Watch Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat on PBS Stations This Fall

September 10, 2024

Acclaimed volunteer fire service documentary Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat is hitting TVs across the nation this fall. Over 180 PBS stations will air a one-hour version of the film in September and October in conjunction with the 9/11 anniversary, October’s Fire Prevention Week, and National First Responders Day (Oct. 28).

The documentary takes audiences behind the lines of America’s volunteer fire service community by sharing the stories of volunteer responders as they face challenges and triumphs in their service to others. The original 90-minute film was released in 2023, and nearly 300 local fire departments hosted screenings of the film to engage their community, boost recruitment and retention, and raise donations. The impact was significant: about half of the departments that hosted a screening during a recruitment event enlisted new volunteer firefighters or received strong inquiries, and one station received a $350,000 grant after screening it for state representatives. The full-length film is also available to stream or purchase here.

Even more people will now be able to enjoy the film with the release to PBS stations. Check local listings for air dates and times or view a list of airdates here.

Help spread the word with this free Social Media Toolkit. Want to host a watch party or hold your own FREE recruitment event? Click here.

Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat is presented by John Deere in association with the National Volunteer Fire Council, HoldFast Features, and Vignette. Watch the trailer here. Learn more about the film at www.oddhoursfilm.com.