While we are on the topic of applying to be a first responder in town, let us also give a shout out to the Livingston Fire Department (LFD) and the First Aid Squad (LFAS), both of which are volunteer organizations looking for new members.Residents can go to livingstonfire.org to learn more about what it takes to join the LFD, which needs additional members in the next few years in order to remain a volunteer organization. A contact page is listed on the website for those with questions about what it takes to join the department.For the First Aid Squad, any resident is able to join; in fact, LFAS will provide the training in first aid skills such as CPR. A brief questionnaire, available at lfas.org, is the first step in the process of joining the squad.We say often that Livingston is a town that prides itself on its volunteerism. Nowhere is that more evident than in these two long-time organizations, comprised of Livingston residents who use their free time to save lives.We should also note that there will soon be a greater financial incentive for people to join these organizations, due to the Volunteer Fire and First Aid Recognition and Incentive program. At the beginning of the year, the Council stated a goal of providing $300,000 over the next few years to the town’s volunteer first responders. The goal of the program, aside from recognizing deserving residents, is to attract more first responders to the organizations and to keep the Livingston Fire Department a volunteer organization. A paid fire department would cost the taxpayers $10 to $15 million, according to various statements made by Township Council members. Compensation is expected to begin in 2025, and will be based on attendance to calls in 2024, so there is no better time than right now to join.
