6d977f8a9ba4b56b2df9226c53b9d9fc.jpg

MONROE: Open house attracts volunteers

By Jenine Clancy, Special Writer
MONROE — Over 100 people came to Recruitment Day, an open house at the Monroe Township Fire Company No. 1, for games, live music food, and most importantly to become picked to serve as a volunteer firefighter.
In its ninth year, Deputy Chief Lonnie Pipero said Recruitment Day “makes our establishment stronger to make base volunteers.”
Chief Pipero said they recruit on average five to six people every year, and this year was no different. The ages of those recruited are 16-18 for Junior Members and 25-35 for probationary members, which are a level higher for rookie members. Right now the Monroe company has about 50 volunteers.
Once the volunteers are recruited, they have to maintain a 60 percent average of calls for six months, the chief said. They also go to firefighter school.
“There is an easier transition to becoming a firefighter with this open house,” Chief Pipero said. “Families really get to be involved, there is a bouncy house and a dunk tank and lots of great food.”
“We have a dynamic presence in the township, and for 26 years and I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Chief Pipero said. “It’s very well designed.” 