Assemblyman Philip Ramos (D-Central Islip) is proud to announce that he has been appointed Chair to the Assembly’s Volunteer Firefighters Subcommittee.

"As a former emergency medical technician and Suffolk County police officer, I bring experience and a unique perspective to this subcommittee," said Ramos. "Volunteer firefighters serve a vital role in our community, and I look forward to working with our volunteers to provide the highest level of safety for all our neighborhoods. And one of my main goals as Chairman is to ensure that our volunteer firefighters are completely ready to respond to emergencies."

To celebrate the Assembly’s Second Annual Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Workers Day, the Assembly passed a comprehensive legislative package to both recognize and assist the effectiveness of the state’s volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.

Part of that package includes Ramos’ legislation increasing the availability of long distance learning for local firefighters (A. 5414). This legislation requires the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control to make firefighter training available by video or computer to the maximum extent practicable.

"As our firefighters are continually asked to perform more and more tasks in shorter time periods, it is imperative that they have the additional training available," said Ramos. "It is fundamental that firefighters have hands-on practical experience, but as technology develops it is important to utilize those new advancements in fire service training. This legislation strives to achieve that balance."

Ramos also authored a resolution memorializing the Governor to proclaim the week of May 15-21, 2005 as Emergency Medical Services Week in New York State (K. 637).

"This resolution gives tribute to the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives for the health and safety of our communities," said Assemblyman Ramos. "These individuals provide outstanding service, and their extraordinary achievements have saved thousands of lives. This resolution pays tribute to New York State’s Emergency Medical Services systems and to all those, volunteer or career, who respond 24 hours a day to a community’s call for emergency care."