Volunteer To Become A WFD Firefighter
Why Should I Volunteer?
There are many motivating reasons to become a firefighter: the pride, the honor, the understanding that you will be giving of yourself in the most meaningful and courageous way to your community by literally saving property and lives. It’s not an easy decision, but once you commit to it mentally and physically, you will find that it will be one of the most rewarding decisions of your life.
Are There Any Personal Benefits?
When you become a WFD Firefighter, you get: Free initial and continuing training, an opportunity to be a team member, life insurance coverage, tax breaks, retirement benefits, tuition assistance and a free complete set of turnout gear.
What Are The Basic Requirements?
To become a WFD Firefighter, you must: Reside within the Wurtsboro Fire District; Be at least 16 years old; Be ready and willing to work as part of a team; and be available for regular training sessions and meetings. There’s an application process that includes a background check, and you must complete your initial training courses within the first year of your membership.
What Will I Have To Do As A Firefighter?
There are several roles within the Wurtsboro Fire Department, and you can decide which one you want to perform based on your own initial self-assessment of your capabilities:
EXTERIOR FIREFIGHTER – This type of firefighter performs fire scene operations outside of structures. These operations include placing water on fire and other techniques from outside of subject structures, connecting special hoses to hydrants, and performing rescue operations with additional training. Exterior firefighting is typically less dangerous than interior firefighting.
INTERIOR FIREFIGHTER – This type of firefighter performs all functions and aspects of firefighting, including interior fire extinguishment and search, motor vehicle rescues, rope and ladder rescues, etc.
FIRE POLICE – These individuals ensure a safe scene for every emergency, whether it be fire, motor vehicle accident, or other emergency call. They can control traffic and provide a safe working environment for firefighters, medical personnel, and other authorities.
APPARATUS OPERATOR – These firefighters drive the fire apparatus from the firehouse to the emergency scene and back to the firehouse from the emergency scene. They control the water supply from the vehicle to the hoses as well as from water sources into the vehicles.
Once you decide you would like to join the WFD firefighters, it makes no difference with which of the above firefighter types you would be most comfortable. Each role is just as important as the other, and you would become part of a family with a 125-year lineage where your reward will be helping each other, your friends, neighbors, and the community when they need it most. Apply today to join the Wurtsboro Fire Department! If you are interested, please complete the short request for an application below. All applicants will get a reply from a fire department officer.