MEET CODY SUMNER!

​What is your occupation? Sales and Management trainee at Enterprise Rent-a-Car

Why did you join your local volunteer fire department? I grew up in Florida where volunteer fire departments are essentially non-existent, when my family moved here I learned about volunteer firefighters and I thought it was interesting. The catalyst was when I slid off the road in my truck during a snow storm in 2015 and was injured enough that I had amnesia for a couple of hours after the accident. The firefighters stood in the cold to get me out of my truck, that day seald my decision that I was going to be a volunteer firefighter. I now serve alongside the guys who helped me that day and I have the honor of helping others like they helped me.

What is your role within your department? I am an interior Firefighter and EMT. I'm also nominated for EMS lieutenant for the upcoming officers elections.

What is one of your most memorable moments in the volunteer fire or emergency services? Like many, I'll never forget my first house fire. I also will never forget when we were able to bring a man back to life from cardiac arrest, quick care from his local fire department made the difference that day.

Why do you think it is important for young people to get involved with their local volunteer fire department? It's a great way to help others and get experience outside of school. You're surrounded by many different types of people which can help you network as you move into the professional world. The skills and experiences you'll gain from the firehouse can't be found anywhere else. Being in a fire department is more than just riding in Fire Engines, you're joining a family.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community? The department does biannual roadside cleanup, Halloween parade, breakfast with Legends, and helps coordinate West Fest.

Do you have any advice on balancing the demands of volunteering with your job/family? What is very important to realize is that any time you can give to the department is helpful, there are some months you make every call and Monday night drills while some months you can't, what is important is that you give the time that you can.

Anything else you would like to add?
You don't have to be the one running into burning buildings to be in the fire department, there are a multitude of duties for all types of volunteers.

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