When a fire starts in Lawrence County, the sirens go off and fire trucks rush to the scene.

Monday, October 25, 1999

When a fire starts in Lawrence County, the sirens go off and fire trucks rush to the scene. After they arrive, they might find that only the house needs their attention. Sometimes, however, they have to risk their own lives to make sure a child or senior citizen finds his or her way out of the burning building.

They don’t hesitate. That is part of their job. In fact, saving lives and homes is why they do what they do.

The surprising part is not the firefighters’ dedication, really. What makes them so special is that they are volunteers.

Lawrence County is fortunate to have such a first-class volunteer fire department system. Without their dedication and selflessness, there would be a lot more homes and lives lost.

But operating a fire department – even a volunteer one – costs money. Without community support, there is no way to provide the equipment and training these men and women need to continue to serve their community. They already give their time without compensation. They should not be expected to pay for their tools as well.

There is no way to put a value on the services these men and women offer. But there is a way to let them know that you appreciate what they do.

When you go to cast your vote for your area’s fire levy Nov. 2, punch the "yes" box. That way you can make sure your area has fire protection now and in the future.