Dunkirk Professional Firefighters Association - IAFF Local 616

05/19/2026

Are city residents aware of an attempt to dissolve the city of Dunkirk?

04/28/2026

The recent Vote of No Confidence and the public statements made by our unions were never about politics or personalities. They were made because we have a duty to speak up when the safety of our members and the residents of Dunkirk are at risk.

This is about blowing the whistle on serious concerns affecting Dunkirk’s public safety. When staffing, resources, leadership decisions, and working conditions threaten the ability of police, fire, and emergency personnel to protect this community, silence is not an option.

Our members live here, work here, and serve here. We want the same thing every resident wants: a safe city, accountable leadership, and properly supported public safety services.

This is not a political issue. It is a public safety issue.

We will continue to stand together, speak the truth, and advocate for the protection of the people who call Dunkirk home.

04/22/2026

Dunkirk Professional Firefighters unanimously vote NO CONFIDENCE in City Mayor and contracted City attorney!

03/06/2026

Common treatment from politicians.

During a recent budget meeting in Utica, New York, the fire chief was discussing the need for PFAS-free turnout gear to reduce firefighters’ cancer risks. During the discussion, a city council member joked, “That’s what we pay you hazardous duty for,” and laughed. The remark drew immediate criticism from the firefighters’ union, which pointed out that firefighters do not receive hazard pay and called the comment insensitive, especially since some members are currently battling cancer or are in remission. The union emphasized that the issue being discussed was firefighter health and safety, not politics, and said the comment was inappropriate given the seriousness of occupational cancer in the fire service, regardless of if the comment was made in jest.

03/06/2026

Today FF Freitas participated in the Read Across American. Our members donate much of their own time to give back to our community that supports us.

03/05/2026

Always educating the people we protect.

Our Make a Mark self-advocacy group welcomed representatives of the City of Dunkirk Fire Department to the group’s meeting Tuesday.

Lieutenant Jake Stern and Firefighter Josh Szukala gave an informative in-service on fire prevention. They providing guidance on home safety, fire prevention, and what to do when calling 911. Group members also were able to ask questions tailored to real-life situations.

During the meeting, one of our Make a Mark members asked questions on how to safely charge the battery for her electric bicycle. She was so inspired by what she learned that following the meeting, she ordered a charging bag for her e-bike’s lithium-ion battery.

We thank Lt. Stern and Firefighter Szukala for taking time to speak with our group and sharing information on fire prevention and fire safety.

01/27/2026

It is with deepest sympathy that we announce the passing of retired member John Woloszyn.

12/19/2025

Dunkirk Firefighters have continued the tradition of blessing a family with groceries, gifts, and essentials. Thank you to all of our community for the support you give us. Have a wonderful and safe holidays.

11/30/2025

11/30/2025

Last week Ky'ree rang the bell signifying him cancer free. Today, Dunkirk Fire along with Dunkirk Police Department celebrated the young man's victory with a pass by with lights and sirens. Congratulations Ky'ree! Way to kick cancers butt.