Many striking realities have emerged in the aftermath of the Sept 11 terrorist attacks. Among these is the inescapable fact that one of the most dangerous professions in the world is more dangerous than ever before.

The outpouring of sympathy and gratitude for the hundreds of fire fighters and other public safety workers who gave their lives while trying to save others at the World Trade Center was accompanied by a clearer recognition of the risks that all such professionals might face in the line of duty on any given day.

In the months following the initial tragedy, it also has been obvious that fire fighters around the country will be at the forefront of America's defense against any further terrorist threats and actions for as far into the future as any of us can see.

The public's understanding of this vital role and the risks that come with it is important. So are the universal expressions of appreciation and support. However, more than heartfelt thanks should be forthcoming. Specifically, employers should take into account just how greatly the demands on fire service have escalated in this frightening new environment.

Consideration must be given to the additional role that fire fighters are being asked to assume. It should be forthcoming in the form of financial compensation, family protection through insurance coverage, advanced training opportunities, pension improvements and every other aspect of collective bargaining.

No, we do not expect municipalities that are facing fiscal strains to simply open their checkbooks when contract bargaining rolls around. No, we do not ask the impossible regarding all of the other issues that come under the microscope during negotiations.

But yes, we do expect all of the recognition and appreciation that fire fighters are more essential to the public well-being than at any previous period in America's history to be translated into tangible responses.

Consideration must be given to the additional role that fire fighters are being asked to assume. It should be forthcoming in the form of financial compensation, family protection through insurance coverage, advanced training opportunities, pension improvements and every other aspect of collective bargaining.

Since the very inception of the fire fighting profession, both employers and employees have acknowledged that certain inherent risks "come with the territory." Still, no one ever imagined that the territory for which fire fighters are responsible would encompass the threat of terrorism.

Fire scenes always have been risky. When the same situation might involve a terrorist bent on destruction and with no regard for anyone's life - including his or her own - the danger is escalated. Answering any call always has been risky. When there is a stronger possibility that the call does, indeed, involve an explosive device because a terrorist might be at work, the danger is far greater.

The same is true in situations where bio-terrorism might be involved. There is much more lif-threatening potential than ever before in these circumstances. In fact, even so-called "routine" responses might be accompanied by alerts for anticipated terrorist activities.

Moreover, whenever any threat or any suspicious situation proves to be an actual attack against the public, there is no doubt that fire service personnel will be at the epicenter of the danger.

The list of risky possibilities is lengthy. The proverbial "bottom line" is that fire fighters are being required to assume responsibilities and take risks of a magnitude never before demanded of them.

MAFF's position is that these new realities must be addressed when the time comes for employers to focus their gratitude within the context of contract negotiations.