🔥 The Firehouse Journal
Stories, Safety & Service from Your Local First Responders
Welcome to The Firehouse Journal—your inside look at life behind the sirens. We will periodically share practical fire and home safety tips, community updates, volunteer spotlights, and ways you can get involved with the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company.
Whether you’re here to stay informed, stay safe, or find your place in the fire service family, you’ll find it all right here.
Check out our latest articles below—fresh from the station.
Why People Like You Make Great First Responders
When you think of a firefighter or first responder, you might picture someone running into burning buildings or performing daring rescues. And yes — sometimes that happens. But more often, the people answering the call are neighbors, parents, students, retirees, and working professionals… just like you. –> READ MORE
Smoke Detectors: When to Replace, How to Test
Your First Line of Defense in a Fire Emergency. At Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, we know that seconds can save lives. That’s why one of the most important safety tools you can have in your home is a working smoke detector. –> READ MORE
Fireworks: Safety Tips for the 4th of July
The 4th of July is one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year—filled with cookouts, parades, and of course… fireworks. But while those bright bursts of color light up the sky, they also light up emergency rooms and start thousands of fires every summer. –> READ MORE
Grill and Bonfire Safety Tips for Summer
Nothing says summer like grilling dinner in the backyard or sitting around a crackling bonfire with friends. But while those flames may set the mood, they also come with serious risks if not handled safely. –> READ MORE
Fire Extinguishers 101: What Kind, Where to Keep Them, and How to Use Them
When a fire breaks out, seconds matter—and a properly placed, correctly used fire extinguisher can make all the difference. Whether it’s a small kitchen flare-up or a smoldering electrical outlet, knowing how to react could save your home, your belongings, and even your life. –> READ MORE
How to Create a Family Fire Escape Plan
When a fire starts, you may only have two minutes to escape. That’s why having a home fire escape plan isn’t just a smart idea—it’s essential. But the plan only works if every member of the family knows it, practices it, and can follow it under stress. –> READ MORE
Answer the Call: Volunteer as a First Responder in Your Community
When emergencies strike, the people who show up first aren’t always paid professionals. In communities across the country—especially right here in ours—first responders are often neighbors, parents, students, retirees. They’re volunteers. And we need more people like you. –> READ MORE
Spring Cleaning Fire Safety: What You’re Forgetting
As the weather warms up and spring cleaning gets underway, most of us think about decluttering closets, scrubbing floors, or finally tackling the garage. But while you’re already in “refresh” mode, it’s the perfect time to add something critical to your checklist: fire safety. –> READ MORE
Top 10 Fire Hazards Hiding in Your Home (And How to Prevent Them)
Fire doesn’t need much to start—just the right mix of heat, fuel, and oxygen. Unfortunately, many homes unknowingly provide that recipe every day. As your local volunteer fire company, we’ve responded to countless calls that started with simple, preventable hazards. Here are the top 10 fire risks commonly found in homes—and what you can do today to reduce them. –> READ MORE