Why Volunteer

Many people are unaware that Rockland County's fire protection is 100% volunteer. Year after year men and women like you provide a valuable service to their family and friends when they need it the most.For over 125 years the Congers Fire Department has provided professional fire protection to the community with its 100% volunteer membership.

Benefits

  • Paid training: We participate in New York State’s Volunteer Firefighter Stipend Program — eligible volunteers earn payments for completing approved NYS-certified courses each year. Program details.
  • College tuition programs: Scholarships or tuition assistance may be available for active members.
  • Property tax reduction: Partial reduction for qualifying volunteers in Rockland County.
  • Free yearly medical physicals: No‑cost annual physical to ensure fitness for duty.
  • Disability insurance: Coverage if you’re injured in the line of duty while firefighting.
  • Free 24‑hour gym: Access to our members‑only fitness room.
  • Pension program (LOSAP): Earn points toward a monthly benefit for years of service.
  • Life‑long friends: A tight crew that has your back on calls and off‑duty.

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What It’s Like

Membership Requirements

  • Every member shall participate in company activities according to company by-laws.
  • All persons elected to membership must attend “Firefighter 1” at the Fire Training Center according to company by-laws.
  • Applicants must pass a background check for arson-related crimes or crimes requiring sex-offender registration, and complete a physical exam prior to final approval by the Board of Fire Commissioners.
  • All required dues and deposits must be paid upon being sworn into the company.
  • Two types of proof of residency are required other than a NYS driver license. Applicants must be residents of the Congers Fire District.
  • Applicants must be at least 16 years of age.
  • It is the responsibility of each member to be familiar with all rules, regulations, and by-laws of the company.

Training & What You’ll Learn

Every firefighter, career or volunteer, is held to the same standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Once you become a member of a department, you’ll take Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations with the option to move on to Interior Firefighting Operations. This training is so much more than an introduction to the fire service. You’ll learn to fight fires on a professional level: everything from properly preparing your body with turnout gear and radio communications on the fireground to search and rescue, salvage and overhaul, strategies and tactics. All of this training is provided by your department.

Tools & Equipment

SCBA and TIC might not mean anything to you now, but soon you’ll be equipped and trained to use self-contained breathing apparatus and thermal imaging cameras. Hydraulic spreaders, cutters and rams (the Jaws of Life) are just a few of the tools of the trade that go well beyond fighting fires. Volunteer firefighters are trained to use the ax, pike pole, sledgehammer, Halligan, a wide range of hand tools, and portable lighting systems. These are not tools you would find in the average workplace or home, but anyone can be taught to use them safely and effectively in the volunteer fire service.

WE TRAIN

Structured drills and county courses get you confident and capable fast, from first turnout to advanced operations.

WE SERVE TOGETHER

Teamwork is at the center of everything we do. The brother and sisterhood of the volunteer fire service share the same basic training, rewarding experiences and life-changing growth that you can only find in the fire service. You do it together as a member of your department and team, from communications in the most intense conditions to general camaraderie and recreation around the firehouse. You will undoubtedly make lifelong connections and professionally network within your firefighting family.

Why It Matters

This is indeed the ultimate community service. Volunteer firefighters fulfill the tradition and legacy through the simple act of neighbors helping neighbors. It is no small feat to save and protect property and life, whether on the fireground or at the scene of an accident. When you join the volunteer fire service, you commit to serve and protect your family, friends and neighbors. You may also be recognized for your efforts with awards or just a heartfelt thank you from those whose lives you have the potential to impact each and every day.