This summer has marked a historic fire season in Europe and France, emphasizing the crucial role of firefighters in protecting communities. In France, the number of people expressing interest in becoming volunteer firefighters has nearly doubled during the summer months. This surge is particularly noticeable in the Gard region, where the number of individuals seeking to volunteer has risen significantly. Magali, a volunteer firefighter from Saint-Geniès-de Malgoirès, a small town between Nîmes and Alès, has been serving for three years. She highlights the values of helping others, prevention, teamwork, and community unity that she finds essential in her role. In one rural station in the area, 8 professional firefighters work alongside 70 volunteers, who are vital for carrying out rescue operations and responding to emergencies. Despite the recent increase in interest, the overall number of volunteer firefighters in France has declined over the past two decades. At the start of the 21st century, there were approximately 250,000 volunteer firefighters, but today the number has dropped to 200,000. However, the dramatic fires during this summer have sparked renewed interest, with the Gard region alone receiving 400 requests to volunteer this year—double the number from last year. Lieutenant Colonel Eric Agrinier, director of communication for Sdis 30, confirmed the rise in applications. While the majority of firefighter missions involve helping people in non-fire-related situations—accounting for 94% of their interventions—Magali notes that the reality of the work can be challenging. Approximately 10 to 20% of volunteer firefighters leave their commitment each year due to the demands and disappointments associated with the role.