January 5, 2020
Issue No. 1
www.westsidenewsny.com
SOUTH EDITION
Distributed
to
Churchville-Riga, North Chili, Spencerport-Ogden
The next generation of first responders According to a survey published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in April 2019, the number of nationwide volunteer firefighters in 2017 was the lowest on record since the survey began in 1983. At a time when emergency service volunteers are in a 30-year decline, Byron-Bergen students are changing the statistics. Sydney Brown, Kelly Ireland, Jillian Menzie, Michael Olander, Andrew Parnapy, and Devon Zinter are full-time high school students. In addition to participating in varsity sports, musical groups, student government, and the school musical, they also volunteer with local fire departments. “It’s a big time commitment,” said Sydney, a volunteer firefighter at Elba Volunteer Fire Department. “I joined because I have a long family history in EMS (emergency medical services). I’ve always wanted to do it – so I did it.” She has been with the Elba Volunteer Fire Department for seven months, earning her certification in Exterior Firefighter Operations and Hazardous Materials. This 17-year-old senior is working towards her certification in Interior Firefighter Operations. She plans to become an EMT and pursue a career in firefighting. “I love helping others,” said Sydney. “I help protect the community and everyone’s loved ones.” The remaining student volunteers are members of the Bergen Fire Department Explorers program. “They are exceptional students,” said Julie Donofrio, Explorer Program Coordinator and EMT with the Bergen Fire Department. “Each student is certified in CPR, AED (automated external defibrillator), and NARCAN (emergency treatment for suspected opioid overdose). They drill with the full department twice each month; they are trained in first aid, bloodborne pathogens, and hazardous materials; and they started riding along on appropriate calls at age 16. They work hard keeping the service alive for the community.”
Kelly Ireland (right) demonstrates ambulance services to Elementary School students during Fire Safety Day. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
continued on page 10 “I enjoy being a part of the fire department be-
Devon Zinter (front) taking part in a motor vehicle accident drill with the Bergen Fire Department. Photo used with permission from the Bergen Fire Department.
Byron-Bergen Emergency Services student volunteers (l-r) Devon Zinter, Andrew Parnapy, Sydney Brown, Kelly Ireland, and Jillian Menzie. Not pictured: Michael Olander. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.