of service.

Upcoming Training Programs and Events Across New York State

June 2025 -- NYSAFC Calendar of Events

View the NYSAFC calendar of events.

The 119th Annual Conference & FIRE 2025 Expo is Just Around the Corner

May 2025 -- Association News

Join NYSAFC from June 4-7 in Syracuse. This year’s event features 136 exhibitors, 10 Hands-On Training courses, 34 classroom lectures – including 6 EMS CME courses – accredited training for code officials and fire commissioners, the Keynote Address presented by EMT/Firefighter John McMaster of the Baltimore City (MD) Fire Department, plus networking opportunities for responders of all ranks. Free tickets for the expo are available from vendors and free parking is available in The Oncenter Garage.

2025-2026 NYSAFC Officers Announced

May 2025 -- Association News

The NYSAFC Nominations & Elections Committee has announced the association’s 2025-2026 officers. They will be installed on June 7 during the 119th Annual Conference in Syracuse.

New York State Fire Service Alliance Government Affairs Update

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

Two key legislative victories were achieved in the final New York State Budget.

IAFC Establishes DHS/FEMA Reform Task Force

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

As the Trump administration begins its efforts to reform the nation’s homeland security framework and makes changes to FEMA, IAFC President Josh Waldo established a task force to provide recommendations on how the administration’s efforts can meet the needs of local fire and emergency departments.

Amid Outcry, Fired 9/11 Health Program Staff Back on Job

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

The program provides health services to about 137,000 first responders and survivors who suffered injuries and illnesses after the attacks.

National Firefighter Registry for Cancer Back Online

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. admitted making a "mistake" in slashing programs earmarked for responders.

FEMA to Resume In-Person Training at National Fire Academy

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

FEMA reversed a months-long freeze after determining key courses were critical to local and national emergency response efforts.

Resuming of Classes at National Fire Academy Campus Brings Relief

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

The unified voice of fire and rescue personnel made the difference in the outcome, said Bill Webb, CFSI executive director.

As Recruitment Lags, Goldman Introduces Bill Making Volunteer Firefighters Eligible for Student Loan Forgiveness

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

New York Representative Dan Goldman is introducing legislation expanding the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, making volunteer firefighters and EMTs eligible for federal student loan forgiveness after 10 years of service and 120 qualifying payments.

Chaumont Fire Chief Rallies for Solar Storage Battery Safety Bill

May 2025 -- Government Affairs News

Chaumont Chief Will Lipczynski came to the state Capitol to urge lawmakers to pass a battery energy storage system safety bill. The Chaumont Fire Department battled a fire at a BESS facility in the summer of 2023, an effort that took days and stretched the technical capabilities of modern firefighting equipment.

NYSDOL Extreme Weather Guidance Webpage

May 2025 -- Emergency Services Resources

The New York State Department of Labor has created an Extreme Weather Guidance webpage, which now includes a heat illness and injury prevention plan template employers may use to help better protect workers from extreme heat.

Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Sign Up for "Triple Three Triple One" Emergency and Weather Alert

May 2025 -- Emergency Services Resources

New Yorkers can text their county of residence to 333111 to receive real time emergency and weather alert texts directly to their phones. In NYC, residents can text the name of their borough.

EMS News Briefs from Mike McEvoy

May 2025 -- Firemedically Speaking

MOLST Form Updates to Nursing Homes; New IAFC Heart Safe Community Guide

New York State Department of Health Honors Fallen Emergency Medical Providers at EMS Memorial Ceremony

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

On May 20, DOH recognized the bravery of five EMS providers who died while serving and protecting New Yorkers.

Ex-FDNY Chief Gets 3 Years for Taking Bribes to Fast-Track Safety Inspections

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

A former New York City Fire Department chief has been sentenced to three years in prison for accepting tens of thousands of dollars in bribes to fast-track fire safety inspections.

Former Fire Chief Pleads Guilty to Charges that He Rerouted Money to Family Go-Kart Track

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The former chief of Hannibal Fire has been ordered to pay almost $10,000 in restitution.

Queens Man Found Guilty of Murder in FDNY Paramedic Alison Russo's Stabbing Death

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Alison Russo, a 9/11 first responder and FDNY veteran, was stabbed in September 2022 while walking from her stationhouse to get a snack.

New York National Guard Boosts EMS Workforce with 150 Newly Certified EMTs

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

In a significant boost to New York's emergency medical services workforce, approximately 150 New York National Guard service members have successfully obtained EMT certification through a new training initiative announced by the New York State Department of Health.

Ulster County Legislature Approves $4.7M Investment into EMS

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

In March 2025, Ulster County officials announced a $4.9 million investment into emergency medical services. However, that plan transformed into a $4.7 million plan, which the Ulster County Legislature approved in a unanimous vote.

Push Underway for More 24/7 Ambulances in Troy

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

The Troy Fire Department is operating with three ambulances available 24/7. This has been the case since April 1. The community is advocating for a fourth ambulance to be reinstated.

Schenectady County Plans to Contract with Rotterdam Not-for-Profit to Boost EMS Response

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

County officials cite mounting demand for mutual aid as rationale for new two-person ambulance crew.

Official Proposes Joining Lewis County's EMS Squads Together

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

While the number of EMS workers declines and costs go up, the head of one ambulance company thinks joining all of Lewis County’s squads together could be the answer.

EMS Leaders Disagree on Greene County Consolidation Plan So Far

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Back-and-forth editorials show dissenting voices in the process.

Authorities Warn of ‘Dangerous’ Social Media Trend

May 2025 -- Emergency Services News

Both state and Capital Region law enforcement agencies are warning parents about a new social media trend called the “Chromebook Challenge.”

Greece Students Show Off First Responder Skills During Showcase

May 2025 -- Around the State

During the event, students led demonstrations of emergency skills like CPR, first aid, and ladder operations, highlighting the real-world public safety skills students are getting through the Greece School District’s Career Pathway Program.

Fire Truck Donated to Questar III BOCES

May 2025 -- Around the State

The Gloversville Fire Department donated the truck to the Questar III BOCES fire services program.

Livingston County Fire Training Tower Earns National Recognition

May 2025 -- Around the State

American City & County has named the Livingston County Office of Emergency Management’s Fire Training Tower as a 2024 recipient of its annual Crown Communities Award.

Third Generation FDNY Firefighter Ready to Carve His Own Path

May 2025 -- Around the State

Firefighter Joseph Angelini III, whose father and grandfather were killed in the 9/11 terrorist attack, received his acceptance to the academy at 9:11 a.m.

Upcoming Training Programs and Events Across New York State

May 2025 -- NYSAFC Calendar of Events

View the NYSAFC calendar of events.

Fire Service Alliance Advocacy Day

April 2025 -- Association News

On March 26, 2025, members of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York, and County Fire Coordinators’ Association of the State of New York traveled to Albany to participate in the annual Fire Service Alliance Advocacy Day. Members met with their Senate and Assembly representatives to make them aware of the critical issues impacting the fire and emergency medical services that are included in the Issues of United Concern legislative agenda. Fire/EMS leaders also had the opportunity to meet with Governor Kathy Hochul and State EMS Bureau Director Ryan Greenberg. NYSAFC officers are pictured with Senator Shelley Mayer. Thanks to all who joined us for the productive day.

Free One Day Tickets for the FIRE 2025 Expo are Available from Our Vendors

April 2025 -- Association News

More than 100 vendors (and counting) have signed up to exhibit at the NYSAFC 119th Annual Conference & FIRE 2025 Expo in Syracuse! The exhibit hall will be open June 5-7 at The Oncenter. Once again this year, exhibiting companies will be sharing free One Day Tickets for the expo, and free parking will be available in The Oncenter garage. Contact an exhibitor to request tickets! Tickets can also be purchased in advance or at the door, along with Conference Full Term Registration (for entry to classes and the expo).

NIOSH Firefighter Programs to be Temporarily Restored Following ‘Misinterpreted Executive Order’

April 2025 -- Government Affairs News

IAFF President Ed Kelly says talks with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have heightened attention on saving some firefighter health and safety programs.

New York Legislators Propose Permanent Disability Benefits for Volunteer Firefighters

April 2025 -- Government Affairs News

Democrats in the New York State Legislature introduced a bill that makes disability benefits for volunteer firefighters with lung diseases permanent. The legislation, also backed by Republicans, would get rid of the current annual renewal requirement so those injured on the job get lasting support.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon Advocates for Permanent Protection of Firefighters' Health with New Bill

April 2025 -- Government Affairs News

The Volunteer Firefighters Benefit Law, originally established in 1977, is reviewed by lawmakers every five years. The proposed legislation seeks to make this law permanent.

Supporting First Responders: Governor Hochul Announces Funding to Support Suicide Prevention Efforts for Veterans and Uniformed Personnel

April 2025 -- Government Affairs News

CARES UP provides $60,000 grants to veterans’ organizations, first responder and corrections agencies to implement trauma and mental wellness training. Awards support law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical service members, correction officers, dispatchers, and military veterans.

Integrated Health & Wellness Toolkit Available

April 2025 -- Emergency Services Resources

The toolkit from the First Responder Center for Excellence includes a variety of helpful resources on topics such as behavioral health, cancer reduction, and cardiac health curated by experts in the field.

Pet Care with Shift Work: What First Responders Need to Know to Make Pet Ownership Manageable

April 2025 -- Emergency Services Resources

The uniform doesn’t come with a manual for pet ownership – this might help.

EMS News Briefs from Mike McEvoy

April 2025 -- Firemedically Speaking

DOH EMS Quality Page Updated; State EMS Bureau Reorganizing.

National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend 2025