Volunteer Firefighters

The Fort Erie Fire Department is seeking anyone interested in serving as a Volunteer Firefighter. Volunteers must be a minimum of 18 years old.

Why Be a Volunteer Firefighter?

Some of our volunteers chose the Fire Department to serve the community. Others enjoy the camaraderie of working and having fun with a great group of people. Therefore, we place a high value on the training that we provide. Our training is a great way to broaden your skills and improve your career opportunities. All volunteer firefighters that pass the recruit training will graduate with their NFPA 1001 Level 1 and 2 certificates.

What are the Benefits?

Being a volunteer is a great way to serve your community. As a volunteer, you will receive an honorarium at year-end. The honorarium is based on the points accumulated during training, emergency calls, and community functions. In addition, every volunteer, spouse, and dependent is provided with a nominal amount of life insurance. Volunteers are also insured against accidents and illnesses resulting from firefighting.

Volunteer training includes the following:

• emergency first aid and CPR
• vehicle extrication
• water rescue
• hazardous materials handling
• DZ driver's license
• training in all NFPA certifications

How Do I Join?

The first step to becoming a volunteer firefighter is by completing an application. To apply, you must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Every year, we review the number of active firefighters in each of our four districts and hire recruits according to that review.

Applicants who meet the qualifications then proceed to the interview step with the District Chief and Deputy District Chiefs. Next, there is a general knowledge test that will cover the topics of math, logic, and reading comprehension. To be accepted as a recruit, you must:

• Pass a medical examination
• Provide a satisfactory criminal background check through the Niagara Regional Police
• Complete the CPAT test (Candidate Physical Aptitude Test)

After completing the recruit training, candidates begin a 12-month probationary period. During that probation, you will be evaluated on your skill sets. Recruit training occurs on weekends and some weeknights.