As the weather heats up and we hurtle towards the silly season, spare a thought for the region’s volunteer firefighters who will be giving up their Christmas to keep communities safe.

Today is International Volunteer Day and the Rural Fire Service Association has given a shout out to Kiama’s volunteer firefighters who are ready to protect their community from bush fires and other emergencies over the festive period.

With a November heatwave sparking fires across the state, Rural Fire Service volunteers are on high alert as the threat of more fires over the holiday period looms.

Association president Scott Campbell praised volunteer firefighters for their dedication to their communities no matter the time of year or the emergency response required.

“We have already seen bush fires this season and although we hope we don’t see more, the reality is we will,” Mr Campbell says. “Over the Christmas period, spare a thought for volunteers who will be donating their time and effort to help others.

“International Volunteer Day is a day to recognise the sacrifice that volunteers make, giving up their time purely for the benefit of others … putting their lives on the line to save others and protect their communities.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank volunteer firefighters who always stand ready to protect lives and livelihoods. We are incredibly grateful for their courage and commitment.”