Over the years, the role of our volunteer firefighters has changed dramatically. We have all seen images of the original citizen-volunteers pushing pumpers on wheels down dirt roads to fight fires in makeshift wooden buildings, barns and one-room school houses, then later operating the horse-drawn vehicles that marked an advancement in the business of protecting people and property from fires.

Over the years, progress brought us more advanced equipment and methods for fighting fires, and today’s firefighter is prepared to meet the most dramatic of events with high-tech equipment and specialized training. The only thing that has not changed is the commitment of these men and women to their communities, their friends, family and neighbors.

But the changing role of firefighters has involved more than just an advancement of equipment. It has been one of escalating and broader responsibility. Today’s volunteers provide rescue to the sick or injured, and in some communities emergency ambulance services as well. They respond to scenes of motor vehicle accidents, using hurst tools to extricate those trapped in automobiles. They assess and monitor the use of hazardous waste materials in their communities, and respond to the scene of chemical spills. They are not only firefighters, but emergency medical technicians, and specialists in a variety of areas that go beyond simply ensuring that a fire is put out.

And now, they are also our first line of defense, along with our police officers, in the fight against terrorism. As we saw September 11, 2001, more is being asked of those who have already committed themselves to giving all.

We outline all of this in response to a story that appeared in last week’s edition that discussed a decision by the West Babylon Fire Department to construct a training center in their district. This center will address the need for more training for volunteers at a time when the existing training is proving too little, too far away.

Currently, all departments in Suffolk County get special training in Yaphank. Each department is assessed four or five training sessions for all of its volunteers, which breaks down to maybe one or two days a year, per volunteer.

We agree with West Babylon fire officials that this is simply not enough training in today’s environment. Local volunteers need a local training center and that is why we would suggest that the Fire Chiefs Association of Babylon Town consider constructing a training center to serve all town departments. Having each department address the critical issue of specialized training, which is sorely needed, is not the most efficient, cost effective or productive way to go.