Millerton firefighters close out busiest year in nearly a decade

MILLERTON — As the holiday season ramps up and the calendar year winds down, the Millerton Fire Company is reflecting on a year with record-high call volume and clear objectives for 2026.

This year, the all-volunteer department surpassed 425 calls — the most the department has seen in at least eight years. Fire officials said the number far exceeds recent annual totals, and there has been a year-over-year increase.

Not only does the department respond to fire emergencies and rescue calls, but it also plays a critical role in emergency medical services, especially in a region grappling with slow ambulance response times, limited support from the county and shifting ownership of private services relied on by the town and village.

With a new leadership lineup, taking effect Jan. 1, both the fire company and district will enter the new year with deep experience across fire, EMS and military backgrounds — and with a renewed focus on training and community outreach.

Fire Chief Keith Roger, who has been a firefighter for 35 years, will continue as chief for the second consecutive year — his third term overall. Roger held the position back in 2005 and 2006.

“I’m looking forward to working with these guys and handing down what I’ve learned,” Roger said, noting that his leadership approach is more about teaching and preparing others to rise through the ranks.

On the less stressful calls, he said he intends to let newer officers take command while he stands close by to guide them. “My focus is now helping them move up the chain.”

Roger will also organize and facilitate training, which occurs on a near-weekly basis.

“Our goal is to ensure everyone’s training is up-to-date and that they receive the best possible training,” Roger said.

Company vice president Chris Reyes, who will also serve as 1st Lieutenant, said Roger’s return provides stability and momentum.

“I’m re-energized having him back as Chief for a second year,” said Reyes, who joined the team in 2020. “It really feels like we’re building off of a fresh foundation.”

The department emphasized the strength of its incoming command staff, which includes career firefighters, veterans with military leadership experience and longtime volunteers who have trained together for years.

Reyes described the fire company as a tight-knit and supportive team — even after a contested captain’s race during the December elections — and called the department a second family.

“When a call comes in, people from every walk of life suddenly come together and speak the same language to protect our community,” said Reyes. “It’s magical.”

In the coming year, leadership expects to maintain its focus on rigorous training, including skills drills, ladder work, air-pack practice, hose advancement, basic life support and CPR refreshers. Nearly all members are New York State-certified in CPR and AED. The company is also anticipating the purchase of a new rescue truck, though delivery is likely 18 months away.