Organizers said the goal is to spark interest in a field that has seen declining volunteer numbers nationwide.
Gym classes at John Jay High School turned into a hands-on introduction to volunteer firefighting as students strapped on heavy gear, hauled hoses up bleachers and dragged 185-pound dummies across the court.
The annual "Trial by Fire" event, run by the four fire departments serving the Katonah Lewisboro area of northern Westchester, is designed to show teens the physical demands and teamwork involved in volunteer service.
"I thought it was going to be really easy but then I actually did it and now I'm sweating," student Ava Dennis said. Another student, Isiah Dawkins, added, "Firefighters make it look easy but at the end of the day this is really challenging for some people.
" Organizers said the goal is to spark interest in a field that has seen declining volunteer numbers nationwide. "Introducing students to the idea that, hey, this is what we do, we don't get paid and we work hard, but we're a part of a team, and that's fun," said Laurie DeRosa of the Katonah Fire Department. The event is now in its third year, and local departments say it has helped boost recruitment.
"We currently have nine probationary members," said Lt. Saurabh Mehta of the Goldens Bridge Fire Department.
"A probationary member is somebody who, has applied, is going through the training, and eventually will be a firefighter. That's a number we haven't seen in decades.
" Some students who participated in previous years have already joined their local departments. Student Alex Popescu said the appeal is clear: "The environment, the community - it's like a brotherhood. Everyone's got their backs there.
" "It's great to allow people to see what the fire department can really look like," added student Brendan Monahan. "I think it's a great event. " The program aims to inspire the next generation of volunteer firefighters as departments continue working to strengthen their ranks. Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover?
Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo,15-year-old shot on subway in Queens was also shot in February amid ongoing dispute
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Tom Cotton Calls Out U Visa Program as ‘De Facto Amnesty’ for Illegal AliensSource of breaking news and analysis, insightful commentary and original reporting, curated and written specifically for the new generation of independent and conservative thinkers.
Read more »
What Does the ‘26 NFL Draft Mean to the Husker Football Program?Capt. Obvious: Nebraska football needs a lot more talent.
Read more »
Minnesota Governor Walz Skips Fraud Oversight Hearing Amidst Child Care Program InvestigationMinnesota lawmakers expressed frustration after Governor Walz declined to appear before the House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee to discuss fraud within the state's Child Care Assistance Programs. The committee is investigating widespread issues, including fraudulent activity at several Minneapolis-based daycares, and feels the Governor's absence hinders their investigation despite repeated invitations and his presence at the Capitol.
Read more »
May Day organizers urge turnout for rally marking anniversary of 'Day Without an Immigrant' marchesMay Day organizers urged supporters to turn out for a Los Angeles rally and march marking the anniversary of the massive 'Day Without an Immigrant' marches in 2006.
Read more »
Israel intercepts Gaza aid ships in international waters, organizers decry moveIsrael has intercepted aid ships bound for Gaza in international waters near Greece, flotilla organizers said on Thursday, decrying the move as an 'escalation of Israel's impunity.'
Read more »
Night markets back in San Francisco for another seasonOrganizers said this season's editions will expand on past offerings
Read more »