The Franconia Volunteer Fire Department has continuously served Fairfax County since 1933. It is one of 12 private, not-for-profit volunteer fire companies working in partnership with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue to provide emergency and non-emergency services to people who work, live and visit in or near Fairfax County. Each year, we provide equipment and support worth hundreds of thousands of dollars that go to work in your community, directly preserving life and property. As part of our combination system, volunteers trained to a professional level work alongside career firefighters and paramedics and respond to medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, fire alarms and other incidents. The county frequently asks us to staff additional fire engines or ambulances when there is a major incident or when its career personnel are in training. When called, in times of need, the more than 300 operationally qualified volunteers in the county pool resources with each other to place units in service within the Fairfax County area. Like we have for 80 years, as communities around Franconia, Rose Hill and Kingstowne transformed, local volunteers selflessly dedicate personal time -- sometimes in the middle of the night -- to answer your calls for help, or to ensure the people responding to your emergencies are equipped with the best training, equipment and support. In 2016, Franconia volunteers contributed nearly 20,000 hours to support your community firehouse. We have approximately 60 active members participating in the Administrative and Operational volunteer programs. Even in a county as big as Fairfax, you, your friends and neighbors can play a role.