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Heroes Listen, Answer, and Serve

March 6, 2014

Communities Respond to the Sound of Sirens

In the early days of our nation, we had town criers who kept faithful watch over the city. They alerted residents of fires and summoned firefighters with their vocal calls to action. Today, we have mechanized fire sirens which are recognized by communities as the beckoning call to emergency responders. In many cities and towns, modern technology has diminished the use of a community fire siren to alert responders. Despite this, the call to action remains present and relevant. The total number of volunteer firefighters is declining nationwide. Households face job-related challenges and familial obligations, keeping them from taking the time to fulfill fire department training requirements and volunteering. South Carolina is not immune from these challenges and faces the growing need for volunteer firefighters each day. The South Carolina Fire Service is actively working to lessen the burdens of volunteering through online training programs from the South Carolina Fire Academy. They are working to promote educational programs in local high schools. They also provide scholarships for high schools students who are enrolling in college-level fire and EMS training. In addition to online training and college scholarships, there are continuing member benefits offered through the South Carolina Firefighters’ Association. It is time once again for individuals and communities to respond to the Sound of Sirens. The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association knows that heroes listen, answer, and serve. Visit www.scvolunteerfire.org to compete the contact form and learn more about becoming a volunteer firefighter. You can be a hero to your community. Answer the Sound of Sirens today.

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