Requirements and training
Every department sets its own requirements. These are the ones you will see most often. A participating department's page lists its exact requirements.
Common requirements
- A minimum age, often 18. Cadet programs may accept younger people.
- A valid driver's license, and for drivers a good driving record.
- A background check.
- A medical exam or physical ability test.
- Living or working close enough to reach the station quickly when paged.
- Completing the department's training and keeping it current.
What departments look for
Beyond the requirements, departments look for people they can count on: volunteers who show up for training and calls, work well on a team, are willing to learn, and communicate clearly with their crew and the public. Ties to the community help too. No experience is needed.
Training you can expect
- Recruit academy: the basics of firefighting, safety, equipment and working as a crew, in evening and weekend sessions, sometimes with coursework online.
- Medical training: Emergency Medical Responder or EMT courses for those who respond to medical calls.
- Wildland training: courses for fighting grass, brush and forest fires.
- Driver training: for volunteers who will drive and operate apparatus.
- Regular drills: ongoing practice to keep skills sharp, usually monthly or more often.
- Probation: many departments start new members on probation, a set period to finish training, learn the station and show they can be counted on.
Firefighter training follows national standards from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In Oregon, state firefighter certifications such as Firefighter I come from the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST). In Washington, they come from the Washington State Patrol's State Fire Marshal's Office, and the Washington State Fire Training Academy near North Bend trains recruits.
Many departments provide training and protective gear at no cost to volunteers. Ask the department what it covers, which certifications you will earn, and how long probation lasts.