VOLUNTEERING IN
Rhode Island
Rhode Island Association of Fire Chiefs FOUNDATION
To address the steady decline in the number of volunteers statewide, Rhode Island fire departments are working on recruitment initiatives, including outreach programs, incentives, and community education efforts to encourage more people to step up as volunteers.
The Rhode Island Association of Fire Chiefs Foundation is actively supporting Volunteer Fire Departments throughout the state in many ways, including the administration of a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant provided by FEMA. This program assists with the recruitment and retention of Volunteer Firefighters by offering the following:
- Reimbursement for New Recruit Physicals, Training and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Leadership/Career Development Workshops
- Train-the-Trainer Training for Local Recruitment and Retention Training
- Membership Dues Assistance (RIAFC Membership and/or NVFC Membership)
- Tuition Assistance for Higher Education (up to $5,000)
- Recruitment Marketing
The primary goal of the SAFER Grant Program (and other fire department initiatives) is to increase the staffing levels across Rhode Island’s 39 Volunteer/Combination Fire Departments to ensure timely, effective emergency response and the protection of property and citizens.
Approximately 38.2% of Rhode Island’s fire departments are entirely volunteer with an additional 23.5% being mostly volunteer. Without these essential volunteers and the recruitment of new volunteers, there is an increased risk to public safety and firefighters alike.
Rhode Island’s Volunteer Fire Departments are actively seeking new members and want YOU to join!
Volunteering as a firefighter allows you to make a direct impact in your community by saving lives and protecting property. Many volunteers find the work deeply rewarding, knowing they are providing a critical service, plus as a volunteer you receive extensive training in firefighting, emergency response, and medical aid, which can lead to certifications useful for future careers.
Volunteering with a fire department builds teamwork, decision-making, and leadership skills that are valuable in any profession. Many full-time firefighters start as volunteers, gaining experience and networking within the fire service.
Beyond community recognition, firefighting fosters deep bonds with fellow volunteers, creating a strong brotherhood/sisterhood and second family.
The need for Volunteer Firefighters in Rhode Island has never been greater. By stepping up and getting involved, individuals like you can make a lifesaving difference in your community. No prior training or certifications are necessary to apply.
Although local governments and departments establish different selection criteria, many departments require that volunteers:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a valid driver’s license
- Be healthy and in good physical condition
- Complete basic fire & EMS training
- Live in close proximity to the fire district
- Have a clean criminal record
- Meet the minimum ongoing training requirements
- Respond to a certain percentage of calls
Time requirements vary by department, and 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.
Most Volunteer Departments will accept volunteers who are unable to leave work or have other obligations to respond to a call. In fact, many departments in Rhode Island offer overnight and weekend programs for volunteers who want to contribute their time, but can’t break away from their obligations during the work week.
Volunteer Firefighters do not receive a traditional salary, however many departments offer financial incentives and benefits to support their service. Compensation varies by department, but common forms include:
- Stipends & Reimbursements
- Tax Incentives & Pension Plans
- Tuition Assistance (Rhode Island Volunteers can receive up to $5,000 in exchange for a two-year commitment)
- Insurance & Health Benefits
- Professional Training & Career Advancement
- Non-Monetary Rewards
While Volunteer Firefighting isn't a paid job in the traditional sense, the benefits - both financial and personal - make it a rewarding commitment. Many departments (and the Rhode Island Association of Fire Chiefs Foundation) are working to improve compensation and incentives to attract and retain volunteers.
STATE RESOURCES
VolunteerFirefighter.org works with numerous fire associations to provided added resources and benefits to our Volunteer Fire Departments. Click the links below to learn more.
