Joining the Fire Service

Today's volunteer must be intelligent, dedicated, responsive and willing to undergo the demanding training and time commitments that go with the job. They address challenges and are motivated by self-satisfaction. The personal rewards and satisfaction received from volunteering with our department vary from person to person. Some experience a sense of accomplishment after controlling a building fire, joy and elation when a child is born, compassion for accident victims, and fulfillment in helping community members. However, you will also face numerous challenges. You will often be asked to perform in hot, dirty, strenuous or tedious work and sometimes face uncertain or hazardous situations. In addition to a desire to help people, you also need courage, dedication, a willingness to face new challenges, the ability to work well with others, and good personnel relation skills.

Men and women age 18 and older and have the desire to participate in emergency fire and/or medical activities are eligible for membership. Only those 21 and older are authorized to drive emergency vehicles and must have a valid U.S. State drivers license.

Making a commitment to serve as a member of our department is a serious decision and involves complete commitment. We hope you will find that you are able to make the commitment we need to contribute to the safety of our community and its citizens. You will find that participation as a member of our department will give you a tremendous sense of accomplishment for a job well done and bring loads of personal satisfaction.

A preliminary application is the first step in consideration of membership. If accepted as either a Firefighter, or First Responder, you will be brought onto the department as a probationary member who will serve a 90 day probation. During this period you will undergo a department orientation to include Standard Operating Procedures & training. After successful completion, you will be brought up before the membership of the department for a membership vote. If successful, you become an active member of the department. Additionally, within the next 90 days, you will be required to complete either GA Module 1 training or First Responder training.

Members are also required to attend at least 50% company meetings, which are held every other Monday at 7 PM, as well as 50% of functions and calls.

It is personally rewarding to be able to help the people in the community. At the same time it can be very stressful. You see families that have lost their loved ones or have witnessed destruction of their property. This can be very disheartening and sometimes difficult to cope with.

What personal qualities are needed?
Neat appearance and a pleasant personality are excellent qualities as is the ability to get along with those with whom you work and serve. Members must have the ability to relate to people in a positive manner.

For more information please contact the department at (912) 368-8181, or to receive an application please stop by the station 33 at 5334 West Hwy. 196 and speak to a member.