What Drives You To Be a Fire or EMS Volunteer?

Volunteering is hard work.

Our fire departments are currently 100 percent volunteer-based. From the fire chiefs to the probies, the ambulance company captain to the guy (or gal) who gets you safely to the hospital, they are people who give of themselves to serve the community.

Like practically any other position in the public sector, volunteers bear criticism when the system they are a part of reveals imperfection.

So why do they do it? Why do they give their time — moments away from their family and friends, and even their jobs? Let's here it from them.

If you are a volunteer, please leave a comment below answering this question. Tell how many years you have served, what your position is, and, if you feel comfortable, which department of which you are a member. We want to know the challenges you feel you face as a volunteer. Maybe you have a story of why you are inspired year after to year to get up in the middle of the night to answer a call. Maybe your own answer will inspire others.

As a member of the Bridgehampton Fire Department, I know first hand that we need more people just like you.