Becoming a Volunteer

Arcata Fire Protection District (AFPD) accepts applications for volunteer firefighters year round.  No experience is necessary.  AFPD provides all necessary training and personal protective clothing.

AFPD volunteers are essential members of the AFPD emergency services team. Their dedication and commitment are integral to our ability to provide the very best service to those who need our help.  Volunteers contribute a great deal.  In return, they receive career training and experience; first aid training; worker's compensation insurance; and—the greatest benefit of all—the satisfaction derived from helping those in need.

VOLUNTEER DUTIES

AFPD volunteers perform many of the same duties as the paid staff, including responding to all types of emergency calls: structure fires, wildland fires, vehicle fires, medical aid calls; vehicle accidents; public service assists, etc.  In addition volunteers participate in training, assist with equipment maintenance before and after calls, assist with station cleaning and maintenance, and participate in AFPD community service and public education functions.

TIME COMMITMENT

AFPD volunteers are required to make a substantial time commitment.  They must attend training sessions on Wednesday nights from 7:00 pm—9:00 pm. They must ride along with the on duty staff 12 hours per month.  We also ask for a 3-year commitment.

QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for an AFPD volunteer firefighter position, you must:

•Be 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or GED.

•Successfully complete an oral interview.

•Successfully complete the CPAT prior to interview date.

 Visit (http://www.cffjac.org/go/jac/cpat/) for more information.

•Pass a criminal record and back ground check.

•Pass a medical exam including a comprehensive drug screening.

APPLICATION PROCESS

You must complete and return an application to the District’s Administrative Assistant.  Applicants will be scheduled for an interview.

IN CONCLUSION

Volunteer firefighting is a challenging, highly rewarding endeavor. If you are motivated by the opportunities offered here and believe you can meet the challenges, we encourage you to apply. Applications are available at arcatafire.org.