I'm a Volunteer!!!

[intraining]

well i know it isn't too big of a deal, but after so long of the whole "hurry up and wait" thing, i was finally given the chance to try out for one of my local departments as a volunteer and passed!!! i am really excited to get started with my career and this just seemed like a logical step. thanks again for all the advice that i have been given

[E229Lt]

Passed? Is there a test now?

[BorderPatrol]

Lt., most of the vollie departments in my area have physical agility tests, some even have written tests.

intraining, congrats, welcome to the fire service!

[CollegeBuff]

Loo, play nice.

[hwoods]

How thoughtful..............

Ahhh, CB, How nice of you to referee.............. (Inside joke, for those of you who are new here......) Intraining, Welcome aboard. As you join us, our Fire Service is here, in place, operating well, (most of the time) and enjoying a History of great length. I would say that you have a job to do, for all of us that are already here, for those that you will protect and serve, and for your family. That job is to ensure that you become the best that you can be. Trained, Safe, Caring, Honest, and a whole lot more go into being one of us. The title FIREFIGHTER is earned. It is not won, purchased, inherited, or acquired by any means except honest hard work. If you go forward with that in mind, I guarantee success. Above all else, Stay Safe....

[SHED376]

Congratulations INTRNG! I remember what it felt like when I got on with my first dept.! How exciting it will be. Just remember you always learn. Listen to the "old boys" and their stories, they can teach you alot. And try to be the stand up guy in the station, don't get sucked into the cliques that sometimes form in the firehouse. It's hard but you will be a better more respected fire fighter for it! Always keep yourself safe.

Congrats again! Shed

[E229Lt]

Loo, play nice

All BS aside. My question was not to stir the drink. His post stated:

i was finally given the chance to try out for one of my local departments

I saw "try out" and got the impression this particular department only held a tryout period on a scheduled basis. Granted, I haven't signed up to volunteer in 27 years, I know there are new physical limitations which are mandated, I only wanted to know if this department ran it's own testing, (written, physical). To be honest, I think it's a good idea.

[kghemtp]

Lots of people start as juniors, so this is definitely a good thing. "Try out" actually has a nice ring to it, as though he's being picked for the team! Good job, and welcome to the service!


~Kevin
FF/Paramedic

[rcrompm46]

What ever you want to call it. More & More Volunteer departments are setting standards and conditions to become part of the department.

On our department you must meet a minimum physical agility test, attend 2 months worth of meetings and drills so that members can get to know you and you them. After this you go on probation for up to two years and complete a series of qualifications - EMT, firefighting skills and apparatus tests.

These changes have gone in affect only over the last 2-3 years.

Also congratulations on your acceptance.

Work hard and train hard, but have fun.

[WannabeintheFD]

Congradulations intraining!!!!

[hwoods]

Well.....

LT. and CB, my Sunday morning sense of humor, as usual. As to qualifications to be a volunteer, I agree. Here, (PG County Md) We require A Physical Exam which is rather stringent, I don't have a %, but they are turning people down on a regular basis. (if you fail the physical, you can still volunteer in an administrative capacity) Also, a thorough background check by our Law enforcement people. Once you get past that, the individual VFDs have differing "probie" requirements, but the County requires EMT-B and Firefighter I Certification to NBFSPQ standards within 2 years. There is a 32 hour program you must pass BEFORE riding at all, and with "32 Hrs" you are not permitted to engage in any activity requiring SCBA. (except training) This program was planned to allow new people to ride along (space available, 1 per unit) and "learn by doing" by being "Gofers" and doing all the outside jobs. (the person in this position wears a red helment, on becoming a FF I they get a Black or Yellow) Annual Certifications for everyone includes HazMat Ops, CPR, AED, and others. Officers need FO I & FO II and continuing ed credits also. Stay Safe....

[RyanEMVFD]

wow, our requirements is having a pulse. we attempt background checks when possible. wish we had more but maybe in time it will be something along those lines.

[intraining]

Originally posted by E229Lt


All BS aside. My question was not to stir the drink. His post stated:



I saw "try out" and got the impression this particular department only held a tryout period on a scheduled basis. Granted, I haven't signed up to volunteer in 27 years, I know there are new physical limitations which are mandated, I only wanted to know if this department ran it's own testing, (written, physical). To be honest, I think it's a good idea.

yeah, the department i applied with only has "try-outs" every six months to a year, and when they do, you must pass a pack test (3 mile WALK with a 40lb backpack), a modified CPAT test, and finally an interview. makes you feel like you've earned it more that way though, which felt good. thanks again for all the kind words