Amenia Fire company hosts EMS recruitment fair

Amenia — On Sunday, April 26, the Amenia Fire Company hosted an emergency medical services (EMS) demonstration and recruitment fair at the Town Hall. Through RecruitNY, the company sought to gain the interest of community members and inspire them to join. 

Along with the recruitment table and lunch on the grill, the department displayed three fire engines and historical company photos. There was also an ambulance and emergency medical technician (EMT) display, which was a hit — especially for the children. 

Rescue Squad Lt. Andy Murphy said he believes that hosting the fair would give the community a better grasp on the role the fire company plays. 

“We’re seeking new membership to protect the town,” he said. “It’s a lot of work and an enormous time commitment, but it’s also gratifying to hear someone say ‘thank you’ when you’re called to help at 2 a.m.”

While the company is thriving with many volunteers, including eager teens involved in its junior program, there’s hope for new membership. With current ranks aging, there is always a need for new members. Volunteers are constantly busy, as there is always something to be done, beyond running to fires.

One of the first recruits of the day, Jordan Shook, is a fourth-generation volunteer. She follows in the footsteps of her father, Virgel Shook Jr., her grandfather and her great grandfather. They agreed it is an amazing opportunity for her to learn what they’ve done for the past 50 years. 

“I wanted to give back to the community,” Jordan Shook said, beginning her afternoon as a new recruit with her family.

The central event, aside from recruiting, was a car-extrication demonstration. During the demo, Capt. Stephanie Murphy discussed the various procedures involved in removing an injured individual from a car. As she explained, department members Andy Murphy, Jeffery Rodriquez, Zach Decker, William Crawford, AJ Hayes and Virgel Shook demonstrated; a volunteer posed as a driver in distress for the demonstration. 

Looking toward the future of the town, the department encouraged young children to explore the ambulance and even get strapped into a gurney. 

“We went in the ambulance and I got to explore it; it was really cool,” said Aoife Moloney, 8. “When I grow up I want to help.” 

Maloney and other young children were intrigued by the demonstrations and left with a greater appreciation for the emergency workers. 

Fire Chief Chris Howard said he was appreciative of the turnout. The entire department, in fact, expressed gratitude for the many eager young volunteers that day. Fire company members said they do not foresee having to adjust the budget for paid EMS workers in the near future; they were confident their department family will remain strong and well supported for years to come.