John Rose Oak Bluff Discusses Why Becoming a Volunteer Firefighter Can be a Good Idea
As people hear the word firefighter, they immediately think of a person in full gear rushing into a burning building. Firefighters are some of the bravest people out there and play an important role in ensuring the safety of their communities. However, firefighting involves tasks beyond risking lives to help others in need. As John Rose Oak Bluff says, due to a lack of funds to hire full-time firefighters, fire departments especially in smaller communities embrace volunteers. These are usually assigned non-emergency tasks, and are typically not the ones rushing into danger.
John Rose Oak Bluff sheds light on why a person should consider becoming a volunteer firefighter
As volunteers in fire departments handle non-emergency tasks, career fire and EMS personnel can fully focus on responding to emergency calls. Even though many of these volunteers wouldn’t be out there in full gear rushing into burning buildings to save people, they are an important part of a firefighting team, especially in smaller communities. By volunteering at their local fire department, members of a community can offer much-needed support and assistance to the department, and make it easier for the fire team to do their job. Being a volunteer at a fire department would be a great way to serve the community. Apart from helping full-time firefighters, volunteers often take part in community occasions and hold brigade events.
Basically, volunteer first responders are the ones who are genuinely interested in helping their fellow citizens in times of need. These volunteers enjoy a sense of achievement, accomplishment and pride in the work they do. As a volunteer firefighter, one would get to learn new skills, be a part of a team, make new friends, give back to the community and get a chance to make a real difference in the lives of others.
Certain localities, states and departments provide tangible benefits to volunteers at fire departments. These benefits may significantly vary, and their examples can range from specialized/technical training and pay per call to reimbursements for items like food or gas. Some volunteers may even enjoy benefits like seasonal bonuses, business discounts and tuition assistance.
As John Rose Oak Bluff mentions, as a volunteer firefighter, one would not only be in service of the community, but shall also emerge as a more visible member of the community. After all, the work a fire department does in the community, directly impacts the people the volunteers would know and interact with in daily life. This is especially true for smaller, close-knit communities. Volunteering at a fire department would essentially provide people with a stronger sense of purpose.
Nearly all the individuals one would volunteer alongside at a fire department are likely to pursue other interests and may hold other occupations. Engaging in volunteer firefighting can foster long-term friendships and positive acquaintanceship. No matter whether one is in need of a professional endorsement, a career referral, or assistance with a personal project or hobby, they are likely to find ample support among their peers. The network of a person significantly expands as they participate in firefighting community gatherings.
