They can be sitting down to dinner with their families, finally snuggling into bed after a hard day's work, or in the midst of a project. But when the tones sound, the volunteer firefighters of American Fire Co. # 1 in Lansford don't hesitate to respond.

Now, they need your help and you don't even have to leave the comfort of your home to do it. all it takes is tucking a check into an envelope and mailing to American Fire Co. #1, P.O. Box 6, Lansford, PA 18232.The fire company has launched its 2013 Fund Drive, and is asking for donations from residents so they can continue to protect peoples' lives and homes.The 119 year-old company is composed of local folks who donate their time and risk life and limb to keep their neighbors safe.Firefighters spend hours in training and fundraising in addition to the time donated to fighting fires and handling other emergencies."Last year we responded to 184 calls, and in every case a situation was made safe. We have put out fires, rescued accident victims and saved lives," the volunteers' annual fund drive brochure says.Neighbors' support is crucial to help keep firefighters safe as they protect lives, homes and businesses. the annual fund drive pays for about half of the company's annual budget for advanced training, and the latest in lifesaving equipment.Contributions from the fund drive also help to pay for basic operating costs."As we struggle to maintain high-quality fire protection for the entire community, know that our success depends upon your support. Your generous contributions allow us to maintain a constant state of readiness and enable us to provide this service to the community by our volunteers," the brochure says. "Your donations and continued support of our fundraisers assist us in funding training for our volunteers and to purchase vital life saving equipment that allow us to do our job safely and effectively. Please join your neighbors in making a donation to the American Fire Co. #1 2013 Annual Fund Drive."In addition, volunteers are always needed and welcomed. The fire company needs people to help with administrative duties and fundraising as well as firefighting.The volunteer firefighters welcome visitors to stop by the fire station at 26 E. Patterson St., on Thursday evenings, or send them an email at

fd15@ptd.net.