News 12 went to the fire training center in Pomona on Monday to watch 19 volunteer firefighters work to become certified to serve their communities.

News 12 was told they have been spending the last few weeks - eight hours a day Monday through Friday - learning the ropes. Even through the intense heat.

News 12's camera caught them gaining experience for real world situations on Monday - as they prepare to the join the ranks in departments that look for more volunteers.

"The dedication of these students is tremendous. We are a dwindling population of volunteer firefighters,” said training instructor Bryan Doyle who is also with the Tappan Fire Department. “They're taking the first step in providing their community with fire protection."

Trainees were from Rockland, with one each from Putnam and Westchester counties.

"It's definitely difficult but you kind of go in knowing that,” said Kerriann Kunz, with the Congers Fire Department, who is following other family members in the volunteer fire service. “So it's really not that shocking to see you're working hard because you're going to have to work hard at a fire anyway."

"I thought it was a good way to get volunteer hours,” said Liam Reilly, a 17-year-old rising high school senior from Pearl River. “Give back to the community."

News 12 was told the timing of this training happened to allow more students the chance to participate.