Volunteer Firefighters
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70% of all the nation’s firefighters are volunteers according to the National Fire Protection Association. This is due to the fact that small towns do not have the budget to employ a full-time firefighting department. To remedy this members of the community band together to form volunteer fire departments. In addition to volunteering they work another job to provide for themselves.
In recent years membership has been on the decline. Joining a department can be a lengthy process requiring hours of classes. The cost of a fire truck can cost upwards of $600,000. In order to afford this departments host bingo tournaments and other forms of fundraisers to cover their expenses. Just to keep a firehouse operating requires time, money and commitment.
When a community member is in need, fighters often choose between going to work or help their neighbor. Job security is at risk because employers are often not willing to employ someone who is willing to leave their shift to fight a fire. Due to this membership in departments has seen a decrease. This portrait series highlights volunteer firefighters the are dedicated to safeguarding their community.
Don Towles, 40 Occupation: Herdsmen
"It is a passion I have to help other people and its something I would do rather I got payed or not," Towles said. Over the last 3 years Towles has taken a step back from the fire department to work and provide for his family.
Bethany Flynn, 31 Occupation: Cook
"It drives me crazy that I have to decide between helping someone in need and calling off of work," Flynn said. An employer once used Flynn's commitment to firefighting as a way to discipline her on a past job. Job security is at risk because employers are often not willing to employ someone who is willing to leave their shift to fight a fire. Due to this membership in departments has seen a decrease.
Timothy Sherwin, 51 Occupation: Gas Station Attendant
"I don't think people recognize the amount of sacrifice we make, but i enjoy doing it and that makes it worth while," Sherwin said. Sherwin is the president of North Pole Volunteer fire department. He initially did not think he would want to be a member of a volunteer fire station but the comradery of the members sparked his attention.
Tyler Keefer, 17 Occupation: Student
"When that alarm goes off at 2am to fight a fire I'm up and ready," Keefer said. He balances fighting fires with classes and playing football for his high school. Students sometimes mock him for being a member of a volunteer fire station.
