Volunteers seeking action choose Norriton Fire Engine Company 61 for a reason. Once again, the fire company had a record-breaking year in 2019, answering 544 calls in East Norriton Township and neighboring communities. To keep up with the call volume, Norriton Fire Engine Company has launched a comprehensive volunteer recruitment campaign, which will run through 2022.
Inspired by the amount of fires volunteers see and the camaraderie among members, their new tagline, “Fight Fires. Forge Friendships. Volunteer.” will be used to promote the campaign. To learn more about volunteering, the campaign will encourage the community to visit their new recruitment site, www.NorritonFire.org. They can also fill out the inquiry form to begin the application process.
The new tagline and website URL will be incorporated into all print and electronic marketing materials used to inspire the public to take action and volunteer.
Norriton Fire Engine Company’s recruitment campaign runs through 2022 and is no cost to taxpayers. It is funded entirely through the Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grant by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Recruitment efforts will include targeted residential mailings, lawn signs, display units for community events and a video. Social media management and public relations will also be crucial to reach potential volunteers. A key part of the recruitment effort will be outreach directed to high school students such as speaking engagements and a brochure.
“The campaign is a reflection of the culture at Norriton Fire Engine Company and we want the community to see the benefits of volunteering with us,” said Kevin Strizziere Jr., Recruitment and Retention Committee Chair.
Many Ways to Join the Action
Everyone has talents that can be used at Norriton Fire Engine Company whether it is firefighting or helping behind the scenes. Potential volunteers should keep in mind that no prior experience is necessary. Training, equipment and gear all are provided for free.
“Our fire company is known for high quality training and many of our members are certified firefighters at state and national levels,” said Strizziere. “Although we are serious when we train, we have built lifelong friendships and a second family here.”
The following opportunities are available:
- Firefighter – As a volunteer firefighter for Norriton Fire Engine Company, you will be in the center of the action, responding to fires in residential and commercial buildings, motor vehicle accidents and rescue calls.
- Junior Firefighter – Teens ages 16 and 17 can assist at the scene of fire calls and participate in bi-weekly drills with other firefighters. Once you turn 18, you can become an active firefighter.
- Fire Police – During emergencies and community events, you will direct traffic and crowds while working with other first responders.
- Administrative Volunteer – Our administrative volunteers are a vital component of keeping our fire company running smoothly. You can help with organizational tasks in relation to finances, membership and record keeping, plus planning community events and fundraisers.
To raise awareness of the need for volunteers, Norriton Fire Engine Company hired the services of The Communication Solutions Group Inc., a full-service public relations and marketing firm based in Jenkintown, Pa. The company successfully ran numerous recruitment and retention campaigns for fire and rescue organizations including Darby Fire Company #1, Paoli Fire Company, Abington Township Fire Department and many others.