A Day in the Life of a Volunteer Firefighter

Join us on an in-depth journey with the Valparaiso Nebraska Rural Fire Department as they work to rally the community together to raise funds for a $400,000 ambulance. This documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at how this critical addition will enhance their emergency response capabilities and save lives in their community.

[@josephlacarrubba8219]

I am a retired volunteer firefighter (i'm 72). When I started it was in a small town, I got a chance to become an EMT and worked as a EMT for a Private Ambulance Company. I was asked once why I did this... my answer is probably what you would say " If not me, then who? If not now, when?" Yes it is a difficult job but being there for someone who is probably having the worst day of their life, making a difference in the community it's all worth it. Stay Safe

[@rp1645]

Thank you for saying helping someone on the worst day of their life. My friend who is a Retired Batt. Chief me and him do Adviser work for a Cadet program he started way back years ago. We were both Exploring scouts in a FD post when we were in our teens. He would tell the full timers professional FF that had the Aid runs with repeated callers. The full time FF would be POed at these calls and he always told them the very same great words you said. He was a great leader. I bought a 1971 SeaGrave pumper for kids to have kids sit in the driver seat. Take pictures tell parents about the Cadet program when their kids become 14. I filled the air pack compartment with different size Fire Extinguishers. It's my Retirement baby toy, everyone who ever was a volunteer needs to buy there own Engine, it's a blast, listen to that old school 8V -71 Detroit Diesel pur and shifting old school manual transmission

[@sherrygantt2158]

Thanks to each and every one of you !! You are God's helpers here on earth. You all are Heroes. My dad, brother, nephew . 3 generations of volunteer firefighters. They taught me how much work and passion go into being a volunteer. As a family of 6 kids growing up. We were used to dad getting up at any moment. When the siren on the pole went off. Me and my sister would hold the back door open. While the other cranked his truck. And plugged up his red light on the dash. They no longer use the siren on the pole. 😔 My dad retired and has passed away. My brother is retired. But, his son is still active. He has a son whom I am sure will become a volunteer firemen. 😂 I really do appreciate all yall do for your community and the families. Sorry such a long post. But, I get carried away. One suggestion. When you have a fund raiser. If you can put pieces of equipment on a table. And, a price tag showing how much each piece cost. People can see where their money and support goes. Take care. Thanks again for all yall do. Daughter, Sister & Aunt of volunteers... North 321 VFD Lincolnton, North Carolina.

[@Mainly-boy-outdoors]

Thank you for your service guys!

[@tresfaith9795]

As a firemen myself from one state over this video was very awesome to see

[@hihfty]

With a population under 1000 is a brand new ambulance a want or a need. The secondary market for city rigs that are 3-4 year old is huge and that $400,000 could go way farther in the used market. unfortunately in this day and age $400,000 for a fully kitted rig is hard to come by.

[@samward7633]

Totally agree. What it really comes down to is community needs, and expectations. On the other hand, a used rig can/usually will come with it's flaws, whether that's mechanical issues, design issues, and expected lifespan of the apparatus, just to name a few. Yes, these issues can be had with a new apparatus as well, but these issues often will be more prevalent in a used rig. Another thought: No community should go without essential lifesaving equipment. And as a semi-rural volunteer, I can understand the frustration with used/ "Hand-me-down" equipment, whether that's how the apparatus is set up, maintenance, etc.. But we deal. Improvise, adapt, and overcome. That's a huge part of being a firefighter.

[@406fish1]

@@samward7633 I would totally agree, however without context I'd assume their current ambulance is in great condition considering its age, if they are running under 400 calls a year I would question the desperate need to replace it especially if they don't transport. But like I said they did not give much context.

[@samward7633]

@406fire9 very true! Hard to gauge

[@LindaFirefighter03]

We use to buy used but in the long run it was cheaper to buy new and take good care of it over its life time. Far cheaper than buying used over and over for that same time period.

[@289Mustang67]

@@406fish1 The ambulance that is planned for replacement is older than the firefighter indicated. He said it was a 96. Based on the lights, the box might be a 96 but that chassis is an older Ford - late 80's to about 1991. Ford vans were restyled after that. I noticed how old that ambulance was when I first saw it. We're looking at something that reached "antique" status a while ago. I could understand the desire to replace it.

[@Great-white-tiger-hunter]

It’s sad because all of these communities have paid police! I was. A volunteer for a few years before going career. In today’s world and high standards and high costs ! It’s tuff to get volunteers . The training requirements are the same as career guys. In some states.

[@NeighborhoodLawnguy90]

I want to be one I love ride alongs