Goldens Bridge FD Opens Its Fire Truck Bays To Local Residents

Since the beginning of 2019, the department has answered the call of major emergencies that received significant media coverage including drowning victims at the Muscoot Reservoir, three significant residential fires, a brush fire that scorched 12 acres of wetlands, two hazardous materials spills, and dangerous road conditions due to downed power lines.

“We will be relating first-hand experiences, not hypothetical scenarios, to prospective new members,” said Fire Chief James McManus.

The event will be held for residents ages 16 and up who are interested in being a firefighter from noon to 4 p.m., on Sunday, April 28, at the firehouse on Route 138, the chief said.

During the event, Goldens Bridge firefighters will be on hand to provide information and hands-on tours and tutorials of trucks, equipment, and gear, as part of the annual statewide recruitment initiative, RecruitNY.  

“Being a volunteer firefighter is one of the most meaningful and rewarding public service opportunities in our Golden’s Bridge community,” McManus said. “As a volunteer firefighter, you have a direct impact on the safety, well-being, and protection of your neighbors, friends, family and often complete strangers – and there’s nothing more gratifying than saving a life or someone’s home and belongings, or just being there for someone in their greatest time of need, on one of the worst days of their life.”

The department is usually first on the scene of all emergency calls, responding to fires, vehicle accidents, downed power lines and trees, carbon monoxide alarms, medical and all other types of emergencies – including those on the reservoirs and area’s abundance of lakes, the local interstate and commuter rail station, according to McManus.

Besides stories from "real-life" firefighters, interested recruits will be able to try on the gear, and receive a close-up look at the high-tech apparatus and equipment.

In addition to receiving free firefighter training at the Westchester County Fire Training Center, the department conducts training sessions throughout the year in various emergency response, such as rope bailout, ice and water rescue, vehicle extrication, propane and brush fires, and many others.

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