With many of its rolling fields of green farmland transformed into housing or business space, the makeup of Cranberry Township has changed dramatically in 60 years.

So too has the township’s fire department. When it was founded in 1959, those early firefighters could not have imagined the volume and type of calls the first responders handle today.

The department has grown along with the community to meet those demands, and this past weekend dedicated a new addition at its Park Fire Station on Route 19. The addition includes expanded administrative offices and conference and work spaces as well as a gym and other amenities.

There are nods to the past as well, including a glass-enclosed exhibit room displaying the company’s first fire engine, a 1928 model that at the time had already been used for 30 years by neighboring communities.

It serves as a reminder of the days when fundraising for equipment and new buildings took away from the task at hand. Officials acknowledged as much during Saturday’s unveiling — not only to reflect on the past, but to show appreciation for the current situation.

The overall project also included upgrades at the Haine Fire Station, with both buildings now home to bunk areas, living spaces and kitchens that allow for the expansion of live-in programs. Officials said those programs not only allow for faster response times, but also promote a sense of camaraderie and community among those volunteering their time and efforts to keeping their community safe. Fire Chief Larry Clutter went even further, saying the goal is to make those folks feel “like family.”

That sense of community and family is ever present when watching the volunteers work at a scene, each member doing their part to get the incident under control. In the most intense of situations — some of which are a matter of life and death — having trust in their fellow responders is crucial, and programs like those in Cranberry only strengthen that trust.

This is not unique to Cranberry Township. First responders throughout Butler County work tirelessly to ensure they have the proper equipment and a plan of attack for any scenario. They also spend time making sure they are as prepared as they can be in keeping not only their community safe, but also their fellow volunteers.

Undoubtedly, local departments have experienced the same challenges facing departments across the state, from low volunteer rolls to decreased funding.

However, there is no lack of support from the communities they serve, from township and borough leadership to residents who help champion the need for new equipment, facilities and education that keep the departments running smoothly.

We commend not only those in Cranberry Township, but also those across the county, for recognizing the importance these departments play in keeping their communities safe. We also encourage members of the community who feel the urge to give back to get involved in any way they can.