SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY — BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services) has partnered with the Sullivan County Bureau of Fire to provide a new course for teenagers. With the aim of generating more interest in becoming either a volunteer or paid firefighter or emergency responder, the fire science/EMS program is designed for students who think they might be interested in these fields, as positions are always in high demand.

“Instead of having to choose between afterschool activities and firefighter training, our local young people will be able to take fire service classes during the day, and still participate in sports and clubs in the afternoon and evening,” county fire coordinator John Hauschild said. “The end result is that we’ll have more well-trained members in our local fire departments, who themselves will be able to help us recruit even more critically-needed volunteers.”

The program consists of one year of study for each component. The first year focuses on fire science, and the second focuses on emergency response and becoming an emergency medical technician (EMT). Throughout both years, students will learn from industry professionals and follow the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control curriculum and the New York State EMT curriculum, allowing them to take the necessary exams to become paid or volunteer professionals. Additionally, students of these classes will earn credits toward graduation and get training that will benefit them throughout their lives, according to a press release.

The program is being prepared for a January 2023 rollout, and more information will be shared with local school districts.

“BOCES,” a spokesperson said, “exists to make these kinds of opportunities happen.”