Are you interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter? That interest should be accompanied by dedication and true passion to serve the community. Knowing how to become a volunteer firefighter is easy, but being a volunteer firefighter requires physical strength and hours of training. Are you committed to fire fighting?
If you really want to know how to become a volunteer firefighter, the first thing you need to do is look for a Fire Department that accepts volunteer firefighters. Volunteer opportunities depend on your area, population and local government. It would be best if you would choose a department near your residence. Once you have a fire station you want to serve, call them and inform them of your interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter. They will be more than willing to assist you in the necessary procedures and the requirements. Visiting your local fire station would give you the feel, How is it to be a firefighter. You can even talk to the firefighters and officers working there. They will give you an insight on how does it feel doing their job. Often, they even let you ride along and try their fire suit and apparatuses. Your one-day experience with the firefighters in the station can assist you in deciding if you want to pursue volunteer firefighting. From the experience, you will realize the rewards and sacrifices in being a volunteer firefighter.
After you have finally decided to become a volunteer firefighter and have identified the department you would like to serve, you would have to ask for an application form and fill out all the necessary forms. There will be a background check included in the selection process. You just have to make sure that you have no criminal records and in good standing within the community. The other requirements for qualification differ from department to department. Make sure that you do the necessary. Starting a physical training before applying will likely help you achieve the physical standards for a firefighter. Understand that a firefighter requires fitness above an average person and to train accordingly. You can ask for a list of the recommended exercises from the department you are going to serve.
Pic by Doug Beckers
After you join, you will have to go through training that includes a 110 hour National Fire Protection Association or NFPA-certified course. The length of program may vary, and some additional training may be required depending on the department. The NFPA course will teach you everything you need for you to know on how to become a volunteer firefighter. This course is very important and helpful, especially if you would like to continue firefighting into a dedicated career.
Your career as a firefighter usually starts with How to become a Volunteer Firefighter. It will definitely boost your chances in being employed if you start as a volunteer firefighter. Although you are not paid as a volunteer firefighter, the experience and training, you gain will make you an attractive candidate for a career in firefighting position. Volunteering would usually have a specific minimum number of hours to serve depending on the department you belong to.
Being a Volunteer Firefighter is a big decision. Although it is rewarding to serve your community and save lives, the physical stress and this life-threatening job that you will do can make you think twice. A Volunteer Firefighter is strong, courageous and committed. It requires strength both in body and mind; selfless in helping others. Follow these suggested tips on How to Become a Volunteer Firefighter, and you will see the difficulty and rewards of being a volunteer firefighter. This is what it takes to serve your community, to be respected as a modern hero.