A recent car fire near Kiama Public School brought more than just flames.

It revealed how deeply community, employers and emergency services are connected in keeping Kiama safe.

When a white Volkswagen caught fire beside Bong Bong Street, Kiama’s Fire and Rescue crew arrived within minutes.

The fire station’s proximity proved vital. What many locals may not realise is that this kind of rapid response is only possible because everyday people, and the businesses they work for, make it possible.

Station Commander Rhys Dawson leads a part-time crew.

“We all have primary jobs,” he explained. “When the pager goes off, we drop what we are doing and come in to respond.”

In this case, that quick response helped prevent the fire from escalating near one of the busiest parts of town. Car fires are rare on suburban streets. Most happen on the highway.

Dawson said this incident is a reminder that emergencies can occur anywhere, at any time.

What sits behind these responses is an important relationship between emergency services and local workplaces.

Dawson said his team of 20 relies on employers who are willing to be flexible.

“A lot of our members can only be available during the week because their employers let them go when needed.

“Employers often tell us their staff come back with more confidence and better teamwork skills. It builds loyalty and pride.”

With Volunteers Week around the corner, it is a timely opportunity to recognise the quiet contribution of the businesses, shift managers and co-workers who make space for this service to operate.

It is often weekday availability that presents the greatest challenge, and many employers are stepping up to fill that gap.

Some members, like Dawson, work in related fields. He is a full-time firefighter for Sydney Trains. Others have flexible jobs or work close to the station, which helps maintain coverage.

In Kiama, Fire and Rescue focus on urban fire emergencies. The Rural Fire Service focus on bush fire and rural emergencies.

Both organisations support each other across all the townships with Kiama LGA. “We are lucky in this region. Jamberoo and Gerringong RFS brigades are strong and proactive.”

In the Bong Bong Rd incident, two members of the public also tried to put out the fire before the crew arrived.

“When people feel supported, they step up," Dawson added.

"Whether it is employers giving staff the flexibility to respond, or locals lending a hand in a crisis, that community commitment makes all the difference.”