Volunteer firefighters protect more then 3,000 communities

March 2, 2011

Many Canadians may not realize it, but in more than 3,000 communities across the country, emergency fire department services are provided by volunteer firefighters who give their time and energy to protect the people and properties of their local communities.

These volunteers – who spend on average more than 400 hours each year providing fire services – can include people from all backgrounds and occupations, including teachers, business owners, community leaders and others. These men and women play a significant role across the country as the first and only responders to fire emergencies that can hit homes, businesses or roadway traffic at any hour of the day or night.

When trouble strikes, Canada's volunteer firefighters leave their homes or full–time jobs on a moment's notice and receive little if any compensation for their work. In addition to their commitment of time, fire department volunteers often pay for their own fire service supplies, uniforms and training equipment.

This year, the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association (CVFSA) has partnered with Duracell in an unprecedented new campaign called Power Those Who Protect Us. This campaign will help raise awareness in Canada for the work that the CVFSA does and for the dedication of its volunteer firefighters across Canada, in addition to promoting Duracell's commitment and contributions to fire safety.

Through this new partnership and campaign, Canadians can support volunteer firefighters by purchasing specially–marked AA20 packs of Duracell batteries. For every pack sold, Duracell will deliver two batteries to a volunteer fire department in Canada. The CVFSA will also receive cash donations from Duracell during 2011 to support fire services in various communities. Full details on Power Those Who Protect Us are available online at www.duracell.ca/protect.