You'd be surprised. I'm sure there are a few misguided "applicants" who think they are applying for a "hero" position.
As a seasoned VOLUNTEER firefighter, I've seen a few of these people through the ranks. These are the ones that are attempted to be weeded out through the hiring process. I like to think of my fellow VOLUNTEER & CAREER firefighters as "calculated risk" takers. Training & proficiency is what allows us to attempt things that your average person would potentially be more in harms way to try.
As a volunteer, 1½ weeks ago I was 'paid' with the memory of the poor sole who's lifeless body I helped recover from Lake Ontario. Not the kind of remuneration you can put in the bank, but hey, someone has to step up.
In my books, the teachers that run an after school homework club at my child's school are heroes.
I've had the pleasure of knowing some WWII heroes as well.