Volunteer Firefighter

Volunteer Firefighter

The Opportunity

A volunteer in this class is responsible for general firefighting, rescue, and driving vehicles to the fire scene. Work also includes preparing the fire vehicle, lines and equipment for use by other firefighters. Work is often performed under stressful emergency conditions and frequently involves personal hazards. Work standards and procedures are generally established and understood; however considerable independence and judgment is required during fire calls and emergency calls. Work is performed under the regular supervision of the Lieutenant, Fire Captains, and Chiefs through observation and reports.

Illustrative Examples of Work

Receives and responds to fires and emergency calls

Participates in hazardous material response and prevention programs

Responds to alarms and assists in the suppression of fire including rescue, entry, and ventilation and salvage work

Rides fire apparatus to fire scene; connects hoses to hydrants and uses hoses to apply water or chemicals to fire, forces entry into burning structures and searches for and rescues occupants

Inspects, maintains, and makes minor repairs to apparatus and loads to ensure the presence, cleanliness, and serviceability of necessary firefighting and emergency equipment, tools and supplies

Performs testing and routine maintenance on vehicles, tests fire hydrants

Maintains, performs minor repairs and cleans assigned fire station quarters and grounds

Presents programs and classes in schools

Participates in training to assure proficiency in all firefighting techniques, trains for knowledge of all equipment and apparatus as well as their operations; conducts residential and business fire prevention inspections, inspects and prepares scale drawings and pre-plan firefighting strategies, maintains knowledge of sprinkled buildings and hydrants locations

Participates in routine maintenance and servicing of equipment including checking and filling self-contained breathing apparatus, washing and waxing trucks, checking fuel and oil levels, cleaning and drying hose and inspecting hose and hose connections for damage and wear, sweeps, mops, paints, and washing windows of fire station

Checks and flushes city fire hydrants for flow and pressure

Performs related work as needed

Volunteers are utilized on an on-call basis for fire and emergency calls

Volunteers can also ride along with career staff during normal shifts

Physical Requirements

Work in this position is heavy manual work requiring exertion of in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Volunteer must have the visual acuity to be the operator of a truck and other equipment. Working conditions - Volunteer is subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions, including extreme heat and extreme cold. Volunteer is subject to noise, vibration, and hazards and physical conditions such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, electrical current, working in high places, exposure to high heat, chemicals, subject to oils and greases, and may be exposed to blood when providing emergency medical services. Volunteer is subject to atmospheric conditions that affect the respiratory system of the skin and is required to wear a respirator. Volunteers is frequently in close quarters and areas which could cause claustrophobia or dizziness from heights.

Qualifications

Knowledge of city geography, street locations, and hydrant locations

Knowledge of current firefighting practices and procedures

Knowledge of the operation of and maintenance requirements of fire equipment, pumps, hose pressure and other aspects of operating one or more variations of fire trucks

Knowledge of firefighting hazards and related safety precautions

Ability to navigate to a fire scene with the shortest and most expedient route possible using knowledge of the streets and GPS equipment

Ability to operate and maintain various motorized fire equipment; ability to determine hose size, pump pressures, and water flow rates required to use in specific firefighting situations.

Education and Experience

Completion of high school or GED equivalency

Special Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age

Must pass physical, background check, and drug screening