In addition to the occasional structure fire, we respond to car fires, brush fires, downed wires and utility poles, hazardous materials spills (in conjunction with the Westchester County Hazardous Materials Team), flooding conditions and special assistance calls, such as bomb scares. We’re also responding to an increasing number of vehicle accidents, as Interstate 684 runs right through the heart of our town. We train on the jaws of life and other heavy rescue tools and we have removed far too many accident victims from their wrecked cars following high speed accidents. Sometimes, these accidents result in fatalities. No matter what you do, it’s too late. That’s something you can never quite accept.

Not every call is fraught with danger, however. We’ve even done the “cat in the tree” routine. The feline in question climbed a very tall tree in a condominium complex. Our ladders couldn’t reach her, so after a brief discussion, we used a high-pressure hose. One quick squirt and the cat came down, landing on her feet and tearing off into some nearby bushes. She may not like us but her owner was happy.

Perhaps nothing symbolizes the essence of small town living as much as the annual firefighters’ parade. In our dress blue uniforms, we march through town. Dozens of other volunteer departments attend as well. The ranks of firefighters, gleaming apparatus, and marching bands combine to make a memorable evening. Virtually the entire town comes out to watch. Many sit on front porches and have impromptu cookouts, waving American flags and cheering as the departments march by. There’s a lot of pride and patriotism on display. And it’s not just show. It’s genuine. The parade is followed by our biggest fundraiser—our carnival.

"I take my hat off to the career firefighters. They put it on the line every day and are paid far too little for the risks they take."

A volunteer could be anyone. We have lawyers, bus drivers, accountants, corporate executives, custodians, teachers, small business owners, and construction workers. We also have several career firefighters who respond to calls and are perfectly willing to share their invaluable experience and knowledge. I take my hat off to the career firefighters. They put it on the line every day and are paid far too little for the risks they take.

It’s easy to stereotype volunteer firefighters. Yes, the firehouse parking lot resembles a pickup truck convention during an alarm, but interspersed among the S-10s and Silverados are sedans, compact cars and (gasp) minivans. My Explorer boasts two car seats and assorted stuffed animals and other toys. For many of us, these family accessories are symbols of pride. We also like the idea that our offspring might one day become interested in joining the department.

Getting new members is a struggle, however. Demands of work and family make it increasingly hard for people to devote precious free time to volunteer work of any kind. Whatever time is available is usually spent on errands, family activities, or work around the house. There have been several occasions where members couldn’t respond to an alarm because they were babysitting or they decided to take their spouses out for a nice dinner. It happens. If you miss one alarm, you know there will be another one.

High taxes are also a factor. Many people who would like to join can’t afford to live in town. In some cases, town governments and fire departments purchase affordable homes that are then made available to town employees, police officers, and volunteer fire and rescue personnel. In a lot of cases, however, volunteer departments depend on a dedicated core of individuals who have established roots in town and whose descendants continue the family tradition of volunteering.

Although I never expected to be a volunteer firefighter, my Albright College experience convinced me of the value of giving something back. Of course, my enthusiasm isn’t exactly at its greatest during a 3 a.m. fire call, but then, the heartfelt thanks we get for coming out at that time—for being there when we’re needed— makes it worthwhile.