EDITORIAL: They go in when others are running out

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The Nebraska State Fire Marshall’s Office says that there are nearly 15,500 unpaid volunteer firefighters serving in 472 fire departments having a total of 575 stations across the state. As National Fire Prevention Week approaches, Oct. 9-15, now is a great time to thank the men and women who give countless hours to training and service to help mitigate damage and casualties when the unthinkable occurs.

The average duration for a volunteer firefighter to complete the application process, department membership process, training, and to be properly outfitted can take up to a year and sometimes beyond. Continuing education and specialty training is continually ongoing. Local department trainings, mutual aid trainings with other departments and state conferences are offered and often well-attended by these volunteer firefighters.

The first major achievement is to complete Firefighter I Certification which consists of a 100-question written test and subsequent skills testing. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office states that a person who completes the Firefighter I course will, “Demonstrate the knowledge and ability to tie appropriate knots, don personal protective equipment including SCBA and firefighter turnout gear, understand the role of a Firefighter I in the fire service organization, have a basic understanding of incident command, communicate with the use of radios and telephones during emergency and non-emergency situations, participate as a member of a team while extinguishing vehicle fires, exterior and interior Class A fires, ground cover fires, perform vertical and horizontal ventilation, establish water supply, perform overhaul and salvage operations and use a variety of tools. Individuals who desire to complete this course should be in general good health and have the physical ability to complete strenuous and physically demanding work.”

As the desire of many young children is to someday become a firefighter, the move from desire to service takes commitment and dedication. The men and women throwing candy from a fire apparatus driving through a parade have put in the time and hard work to become the individuals called upon to save the lives and property of all, whether involved in fire or accident.

Gone are the days of the bucket brigades. These highly trained professionals have dedicated themselves to learning the latest techniques using up-to-date equipment to serve their neighbors.

Often accompanied by other volunteers in the emergency medical service, these are the men and women with whom you may not be acquainted, but often become unforgettable when their services are needed.

They say that the profession of a firefighter is a noble one. To do so as a volunteer is quite outstanding. Please join us in thanking our local volunteer first responders.

Although becoming a firefighter takes dedication and hard work, the first step is sometimes the hardest. If you wish to become a volunteer firefighter or to serve with the emergency medical services in your community, why not take the first step today and contact your local department.