When December arrives, so do colder temperatures, crackling fireplaces, holiday decorations, and the comfort of gathering indoors. While winter brings warmth in many ways, it also brings increased fire risks and emergency calls that put pressure on local fire departments, many of which are powered by volunteers. As your home fills with holiday lights, space heaters, candles, and seasonal cooking, it’s crucial to think about safety.

Every year, Lancaster County fire departments respond to hundreds of preventable fires. While our volunteer firefighters are always ready to answer the call, the truth is that the best fire we fight is the one that never starts. That's why fire prevention education is one of the most important roles our volunteer firefighters play in the community.