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New York Volunteer Firefighter Numbers Plummet, Response Times Soar

3/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Volunteer firefighter numbers in New York state have fallen to a 40-year low, especially on Long Island.
Response times increased by 10 to 15 minutes, according to North Massapequa chief Joseph Ferrante.
The volunteer pool declined from 110,000 to 70,000 in 7–8 years due to higher living costs and training requirements.
State legislation has been proposed to cover tuition for volunteer firefighters and provide incentives.

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Story summary

Volunteer firefighter numbers in New York state have fallen to a 40-year low, especially on Long Island.
Response times increased by 10 to 15 minutes, according to North Massapequa chief Joseph Ferrante.
The volunteer pool declined from 110,000 to 70,000 in 7–8 years due to higher living costs and training requirements.
State legislation has been proposed to cover tuition for volunteer firefighters and provide incentives.