FASNY Firefighter’s home host's annual open house

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HUDSON, N.Y. (NEWS10) —On Saturday, the Firefighters’ Association of the State of New York opened its doors giving the community a chance to see firsthand how retired volunteer firefighters are honored and cared for.

After years of fighting fires, what better way to relax than going home or spending time with all your fellow firefighting brothers and sisters. The Firefighters’ Association of the State of New York made that possible by creating a home dedicated to caring for retired firefighters in 2007. 

“The goal was to make sure that there was a place to care for those folks who were volunteers in the fire service in New York State. And we do welcome residents. We welcome members from all across our state,” said Doug Van Etten-President of the Board of Trustees at the firefighter’s home. 

This is their second annual open house, but this event was not just about seeing where these firefighters live. Visitors had the opportunity to speak with them, learn, and spend time with them.

Ken Schofield, a retired firefighter chief from the Rombout Fire Company in Fishkill told News10s Tyanna Xavier what it’s like living there.

“The brotherhood and the sisterhood here is great. Everybody looks after each other and makes sure everyone is fine. And you couldn’t like I said, it couldn’t be any better,” said Schofield.

Schofield also mentioned that coming here was the best thing for him, especially after losing his wife.

“I’ve been here about three and a half years now. My wife passed away about four years ago. I put myself in the home. Told my son and daughter this is where I want to be and I have no regrets,” said Schofield.

Outside of their home was a cornhole tournament, a chili cook-off to see who’s got the best flavors, and a scavenger hunt. And because it was just fitting, right next-door at the firefighter’s museum they had Dalmatian Day. This is the largest one-day fire safety event in New York State.

“We lure the kids in with dogs because we all know kids love animals, and then we teach them fire safety. We have crafts game shows. Just anything a kid would like to do,” said Jamie Quinn, Executive Director of the FASNY Museum of Firefighting.

The EMS and the police were there to help with demonstrations and to top it off many families brought their own dalmatian dogs to get in on the fun. 

It was a day filled with safety and fun and a reminder to care for the people who look out for us.

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Tyanna Xavier

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