They are your friends, neighbors and relatives. They give up nights, weekends and holidays to aid and assist during emergencies. They are volunteers, and are proud of what they do.

They are the members of the Syosset Volunteer Fire Department, and we invite the members of our community to join us in thanking them for their service.

The SFD is proud to continue a long tradition of providing high-quality, cost-effective services to the Syosset Fire District. In all, about 110 men and women, most of whom hold full-time jobs, respond to an average of almost 2,000 calls annually. Sometimes the calls come in the middle of the night; sometimes on Saturdays; and sometimes during Thanksgiving dinner.

Yet, for these selfless volunteers - your friends, neighbors and relatives - just helping to protect lives and property is its own reward.

In addition to fighting fires, SFD volunteers also perform emergency rescues, make ambulance runs and provide medical assistance to accident victims, help contain hazardous material spills, and respond to calls about carbon monoxide and other gas leaks in homes and on commercial properties.

SFD volunteers are also among the best-trained first responders in the state. Each receives free and ongoing fire training, free firefighting gear, a nominal retirement package and other small incentives like the use of a gym. For some, just getting to ride a fire engine is a childhood dream fulfilled; on top of that, they may be helping to save a life.

There does remain an urgent need for more volunteers. We welcome all men and women who are at least 18 years old and have been Syosset residents for at least one year to consider becoming a volunteer. Those interested may call 677-4502 for more information.

We hope you'll join us in answering the call, and in thanking the selfless men and women of the Syosset Volunteer Fire Department.

The Chiefs and Commissioners of the Syosset Volunteer Fire Department and the Syosset Fire District