It didn't even occur to this man to thank the firefighters for saving his home, or to keep his sarcasm in check, afterall, they were just volunteers. I truly believe that many people who live on Long Island misinterpret the pride that their volunteers take in their professional appearance, professional demeanor and professional actions as being a result of being compensated. This is not the case. All of the firefighters on Long Island, whether they work professionally as firefighters in their careers, or simply volunteer take great pride in their departments and their training and if you take a look at the quality around us you can only agree. Our Fire Service Academy is one of, if not the best, in the country and our departments are all very well trained by dedicated professional instructors.
Education is the key.
Communicating to our residents how and when to use 911. Teaching the residents of particular districts that their fire service is volunteer and that the people who do the work are their neighbors. Long Island's fire departments are among the best in the country. The efforts of all of the men and women who volunteer their time and energy to the fire service should be recognized by those they serve. Those of us who serve hope that will be the case.