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It's Fire Prevention Week, a time when local fire departments stress the importance of fire safety and prevention tips. Lt. Marc Scholer of the McKownville Fire Department said several factors can contribute to the start of a fire.

"The most common one, I believe, is an accidental fire. Candles left unattended can cause electrical fires. Batteries can also cause fires nowadays," Scholer said.

Approximately 41% of home fire deaths result from fires that don't have smoke alarms, according to a study conducted by the National Fire Protection Association.

In order to prevent fires or at least flag them, Scholer said, "Smoke alarms, smoke detectors, are probably the most important part of fire prevention. There should be one in every floor of the house."

A major part of the job of a firefighter is taking part in ongoing training and preparation for these situations.

"Our goal is to get off the apparatus floor, onto the truck to the scene and into that structure as quickly as possible," Scholer said. "Our practice and drills are focused on getting our gear on, getting clean air and getting them out of this life-hazard environment."

When water is not readily accessible in rural areas, for instance, the departments carry their own water.

According to Jim White, volunteer firefighter, former chief and district commissioner, "We have 1,000 gallons of water in our truck. The tank water can then be used if we open it up to pump battled, which will open it up, so the tank water will enter the pump and then we can use it." 

As per the United States Fire Administration, around 70% of fire departments are volunteer. If you are considering joining one, becoming a volunteer firefighter is a great way to give back, Scholer said.

Firefighters come from all walks of life. You don't necessarily have to break through the doors to put out fires, you can drive the apparatus in a variety of ways as well.