VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Most people are able to enjoy the holiday at home with family, but for first responders they celebrate with their second family.

Virginia Beach Fire Station 8 firefighters could be responding to a call at any given time. However, if they have a spare moment, they get to enjoy a meal together.

“It’s a normal day. You know, it’s nothing different for us. The bells go off, we’re out the door. So we drop everything, whether we’re in the middle of eating, in the bathroom, in the shower. We got to hurry out the door,” said Captain Jeff Rusak.

Another firefighter said it’s just a part of the job.

“If we’re able to help people out and make their holiday safer or better than what it was when they called 911, then that’s what we’re here for,” said Kevin Raftery.

Station 8 responded to eight calls as of early Thanksgiving afternoon. In between calls this Thanksgiving, they had a meal to gobble down together.

“I love turkey. Everyone loves the stuffing and I do it with like apples, sausage and onions and stuff. So that’s always a big hit,” said Raftery.

“Our chef (Firefighter Raftery) does do a lot of good dishes. He makes a very good stuffing, so I’m looking forward to the stuffing tonight,” said Rusak.

For those cooking at home, first responders want you to be careful in your own kitchen.

“Things to look out for: just making sure they’re careful in the kitchen, watching grease fires, making sure appliances are off, everything’s off the stove, but not just fires, you know, being careful out on the road, no drinking and driving, you know, just taking care of each other,” said Captain Rusak.

Station 8 is on call to save the day, but they’re glad to have a minute to share a meal.

“So this is our second family,” Rusak said. ” … It’s rough being away from the family so much. But, you know, it’s good that we have a good bunch of guys at the station here. Everybody gets along and makes things a lot easier at work. Just another day of family and just celebrating Thanksgiving.”