Editor’s Note: Watch the four-part video series on how to become a firefighter, what you can expect from a career in the fire service and the critical steps along the way.
Getting involved with a volunteer fire department is an incredibly rewarding way to make a positive contribution to your community. Plus, it is often a stepping stone to starting a career in a full-time fire department.
That said, it’s not something that everyone can undertake. It takes a great deal of physical stamina and mental strength to make this kind of commitment.
As a volunteer firefighter, you’ll be expected to:
- Keep a clear head in life-or-death situations.
- Maintain your composure when assisting in traumatic events, like auto crash injuries and fatalities.
- Put yourself in extreme situations, such as going into burning buildings, crawling through tight spaces and entering other hazardous environments.
Most volunteer fire departments want you to devote a minimum amount of time to service, so make sure you have time in your schedule and the flexibility to make that work. It also means that you must have the time to devote to the requisite firefighter training course. The length of the training can vary by state and the level of certification required — a Firefighter I certification may take six months of attending class two to three days per week.
You must also commit to staying in good physical condition to maintain the stamina to perform the necessary firefighting tasks. Eat right, exercise, and reduce or eliminate habits that can adversely affect your health, like tobacco and alcohol use.
How to become a volunteer firefighter
Here are three specific steps to take to become a volunteer firefighter.
Step 1: Contact your local volunteer fire department
The first step should always be to make sure that there is a need.
During your call or visit, ask questions about the process so you understand what to expect as you become a volunteer firefighter.
- If there isn’t a volunteer fire station in your community, check out surrounding areas.
- Some fire departments do have residency restrictions, so ask about those in your call.
- Call the non-emergency number to avoid tying up the fire dispatcher.
- Many fire stations will welcome you to drop in if they’re not busy.
- Some fire departments let you ride along with them, or tour their station to give you firsthand experience working in fire safety.
- They can also direct you to the proper authorities to help you get signed up.
Step 2: Applying to be a volunteer firefighter
Once you’ve found the right volunteer fire department, you’ll need to find out their requirements for service to see if you qualify. The standards vary widely, but they all have a minimum age requirement. You can expect:
- A background check to see if you have anything in your history that would prevent you from becoming a volunteer firefighter.
- Clearance by a doctor or a physical ability test; some fire departments require both.
- A full application process, usually including a drug test. (Note: This is typically for fire departments controlled by a municipal government.)
Step 3: Training to be a volunteer firefighter
If your application is approved, the next step in becoming a volunteer firefighter is to take the training course. The time requirement of these programs varies, but all firefighters must take a minimum 110-hour NFPA-certified course.
Becoming a member of a volunteer fire station is more than preparing to fight fire. Other functions and responsibilities that you can volunteer to help with at your local fire department include:
- Fundraising
- Office work
- Maintaining and cleaning equipment
- Dispatching and washing vehicles
While this may not be as glamorous as fighting fires, all are an important part of running a volunteer fire department.
Many departments offer EMS and encourage members to earn EMS certifications. Being an EMT prior to applying to the station will boost your odds of acceptance in many cases.
Whatever capacity you choose to become involved in with your local volunteer fire department, it will most likely be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
FAQs about volunteer firefighting
Volunteer firefighting is tough but incredibly rewarding. You’re literally helping people on what might be the worst day of their lives — and that makes a lasting impact.
What are the requirements to become a volunteer firefighter?
The exact requirements can vary depending on your state or local department, but in general, most departments require that volunteers:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass a background check and drug screening.
- Hold a valid driver’s license.
- Be in good physical shape.
- Complete basic fire and EMS training.
- Have a clean criminal record
- Live close to the fire district.
Some departments might also require an interview, written test or physical agility test. But don’t worry, it’s all designed to make sure you’re a good fit for the team and the work.
How old do you have to be to be a volunteer firefighter?
In most places, you need to be 18 years old to become a certified volunteer firefighter. That’s the age when you can start full training and go on active calls.
That said, many departments have “junior firefighter” or “explorer” programs for teens as young as 14 or 16. These are great for getting hands-on experience and learning the ropes before going full-on volunteer.
How long is volunteer firefighter training?
This answer varies widely, depending on department, city and state training requirements.
Training might be done over several weekends, weeknights or in an academy-style setting, depending on the department. Training also occurs throughout your fire service career, to maintain skills.
Do volunteer firefighters get paid?
It depends.
Most volunteer firefighters are not paid a salary. However, some departments offer stipends, small hourly payments or call-based reimbursements to cover gas, meals, or lost wages. Others may provide retirement benefits, tax breaks or training and education perks.
So no, it’s not a full-time paycheck — but there are sometimes small financial incentives depending on where you serve.
Why do people become volunteer firefighters?
People volunteer for all kinds of reasons:
- To give back to their community.
- To serve amid a lack of available full-time firefighter positions
- To gain experience for a career in firefighting or EMS.
- To be part of a team and do something meaningful.
- To challenge themselves physically and mentally.
- To continue a family tradition of service.
People have all different reasons for becoming volunteer firefighters, like empty-nesters who are looking for ways to give back or newcomers to a town looking to learn the layout of the city.
WATCH | 10 reasons to NOT become a volunteer firefighter
This article, originally published on June 13, 2011, has been updated with additional information and resources.
