REQUIREMENTS
Although local governments and departments establish different selection criteria, many fire departments require that Volunteer Firefighters:
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Be at least 18 years of age.
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Have a valid driver’s license.
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Be healthy and in good physical condition.
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Live in close proximity to the fire district in which they serve.
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Have a clean criminal record.
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Complete basic fire & EMS training.
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Meet the minimum ongoing training requirements.
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Respond to a certain percentage of calls.
things to consider
Time requirements vary by fire department. Time commitment will depend on several factors, such as the number of calls the department receives, training requirements, shift versus on-call structure, and community activities in which the department requires volunteers to participate.
Volunteer Fire Departments prefer volunteers to have the ability to respond to calls 24-hours a day, although most departments still accept volunteers who are unable to leave work or other obligations to respond to a call.
Typically, departments pay for training and firefighting equipment. Volunteer Firefighting is an unpaid position; however, some departments may provide stipends or reimburse volunteers for certain expenses.
