It sounds to me like most of the complainers about public service workers don't know what they are talking about. Expecting police and fire services to be done by volunteers is a great idea, but is not possible. People have jobs and family obligations which will always come first. Would you want to call for service and have to wait until a group of volunteers stop whatever they are doing, and go to the department and gear up? I hope you don't mind waiting while a loved one is in need. Bottom line, if no paid professionals are on duty you will be waiting and hoping.