Volunteer firefighters and EMT workers will now benefit from a property tax exemption thanks to a resolution passed by the Dryden Town Board on Feb. 16.

The 10 percent exemption will only be granted to volunteer firefighters and EMT workers that are enrolled members who have been “certified by the authority having jurisdiction for the incorporated volunteer fire company, fire department, or voluntary ambulance service as an enrolled member of such incorporated volunteer fire company, fire department, or voluntary ambulance,” according to the resolution.

Any certified volunteer that has accumulated more than 20 years of service will be considered a “life member,” and so the tax exemption will continue throughout the entirety of their life so long as the property serves as their primary residence.

SLOCOMB, Ala. (WTVY) – Imagine calling the fire department, and nobody answers the phone, leaving your home to be caught in a blaze.

While many fire departments are currently active, it is mainly because people are willing to volunteer their time.

According to the United States Fire Administration, 78% of fire departments in the state of Alabama are completely volunteer-based.

In Slocomb, there are a few paid positions at the fire station, but most are serving for free.