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
Arcata Fire Protection District 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, and other 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 District 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 for 6 hours per month. We also ask for a 3-year commitment.
QUALIFICATIONS
To be considered for a AFPD volunteer firefighter position, you must:
- Must live within a 20 minute drive to one of the three District fire stations.
- Minimum 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED
- Successful District interview
- Successful completion of a physical ability test required
- Satisfactory criminal records and back ground check required
- Satisfactory medical exam including a comprehensive drug screen is required
APPLICATION PROCESS
You must complete and return an application to the District’s Administrative Assistant. Applicants will be scheduled for an interview. Upon successful completion of the interview, a background investigation (including fingerprinting) will be done, and the candidate will be asked to take a physical examination (including drug testing), paid for by the District.
TRAINING/PROBATION
The AFPD recruit training academy will be conducted on Saturdays. Recruits are expected to attend all training sessions. At the conclusion of the recruit academy, there is a one-year probation period. During this period, recruits perform all volunteer firefighter duties under close supervision. Also, during the probation period, the recruit must acquire first aid and CPR certificates (cost reimbursed by District upon completion of course). At the end of the 12-month period, each recruit is tested. Upon passing the tests, the recruit will be awarded volunteer firefighter status.
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.
