What if no one is there when you need emergency help?
Volunteer firefighter numbers are declining rapidly across the U.S.
After nearly 30 years as a volunteer firefighter, one thought, or perhaps one fear, keeps Jake Smith going.
“What if there was a call and nobody showed up?” he asked.
It’s a very real concern as the number of volunteer firefighters in the U.S. is in rapid decline.
Volunteer firefighters provide lifesaving coverage to more than 70% of the United States and account for roughly 65% of all firefighters in America. That means, on potentially the worst day of your life, your call for help will be answered by someone who does it not for money, but for community.
“Many of our volunteer stations have an aging crew,” Sarah Lee, CEO for the National Volunteer Fire Council, said. “And many of our volunteers stay on because they love what they do, the service they provide. But they also stay on because they’re afraid if they retire there won’t be someone ready to replace them. So, if people are wondering if there’s a need the simple answer is yes. Of course.”
"… they’re afraid if they retire there won't be someone ready to replace them."
-Sarah Lee
Smith, a product development specialist for six years at John Deere, represents a growing number of Deere employees who have chosen firefighting to support their home communities. And the John Deere Foundation has shown its support by honoring those employees by donating money to qualified nonprofits for each volunteer hour the employee records.
“We know that a large majority of our customers, dealers, and employees rely on the critical support of volunteer first responders in times of crisis,” said David Ottavianelli, director, workforce and community giving.
“That's why Deere recently joined forces with the National Volunteer Fire Council, Hold Fast Features, and Vignette to produce a documentary film called "Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat.
“Our hope is that, through this film, we can shine a positive light on the invaluable contributions of these heroes and inspire more people to carry on this noble and necessary volunteer service," said Ottavianelli
How to watch the film
Odd Hours is available widely on public television in late October 2024 and is available to rent or buy on iTunes, Amazon, and Google Play. Learn more at OddHoursFilm.com. All proceeds of the film’s sale go to National Volunteer Fire Council and filmmakers.