The Youngstown Fire Company urges all residents both in Youngstown and in other New York State communities to read the following articles pertaining to Volunteer Fire Companies in the state fighting to change a NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law that does not permit firefighters in NYS to drive fire apparatus in a "non-emergency" situation without an expensive CDL License.
From the Sentinel
“I would like to ask for your support of the volunteer fire service in New York state,” wrote Greg Robertson Sr., president of Youngstown Fire Co. and a former chief, in a letter to Paterson. Specifically, Youngstown Volunteer Fire Co. put out the call to Paterson to both restore earlier training cuts, as well as address a little-known state Department of Motor Vehicle law that, while rarely enforced, has the potential to throw the wrench of legality into volunteer firefighting efforts.
Click Here for Full WNYPapers.com Article
From the Buffalo News
"..fire departments are getting around the law by considering that no emergency call is done until the equipment is back at the fire hall.
But Smolinski said the law does prevent fire trucks from being driven to fundraising events, parades and other activities unless someone with a commercial license is at the wheel...."
Click Here to read the full Buffalo News Article
