York Volunteer Fire Department - York, NY

05/18/2026

🚒 Save the Date! 🍗🔥

Join us for the York Fire Department Drive-Thru Chicken Barbecue June 13th beginning at 4pm!

Come out for great food, good company, and to support your local fire department. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details on raffle ticket information!

Nothing brings people together quite like chicken, community, and a little smoke in the air. 🚒🍗

05/16/2026

***PSA on Spring and Summer Burning ***
Please be mindful of wind conditions while burning. Even though the annual burn ban is lifting, conditions can still change quickly and lead to serious fires.

A small fire can spread fast with dry brush and strong winds. Always burn responsibly, keep water or extinguishing tools nearby, and never leave a fire unattended. Stay safe and help protect our community.

It is also helpful to make your local fire chief aware and report when you are burning and when you have put the fire out. To do so please call into your local dispatch’s non-emergency number in Livingston County you can call (585) 243-7100.

05/04/2026

International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD) traces back to a heartbreaking moment that sparked a global tradition of respect and remembrance.

On December 2, 1998, a wildfire in Linton turned deadly when five firefighters lost their lives while battling the blaze. Their deaths deeply impacted not only their local community, but fire services around the world.

In response, a firefighter named JJ Edmondson proposed a day to honor fallen firefighters and show appreciation for those still serving. The idea quickly spread across countries and departments, gaining international support.

The first International Firefighters’ Day was observed on May 4, 1999. The date was chosen to coincide with the feast day of Saint Florian, the patron saint of firefighters, symbolizing protection and courage in the face of fire.

A key symbol of the day is the red and blue ribbon:

* 🔴 Red represents fire and the dangers firefighters face
* 🔵 Blue represents water and the resources used to fight those fires

Today, May 4th stands as a worldwide tribute—a quiet salute across sirens and stations—to those who have fallen and those who continue to answer the call.

04/29/2026

The fire service Maltese cross is more than just a badge, it’s basically the firefighter version of a battle flag 🔥

Traditionally, it symbolizes protection, courage, honor, and sacrifice. Its roots trace back to the Knights of St. John (also called the Knights Hospitaller) during the Crusades. These knights were known for protecting others and fighting through dangerous fire attacks. Legend says they were honored for bravery while defending people against fire bombs and attacks, and the cross became a symbol of that fearless service.

In the fire service, the Maltese cross represents:

* Loyalty to duty and community
* Valor in dangerous situations
* Compassion for those in need
* Dedication to protecting life and property
* Sacrifice because firefighters often risk everything for strangers

Each point of the cross is often said to stand for virtues like gallantry, tact, observation, dexterity, sympathy, loyalty, perseverance, and explicitness, though meanings can vary by department.

In simple terms:
“A firefighter’s promise to stand between danger and the people they serve.”

It’s not just a logo. It’s a quiet little oath worn on a helmet, truck, patch, or chest.

04/19/2026

04/18/2026