The SLVFD would like to welcome 3 new volunteer firefighters. Jason Haas, AJ Harting, and Daniel Brier. The 3 new members began their 6 month probationary periods during the month of July.

Jason Haas recently moved to Saranac Lake from the Syracuse area. He most recently served with the East Syracuse fire department. Jason is a 4th generation volunteer who has been involved in the fire service since his 16th birthday, he has volunteered in both urban and rural settings. Jason graduated From SUNY OCC's fire protection program, Jason served 12 years with the New York Air National Guard as a military firefighter; having performed his duties as a firefighter on deployments in Germany and Southwest Asia.

AJ Harting lives in Saranac Lake and currently serves as a Vermont State Correction Officer stationed at the Northwest State Correctional Facility in Swanton Vermont. AJ previously served with the Bay Ridge Rescue Squad. AJ is a native of the Albany area and moved to Saranac Lake recently to be with his girlfriend. AJ has 3 dogs and loves the outdoors. AJ joined the SLVFD as part of his long time goal of being a firefighter and first responder and being part of the tradition and camaraderie associated with being a member of the fire service. AJ has a strong desire to make a difference and help out his community.

Daniel Brier was born and raised here in the tri-lakes area and he gained his interest in firefighting through his family. His grandfather is 55 year SLVFD member Frank Brier. Frank served as past director and past fire police captain as well as one of Saranac Lakes representatives on the Franklin County Advisory Board. Daniel's brother Daryl is currently serving as a Lieutenant with the SLVFD. Daniel loves his community, he has observed first hand the sacrifices his family members have made. He would like to carry on that tradition.

All new members of the SLVFD undergo a 6 month probationary period before being voted into permanent membership. New firefighters are expected to attend meetings, trainings, and respond to actual emergencies and perform duties to the extent that they have been trained. Depending on their current level of training they may have to complete state level firefighting courses, which for a brand new member consists of many hours completing the basic exterior firefighter operations course after which they may continue on with the interior firefighter operations course. Being a volunteer firefighter is a huge commitment, but for the right person it can be a rewarding career.

We would like to welcome our 3 new members and express our sincere thanks to them for stepping up for their community. If you happen to see them please take a moment to congratulate them and thank them for their service.