Our Volunteers Fight Fires, Teach Lessons and Demonstrate Fire Safety

The job our volunteers do each day, serving and protecting the community, is impressive on its own. But did you know they do more? They aren’t just fighting fires and responding to emergencies; they’re also serving as educators and bringing the community together through a variety of events and demonstrations.

Those who serve with us see it as their duty to share fire safety information, as well as information about how they perform their jobs, with our community. And they do so in a number of ways.

Open Houses

One of our favorite ways to educate people about the work we do and fire safety in general is through opening our doors to the community and welcoming them in. One great example of this was Dale City Volunteer Fire Department’s Open House last October. During the event, they celebrated 50 years of service and shared their knowledge with the Dale City community.

The crew held equipment demonstrations, spoke about their life-saving work, gave many tours of the station, taught visitors of all ages about fire safety and even allowed them to try on their equipment. The event was a success and a great way to celebrate 50 years of service and education.

Children’s Education

Teaching the youngest members of our community about fire safety is one of our most important jobs. We present information in an age-appropriate manner and work hard to make them comfortable with firefighters in general. Understanding and acceptance can mean the difference in a child running to us or away from us in an emergency.

We have coloring books and stickers to share, tours of the engines and stations, and fun demonstrations to help them understand what we do, what they can do to stay safe and why fire safety is important.

Fire Safety Education

All of our events feature some type of fire safety education, and in October, we specifically celebrate National Fire Safety Week with special events of our own. Throughout the year, you’ll find us at health fairs, community fairs, children’s events and more, spreading the word about what everyone can do to prevent fires, as well as how to respond if you’re caught in one. When community members know how to prevent fires and respond, it makes our rescue and response work much easier.

Volunteerism Education

While we’re out and about, we’re also educating those around us about the importance of volunteerism. Did you know that volunteer fire departments save municipalities and taxpayers $37 billion per year in firefighting costs nationwide? According to the US Fire Administration’s March 2018 statistical report, 55 percent of the active firefighting personnel are volunteer firefighters. Across the nation, 16 percent of all fire departments are mostly volunteer, while 71 percent are purely volunteer.

We’re always looking for more members to join our encouraging and supportive volunteer team. Come be part of the solution, the growth and the camaraderie. Join us today.

Are you looking for a change? Here in Prince William County, the volunteer departments provide fire and emergency medical services to the County’s citizens and visitors during weekday evenings, weekends and holidays. Prince William County’s volunteer fire and rescue departments are seeking motivated individuals who have the desire to make a difference and provide an important service to their community. Learn more now.