areas we serve
The need to recruit Volunteer Firefighters is a nationwide task, and VolunteerFirefighter.org is here to help. We welcome site visitors, inquiries and applications from all areas, but would like to highlight some Key Recruitment Markets Areas that are actively recruiting new volunteers in partnership with FEMA.
Grant recipients of a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant (provided by FEMA) consist of fire departments and organizations that have been awarded funding to enhance their staffing levels, ensuring communities have sufficient personnel to respond effectively to emergencies.
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Fire departments/organizations in the locations listed below are not only accepting volunteer applications, but they are prepared to onboard new recruits with federal assistance, which includes some great benefits for Volunteer Firefighters.
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Click to learn more about these key areas and if you’re within the region consider applying today!
California
California is facing a pressing need for more Volunteer Firefighters to enhance its emergency response capabilities, as the state grapples with increasing fire risks. Through BAER’s commitment to providing essential benefits and support for Volunteer Emergency Responders, there is a significant push to recruit and empower a new generation of firefighters dedicated to safeguarding their communities.
Colorado
In Colorado, where stunning landscapes meet tight-knit communities, the need for safety and emergency preparedness is critical. Despite having 418 fire departments, the state faces a pressing shortage of approximately 3,500 Volunteer Emergency Responders, particularly in rural areas where risks are heightened for both residents and firefighters. To address this issue, VolunteerFirefighter.org is actively working to recruit volunteers in counties including Routt, Delta, Otero, Eagle, Mesa, and Teller, aiming to strengthen fire and emergency services across the state.
Illinois
The Huntley Fire Protection District in McHenry County, Illinois, received a SAFER Grant from the Department of Homeland Security to enhance the recruitment and retention of part-time emergency responders, addressing a significant local demand for firefighters. This initiative aims to strengthen the fire department's capabilities and ensure adequate emergency response in the community.
Kansas
Kansas is in urgent need of Volunteer Firefighters to strengthen its emergency response capabilities, as communities rely on the expertise and dedication of these individuals. With over 250 member departments under the Kansas State Firefighters Association, the focus on continued education and unity within the fire service is crucial for ensuring safety and preparedness across the state.
Pennsylvania
(Hempfield Township)
Hempfield Township faces significant risks due to insufficient fire department staffing, particularly during business hours, making the recruitment of trained Volunteer Firefighters more critical than ever. With support from the SAFER Grant Program, the Hempfield Fire Department aims to bolster its ranks, ensuring adequate emergency response and protection for the community.
Pennsylvania
(Westmoreland County)
Westmoreland County faces a critical shortage of Volunteer Firefighters, particularly during business hours, jeopardizing the safety of its communities. With increased recruitment efforts fueled by recent grants, the county aims to bolster its fire department staffing and ensure a swift response to emergencies for all residents and visitors.
Pennsylvania
(Blawnox)
The Blawnox Volunteer Fire Company is excited to announce its collaboration with O'Hara Township's Pleasant Valley and Parkview Volunteer Fire Companies in launching a new Volunteer Fire Recruitment and Training program.
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The communities served by these fire companies are facing a critical shortage of Volunteer Firefighters, especially during business hours, which poses a significant risk to public safety. With the support of the SAFER Grant and a renewed focus on recruitment, the fire companies are working to strengthen their staffing levels, ensuring rapid and effective responses to emergencies for all residents and visitors.
Rhode
Island
Rhode Island, like many other states, is facing a critical shortage of Volunteer Firefighters. This trend underscores the importance of community involvement and recruitment efforts to maintain effective emergency response services.
With 24 career fire departments and 39 Volunteer Fire Departments, Volunteer Firefighters are a backbone of Rhode Island’s emergency response system, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas that depend entirely on these firefighters to handle fires, medical emergencies, and rescue operations.
Texas
Volunteer Firefighters play a crucial role in Texas. With over 1,200 fire departments and 22,000 members, the SFFMA actively advocates for legislation that enhances the effectiveness and safety of emergency responders, highlighting the ongoing need for dedicated volunteers in the state's fire service.