BUSHNELL'S BASIN, N.Y. —  There is an effort to boost the ranks of volunteer fire and ambulance corps, with tax breaks. 

Emergency responders were joined by lawmakers at the Bushnell's Basin Fire Department Monday.

They are backing proposed legislation that would give volunteer firefighters and medical personnel up to a 10% tax break on property taxes if they served for at least two years. If they serve for 20 years it would be a lifetime property tax break.

"This is very important to us in keeping us strong," said Bushnell's Basin Fire Department Chief Richard Tantalo. "New members as well as maintain the membership that we have."

Advocates are raising awareness during National Emergency Medical Services Week.