(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

We are deep into the season of ice cream social fundraisers, many of which benefit our volunteer fire departments. It can be easy to overlook how important these annual efforts are in supporting those who keep so many of us safe.

More than 90% of fire departments in West Virginia are considered volunteer. Approximately 70% in Ohio are volunteer departments.

Those who work as volunteers give up more than just their time and effort. A report by WBOY, which spoke with representatives of the Valley Volunteer Fire Department in Marion County, noted the effect such service has on firefighters’ personal finances, home life, physical and mental health.

Deputy Chief Zac Eakle called that “dedication.”

But even with a (shrinking) slate of volunteers dedicated to taking on such a burden, there are costs to the departments that do, indeed, warrant their asking for our support as often as they can each year.

According to WBOY, new firetrucks can cost millions of dollars, though volunteer departments often try to find used equipment. Bunker gear for individual firefighters can cost $10,000 to $15,000 each, and is essential to keep them as safe as possible while they do their jobs.

There are also the usual bills and necessities, and not every community in our region has a fire levy to support their volunteer departments.

Speaking of those his department serves, Eakle told WBOY, “We reach out, we do our job for the community, and Pleasant Valley alone has been very good at giving back to us.”

Our local departments know they can, for the most part, count on us, too. But it’s worth a reminder that if you see a fundraiser — maybe a boot that needs to be filled at an intersection or those ice cream socials — think about what it’s worth to you to keep these folks safe and able to do their jobs for the rest of us.