In an effort to shed light on a national volunteer firefighter shortage, four Westchester fire departments will challenge local high school students to a Trial By Fire. On Wednesday, April 24th and Thursday, April 25th, students will compete in a firefighter obstacle course during their PE class. Students at John Jay HS will see who can get geared up the fastest, drag a downed firefighter to safety, and put their problem solving and communications skills to the test. Winning teams will receive the coveted Trial by Fire t-shirts.

With the abundance of training requirements placed on firefighters, local departments are struggling to recruit new members. Our goal is to expose more than 900 students to the thrills and fulfillment we feel as volunteer firefighters serving our community. We hope that at the very least, these young adults will leave with a newfound appreciation for the local volunteers who give their time to help others. And, who knows, maybe even some will be inspired to join one of their local departments: Katonah, South Salem, Vista, and Goldens Bridge.