Work involves training for and participating in duties of protecting life and property through the performance of firefighting and emergency medical service activities. Volunteer Firefighters are required to learn and participate in the operation of apparatus and the performance of hazardous task under emergency conditions which may require strenuous exertion under such handicaps as smoke, fire, heat and cramped surroundings. Although firefighting and emergency medical services work constitutes the primary and most difficult and responsible areas of work, the volunteer is also required to drill at least twice a month for two hours. These drills consist of practice sessions dealing with various aspects of firefighting, rescue, hazardous materials awareness, and emergency medical work. Time spent at the station may consist of studying, custodial care and a wide variety of maintenance of departmental facilities, apparatus and equipment. Work is usually performed in accordance with explicit instructions and well defined procedures, however, performance of the work requires initiative and the exercise of independent judgment. Work is performed under the general supervision of a lieutenant or Captain.