Volunteer firefighters spend much of their time living, working and volunteering in our community. They could be at work, at church or at the grocery store when that fire alarm sounds. These firefighters volunteer their time to the tune of 34,573 hours a year responding to 2,576 calls per year. They respond rapidly, regardless of the weather or hour, which often involves the risk of death or injury from sudden cave-ins of floors, toppling walls, traffic accidents when responding to calls, and exposure to flames and smoke. Firefighters also may come in contact with poisonous, flammable, or explosive gases and chemicals, as well as radioactive or other hazardous materials that may have immediate or long-term effects on their health. For these reasons, they must wear protective gear that can be very heavy and hot. In addition, firefighters often work extra hours at fires and other emergencies and are regularly assigned to work on holidays. The fire lieutenants and fire captains often work the same hours as the firefighters they supervise. Duty hours include time when firefighters study, train, and perform fire prevention duties. It is our job as local business leaders to rise to the occasion and support not one but seven area fire departments as they continue to keep our family, our business and our community safe.